Liquid Filling By Evacuating Container Patents (Class 137/205)
  • Patent number: 11896524
    Abstract: A tissue removal device includes a hollow needle, an ultrasonic transducer for mechanically vibrating the needle, an aspiration line communicating with the needle, and a vacuum pulsing device for generating vacuum pulses in the needle. The device may be utilized for breaking up tissue by phacoemulsification, vacuum pulsing, or both.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2024
    Assignee: Med-Logics, Inc.
    Inventors: Rodney L. Ross, James Dennewill
  • Patent number: 11772234
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a fluid delivery apparatus includes a vessel body having a first chamber and a second chamber disposed therein, a plurality of first delivery lines fluidly coupled to the first chamber, a dispense nozzle fluidly coupled to the second chamber, a second delivery line fluidly coupled to the second chamber, and a valve disposed between the first and second chambers. Here, fluid communication between the first chamber and the second chamber is controlled by the valve disposed therebetween. Polishing fluid components are flowed into the first chamber through the plurality of first delivery lines fluidly coupled thereto to form a batch of polishing fluid. Once formed, the batch of polishing fluid is transferred to the second chamber by opening the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2023
    Assignee: Applied Materials, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert D. Tolles, Kirk Liebscher
  • Patent number: 11319943
    Abstract: Provided is a compressor capable of achieving a reduction in overall size and an improvement in vehicle mountability by using a linear motor. The compressor 1 comprises a linear motor 2 having a reciprocating mover 6, a compression unit 9 having a piston 11 connected to the mover 6 at one end side of the linear motor 2 so as to reciprocate and a cylinder 10 slidably accommodating the piston 11 to form a compression chamber 10B, and an air dryer 17 connected to a cylinder head 14 of the compression chamber 10B of the compression unit 9 and filled therein with a desiccant 17C. The air dryer 17 is disposed along the axis in the movement direction of the mover 6 the piston 11.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2022
    Assignee: HITACHI ASTEMO, LTD.
    Inventors: Yoshinori Kawai, Tsutomu Ito, Kan Kobayashi, Hiroshi Sakai
  • Patent number: 11293314
    Abstract: The Autonomous Oil Change System allows a user to arrive at a station and conduct an oil change on their vehicle. They do so by opening the lid/cover located on the front of the car on the machine to process the payment. This permits the user to insert their debit/credit card on the machine to process their payment and to begin the process and receive an oil change in a few minutes with a receipt and a date recommendation for their next oil change. The system then performs the oil change autonomously. A first hose extends from an oil pan of a vehicle to an externally accessible point on the vehicle. A sensor indicates a level of oil and generates a signal for a pump to draw an oil in the oil pan via the hose externally accessible on the vehicle based on the signal from the sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2022
    Inventors: Solomon Eisenbach, Shmaya Eisenbach, Zacharia Eisenbach
  • Patent number: 11198604
    Abstract: Methods and systems for the production and delivery of lithium metal of high purity are provided. More particularly, methods and systems for lithium metal purification, delivery and deposition are provided. In at least one aspect, a liquid lithium delivery system is provided. The liquid lithium delivery system comprises a liquid lithium delivery module. The liquid lithium delivery system comprises a lithium storage region operable to store the liquid lithium, a pumping region operable to move liquid lithium through the lithium delivery, and a flow control region. The pumping region comprises an electromagnetic pump operable to move the liquid lithium using electromagnetism. The flow control region operable to control the flow of liquid lithium, comprising one or more valves operable to control the flow of the liquid lithium, wherein the pumping region is positioned downstream from the lithium storage region and upstream from the flow control region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2021
    Assignee: APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.
