Plural Materials Patents (Class 141/9)
  • Publication number: 20100212667
    Abstract: A method of filling a drug capsule (2) for a dry powder inhaler comprising introducing a dose of powdered active substance (4) into the capsule and introducing a separate quantity of filler particles (6) into the capsule (2), said filler particles being of different composition and having a larger average particle size than the active substance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2007
    Publication date: August 26, 2010
    Applicant: CAMBRIDGE CONSULTANTS LIMITED
    Inventors: Simon James Smith, David Stuart Harris
  • Publication number: 20100193068
    Abstract: This involves a device (1) and a method for the semi-automatic filling with sand (2) and water (3) of containers (5) for packaging bloodworms. The device comprises a removable drawer (6) for retaining at least one row (4) of said containers (5) placed side by side, a tank (7) for storing dry sand, reservoirs (15, 16) for retaining determined doses of sand, means (11, 12) for moving the reservoirs between a position for filling a reservoir by gravity from the storage tank and a position for emptying a reservoir for the discharge of a dose of sand by gravity directly into a corresponding container, a tank (18) for retaining water, and water-supply means (25) arranged to supply each container with a determined quantity of water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2008
    Publication date: August 5, 2010
    Applicant: NORMANDIE APPATS
    Inventor: Michel Lopuszanski
  • Publication number: 20100170592
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device (1) for filling food pots (2), for example yoghurt pots, comprising a plurality of nozzles (10) for filling the pots with a food product, said nozzles (10) each being mounted in a nozzle body (30), characterized in that the device comprises means for applying to each of the nozzles (10) a translational movement along the axis (A) of the nozzle, optionally combined with a rotational movement about this axis, independently of the nozzle body (30), in such a way that the same nozzle (10) can both carry out the filling action and stop the filling. The invention also relates to a method for filling food pots using a device of this type.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 6, 2010
    Publication date: July 8, 2010
    Inventor: Paul Le Roi
  • Publication number: 20100116375
    Abstract: A semi-automatic benchtop filling system that allows the user to switch between pump technologies while utilizing one base unit. The base unit is outfitted to accommodate peristaltic, lobe, gear, and piston pumps providing a maximum amount of flexibility and versatility in one unit. The base unit employs a computerized servo motor control system and docking hardware for driving any of the four different pump types. The system is designed to automate the filling of sample containers regardless of which pump is mounted by tare weighting, and the drive will adjust itself to dispense the correct weight. The pump drive includes appropriate reduction gearing and quick disconnect flexible couplings for each of the different pump types, a side-mounted adapter for connecting any of the peristaltic, gear and lobe pumps, and a separate piston drive assembly and dock-connector at the rear for a piston pump.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2009
    Publication date: May 13, 2010
    Inventors: Michael Eginton, John M. Chopper
  • Patent number: 7690405
    Abstract: An improved multi fluid dispenser for simultaneous dispensing of a plurality of fluids shown and described. The dispenser includes a controller that is linked to a coordinator board. The controller has a memory with a plurality of recipes stored in the memory. A coordinator board is linked to a first module. The first module may include one or two pumps, each connected to a fluid reservoir. The module is then linked in series to a plurality of other modules as well as a manifold module. Each module includes a module board for controlling the pump or pumps of that module. The controller, coordinator board and module boards are all programmed for the simultaneous or sequential pumping of multiple fluids from the reservoirs through outlet nozzles of the manifold in accordance with a recipe selected by the user and retrieved from the memory of the controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Assignee: Fluid Management, Inc.
