Processes Patents (Class 141/1)
  • Publication number: 20150090363
    Abstract: A liquid transportation system includes a loading station where a liquid is loaded into a container of a delivery vehicle, and a drop off location where the delivery vehicle transfers the liquid into a storage tank. The storage tank includes a tank marker including a first identification device that generates a first signal. The first signal identifies a type of liquid to be stored in the storage tank. The delivery vehicle includes a product marker having a control system and a second identification device. The second identification device identifies a type of liquid contained in the container. The control system receives the first signal and the second signal and determines whether the type of the liquid stored in the container is the same as the type of liquid to be stored in the storage tank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2014
    Publication date: April 2, 2015
    Inventor: Kenneth R. Evans
  • Publication number: 20150090610
    Abstract: Disclosed in certain embodiments are methods of filling storage containers with adsorbent materials (e.g.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2014
    Publication date: April 2, 2015
    Inventors: William Dolan, Christoph Garbotz, Adam Lack, Joseph Lynch, Stefan Marx, Ulrich Mueller, Michael SantaMaria, Mathias Weickert, Hans Van Oyen, Joe Hudak
  • Patent number: 8985161
    Abstract: Method of controlling a container filling machine comprising a plurality of filling elements. Each of the filling elements has a flow measuring device which is used to measure the volume of filling material dispensed from its filling element. During filling, the time that a first filling element is open to dispense a predetermined volume of filling material is measured. A second filling element is then opened for essentially the measured time to thereby dispense essentially the predetermined volume of filling material into a second container. As an alternative, a time may be calculated from the measured times of a plurality of filling elements, which calculated time may be used to determine for how long another filling element is opened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: KHS GmbH
    Inventors: Karl Lorenz, Achim Kunz
  • Patent number: 8985162
    Abstract: A device connecting a recipient closed by a perforatable stopper and a container for a needle, comprising a base for mounting the container, the base defining a central bore and comprising means for mounting on the recipient, the needle pertaining to a subset engaged in the central bore forming part of the device, for mounting on the container, and being arranged in the central bore parallel to the bore's longitudinal axis, and a sealing sleeve arranged in the central bore, around the needle and in contact therewith, the base being a single component and comprising a body for perforating the stopper extending from an intermediate wall of the base, away from the central bore and parallel to its central axis, up to a distal end, the perforating body being hollow and the inner space thereof communicating with the central bore and with a space radially surrounding its distal end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: Biocorp Recherche et Developpement
    Inventor: Antoine Aneas
  • Publication number: 20150075671
    Abstract: Apportioning apparatus for apportioning moist cut or ground tobacco material with moisture content of at least 35%. Apportioning apparatus includes metering unit; weighing cell; and control unit coupled via a first data link to the metering unit and via a second data link to weighing cell. Metering unit is configured to add a predetermined portion of tobacco material to a receptacle, and metering unit and weighing cell are arranged relative to each other such that, while receptacle is being filled by metering unit, a weight of the added tobacco material is detected by weighing cell, and data relative to the detected weight is communicated via first data link to the control unit. Control unit is configured to control metering unit via second data link on the basis of received data relative to weight of added tobacco material such that a predetermined portion of tobacco material is added to receptacle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 18, 2014
    Publication date: March 19, 2015
    Applicant: HAUNI MASCHINENBAU AG
    Inventors: Christofer OVERBECK, Jens BARKEMEYER, Daniel BAUER, Sindy JESKE, Csaba KRESZL
  • Patent number: 8978715