    Inventors: Jean Delmas, Bernard Frey
  • Patent number: 11130089
    Abstract: A waste collection unit for collecting waste material. First and second waste containers are supported on a portable cart. A control panel is configured to receive one or more inputs of selectively set vacuum levels in the first and/or second waste containers. A control system controls operation of vacuum regulators based on the input(s) to regulate levels of vacuums being drawn in each of the waste containers. Pressure sensors in communication with the control system may be positioned to monitor pressure in the waste containers. A back up port support on the portable cart may be provided to receive a vacuum line for coupling a vacuum manifold to a remote vacuum source not located on the portable cart. Container lamps may be coupled to the first and/or second waste containers and configured to illuminate the waste material within the waste containers to be viewed through transparent windows.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2021
    Assignee: Stryker Corporation
    Inventors: Brent S. Lalomia, Stephen J. Reasoner, Stephen Isham, Chamara L. Gamhewage, Mark A. Wasserman, Glen D. Rocque, Troy E. Durnell, Grant Westphal, Brian MacLachlan
  • Patent number: 11078655
    Abstract: A waste system includes a vacuum cell, a flexible waste container, and a vacuum source. The flexible waste container may have at least one flexible membrane at an interface between the flexible waste container and the vacuum cell. The vacuum source may be configured to suction air out of the vacuum cell to generate a negative pressure in the vacuum cell. The vacuum source discharge is generally odorless as it is separated from the waste. This odorless discharge can enter occupied aircraft compartments. The negative pressure in the vacuum cell acts on the flexible waste container to generate a (second) negative pressure in the flexible waste container. The negative pressure in the flexible waste container acts on an interface between a toilet and the flexible waste container to pull waste from the toilet into the flexible waste container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2021
    Assignee: B/E Aerospace, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles F. Forster, Frank E. Hashberger
  • Patent number: 10907340
    Abstract: A molded basin for use with a submersible sump, sewage or grinder pump. The molded construction of the basin permits design improvements to be incorporated into the basin including bolt down slots in a bottom flange of a bottom of the basin, a molded inner basin mounting surface for a float tree, a molded inner surface support mount to receive a bracket of a rail system used to raise and lower the pump within the basin, a disc that fits within the basin and is supported by a molded inner facing horizontal rib to create a wet/dry well and structural features present in a top surface of the basin and a cover for the basin to close said basin. Extension risers may be added to extend the height of the basin, wherein the extension risers contain many of the same structural features that are present in the basin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2021
    Assignee: Zoeller Pump Company, LLC
    Inventors: Jeremy Conder, Chris Knaster, James C. Erhart
  • Patent number: 10898827
    Abstract: A method of capturing a vaporized component or components, and apparatus for same is provided. The method involves vaporization of desired components, and capture of the vaporized components in a material using a vapor trap device. Once captured, the material with the component stored therein may be used for any number of purposes including ingestion, topical administration, and/or aromatization.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2021
    Inventor: Geoff Todosiev
  • Patent number: 10854484
    Abstract: A system for managing liquid supply is provided. The system includes an air pressure adjustor, a first liquid container, a second liquid container, a first tube, a second tube, an inlet sensor, and an outlet sensor. The first liquid container includes a liquid. The second liquid container includes an inlet and an outlet. The first tube is configured to be connected between the first liquid container and the inlet. The second tube is configured to be connected between the outlet and the air pressure adjustor. The inlet sensor is disposed on the first tube and for detecting the liquid flowing into the inlet. The outlet sensor is disposed on the second tube and for detecting the liquid flowing out from the outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2020
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2020
    Assignee: XIA TAI XIN SEMICONDUCTOR (QING DAO) LTD.
    Inventors: Jae-Sik Kim, Jong-Kill Lim, Sungkun Jang
  • Patent number: 10814455
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a method of providing slurry to a chemical mechanical planarization (CMP) station. The method includes the operations of: mixing slurry, water and a chemical to form dilute slurry; measuring a surface tension of the dilute slurry; supplying the dilute slurry to a CMP station through piping; and modulating a flow rate of the dilute slurry in the piping in accordance with the measured surface tension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2020
    Assignee: TAIWAN SEMICONDUCTOR MANUFACTURING CO., LTD
    Inventors: Tsung-Huang Chen, Wei-Cheng Li, Chi-Tung Lai, Yung-Ti Hung
  • Patent number: 10739829
    Abstract: A pressurized infusion device and a liquid cooling system are disclosed. The pressurized infusion device includes a liquid storage tank and a pump. The liquid storage tank has a first end and a second end opposite to the first end. The first end has a first connecting structure, and the second end has a second connecting structure. The pump is connected with the first end of the liquid storage tank and has a third connecting structure, a first connecting port, a second connecting port, a third connecting port and a fourth connecting port. The third connecting structure corresponds to the first connecting structure. A pump flow channel from the first connecting port to the second connecting port is formed inside the pump, and a bypass flow channel from the third connecting port to the fourth connecting port is also formed inside the pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2020
    Assignee: COOLER MASTER TECHNOLOGY INC.