    Inventors: William A. Miller, Tim Hogan, Christopher Khoo, Ryan Hanawalt, Marty Leider, James R. Cleveland, Anton Obrecht
  • Publication number: 20100078092
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus and to a method for the filling of a dialyzer with a dialysis liquid and/or for the draining of dialysis liquid from a dialyzer, wherein the apparatus is mobile and has at least one liquid container for the reception of a liquid, preferably of RO water, at least one concentrate receptacle for the reception of concentrate and/or a concentrate connection for the connection of a container holding concentrate as well as at least one preparation unit which is arranged and configured such that liquid from the liquid container can be mixed with concentrate from the concentrate receptacle and/or from the container holding the concentrate in the preparation unit. The invention furthermore relates to the use of an apparatus for the filling of a dialyzer with a dialysis liquid and/or for the draining of dialysis liquid from a dialyzer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2008
    Publication date: April 1, 2010
    Inventors: Thomas Weilhoefer, Georg Zehner
  • Publication number: 20100037982
    Abstract: A system is disclosed for filling bottles and other fluid holding vessels. In the system, a pressure transducer monitors fluid pressure within a conduit that communicates with fluid filled storage banks. Using a programmable logic controller, valves associated with the banks may be systematically opened to cause fluid to pass though the conduit and into a downstream bottle. As a particular bank has discharged and the downstream bottle is filled the rate of change in the pressure in the conduit will fall to zero. If the bottle has been filled before or upon equalization of the pressure, the fill operation may be discontinued. However, if the bottle is not filled, the controller may then cause the valve to close, and the either activate a compressor or open the valve of a second bank causing that bank to discharge into the conduit and continue filling the bottle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2009
    Publication date: February 18, 2010
    Inventors: Jonathan F. Bangs, Otis G. Brock, Mark E. Dorsch, Michael R. Sayre
  • Publication number: 20100032052
    Abstract: A bypass used for selectively dispensing fluid components includes a fluid passage with an inlet, a first outlet for fluid communication with a first collecting container, and a second outlet for fluid communication with a second collecting container. A method for dispensing fluid components using the bypass includes the steps of providing fluid components to be dispensed, with one fluid component isolated from the other fluid components, blocking the first outlet of the bypass, and dispensing the isolated fluid component through the second outlet and into the second collecting container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2009
    Publication date: February 11, 2010
    Applicant: B. Braun Medical, Inc.
    Inventor: Joel Bartholomew
  • Publication number: 20100018880
    Abstract: A mixing container having an outer vessel with an open mouth and an inner vessel also with an open mouth separately stores two liquids for automatic mixing when the container is opened. Upon assembly, an interior seal between the open mouth of the inner vessel and the bottom of the outer vessel is effected through placement of a closure in the open mouth of the outer vessel. The inner vessel is received by a socket mounted in the closure which provides a resilient bias on the inner vessel to force the open mouth of the inner vessel against the bottom. A method for filling the mixing container includes a filling of the inner vessel, placement of the outer vessel over the inner vessel, immersing at least the open mouth of the outer vessel into a second liquid and evacuating the outer vessel. The mixing container may then be closed to resiliently bias the open mouth of the inner vessel against the bottom of the outer vessel to effect the interior seal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 9, 2007
    Publication date: January 28, 2010
    Inventor: Elie Helou, JR.