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for filling a tank with pressurized gas, particularly hydrogen in the tank of a vehicle, using a filling station that comprises: a plurality of buffer containers for containing the pressurized gas and filling the tank through successive pressure balancing phases; a device for generating a pressurized gas and for filling said buffer containers from a fluid source; wherein the method comprises a tank filling step by gas transfer from a buffer container and simultaneously by gas transfer directly from the source via the gas generation device, characterized in that the pressurized-gas generation device includes a compressor connected to the buffer containers and in that the compressor supplies gas to the tank from a gas source including a first buffer container for at least part of a pressure balancing phase between at least one second buffer container and a tank, the buffer containers being successively used as sources by the compressor after being used for pressure balancing wi
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: L'Air Liquide, Societe Anonyme pour l'Etude et l'Exploitation des Procedes Georges Claude
    Inventor: Laurent Allidieres
  • Patent number: 8973624
    Abstract: A fill control system includes a fuel storage vessel, a fuel inlet in fluid communication with the fuel storage vessel to provide fluid communication between a fuel source and the fuel storage vessel, and a fill control valve disposed between and in fluid communication with the fuel inlet and the fuel storage vessel, an actuation of the fill control valve causing a pressure level upstream thereof which emulates a full condition of the fuel storage vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventor: Jörg Schulze
  • Publication number: 20150059917
    Abstract: The material transfer system and method of transferring materials comprises provides improved connectors that overcome the deficiencies of the connectors currently used. The connector and method of connecting of the present invention comprises a fool-proof method of connecting and a method of ensuring the safe and accurate transfer of materials. The connector of the present invention provides a plurality of male and female connector portions in a plurality of geometric shapes and colors and specific key components that prevent the delivery of and mixing of incorrect and incompatible materials. The connectors of the present invention are shaped differently from any connectors currently available on the market. Each geometric shape corresponds to a general class of chemicals. One embodiment of the present invention connector is a color coded element according to the shape, size, and configuration of the connector and the material the connector is intended to transfer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2013
    Publication date: March 5, 2015
    Inventor: James Randall Brown
  • Publication number: 20150053303
    Abstract: The invention concerns a beverage dispenser (1) comprising a base (2) and a holding system that comprises a holding part (3) positionable beneath a beverage outlet (4) in order to accept a first, relatively small receptacle, and being configured and dimensioned to be moveable between a deployed holding position suitable for accepting the small receptacle and a second position in which the holding part is moved at least partly out of the way of the beverage outlet to create an unoccupied space in which a second, larger receptacle can be positioned, in place of the first receptacle, beneath the beverage outlet, wherein the holding system comprises a sensor (8) configured for detecting the position of the holding part between the first position and the second position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2013
    Publication date: February 26, 2015
    Inventors: Roberto Angelo Calderone, Cedric Rey, Guillaume Langloy
  • Publication number: 20150057593
    Abstract: An intraocular device for implantation in an eye of a patient is provided. The intraocular device includes an inlet tube, an outlet tube, and a microfluidic chamber. The microfluidic chamber includes a chamber inlet coupled to the inlet tube, a chamber outlet coupled to the outlet tube, and one or more fluidic barriers. Each fluidic barrier is configured such that, as a fluid is injected into the microfluidic chamber, a front of the fluid coincides with the fluidic barrier before any of the fluid passes beyond the fluidic barrier. Associated methods are also disclosed herein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2013
    Publication date: February 26, 2015
    Applicant: ALCON RESEARCH, LTD.
    Inventors: Andrew David Johnson, Nicholas Max Gunn
  • Publication number: 20150053718
    Abstract: A reservoir system is disclosed that can have two or more reservoirs attached to a manifold. The manifold can direct or control the flow of liquids from the reservoirs and deliver the liquids to a drinking tube extending from the manifold. The reservoirs and manifold can be in a backpack. Some or all of the reservoirs can be positioned on other parts of the body outside of the backpack.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2014
    Publication date: February 26, 2015
    Applicant: Hydrapak, Inc.