    Inventor: Yu-Te Wei
  • Patent number: 10632234
    Abstract: The invention relates to a vacuum container for drainage of fluids or wound secretion, wherein the vacuum container is pre-evacuated, with an inlet opening for connection to a drainage line, wherein at the inlet opening a vacuum indicator is located and that the inlet opening is sealable. The invention further relates to a drainage line for drainage of fluids or wound secretion, wherein the drainage line has a vacuum indicator, wherein the vacuum indicator is designed to indicate a vacuum inside a connected vacuum container. Further the invention relates to a system for drainage of fluids or wound secretion, comprising a vacuum container according to the invention and a drainage line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2020
    Assignee: PFM MEDICAL AG
    Inventor: Christian Baumeister
  • Patent number: 10605525
    Abstract: A cleaning device for removing organic liquid residues remaining on a surface of a display substrate, includes a decomposition unit, an atomization unit, a stripping unit and a collection unit; the decomposition unit is configured for changing molecular structures of the organic liquid residues to reduce the adhesive forces of the organic liquid residues on the display substrate; the atomization unit is configured for separating the organic liquid residues which has been treated by the decomposition unit from the surface of the display substrate; the stripping unit is configured for stripping the organic liquid residues which has been treated by the atomization unit from the surface of the display substrate; and the collection unit is configured for collecting the organic liquid residues stripped by the stripping unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2020
    Assignees: BOE TECHNOLOGY GROUP CO., LTD., HEFEI BOE OPTOELECTRONICS TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Guanghe Ma, Juan Li, Yangkun Jing
  • Patent number: 10371100
    Abstract: A carburetor having an inlet opening that includes a pair of concavities operative to direct air toward the metering rod of the carburetor. A carburetor having an inlet opening that includes an arcuate manifold adjacent to the inlet opening and in fluid communication with a fuel reservoir. A carburetor having a slide assembly that includes a positioning mechanism operative to adjust the position of the metering rod relative to the throttle slide. A throttle slide that includes a flow guide that bisects an arcuate relief on an underside thereof. A method for configuring the throat of a carburetor that includes an upper portion of a first diameter and a lower portion of a second diameter that is offset from the first diameter. The method comprises deriving an optimum size for the first and second diameters and the offset based on the pumping efficiency and operating parameters of the engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2019
    Assignee: Technology Elevated Holdings, LLC
    Inventors: William C. Dyess, Aaron Aldrich Hudlemeyer
  • Patent number: 10322359
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for draining water from a tank (22), more particularly a clarification tank, wherein water is optionally drained via a draining apparatus while maintaining a substantially constant liquid level (23).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2019
    Inventor: Bernhard Wett
  • Patent number: 10288189
    Abstract: A pneumatic controller for connecting to a vacuum source and providing a vacuum output signal. The pneumatic controller includes a valve body defining a number of different chambers. At least two of the chambers that are separated by diaphragm and one of these chambers is maintained at vacuum pressure. In response to a pressure differential between the two chambers, the diaphragm deforms causing a valve to move from a first position, where an output port is coupled to atmospheric pressure, to a second position, where the output port is coupled to vacuum pressure. The valve is inhibited for moving between the first and second positions unless a sufficient vacuum pressure is present. Movement of the valve from the second position to the first position is also delayed until the two chambers are substantially equalized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2019
    Assignee: Acorn Engineering Company
    Inventors: Carlos J. Galeazzi, Thomas Kent Zinn, Ronald T. Hahn
  • Patent number: 10131967
    Abstract: A scrap submergence device having an open top chamber including walls constructed of a heat resistant material is provided. The chamber includes an inlet in the side wall of the chamber for receiving molten metal, an outlet in the side wall of said chamber, and an interior wall extending from the base wall. The interior wall has a height lower than a height of the at least one side wall. The inlet is disposed on a first side of the interior wall and the outlet is disposed on a second side of the interior wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: PYROTEK, INC.
