Liquid Patents (Class 209/155)
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Patent number: 7255233Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for separating mixed plastics using flotation techniques including a first stage initial washing tank for washing of incoming plastics and providing a first separation process and at least one separation module. The first stage initial washing tank includes a perforated basket to hold heavy materials, such as metals, glass, and the like. Each separation module includes a separation tank, a feeding section for feeding of mixed stream into the separation tank; and a collecting section for collecting of the separated mixed plastics including floaters and sinkers from the separation tank. The separation tank has no moving parts. Each separation tank and the first stage initial washing tank is a standard off-the-shelf circular tank with a flat bottom. Washing and drying steps are eliminated between separation stages. Batch processing is replaced with generally continuous operation. An integrated vibrating screen and air classification system is provided.Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 2004Date of Patent: August 14, 2007Assignee: UChicago Argonne LLCInventors: Edward J. Daniels, Bassam J. Jody, Joseph A. Pomykala, Jr.
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Patent number: 6986829Abstract: Process and container for stacking and diluting paper fiber stock. The process includes stacking a high-consistency stock in a first volume for defined dwell time, conveying stock to second volume arranged to adjoin downstream first volume, diluting stock in second volume at least to a pumpable consistency, and drawing off diluted stock as suspension through a wire. Process includes generating circulation flow in second volume, such that circulation flow facilitates conveying of stock located on boundary of first volume into second volume, diluting stock, and drawing stock through wire. Process includes rotating rotor to keep wire clear, and generating, with screw coil arranged directly in front of rotor, flow that runs in axial direction of screw coil and guides diluted suspension away from wire. The instant abstract is neither intended to define the invention disclosed in this specification nor intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2002Date of Patent: January 17, 2006Assignee: Voith Paper Patent GmbHInventors: Volker Gehr, Martin Nuber
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Patent number: 6974926Abstract: In embodiments of the present invention, the electric field of a focused laser beam induces a dipole in a single-walled carbon nanotube. The single-walled carbon nanotube has one or more resonant frequencies. When the frequency of the laser beam is less than a resonance frequency of the single-walled carbon nanotube, the single-walled carbon nanotube may be trapped and the laser beam may move the single-walled carbon nanotube from a first microfluidic laminar flow to a second microfluidic laminar flow. When the frequency of the laser beam is higher than a resonant frequency of the single-walled carbon nanotube, the single-walled carbon nanotube may be repelled and the laser beam may not move the single-walled carbon nanotube.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2003Date of Patent: December 13, 2005Assignee: Intel CorporationInventors: Yuegang Zhang, Eric Hannah, Tae-Woong Koo
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Patent number: 6953123Abstract: A pre-separator feed well for use with hydrous slurry feed is provided in a hindered-bed separator that includes an elongate body defining an interior space with upper and lower portions. The feed well is elongate and includes a vertically adjustable conical plate adjacent the bottom thereof for control of downward flow of heavy material. The top of the feed well includes an overflow weir including an overflow ring having a plurality of vertical slots through which flows the lighter material onto an overflow weir adjacent an overflow launder and to an outlet pipe. Feed is introduced into the upper portion of the feed well in a tangential manner. A perforated barrier may be mounted below the feed well in some circumstances. Teeter flow is introduced in a lower portion of the separator and flows upwardly. Alternatively, the lower part of the separator can be perforated for heavy/coarse material discharge.Type: GrantFiled: June 19, 2002Date of Patent: October 11, 2005Assignee: Outokumpu OyjInventor: Timo U. Niitti
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Patent number: 6929750Abstract: The present invention provides a device and a method for separating particles from fluids using ultrasound, laminar flow, and stationary wave effects comprising a micro-technology channel system with an integrated branching point or branching fork, and a single ultrasound source. One of the characteristics of the invention is that the single ultrasound source, which generates the standing waves, excites the complete structure including the channel system. No special reflectors or the like are needed. Extremely thin dividers can separate the flow, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of the device. The device could be manufactured in silicon and the ultrasound energy could preferably be delivered by a piezoelectric element.Type: GrantFiled: March 11, 2002Date of Patent: August 16, 2005Assignee: Erysave ABInventors: Thomas Laurell, Mats Allers, Henrik Jönsson, Hans W. Persson, Andreas Nilsson, Filip Tobias Petersson
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Patent number: 6902650Abstract: The present invention provides a method making stratified paper by redistributing the pulp suspension inside the headbox nozzle using acoustic radiation waves. Acoustic radiation forces fractionate fibers based on fiber radius. The acoustic radiation waves separate the fibers by pushing the coarse and longer fibers to the inner area while fines and smaller fibers remain in the outer area. This has a similar effect of multi-layer stratification headbox, and provides paper with a smoother surface.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 2003Date of Patent: June 7, 2005Assignee: International Paper CompanyInventors: Chang Shin Park, Hanjian Xu
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Patent number: 6827911Abstract: A system for the continuous use and recapture of a catalyst in liquid, comprising: a generally vertical reactor having a reaction zone with generally downwardly flowing liquid, and a catalyst recovery chamber adjacent the reaction zone containing a catalyst consisting of buoyant particles. The liquid in the reaction zone flows downward at a rate which exceeds the speed of upward buoyant migration of catalyst particles in the liquid, whereby catalyst particles introduced into the liquid in the reaction zone are drawn downward with the liquid. A slow flow velocity flotation chamber disposed below the reaction zone is configured to recapture the catalyst particles and allow them to float back into the catalyst recovery chamber for recycling into the reaction zone, rather than being swept downstream. A novel 3-dimensionally adjustable solar reflector directs light into the reaction zone to induce desired photocatalytic reactions within the liquid in the reaction zone.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 2000Date of Patent: December 7, 2004Assignee: Bechtel BWXT Idaho, LLCInventor: Kevin L. Gering