    Inventors: Matthew J. LYON, Samuel M. LOPEZ, Georgiy PATRIKEYEV, Daniel S. STEARMAN
  • Publication number: 20150053302
    Abstract: A refrigeration apparatus includes a dispenser for dispensing water or ice into a receiver vessel. The dispenser includes a dispense command input for receiving a dispense command from a user and a code reader for interpreting an identification code associated with the receiver vessel. At least one controller is operatively connected to the dispense command input to receive the dispense command, and to the code reader to receive a vessel identification based on the interpreted identification code. The at least one controller controls the dispensing. A memory is configured to store the vessel identification in association with a usage parameter for the vessel. The at least one controller determines whether water/ice has been previously dispensed into the receiver vessel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2013
    Publication date: February 26, 2015
    Applicant: Electrolux Home Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy Willis, Kurt Froehlich
  • Publication number: 20150053304
    Abstract: Present invention optimizes utilization of different fuels in various single and multi-fueled engines. The fuel system and optimization controller links fuel properties (physical, reactionary, combustion etc.) to on-board computer systems during the refueling process. This link enables fuel and additive producers an opportunity to optimize combustion parameters of their proprietary fuel blends to increase performance, fuel efficiencies and reduce emissions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2014
    Publication date: February 26, 2015
    Applicant: OPTIMUS TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: Colin N. Huwyler, David S. Rosenstraus
  • Publication number: 20150047738
    Abstract: Processes and systems are described, which provide important advantages in filling gas storage vessels, such as gas cylinders for the transport of compressed natural gas (CNG). For example, the flow of gas from the fill station may be terminated safely, using an auto-fill shut-off mechanism, without the risk of exceeding vessel pressure ratings and overall reduced risk of operator error. The automatic termination of flow can occur at a preselected pressure that may, for example, be set at a fixed value, or may otherwise be adjusted based on the local temperature at the time of the fill.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2014
    Publication date: February 19, 2015
    Inventors: Wesley W. Wilson, David A. Diggins
  • Publication number: 20150047737
    Abstract: A packaging box is provided for individually packaging a container for tire repair fluid. The box has six outer walls that surround the container. A container holder for holding the container upright is provided in any one of the outer walls. The container holderholder is formed by deforming the outer wall. The container is removed from the packaging box, the outer wall of the packaging box is deformed to form the container holder. The container holder is used to hold the container upright. A first hose is connected between a tire valve of a wheel on which a pneumatic tire is mounted and an outlet of the container. A second hose is connected between an inlet of the container and an air compressor. The air compressor is operable to inject the tire repair fluid in the container into the pneumatic tire using the pressure of compressed air.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2013
    Publication date: February 19, 2015
    Inventor: Takumi Sekiguchi
  • Publication number: 20150047299
    Abstract: Provided is a method for filling a container with a liquid in which the container is filled via an opening of the container and an internal volume of the container increases during the filling process and the internal volume of the filled volume is at least twice the volume of the unfilled container. Also provided is a device for filling containers, and a container having an opening, a base region, and a main body integrally formed with the opening and the base region, the main body being bent by a specified bending angle around a specified circumferential folding edge of the main body in such a way that the opening of the container is arranged closer to the base region than the circumferential folding edge is, wherein the position of the folding edge relative to the base region of the container can be changed during an expansion of the container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2013
    Publication date: February 19, 2015
    Applicant: Krones AG
    Inventors: Ute John-Unterburger, Rupert Meinzinger, Michael Neubauer
  • Publication number: 20150041019
    Abstract: A game of accuracy and method for playing the same at a fuel pump comprising one or more players dispensing fuel or energy with the object of stopping the fuel pump's metering mechanism at a predetermined value. Exemplary embodiments of the game comprise a fuel pump, a metering mechanism for measuring the quantity of fuel or energy dispensed, a controller coupled with the fuel pump for starting and stopping the flow of fuel or energy therethrough, and a processor in communication with the metering mechanism. The method of playing comprises selecting a goal outcome, one or more players dispensing fuel or energy with the object of dispensing an amount of fuel or energy that corresponds with the goal outcome, and providing the one or more players with a prize in the event the amount of fuel or energy dispensed corresponds with the goal outcome.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2014