    Inventors: Jason Tetkoskie, Richard S. Henderson
  • Patent number: 10030552
    Abstract: An oil suction device is provided, including a main body and a sleeve member. A front end of the main body has a flow hole, an interior of the main body has a receiving space, one of two ends of a piston member is disposed in the receiving space and movable relative to the main body to allow a fluid to flow into or out of the receiving space through the flow hole, and the main body is light-penetrable. The sleeve member covers the main body, the sleeve member has at least one hollow-out portion formed radially, and the sleeve member and the main body are in different colors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2018
    Inventors: Ying-Chieh Liao, Yu-Kuo Liao
  • Patent number: 9995292
    Abstract: A pumping unit is operable between sucking and discharging states. The main body has a sucking channel, a discharging channel and at least one blocking mechanism. The sucking channel communicates with outside and an interior of the pumping unit, the discharging channel communicates with a receiving space of a receiving unit and the interior of the pumping unit, and one said blocking mechanism is arranged within the sucking channel to block the sucking channel selectively. Wherein, when the pumping unit is in the sucking state, the blocking mechanism unblocks the sucking channel, and the fluid enters the interior of the pumping unit; when the pumping unit is in the discharging state, the blocking mechanism blocks the sucking channel, and the fluid enters the receiving space. A pumping device is further provided for sucking a fluid from the receiving space and discharging the fluid to outside.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2018
    Inventors: Ying-Chieh Liao, Yu-Kuo Liao
  • Patent number: 9907888
    Abstract: Systems and methods for purging a negative pressure wound therapy system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2018
    Assignee: KCI Licensing, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard Coulthard, Kevin Bendele, James Luckemeyer, Christopher Brian Locke
  • Patent number: 9901843
    Abstract: A method of capturing a vaporized component or components, and apparatus for same is provided. The method involves vaporization of desired components, and capture of the vaporized components in a material using a vapor trap device. Once captured, the material with the component stored therein may be used for any number of purposes including ingestion, topical administration, and/or aromatization.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2018
    Inventor: Geoff Todosiev
  • Patent number: 9408954
    Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for detecting full waste canister and/or fluid flow path blockage conditions are disclosed. Also disclosed are methods and apparatuses for controlling a pump. In some embodiments, flow of fluid can be restricted in a portion of the fluid flow path. A controller can be configured to compare a difference in pressure values upstream and downstream of a fluid flow restrictor to a pressure difference threshold, and determine based on the comparison whether to activate an alarm indicating the full waste canister condition or the fluid flow path blockage condition. The controller can be additionally or alternatively configured to determine a fluid flow using a flow meter, open a selectable valve in response to a comparison of the fluid flow with a fluid flow threshold, determine fluid flow after opening the valve, and determine based on the fluid flow after opening the valve whether to activate the alarm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2016
    Assignee: SMITH & NEPHEW PLC
    Inventors: Benjamin Gordon, Jake Turner, Edward Hartwell, Stephen Jacob, Nathan Wrench, Edward Vernon-Harcourt, David Harris
  • Patent number: 9347211
    Abstract: The invention relates to a suction device (1) for removing a mixed fluid, in particular fecal matter, from a collecting tank (2), in particular from a sewage tank of a railway vehicle, comprising a mixed fluid inlet (4) for receiving the mixed fluid, said mixed fluid inlet (4) being fluidically connectable to a connection port of said collecting tank (2), a mixed fluid outlet (8) for discharging the mixed fluid, said mixed fluid outlet (8) being fluidically connectable to a suction line, and a flow channel (14) extending between said inlet and said outlet. The invention relates in particular to a constriction member (10) which is adapted to reduce a cross-section of the flow channel (14) in sections thereof or along the entire length thereof. The invention further relates to a suction station for removing a mixed fluid, and to such a method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2016
    Assignee: Hugo Vogelsang Maschunenbau GmbH
    Inventors: Paul Krampe, Hans Rainer Hesler
  • Patent number: 9227263
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for improving the flow control of a shielding gas in a welding unit is described which uses feedback from at least one of a mass flow controller, a pressure sensor and a valve position sensor to regulate shielding gas flow through a controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2016
    Assignee: Lincoln Global, Inc.