  • Patent number: 7647953
    Abstract: A system for reclaiming residual unspent automotive fluid having a fluid receiver which seats open containers of the automotive fluid in an inverted orientation to allow influences of gravity to self-drain the open containers. The fluid receiver accumulates the residual unspent automotive fluid into classifying compartments. Each compartment can be individually pumped or drained of the accumulated and stored residual automotive fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2010
    Inventor: Gang Jin
  • Patent number: 7631671
    Abstract: A system and method are provided for in-line processes of blending butane into gasoline streams, and for blending butane into a gasoline stream at any point along a petroleum pipeline. The invention additionally provides a method for measuring the vapor pressure and vapor to liquid ratio of the gasoline, both upstream and downstream of the blending operation, as well as the sulfur content of the butane entering the blending operation. The blending operation can be controlled to ensure that the blended gasoline meets EPA requirements for vapor pressure and sulfur content of gasoline. The invention further provides a method for accessing and monitoring the operation off-site.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2009
    Assignee: MCE Blending, LLC
    Inventors: Larry D. Mattingly, Steven M. Vanderbur
  • Patent number: 7628181
    Abstract: An integrated inkjet-cartridge refilling system that is comprised of an arrangement of mechanical, electrical, electronic, pneumatic, and software elements, which is used by an operator in a retail environment to automatically connect one of many types of inkjet cartridges that are used in printing devices and refill the cartridge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2009
    Inventors: Harry Nicodem, Timothy Knecht
  • Patent number: 7610943
    Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for dispensing portions of viscous material, such as the viscous materials used to form crystals of membrane proteins or soluble proteins. A liquid under pressure is used to divide the viscous materials into portions. The divided viscous material portions can optionally be deposited into are receptacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Assignee: Emerald Biosystems, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter Nollert, Alexandrina Muntianu, Robert C. Haushalter, Dean Allyn Hopkins, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20090260708
    Abstract: A variably proportional mixing device is provided for automatically mixing two fluids stored in separate containers in various ratios without measuring, comprising a self-venting spout that attaches to an existing gas can or other container for storing a fluid having a threaded opening therein. The spout doses gas with oil at the specific ratio required by an engine manufacturer and is easily adjusted to accommodate a plurality of other ratios. To accomplish this, a constant volume of gasoline is dosed with an amount of oil that is adjusted by the user. This adjustment mechanism comprises a wheel valve having various-sized orifices. Twisting the valve using a knob or key then provides the correct volumetric area for the oil to flow through. Markings will be visible on the valve, through a window, that correspond to a plurality of different ratios, typically ranging from 16:1 to 50:1. The dosing valve can also be shut-off completely to allow pure gasoline through the spout, such as for 4 cycle engines.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2009
    Publication date: October 22, 2009
    Inventor: James A. Owens
  • Patent number: 7605384
    Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for preparing a small amount of a radioactive substance combination, including a one-part body, a mixing device integrated in the body and adapted to receive a small amount of chemical substances, and at least one receptacle integrated in the body and connected to the mixing device and adapted to hold a small amount of a chemical substance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2009
    Assignee: Isotopen Technologien Munchen AG
    Inventors: Julian Bernd Sonnenhol, Andreas Eursch, Mark Harfensteller, Michael Schilp, Oliver Buck, Lisa Maria Ehrenfried, Tuomo Nikula
  • Publication number: 20090250138
    Abstract: The present invention discloses methods for managing the storage of gaseous hydrogen and increasing the utilization rate of gaseous hydrogen stored in a cascade storage system. In order to increase the hydrogen utilization rate of the cascade storage system, after dispensing gaseous hydrogen to a hydrogen vehicle, gaseous hydrogen is transferred via a compressor from at least one storage vessel at a lower pressure to at least one storage vessel at a higher, dispensable pressure. The methods of the present invention economically and efficiently increase the utilization rate of gaseous hydrogen stored in a cascade storage system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2008
    Publication date: October 8, 2009
    Applicant: Texaco Inc.