    Publication date: February 12, 2015
    Inventor: Roger L. Wilson
  • Patent number: 8950446
    Abstract: An electric generator set fuel control system is disclosed. The fuel control system includes an electric generator, a prime mover mechanically coupled to the generator, a first fuel tank, a fuel level sensor configured to generate a fuel level signal indicative of a fuel level in the first fuel tank, a fuel loading operator input device configured to generate a fuel loading signal, a fueling mode operator input device configured to generate a fueling mode signal, and a control module. The first fuel tank is configured to supply fuel to the prime mover, and selectively receive or supply fuel to a second fuel tank through a fuel pump. The control module is configured to generate a fuel transfer signal as a function of the fuel loading signal, the fueling mode signal, and the fuel level signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Keith Folken, Joydip Chakravarty, Edward M. Schroeder, Andrew W. Black, Nelson Slaughter
  • Publication number: 20150038377
    Abstract: A liquid dispenser for a microfluidic assay system is described. The dispenser includes at least one transfer pin for transferring a microfluidic sample of liquid to a target receptacle. A pin tip at one end of the transfer pin is structured to cooperate with an opening in the target receptacle. The tip uses a high voltage potential to transfer the sample from the pin to the receptacle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2014
    Publication date: February 5, 2015
    Inventors: Leila Madrone, John Linton, Colin John Herbert Brenan
  • Publication number: 20150034207
    Abstract: A process for filling pharmaceutical product containers in a container filling machine with the stages of: filling the container with the corresponding pharmaceutical substance through filling means in a filling station of the filling machine, weighing the filled container in a filled container weighing station to confirm that the quantity of pharmaceutical substance with which the container has been filled lies within the desired range, in which when the quantity of pharmaceutical substance with which the container has been filled lies outside the desired range the filling means are moved to the filled container weighing station and the container is topped up with a quantity such that the total substance placed in the container in the two stages lies within the desired range.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2014
    Publication date: February 5, 2015
    Inventor: JORDI BOIRA BONHORA
  • Publication number: 20150027584
    Abstract: An assembly for assisting with the pouring of fluid includes, among other aspects, a fill tube and a pop-up component disposed at least partially within the fill tube. The pop-up component assists with directing poured fluid into the fill tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2013
    Publication date: January 29, 2015
    Applicant: Grooup One Limited
    Inventor: Fredric Goldstein
  • Publication number: 20150013822
    Abstract: A fuel additive bottle has a neck and thread pattern that allows insertion into a capless fuel system so the bottle's contents can be poured by gravity into a fuel tank. The neck of the bottle is elongated and has a diameter of approximately 0.854?, and the novel thread pattern includes thread interruptions that form at least one threadless path. In use, the spring loaded tabs of a capless fuel system are depressed by the threadless path portion of bottle, thereby triggering the self-sealing mechanism to open, so the fluid receiving aperture is exposed. The use of the threadless paths facilitates the safe and easy entry and removal of the bottle from the capless fuel system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2013
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Applicant: TricorBraun Inc.
    Inventor: WILLIAM EDWARD BAKER
  • Publication number: 20150013823
    Abstract: A dispensing device for dispensing carbonated beverage from a bottle having a screw-on cap, includes a body having a cap-engaging aperture, the cap-engaging aperture having able to engage the screw-on cap of the bottle to unscrew the cap in a bottle-inverted orientation for dispensing. According to one embodiment, the body comprises a concave member with a concave side and a convex side and having the cap-engaging aperture in a central region thereof, the concave side providing a collection area for beverage dispensed from the bottle and the concave member having at least one through opening for draining the beverage from the curved member. An alternate embodiment provides a handled dispensing device. A further embodiment provides a concave member that is formed with or fixed to the bottle cap.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2014
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Inventor: Thomas J. Vokac
  • Publication number: 20150016885