    Inventors: Edward A. Enyedy, William Delvon Wilder, Douglas S. Perry
  • Patent number: 9157226
    Abstract: A method for increasing hydraulic capacity of a gravity sewer system includes installing a receiving structure within or proximate to at least a portion of the gravity sewer system. The receiving structure has at least one fluid inlet opening, at least one liquid outlet opening, and at least one gas outlet opening. The method further includes evacuating at least some of any gas within the receiving structure through at least one gas outlet opening to create a vacuum within the receiving structure. The method further includes receiving a flow of at least liquid through the at least one fluid inlet opening of the receiving structure and into the receiving structure. The method further includes discharging at least some of the liquid from the receiving structure through the at least one liquid outlet opening of the receiving structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2015
    Assignee: THE WHITE OAK PARTNERSHIP LP
    Inventor: Alan F. Hassett
  • Patent number: 9097390
    Abstract: A winery storm water protection system comprising a valve capsule assembly and a control system for automatically diverting precipitation such as rain water falling on a winery crush pad into a storm system such as a waterway and for automatically diverting waste water or liquid waste products falling on the winery crush pad into a process waste water system such as a process waste water tank for further processing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2015
    Inventors: John M. Ward, Carlos E. Chamberlain
  • Patent number: 9016982
    Abstract: A system for recirculating lock water includes a sealable storage area located near a lock for receiving water from the lock. The storage area is large enough to house the lock water with excess space between a maximum water level and the ceiling. The system also includes at least one compressor connected to the storage area to create a vacuum to withdraw the water from the lock into the storage area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Inventor: Dan Peled
  • Patent number: 8950444
    Abstract: A portable pumping assembly for pumping and transporting fluids includes a container having bottom and side walls defining a chamber and a hand operated pump connected with an upper portion of the container side walls and arranged within the container generally parallel to the container bottom wall. When the pump is operated, fluid is drawn from outside the container and deposited into the container chamber for easy transport to a disposal location or facility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Inventor: Charles Francis Holm, III
  • Patent number: 8784651
    Abstract: A water separator for continuous separation of water, air and particles includes an inlet pipe, an outlet pipe, an upper chamber connected with a lower chamber, and a three-way valve located in an air connection pipe being adapted to establish a connection between the upper and lower chambers in a first position and closing the connection to the upper chamber and allowing atmospheric air to enter into the lower chamber in a second position. The upper chamber includes a coarse filter capturing particles from the liquid flow to the lower chamber. The water separator includes a main tank and a safety tank, which are connected through a connection pipe from the upper chamber in the main tank to the safety tank and through the air connection pipe from the lower chamber in the main tank to the safety tank. The inlet pipe is through the lid of the main tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Inventor: Fridthjof Moe
  • Patent number: 8757192
    Abstract: This invention relates to a valve comprising a housing having first and second apertures for the ingress and egress of fluid into/from a passageway located within the housing extending indirectly from the first to the second aperture. The passageway forms an air-lock. The valve further comprises at least one bleed valve for allowing fluid out of the passageway at a rate slower than fluid is able to enter one of the apertures. A liquid entering one of the apertures is prohibited from passing along the passageway to the other of the apertures until substantially all air within the valve has bled out of the bleed valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Inventor: Toby Priestly
  • Patent number: 8740866
    Abstract: A waste collection and disposal system for use in health care facilities is provided. The system includes a mobile waste collection unit for moving between use areas in the health care facility to collect waste material generated during medical procedures including body fluids, body tissues, saline, etc. The waste collection unit includes stacked upper and lower waste containers for receiving the waste material. During use, the upper waste container can be emptied into the lower waste container for temporary storage. In addition, different vacuum levels can be provided in the waste containers during complex procedures. Once a user desires to empty the waste collection unit, the waste collection unit is wheeled to a docking station. At the docking station, the waste material is off-loaded to a waste drain and the waste collection unit is cleaned and rinsed for further use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: Stryker Corporation
    Inventors: Stephen J. Reasoner, Chamara Gamhewage, Joseph P. Hepp, III
  • Patent number: 8663180
    Abstract: An irrigation system comprising: a reservoir with an inlet for pouring liquid into the reservoir, the inlet defining a closing element for closing the inlet; an insertion member defining an insertion end for insertion into a body cavity a human being, the insertion member defining at least one opening; and a liquid tube fluidly connecting the reservoir and having with the insertion member. At least one of reservoir and the insertion member is permanently fastened to the liquid tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: Coloplast A/S
    Inventors: Allan Tanghoej, Marlene Corydon Sinvani, Jesper Grøndahl Lund, Lars Olav Schertiger
  • Patent number: 8647315
    Abstract: A medical canister connector is presented for connecting to a medical canister, which has a patient port and a reduced-pressure port. The medical canister connector includes a first connection member that is coupled to a patient-port-attachment member, which is for coupling to a patient port on a medical canister and has a patient-port opening with a first longitudinal axis. The medical canister connector also includes a second connection member coupled to a reduced-pressure-port-attachment member, which is for coupling to a reduced-pressure port on the medical canister and has a reduced-pressure-port opening with a second longitudinal axis. A spacing member or pressure transport member may be used to couple the first connection member to the second connection member. The spacing member or transport member flexes and twists during connection. The medical canister connector may also help organize one or more pressure-sensing conduits. Methods are also presented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: KCI Licensing, Inc.