    Inventors: Farshad Alexander Bavarian, Dennis J. Benedetto, John Michael Brady, Daniel Glenn Casey, Dean Alan Kenefake, Charles Franklin Perdue, JR., Hongqiao Bruce Sun
  • Publication number: 20090236007
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for filling beverage bottles, in a beverage bottling plant, with a beverage material comprising a carbonated water component and a liquid flavoring component, and method and apparatus for filling containers, in a container filling plant, with a material comprising a first ingredient and a second ingredient. The abstract of the disclosure is submitted herewith as required by 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b). As stated in 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b): A brief abstract of the technical disclosure in the specification must commence on a separate sheet, preferably following the claims, under the heading “Abstract of the Disclosure.” The purpose of the abstract is to enable the Patent and Trademark Office and the public generally to determine quickly from a cursory inspection the nature and gist of the technical disclosure. The abstract shall not be used for interpreting the scope of the claims.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2009
    Publication date: September 24, 2009
    Inventors: Ludwig CLUSSERATH, Manfred MICHL
  • Patent number: 7584771
    Abstract: The disclosed apparatus includes a supply line (22) between a source of liquid paint (64) and an applicator (62) having at least two pigs (20A and 20B) and a source of liquid solvent (60) which delivers solvent (60) between the two pigs (20A and 20B) and the pigs (20A and 20B) are driven by paint (80) from adjacent the paint source (64) to the applicator (62). The apparatus further includes a second source of liquid solvent (60) which delivers solvent (60) between the pigs (20A and 20B) adjacent the applicator (62) and the pigs (20A and 20B) are returned through the supply line (22), thereby flushing the supply line (22). In the disclosed embodiment, the source of liquid paint (64) is a piston dosing device (70) which receives paint (80) from a color changer or the like and delivers a predetermined volume of paint (80) to the applicator (62). The delivery line (22) preferably includes a friction resistant inner layer, an intermediate dielectric layer and a protective outer layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2009
    Assignee: Durr Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Frank Herre, Rainer Melcher, Herbert Martin, Michael Baumann, Richard M. Ostin, Robert F. Heldt, Manfred Michelfelder, Joachim Hering
  • Publication number: 20090211662
    Abstract: A drink layering potion machine reliably creates undisturbed air bubble free multiple drink layers. The potion machine includes a flat bottom hollow cylinder, a top with an integral conical pouring cup having a central aperture at its bottom tip. A thin rod passes through the aperture with a small clearance. A second aperture displaced from the first aperture supports thin rod providing wobble free movement. The bottom end of the thin rod carries a float. The drink layering potion machine is placed with a hollow cylinder encircling a glass and stabilizing it from tilting. The float rests on the liquor in the interior of the glass as liquor is poured into the conical pouring cup. The liquor runs down at a slow volumetric rate through the small clearance, down the thin rod, over the float external surface into the glass forming layered undisturbed drink free from air bubble entrapment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 4, 2008
    Publication date: August 27, 2009
    Inventors: Christopher C. Haramis, Matthew N. Haramis
  • Publication number: 20090205744
    Abstract: A needle and hub assembly for automatic injectors includes a cap or skirt that has a forward surface interposed between and reinforced by first and second engaged hub portions. A needle is received in a contiguous channel formed in the two hub portions. Methods of forming the assembly include molding the first hub portion, placing the cap over the first hub portion, inserting the needle into the channel in the first hub portion, and then overmolding or otherwise forming the second hub portion on the exterior of the first hub portion and cap such that the second hub portion engages the first hub portion. An assembly created by this “two-shot” process can be used to seal a relatively large opening in a medicament cartridge and to support the needle more effectively than a conventional assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2009
    Publication date: August 20, 2009
    Inventor: Steven M. Griffiths
  • Patent number: 7559346
    Abstract: The invention relates to a dispensing system and method for on-demand dispensing of spoonable or drinkable food products in a container. Single servings or larger portions of these products can be dispensed. The system and method achieve dispensing of the product with a visual differentiation of the components in the container. The container may be translucent or transparent so that the consumer can view the visually differentiated product therein. The products form yet another embodiment of the invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2009
    Assignee: Nestec S.A.
    Inventors: James Peter Herrick, William Overbaugh, Richard J. Farrell
  • Publication number: 20090165886
    Abstract: A device and a method for the dilution and preparation of antiballistic drugs, the device comprises a drug preparation unit connected to a controlling device; the drug preparation unit comprises a first central tank, in which there is a solvent, typically a physiological and/or glucosate solution, a first positive-displacement pump, an emptying unit connected to a positioning and locking arrangement provided with a housing suitable for receiving various dimensions and formats of dimensions and formats of bottles of drug; the first positive-displacement pump transfers in a dosed manner the solvent from the central tank to the bottle, and in succession from the bottle to a further tank of semifinished drug; the diluted drug solution in the further tank is then transferred to a container of prepared drug in a determined quantity for infusion into a patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2006
    Publication date: July 2, 2009
    Applicant: BIODUCT S.R.L.