    Abstract: A system and method for temporarily filling surface voids, such as cracks, potholes or other surface breaches includes a flexible container, such as a bag. The bag is filled with an engineered viscosity fluid. The fluid properties are chosen in accordance with a particular application in accordance factors including hole properties, anticipated traffic properties and ambient temperature. A bag with appropriate properties is placed in a void, and provides a temporary travel surface. Embodiments include fluids with engineered viscosity properties, including non-Newtonian fluids. Additional embodiments include selectively filled, selectively drained, or multiple bags. Another embodiment includes tubular, flexible containers cut to size in accordance with hole characteristics.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2013
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Inventors: Nicholas H. Barron, Noah S. Gostout
  • Publication number: 20150013825
    Abstract: Zero waste dosing method for filling containers of liquids which provides to use, at a delivery station of the liquid product, at least a volumetric pump with a rotor and stator, associated with a tank of the liquid to be introduced into said containers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2013
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Inventors: Claudio Trebbi, Ivan Ragazzini
  • Publication number: 20150013824
    Abstract: A fuel can adapter is designed to be used with a fuel can having a neck that is internally and externally threaded. The fuel can adapter includes a plate having external threads for engaging internal threads of the neck, the plate including a hole. The adapter includes a sliding tube mounted to slide within the hole in the plate. The adapter includes an elbow mounted at an upper end of the tube, the elbow including an outlet. The adapter further includes a protrusion extending from the plate beside the hole. The elbow bears against the protrusion to exert a torque on the plate that threads or unthreads the plate from the neck of the fuel can.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2014
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Inventor: Duane LEONHARDT
  • Publication number: 20150013826
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for filling a tank with a liquid medium, in particular a urea solution, comprising a filling pipe and comprising a suction channel for removing air from the tank. The invention is characterized in that at least one air guiding element is provided inside the suction channel, said air guiding element being designed to deflect the air transversely to the longitudinal axis of the filling pipe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2013
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Inventor: Michael Driftmeyer
  • Patent number: 8926582
    Abstract: A sealing cap for a body fluid container, and a body fluid collection device and system are disclosed. The sealing cap includes an inner cap placeable on an opening in the body fluid container forming a mouth, the inner cap has a shielding member which seals the mouth of the body fluid container, an outer cap resting on the inner cap, the outer cap being movable relative to the inner cap, and a channel member, wherein by a rotational movement the outer cap is movable between an first position in which the channel member is located separated from the shielding member and a second position in which the channel member extends through the shielding member, thereby establishing an open state of the shielding member, and wherein the shielding member returns to a closed state when the outer cap is moved back from the second position to the first position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Assignee: Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Hans-Peter Wahl, Rolf Schneebeli, Renato Belz
  • Publication number: 20150000607
    Abstract: Various embodiments of an aquarium and its method of use are disclosed. In some embodiments the aquarium includes a first container including a waste collection area, an outlet, and a conduit fluidly connecting the waste collection area and the outlet. Depending upon the particular embodiment, the aquarium may also include features such as a second container adapted and configured to mate with the first container and receive the outlet such that fluid flows from the waste collection area through the outlet and into the second container when fluid is added above a preselected fluid level. In other related embodiments, the conduit may be formed by first and second portions of the conduit formed in the first container and a separate component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2013
    Publication date: January 1, 2015
    Inventors: Robert Reid, Marc Lafond
  • Patent number: 8919078
    Abstract: A method of controlling a bottling plant, including detecting an operating state of the bottling plant, determining whether for the detected operating state the energy consumption and/or the consumable consumption of at least one consumer of the bottling plant can be reduced, and if it is determined that the energy consumption and/or the consumable consumption of at least one consumer can be reduced, reducing the energy consumption and/or the consumable consumption of the at least one consumer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: Krones AG
    Inventors: Stefan Raith, Johann Lehner, Michael Aufhauser
  • Publication number: 20140373968