    Inventors: Tyler Simmons, Alexander Sammons, Kenneth Knowles
  • Patent number: 8603057
    Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for automatically limiting the drainage of a bodily fluid such as cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from a patient into a collection chamber. The collection chamber includes a vent having an hydrophobic filter for the passage of air to facilitate the movement of CSF yet to maintain a closed system. The system includes a buoyant float hingedly connected with the top of the collection chamber in one embodiment. When fluid rises in the collection chamber to a predetermined volume, buoyant force raises the float and causes a seal plug mounted on top of the float to seal one of an inflow port or a vent port. The float is limited to pivoting movement in one plane and to a certain angle within that plane. The system and method avoid overdrainage of CSF from the patient and overfilling of the collection chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignees: Integra LifeSciences Corporation, The Regents of the University of California
    Inventors: Brian Hoffman, Michael McDermott, William R. Chang, Eric Scott Clasen
  • Patent number: 8578959
    Abstract: The apparatus and method of the invention provides for a rinse valve for controlling the flow of rinse fluid to a vacuum waste receptacle. The rinse valve comprises a primary rinse fluid flow path and a poppet assembly intersecting the primary rinse fluid flow path. The rinse valve also comprises a solenoid-driven fluid control device having a solenoid armature movable between an inactive state in which the armature engages the poppet assembly to block flow of the rinse fluid through a poppet channel and an active state in which the solenoid armature is disengaged from the poppet assembly to allow flow of the rinse fluid through the poppet channel to raise the poppet assembly, permitting the flow of the rinse fluid through the primary rinse fluid flow path and out of the valve, the armature being located at all times out of the primary flow path of the rinse fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: B/E Aerospace, Inc.
    Inventors: Thao Hoang, Mark A. Pondelick, Christopher Hardwick
  • Patent number: 8528609
    Abstract: A nozzle system including a nozzle body configured to dispense fuel through a fuel path thereof into a vehicle tank. The nozzle body includes a vapor path configured such that vapor recovered from the vehicle tank during refueling is passable therethrough. The nozzle system further includes a main vapor valve positioned in the vapor path and configured to selectively block the vapor path. The main vapor valve is movable to a position wherein the main vapor valve does not block the vapor path. The nozzle system further includes a relief valve in fluid communication with the vapor path. The relief valve is configured to open to allow ambient air to enter into the vapor path when sufficiently low pressure is present in the vapor path, and the relief valve is generally aligned with the main vapor valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: Delaware Capital Formation, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy M. Garrison, Matthew R. Lauber, Harold M. Schubert
  • Patent number: 8500705
    Abstract: The present invention relates to the analysis apparatus capable of collecting the body fluid such as urine or blood, for embodiment urination and measuring or calculating the specific constituent from the collected body urine, and the apparatus for collecting body fluid capable of using by connecting to the analysis apparatus and its related article, in which the apparatus for collecting and analyzing for the body fluid of a patient consists of the body fluid collecting part and the collecting part case, the apparatus for collecting body fluid consists of the body fluid collecting part, the total tube and adapter, the collecting part is constructed with the absorbing tube, the sensor tube, the cleansing tube and the passage and is attachable/detachable connected to the collecting part, a diaper and pants exclusive for a patient are provided as the related article such that it is convenient to possess and has effects in the urination having no relations to the intention of a patient or in case of unable to use
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: Kyungin Metal Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kyoung Hun Kim
  • Patent number: 8449510