    Inventors: Giuseppe Zucca, Michele Desogus, Maria Cristina Deidda
  • Patent number: 7536843
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and system for dosing a pharmaceutical product in a packaging machine having at least one volumetric dosing unit with a dosing chamber. The system check-weighs the volumetrically dosed product with appropriate speed and is integrated into a filling or packaging machine. In accordance with the invention, a volume of a first pharmaceutical component is metered and weighed before being introduced into a package. The procedure is repeated with a second pharmaceutical component. The package containing the components is then weighed. Advantageously, accuracy and precision of the amount of the weighed components can be monitored with the present invention to secure the quality of the pharmaceutical product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2009
    Assignee: AstraZeneca AB
    Inventors: Alf Djurle, Reiner Wurst
  • Publication number: 20090126826
    Abstract: A method of producing a coating composition in an in-store tinting machine comprising the steps of selecting a base paint, adding at least one additive to the base paint, adding at least one colourant to the base paint, the at least one colourant being selected from a range of colourants in the in-store tinting machine, mixing the base paint, the at least one colourant, and the at least one additive so as to produce a coating composition, in which the additive is not a base paint or a colourant from the range of colourants in the in-store tinting machine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2006
    Publication date: May 21, 2009
    Applicant: IMPERIAL CHEMICAL INDUSTRIES PLC
    Inventor: Martin James Smith
  • Patent number: 7533700
    Abstract: A hydrocarbon fuel composition which is suitable for sue in a fuel cell apparatus and an internal combustion engine comprises at least one saturated aliphatic hydrocarbon having 4 to 12 carbon atoms, and is characterised by an olefin content of less than 20% by volume, an aromatics content of less than 42% by volume, a final boiling point (fop) of less than 215° C., and a sulphur content of less than 20 ppm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2009
    Assignee: BP Oil International Limited
    Inventors: Graham Butler, Stephen David Cook, Michael Graham Hodges, Graham Walter Ketley, Gregory James Lang
  • Publication number: 20090120531
    Abstract: A portable device for delivering nitrogen to multiple tires includes a gas source and supply line connected to a controller. The device also includes a gas delivery line comprising a manifold with a plurality of outlets in fluid communication with each other. A gas delivery line is operably connected to the controller and a plurality of extension lines with engagement chucks are operably connected to the outlets. The controller controls the supply of gas to the gas delivery line and controls a relief valve for venting the gas delivery line. The device also includes a sensor and a processor connected the controller and sensor which accepts user inputs. The controller, manifold and processor are affixed to a stand.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2009
    Publication date: May 14, 2009
    Applicant: KRESKA TECHNOLOGIES
    Inventor: Jay Lighter
  • Patent number: 7530373
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method of manufacturing and distributing a cleaning solution for use in a vehicle washing facility. The method includes receiving pre-measured raw chemical material at a distributor's facility, diluting the pre-measured raw chemical material using a mixing apparatus at the distributor's facility to form a cleaning solution, packaging at least a portion of the cleaning solution into containers at the distributor's facility, and delivering at least one of the containers from the distributor's facility directly to the vehicle washing facility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2009
    Assignee: R. Lewis Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: William Lewis, John G. Lenhart
  • Patent number: 7527078
    Abstract: An improved dispensing system and dispensing routine for multiple ingredient formulas is disclosed. The system includes a controller linked to an actuator, a scale and, a means for imparting movement to a plurality of pumps or conveyors and containers for dispensing the plurality of ingredients. After a formula is selected, the controller acts to at least partially load the pump with the first of said ingredients, reads the scale to account for the weight of the receptacle, calculates the motion of the pump required to dispense the target amount of said first ingredient, and either executes a percentage or portion of the motion of the pump required to dispense the target amount of said first ingredient, leaving a remaining amount or a safety factor in the form of a previously determined <maximum overshoot> value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2009
    Assignee: Fluid Management, LLC
    Inventors: Martinus Evert Jan Leonardus Driessen, Ronald Peter Krom
  • Patent number: 7527077
    Abstract: A multi-liquid phase composition wherein said phases are visually distinctive. These compositions combine multiple phases for creating personal care compositions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2009
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Patrick Columkille McCall, Robert Lee Wells, Bryan Gabriel Comstock, Michael Frederick Niebauer
  • Patent number: 7513280
    Abstract: The silo includes at least three hoppers terminating in rectilinear discharge openings extending lengthwise transversely of a loading area below the discharge openings. Clam gates are movable between open and closed positions to discharge material. The discharge area at the bottom of the silo is increased, facilitating faster loading of trucks with the particulate material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2009
    Assignee: Gencor Industries Inc.