    Abstract: A filling device is described which is configured to control the process of filling a medical or therapeutic fluid from a supply container containing the medical or therapeutic fluid into an administration container that is in fluid connection with the supply container. The filling device includes a volume control system configured to control the volume of the administration container and a pressure detection system configured to detect a pressure value related to the pressure inside the supply container. The filling device is further configured to perform the process steps of filling the administration container by: directing the volume control system to decrease the volume of the administration container, directing the pressure detection system to detect a pressure value, and directing the volume control system to increase the volume of the administration container if an increase criterion depending on the pressure value is fulfilled.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2014
    Publication date: December 25, 2014
    Inventor: Marcel Mueller
  • Patent number: 8915271
    Abstract: The present invention provides a system and a method for loading/unloading cryogenic fluids between a ship and storage tanks The system comprises a shaft extended upwards to above the sea level, a transfer pipeline extended from the storage tanks to the shaft with a free end free to expand/contract axially inside the shaft, a header fluidly connected to the free end, at least one downward pipe branch from the header, at least one hose coupler attached to the shaft, at least one internal hose freely hung inside the shaft between the downward pipe branch and the hose coupler, and at least one loading arm fluidly connected to the hose coupler and having an end flange for connection with ship manifolds for fluid transfer. The system further comprises at least one vertical support to support the header in the vertical direction, wherein the header is free to move along with the free end of the transfer pipeline.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2014
    Inventor: Xuejie Liu
  • Patent number: 8905089
    Abstract: A liquid transportation system includes a loading station where a liquid is loaded into a container of a delivery vehicle, and a drop off location where the delivery vehicle transfers the liquid into a storage tank. The storage tank includes a tank marker including a first identification device that generates a first signal. The first signal identifies a type of liquid to be stored in the storage tank. The delivery vehicle includes a product marker having a control system and a second identification device. The second identification device identifies a type of liquid contained in the container. The control system receives the first signal and the second signal and determines whether the type of the liquid stored in the container is the same as the type of liquid to be stored in the storage tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: CHS Inc.
    Inventor: Kenneth R. Evans
  • Publication number: 20140356494
    Abstract: A method for making liquid and/or semi-liquid food products from liquid and/or semi-liquid base products comprising the steps of: preparing a container for supplying the base products, a container for processing the base products and a duct connecting the supplying container to the processing container and having at least one deformable portion; transferring the liquid base products through the connecting duct from the supplying container to the processing container; measuring a deformation value of said deformable portion of said connecting duct; controlling said supplying of the liquid base products through said connecting duct, from the supplying container to the processing container as a function of the measured value of deformation of the portion of the connecting duct.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2014
    Publication date: December 4, 2014
    Applicant: ALI S.p.a. - CARPIGIANI GROUP
    Inventors: Andrea COCCHI, Roberto LAZZARINI
  • Publication number: 20140356499
    Abstract: A new and improved waste oil management system is described herein which includes an automated data management system, allowing users to track usage and collection volumes, and other useful data, to help reduce oil use, lower costs and increase profits. The waste oil management system includes an oil monitoring device or integrated control panel linked to one or more computers, more fully described herein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2013
    Publication date: December 4, 2014
    Applicant: Frontline International, Inc.
    Inventors: John W. Palazzo, Giovanni Brienza, Ryan M. Mullen
  • Publication number: 20140352839
    Abstract: An embodiment of a pouring device includes a storage section having a fill opening, a storage cavity, and a wall formed with a passage extending between an inner surface of the wall and an outer surface of the wall, includes a guide unit attached to the storage section, and includes a sliding unit configured to block the storage cavity, wherein the passage is configured to receive the sliding unit horizontally as it is moved along a first axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2013
    Publication date: December 4, 2014
    Inventor: Ryan Caracciolo
  • Publication number: 20140345748
    Abstract: An aseptic sampling system comprises sampler and interface assemblies. Each assembly comprises a housing defining separate sterile enclosures. An air lock provides aseptic joining of the enclosures within the sampler and interface assemblies, and a re-sealable liquid connection mechanism operates within the lock. The sampler and interface assemblies, when connected, form an outer protective surface comprising the housings of the sampler and interface assemblies, the protective surface providing a sterile internal enclosure and air lock and an air-tight barrier between outer non-sterile, and inner sterile, atmospheres.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2012