    Abstract: A medical waste fluid collection and disposal system includes a medical waste fluid collection cart including first and second fluid collection canisters. A valve assembly selectively communicates with the canisters and a valve drive system controls the valve assembly. A liquid level sensor is positioned within each of the canisters. A cart processor communicates with the liquid level sensors and the valve drive system. A cart drain line communicates with the valve assembly and a receptacle, a cart flushing line communicates with the valve assembly and the receptacle and a cart data line and a cart power line communicate with the cart processor and the cart receptacle. A station includes a drain pump that communicates with a drainage system and a station drain line, a flushing pump that communicates with a source of washing liquid and a station flushing line and a station processor in communication with the drain and flushing pumps. A station data line communicates with the station processor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: Dornoch Medical Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony Martini, Lawrence Guerra
  • Patent number: 8418715
    Abstract: A control system for a purge valve that can be actuated by low pressure, which can be used for a low pressure or vacuum waste water system, encompassing a first valve and a second valve. The purge valve can be actuated as a function of its position, and the accumulated waste water can be drawn off via the sewage system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: Roediger Vacuum GmbH
    Inventor: Artur Spitzer
  • Patent number: 8409160
    Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods for treating a tissue site on a patient with reduced pressure are presented. In one instance, a reduced-pressure treatment device to treat a tissue site with reduced pressure may include a pump control unit fluidly separate from a collection unit. Pump energy may be provided by the pump control unit to deflect one or more diaphragms within the collection unit to create reduced pressure. Other systems, devices, and methods are presented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Assignee: KCI Licensing, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher Brian Locke, Aidan Marcus Tout, Timothy Mark Robinson
  • Patent number: 8403902
    Abstract: Systems, methods, and devices related to removing fluids from a patient are provided. In one instance, fluid is removed from the patient and delivered to a canister using reduced pressure. Reduced pressure is supplied to the canister via a reduced-pressure delivery conduit that includes a moisture processing device and a hydrophobic filter. The moisture processing device condenses moisture from the air to prevent condensation from occluding the hydrophobic filter. The moisture processing devices includes an expanded volume and one or more liquid-impermeable, vapor-permeable membranes. The liquid-impermeable, vapor-permeable membrane allows vapor to egress the moisture processing device. Other systems, methods, and devices are presented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: KCI Licensing, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher Brian Locke, Timothy Mark Robinson, Aidan Marcus Tout
  • Patent number: 8292857
    Abstract: A medical waste fluid collection and disposal system includes a medical waste fluid collection cart including first and second fluid collection canisters. A valve assembly selectively communicates with the canisters and a valve drive system controls the valve assembly. A liquid level sensor is positioned within each of the canisters. A cart processor communicates with the liquid level sensors and the valve drive system. A cart drain line communicates with the valve assembly and a receptacle, a cart flushing line communicates with the valve assembly and the receptacle and a cart data line and a cart power line communicate with the cart processor and the cart receptacle. A station includes a drain pump that communicates with a drainage system and a station drain line, a flushing pump that communicates with a source of washing liquid and a station flushing line and a station processor in communication with the drain and flushing pumps. A station data line communicates with the station processor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: Dornoch Medical Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony Martini, Lawrence Guerra
  • Patent number: 8281801
    Abstract: A device for reusing greywater includes: a water feed for supplying greywater; a collecting reservoir for collecting the supplied greywater; a storage tank for storing water; a siphoning device for siphoning water from the collecting reservoir to the storage tank; a water discharge for discharging stored water to a water user; a sewer outlet; and a control system. A method of siphoning water includes: supplying water to a collecting reservoir; detecting a predetermined water level in the collecting reservoir; operating a filling valve subject to the detected water level; and siphoning water via a siphon connection from the collecting reservoir to the storage tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: Ecoplay International B.V.