    Inventors: David F. Brashears, Jerry J. Walker
  • Patent number: 7503355
    Abstract: A facility for manufacturing, assembling, and filling a fluid dispenser device comprising a fluid reservoir (10) and a dispensing member (20), such as a pump or a valve, said facility being characterized in that it comprises a manufacturing unit for manufacturing a reservoir, a filling unit for filling said reservoir, and a fixing unit for fixing said dispensing member to said reservoir, said units operating continuously in a controlled atmosphere.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2009
    Assignee: Valois S.A.S
    Inventors: Pascal Bruna, Dominique Hibon, Herve Pacaud
  • Publication number: 20090032272
    Abstract: In one arrangement there is provided a method of charging a fluid vessel (10). The vessel (10) comprises a rigid outer container, an expandable bladder (8) within the outer container in fluid communication with a release valve (9) of the fluid vessel (10). A cavity separates the rigid outer container and the bladder and the method comprises the steps of providing a first fluid (5a) to the cavity, for providing external pressure to the expandable bladder (8), and subsequently providing a second fluid (5) to the bladder (8) prior to use of the fluid vessel (10).
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2007
    Publication date: February 5, 2009
    Inventor: William James Duncan
  • Patent number: 7469729
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an injection system for injecting material into a receiving vessel, said injection system comprising: (i) an injection chamber provided with means to connect to the receiving vessel, and (ii) an injection capsule, adapted to fit within the injection chamber, and comprising a reservoir for the material and a valve, said injection system being adapted so that opening of the valve causes material contained within the reservoir to be injected into the receiving vessel by action of a pressure differential between the injection chamber and the receiving vessel. The present invention also relates to a method of injecting material into a receiving vessel using said injection system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: BP Chemicals Limited
    Inventors: Paul Nicholas Aukett, Mirko Kranenburg, Stephen Roy Partington, Yves Johann Elizabeth Ramjoie
  • Patent number: 7470293
    Abstract: Feedstock delivery systems for hydrogen generation assemblies having a hydrogen-producing region and a heating assembly. The delivery system provides a hydrogen-production fluid to the hydrogen-producing region and provides a heating fuel to the heating assembly. The delivery system includes a pressure vessel having an interior cavity containing the heating fuel and the hydrogen-production fluid, which are disposed in the pressure vessel in a pressurizing—pressurized relationship, in which the heating fuel is discharged from the pressure vessel under it own pressure and the hydrogen-production fluid is discharged under pressure applied by the heating fuel. The feedstock delivery system may separately discharge the hydrogen-production fluid and the heating fuel and may include a pressure transmitter disposed between the hydrogen-production fluid and the heating fuel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: Idatech, LLC
    Inventors: David J. Edlund, R. Todd Studebaker
  • Publication number: 20080317924
    Abstract: The present embodiments are directed to beverages such as ready-to-drink coffee and tea beverages. A beverage in accordance with the embodiments described herein includes at least two discrete, preprepared and packaged components. In some embodiments, one of the components is a coffee or tea base, and another component is a dairy or soy base. During final processing, the two or more discrete bases are combined together with water and packaged for sale as a ready-to-drink beverage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2008
    Publication date: December 25, 2008
    Applicant: Starbucks Corporation
    Inventor: Angel Yang
  • Publication number: 20080277019
    Abstract: A dispenser for dispensing a mixture of water and one of a plurality of concentrated formulas is disclosed. The dispenser comprises a housing that includes an electronic controller, a water inlet connected to a pressurized water source, and a water inlet valve that is electrically controlled and connected to the controller. A mixture reservoir is in fluid communication with the water inlet valve and a mixture outlet through which the mixture of water and one of the concentrate formulas exits the dispenser. A plurality of concentrate reservoirs each adapted to receive the concentrated formulas are each in fluid communication with the mixture reservoir. Each concentrate reservoir has a valve connected to the controller and capable of delivering a metered volume of the concentrated formula into the mixture reservoir when signaled by the controller. A selector knob is electrically connected to the controller and has at least one manually selectable position representative of each concentrate reservoir.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2007