    Publication date: November 27, 2014
    Applicant: Pall Europe Limited
    Inventors: Samson Salman Rogers, David Micah Katz, Neil Pollock
  • Patent number: 8887773
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for loading solid particles into a vessel, comprising: a means for supplying solid particles to be distributed, said means pouring said solid particles into a supply pipe (1), a movable assembly (2) arranged below the supply pipe (1), comprising a central shaft (3) and deflector elements (5) which are integral in rotation with said shaft and arranged around the shaft on multiple vertical tiers (E1-E4) and are articulated about it in such a way that they can lift up, a supply pipe (1) surrounding at least partially said central shaft and comprising at least one orifice (4) for discharging the solid particles which is arranged on a side and/or horizontal wall, this device being characterized in that the movable assembly (2) is designed in such a way as to allow adjustment of the position of the deflector elements (5) on the central shaft (3) in order to vary its permeability to the solid particles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignee: Total Raffinage Marketing
    Inventors: Bernard Cottard, Pascal Leroy, Vincent Mayeur
  • Publication number: 20140332113
    Abstract: A fluid dispensing assembly, including a valve, a housing, a user interface, and a fitting to couple to a fluid source. The valve may include a first sensor detecting proper placement of the fluid container based on a magnetic material positioned at the bottom of the fluid container, a plunger having a plunger shaft coupled thereto, the plunger selectively placing the valve in fluid communication with the fluid container, and a solenoid coupled to the plunger shaft and moving the plunger shaft to transition the plunger between an open position and a closed position. The user interface may be coupled to the valve to enable selection of at least a fluid container size and a dispensing mode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2014
    Publication date: November 13, 2014
    Inventor: Joshua Springer
  • Publication number: 20140332112
    Abstract: A liquid dispenser for a microfluidic assay system is described. The dispenser includes at least one transfer pin for transferring a microfluidic sample of liquid to a target receptacle. A pin tip at one end of the transfer pin is structured to cooperate with an opening in the target receptacle. The tip uses a high voltage potential to transfer the sample from the pin to the receptacle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2014
    Publication date: November 13, 2014
    Applicant: LIFE TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Leila HASAN, John Linton, Colin John Herbert Brenan
  • Publication number: 20140326359
    Abstract: A modular hollow block structure (1) includes: a plurality of hollow block members (2) made by rotational moulding a plastic material into a hollow right parallelepiped shape, with two or more cylindrical holes (4) passing transversely through the hollow block members (2); and at least one connecting post (6) passing through the cylindrical holes (4) in adjacent hollow block members (2), and that includes a securing device (8) whereby it can be secured to the hollow block members (2) once fitted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2012
    Publication date: November 6, 2014
    Inventor: Michael Hebden BENNETT
  • Patent number: 8875749
    Abstract: A method for the preparation of samples by means of a dosage-dispensing device, a weighing system with a load receiver, a processor unit, a memory unit, and an exchangeable dosage-dispensing unit. A target container is set on the load receiver. The dosage-dispensing unit and/or the target container includes electrically insulating material. The dosage-dispensing unit has the capability to change positions relative to the load receiver. While the dosage-dispensing unit is in a first position and a target container is on the load receiver, a starting weight value is determined, the dosage-dispensing unit is brought into a second position, a dosage-dispensing cycle delivers a dosage material in a predefined amount from the dosage-dispensing unit into the target container by means of the processor unit, the dosage-dispensing unit is brought into the first position, and while the dosage-dispensing unit is at rest in the first position, an ending weight value is determined.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: Mettler-Toledo AG
    Inventors: Bruno Nufer, Siegfried Gluvakov
  • Patent number: 8875748
    Abstract: An apparatus for the filling of a medical filter has at least one first space and one second space which are semipermeably separated by one or more membranes, with the spaces each having at least one inflow and outflow. The apparatus includes a detection unit having a first element and a second element, with a liquid discharge from at least one of the first and second spaces being detectable by the first element, and the state of the filling of the filter being determinable by the second element with reference to the detected liquid discharge. A method of filling a medical filter employs the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: Fresenius Medical Care Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Josef Beden, Itka Bado, Georg Verch
  • Publication number: 20140318665