    Inventor: Johannes Donaes Jacobus Platteel
  • Publication number: 20120199214
    Abstract: A brake modulator is disclosed herein. The brake modulator includes, but is not limited to an electronic-brake-control-modulator portion including a processor and a hydraulic portion associated with the electronic-brake-control-modulator portion. The hydraulic portion includes a primary circuit extending through the hydraulic portion to receive hydraulic brake fluid. The hydraulic portion also includes a secondary circuit extending within the hydraulic portion to receive the hydraulic brake fluid. The secondary circuit is in fluid communication with the primary circuit. The hydraulic portion further includes a valve between the primary circuit and the secondary circuit. The valve is electronically actuatable and controls movement of fluid between the primary circuit and the secondary circuit. The processor is operatively coupled to the valve and configured to perform an automatic cycling of the valve in response to an actuating event during assembly of the vehicle to evacuate the secondary circuit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2011
    Publication date: August 9, 2012
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: Josef MACK, Raymond J. SAPIENZA, Brian D. COTTON, Phanu AMATYAKUL, Paul S. SHAUB, Frank J. PICHLER, JR., Elizabeth A. CONLIN
  • Patent number: 8221366
    Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for automatically limiting the drainage of a bodily fluid such as cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from a patient into a collection chamber. The collection chamber includes a vent having an hydrophobic filter for the passage of air to facilitate the movement of CSF yet to maintain a closed system. The system includes a buoyant float hingedly connected with the top of the collection chamber in one embodiment. When fluid rises in the collection chamber to a predetermined volume, buoyant force raises the float and causes a seal plug mounted on top of the float to seal one of an inflow port or a vent port. The float is limited to pivoting movement in one plane and to a certain angle within that plane. The system and method avoid overdrainage of CSF from the patient and overfilling of the collection chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Assignee: Integra LifeSciences Corporation
    Inventors: Brian Hoffman, Michael McDermott, William R. Chang, Eric Scott Clasen
  • Patent number: 8216197
    Abstract: A medical canister connector is presented for connecting to a medical canister, which has a patient port and a reduced-pressure port. The medical canister connector includes a first connection member that is coupled to a patient-port-attachment member, which is for coupling to a patient port on a medical canister and has a patient-port opening with a first longitudinal axis. The medical canister connector also includes a second connection member coupled to a reduced-pressure-port-attachment member, which is for coupling to a reduced-pressure port on the medical canister and has a reduced-pressure-port opening with a second longitudinal axis. A spacing member or pressure transport member may be used to couple the first connection member to the second connection member. The spacing member or transport member flexes and twists during connection. The medical canister connector may also help organize one or more pressure-sensing conduits. Methods are also presented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: KCI Licensing, Inc
    Inventors: Tyler Simmons, Alexander Sammons, Kenneth Knowles
  • Patent number: 8151818
    Abstract: The invention concerns a system for supplying hydraulic fluid to a hydraulic system, with an operating reservoir that accepts the hydraulic fluid provided for the operation of the hydraulic system and an auxiliary reservoir connected to the operating reservoir over a hydraulic line for intermediate storage of hydraulic fluid withdrawn from the operating reservoir. According to the invention, an air pump is available that is connected on the one hand on its low pressure side to a suction line that ends in a fluid free area of the auxiliary reservoir, so that a negative pressure can be built up in the auxiliary reservoir as against the external atmospheric pressure, and that is connected, on the other hand, to a control line that is provided with a control opening that is covered by the hydraulic fluid in the operating reservoir at least before the air pump is put into operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Scott R. Wiens, Helmut Schaefer, Christian Brueser, Harm-Hendrik Lange
  • Patent number: 7879228
    Abstract: A system for collecting and disposing of liquid medical waste includes a fluid collection cart and a draining and cleaning station. The fluid collection cart includes a pair of containers, each of which includes a draining port and a cap. Each cap includes an outer portion having a flushing port and a bore formed therein and an inner portion having vacuum and patient ports formed therein. The inner cap portion is disposable and removably positioned within the bore of the outer cap portion. Liquid level detectors also communicate with each container. The cart also includes a regulator so a low vacuum level may be pulled on one of the containers while a full vacuum level is pulled on the other container. Fluids are collected in the containers via suction tubes connected to the patient ports. The flushing and drain ports of the containers are connected to corresponding flushing and drain connectors on the station when the containers are full so that they may be drained and flushed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Assignee: Dornoch Medical Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: James L. Dunn, Lawrence E. Guerra
  • Patent number: 7845028
    Abstract: Vacuum sewer system comprising a source of sewage (101), sewer piping (102), a discharge valve (103) between the source of sewage and the sewer piping, means (104) for generating partial vacuum in the sewer piping, and a control means for controlling the operation of the discharge valve. The control means comprises a control mechanism (105) with a body part defining a series of chambers including a first end chamber and a second end chamber, wherein the first end chambers is provided with an activating means (106). The body part (12) is provided with a first port (8) for communication with a source of vacuum (102), a second port (9) for communication with the discharge valve (103) and a third port (10) for communication with an aeration means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2010
    Assignee: Evac International Oy
    Inventor: Gunnar Lindroos