    Publication date: November 13, 2008
    Inventor: Kendall Bancroft Somerby
  • Publication number: 20080271809
    Abstract: A filling line for filling a number of containers. The filing line may include a continuous conveyor, one or more micro-ingredient dosers positioned about the continuous conveyor, and one or more macro-ingredient stations positioned along the continuous conveyor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2007
    Publication date: November 6, 2008
    Applicant: THE COCA-COLA COMPANY
    Inventors: James E. Goldman, James LeSage, Donald E. Gruben, Kevin L. Reid, Jonathan Kirschner
  • Publication number: 20080264803
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for storing and providing acetylene. A storage vessel contains both a porous filler material and an ionic liquid based solvent. Acetylene is dissolved into the solvent, and stored inside the storage vessel. The solvent contains no acetone or dimethylformamide.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2008
    Publication date: October 30, 2008
    Inventor: Rajat Agrawal
  • Publication number: 20080247967
    Abstract: A dentifrice composition comprising at least one phase, wherein said dentifrice is packaged in a generally transparent container, and wherein the combination of the dentifrice and the container and/or at least one packaging layer forms a pattern.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2008
    Publication date: October 9, 2008
    Inventor: Ralph Albert Sagel
  • Publication number: 20080223480
    Abstract: A manually operated seal/closure system for a fluid dispenser manifold is disclosed The manifold includes at least one nozzle and, more typically, a plurality of nozzles ranging from more than one to twelve or more. The manifold housing includes a sidewall or other stationary structure. The stationary sidewall is pivotally connected to an arm. The sidewall further includes a lateral slot and a curved slot. The arm includes a proximal end pivotally connected to the sidewall and a distal end with an elongated slot disposed therebetween. The closure system also includes a bracket for supporting a cup and a seal. The bracket is coupled to the arm and the sidewall by a first pin that extends from the bracket through the lateral slot in the sidewall and through the elongated slot of the arm. The brackets also coupled to the sidewall by a second pin that extends through the lateral slot of the sidewall and laterally between the first pin and the manifold.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2007
    Publication date: September 18, 2008
    Applicant: Fluid Management, Inc.
    Inventors: John Hsing, Christpoher Khoo
  • Publication number: 20080223481
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for supplying fluid wherein a product specific ticket, card, or order form is utilized which incorporates a bar code, notch or hole formed in the media thereof, a mark, a colored area, or a particular shape to designate the fluid type to be installed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2006
    Publication date: September 18, 2008
    Inventors: James H. Gammon, Michael J. Wilkinson
  • Patent number: 7418981
    Abstract: Systems, including methods and apparatus, for dispensing biological fluids, such as allergens.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2008
    Inventors: James W. Baker, Gary A. Kirian
  • Publication number: 20080196787
    Abstract: A method of filling a container with a liquid composition, which comprises at least two visually distinct phases, comprising the steps of: a.) transferring said liquid composition to a container using a dispenser which has an initial fill rate; b.) rotating said container during said step a. at an initial speed of rotation and in an initial direction of rotation; c.) changing a feature selected from the group consisting of: the speed of rotation of said container, the fill rate of the dispenser, and the direction of rotation of said container; and mixtures of said features, each independently from the geometry of said container; and d.) completing the transfer of said liquid composition to said container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2007
    Publication date: August 21, 2008
    Inventors: Bryan Gabriel Comstock, Bryce William Wilson, John Eric Vanhook
  • Patent number: 7409971
    Abstract: In a machine (1) for filling containers with fluid products, different fluid substances are directed by means of a rotary valve assembly (19) into a tank (7) furnished with separate compartments (12, 13, 14, 15), isolated one from another and equipped each with at least one filler valve (8) by which a given quantity of one of the fluid substances is dispensed from the tank (7) into each container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2008
    Assignee: Azionaria Costruzioni Macchine Automatiche A.C.M.A S.p.A.