    Abstract: A container coupler for either transferring viscous fluids or holding a vessel upside down includes an engaging portion for encircling the mouth of a lower vessel and an aperture for engaging an upper vessel. A conical surface surrounding the aperture causes fluid spilled on the coupler to travel to the aperture and into the lower vessel. With the upper vessel engaged on the coupler, a portion of the upper vessel is disposed below the mouth of, and within the lower vessel to add stability, prevent leakage and decrease the height of the stacked vessels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2013
    Publication date: October 30, 2014
    Inventor: Eve Balembois
  • Publication number: 20140318666
    Abstract: A fluid transfer hose manipulator is presented having an articulated arm having a plurality of arm sections. A first arm section of the plurality of arm sections and a second arm section of the plurality of arm sections are connected to each other by a first pivot joint. A base supports the first arm section. At least one flexible hose for fluid transfer extends movably along at least the first and second arm sections, and is directed and supported by at least two hose guides. At least one hose tensioner is in contact with the flexible hose to adjust the tension on the at least one flexible hose.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2012
    Publication date: October 30, 2014
    Inventors: Gianpaolo Benedetti, Andrew Michael Alderson
  • Patent number: 8869844
    Abstract: An apparatus includes means for providing one-way degassing valves to be installed on corresponding containers; means for placing a viscous liquid in each of the plurality of one-way degassing valves to provide a corresponding plurality of installable one-way degassing valves; means for capturing an image of at least a portion of at least some of the plurality of installable one-way degassing valves; and control means for automatically and non-destructively determining for the at least some of the plurality of installable one-way degassing valves, prior to installation on the corresponding containers, by using the image, whether the viscous liquid has been properly placed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: Kraft Foods Group Brands LLC
    Inventors: Arthur A. Sagy, Julio A. Gonzalez
  • Patent number: 8869843
    Abstract: A breakaway separation prevention safety device that provides warning indicators reminding users to replace a fuel nozzle after dispensing fuel. The safety warning system reminds users of a fuel pump to replace the nozzle into the nozzle mount. The system is activated as the user removes the nozzle from the nozzle mount. An audio and visual warning is emitted as a reminder for the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Inventors: Johnie Lee Tague, Michael James Noble
  • Publication number: 20140311617
    Abstract: An injection member penetrates an elastic septum of a device defining a sealed, empty, sterile chamber in fluid communication with the septum. During penetrating, an annular interface is formed between the septum and the injection member extending axially between a penetration point on an interior surface of the septum in fluid communication with the sterile chamber, and an exterior surface of the septum engaging the injection member. The injection member is de-contaminated by (i) friction between the septum and injection member at the annular interface, and (ii) elongation of the septum at the annular interface. A substance is introduced through the injection member and into the sterile chamber of the device, the injection member is then withdrawn from the septum, the septum reseals itself at the resulting penetration aperture, and the chamber is maintained sterile throughout the foregoing steps.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2014
    Publication date: October 23, 2014
    Applicant: Dr. Py Institute, LLC
    Inventor: Daniel Py
  • Publication number: 20140311619
    Abstract: The invention relates to a retrofit kit for a filler gun or a filler gun of a fuel pump with an integrated generator for generating electric energy. The retrofit kit or the filler gun contains: a sensor device which is equipped to detect a fueling process of the filler gun; a reproduction device which is equipped to reproduce information; and an electric energy source which supplies the reproduction device with electric energy on the basis of the detection of the fueling process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2012
    Publication date: October 23, 2014
    Applicant: Alvern Media GmbH
    Inventors: Arnold Herp, Joerg Peter Strasburger, Sven Wucherpfennig
  • Publication number: 20140311618
    Abstract: A method and structure are described for preventing the accidental introduction of an incorrect liquid into a tank, such as the introduction of gasoline into the fuel system of a diesel-powered vehicle. In a first embodiment, the entrance to a fill tube of a diesel-powered vehicle is configured with a sensor ring. When an incorrect fueling operation is attempted, such as the introduction of gasoline into the fuel tank of a diesel-powered vehicle, at least one but fewer than all of displaceable mechanical elements are displaced, and the sensor ring alerts the operator visually and/or audibly before fueling starts, thereby preventing incorrect fueling.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2014
    Publication date: October 23, 2014
    Inventor: Curtis Roys