    Inventors: Davide Bonatti, Enrico Galimberti, Stefano Cavallari
  • Patent number: 7404483
    Abstract: An adhesive system and method of making same includes a package that defines a chamber, a resin component disposed within the chamber, and a hardener component disposed within the chamber. At least one of the resin component and the hardener component includes a photo-curable ingredient and is through cured to thereby prevent chemical reaction between the resin component and the hardener component within the package.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2008
    Assignee: ND Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard B. Wallace
  • Patent number: 7370677
    Abstract: A gaseous composition particular suitable for inflating the tires of vehicles with a high heat transfer capacity that results in tires having a longer life and better performance. In one aspect, this composition is based on hydrofluorocarbons, and is capable of effectively conducting the heat generated during the rotation of the tire to the wheel rim and at a more or less constant pressure. In one aspect, the wheel rim acts as a radiator, exchanging the heat with the outside air, maintaining the tire temperature low and preventing it from overheating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2008
    Assignee: Sapio Produzione Idrogeno Ossigeno
    Inventor: Andrea Seghezzi
  • Patent number: 7360564
    Abstract: An apparatus for dispensing a plurality of fluids, comprising a plurality of pumps, having a connector for releasably connecting, to the respective pump, a container, which holds a fluid and comprises a connector-counterpart, and at least one actuator for releasing a container from a connector, which the actuator is adapted to operatively engage the connector-counterpart and, upon engaging this counterpart, pull the same onto the connector and establish a fluid connection between the respective pump and the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2008
    Assignee: Fluid Management, Inc.
    Inventors: Marcel Hendrikus Petrus Engels, Bastiaan Albert Simon Peeters, Constantijn Thomas Papaikonomou
  • Patent number: 7357158
    Abstract: A process is disclosed for filling an improved aerosol dispenser with a first and a second fluid product and an aerosol propellant. The process comprises the steps of filling a first and a second inner container located within an aerosol container with the first and the second fluid products. The aerosol container is filled with the aerosol propellant. The improved aerosol dispenser separately stores the first and second fluid prior to use. The improved aerosol dispenser mixes and dispenses the first and second fluids for discharge from a terminal orifice.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2008
    Assignee: Seaquist Perfect Dispensing Foreign
    Inventors: Patrick Timothy Yerby, Mark Neuhalfen
  • Patent number: 7353847
    Abstract: A method of loading a granulated solid into a vessel having a containment zone for the granulated solid. The method comprises providing in a bottom portion of the containment zone a first substantially vertical rigid columnar portion having a horizontal cross section large enough to accommodate an operative's body. Support means is associated with the substantially vertical rigid columnar portion. Granulated solid is charged into the containment zone under control of the operative so as to distribute granulated solid around the substantially vertical rigid columnar portion. A further substantially vertical rigid columnar portion having a similar horizontal cross section to that of the first columnar portion is positioned on top of the first columnar portion. These steps are repeated a sufficient number of times until the desired amount of granulated solid has been charged to the containment zone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2008
    Assignee: Davy Process Technology Limited
    Inventor: Simon Early
  • Patent number: 7343941
    Abstract: A pressurized package contaning an initial paint formulation having a neutral or clear color is prepared by mixing a propellant and a clear non-pigmented base or a clear pigmented base or a white pigmented base in a pressurizable container. This pressurized container is then sold to retail stores where tints and/or pigment dispersions are injected into the pressurized container to arrive at a matched or selected final color and sold directly to the end user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2008
    Assignee: Seymour of Sycamore
    Inventors: Christopher Heatley, William G. Zanellato