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Publication number: 20040182754Abstract: Sand is discharged from a vessel at an elevated pressure and is delivered at a lower pressure. The sand is subjected to the following steps before delivery: I) dilution with a dilution fluid, ii) passage through at least one pressure reducing cyclone, the dilution being such that flashing is reduced, and iii) delivery as a slurry at the delivery pressure. This results in less wear of the components.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 2, 2003Publication date: September 23, 2004Inventor: Neville Ernest Lange
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Publication number: 20040091824Abstract: The present invention provides methods of reclaiming and recycling the polymer-contaminated solvent that was used in the developing process for the preparation of relief plates crosslinked by photopolymerization. The solvent of the present system contains alkyl esters, alone or in combination with co-solvents and/or non-solvents, as washout solvents for the unpolymerized material in the printing plates to develop a relief image and a method for developing printing plates. The process comprises transferring the contaminated solvent, from a plate processor or a dirty holding tank, to a centrifuge, and centrifuging the contaminated solvent to remove the polymer. The reclaimed solvent can be transfer directly back to the plate processor or to a clean holding tank.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 28, 2003Publication date: May 13, 2004Inventors: David Calvin Bradford, Constance Marie Hendrickson
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Patent number: 6632652Abstract: Methods and apparatus for sorting microstructures, such as macromolecules, viruses, cells, and minute particles, in a fluid using microlithographic sorting array that is reversibly sealed by a cover. A silicone elastomer cover is used in one embodiment. In another, silicon microstructures are used to case elastomeric replicas of obstacle arrays, the tops of which reversibly seal against a flat surface. The reversible seal allows access to fractionated microstructures within the structure for further analysis.Type: GrantFiled: September 15, 1998Date of Patent: October 14, 2003Assignee: Princeton UniversityInventors: Robert H. Austin, Robert H. Carlson
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Patent number: 6491167Abstract: A self-cleaning separator is described for cohesive or adhesive solids from a fluidborne stream of solids on the basis of a cyclonelike separation. The separator consists at least of a cylindrical upper section (8) having a separating chamber (3), a product inlet (2), a fluid outlet (5), and of a conical lower section (6) having a solids outlet (7) adjoining below the lower section (6), at least the side wall (4) of the upper section (8) being produced from an elastic material, in particular an elastomeric material.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 1999Date of Patent: December 10, 2002Assignee: Bayer AktiengesellschaftInventors: Jochen Mahrenholtz, Jörg-Rainer Schmitz, Klaus-Michael Zeyen, Oliver Fleschenträger
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Patent number: 6454945Abstract: This invention provides microfabricated systems for extraction of desired particles from a sample stream containing desired and undesired particles. The sample stream is placed in laminar flow contact with an extraction stream under conditions in which inertial effects are negligible. The contact between the two streams is maintained for a sufficient period of time to allow differential transport of the desired particles from the sample stream into the extraction stream. In a preferred embodiment the differential transport mechanism is diffusion. The extraction system of this invention coupled to a microfabricated diffusion-based mixing device and/or sensing means allows picoliter quantities of fluid to be processed or analyzed on devices no larger than silicon wafers. Such diffusion-based mixing or sensing devices are preferably channel cell systems for detecting the presence and/or measuring the quantity of analyte particles in a sample stream.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2000Date of Patent: September 24, 2002Assignee: University of WashingtonInventors: Bernhard H. Weigl, Paul Yager, James P. Brody, Mark R. Holl, Fred K. Forster, Eric Altendorf, Paul C. Galambos, Margaret Kenny, David Schutte, Gregory Hixson, Diane Zebert, Andrew Kamholz, Caicai Wu
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Patent number: 6379973Abstract: A fractionation apparatus comprises two channels coupled through a semipermeable membrane. A time and position dependent concentration of precipitation reagent is produced in one of the channels. Sample entities such as macromolecules or cells introduced into this channel are eluted therefrom at different times depending on their solubility or mobility in the presence of the precipitation reagent.Type: GrantFiled: March 5, 1999Date of Patent: April 30, 2002Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Department of Health and Human ServicesInventor: Yochiro Ito
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Patent number: 6273265Abstract: The performance of a gravity separator is enhanced by providing a magnetic material on the separation surface of the gravity separator. A magnetically enhanced gravity concentration/separation apparatus is provided for enhancing separation of a target feed material from remaining feed materials in a feed mixture having a transport medium and feed materials which comprise the target feed material and the remaining feed materials. The target feed material is magnetic and generally has a higher specific gravity than any magnetic feed materials contained in the remaining feed materials. The separating apparatus comprises a gravity separator including a separation surface on which to flow the feed mixture.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2000Date of Patent: August 14, 2001Assignee: Bechtel CorporationInventor: Richard B. Greenwalt
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Patent number: 6273264Abstract: A device for separating dense particles contained in blood or one or more proteins contained in blood plasma by utilizing a separating arrangement. The separation arrangement includes a feed duct, at least two discharge ducts, a pump for producing a pressure in order to introduce the blood or blood plasma into the separating device, a measuring device provided with the discharge ducts, and a control arrangement connected to the measuring device. The separation arrangement also includes a respective arrangement changing the cross section of at least one of the two discharge ducts and connected to the control arrangement.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 1999Date of Patent: August 14, 2001Inventor: Jean Denis Rochat
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Patent number: 6273266Abstract: Process and pressure grader screen for wet screening stock suspensions. The process includes conducting the stock suspension along the screen, so that break-away eddies are formed on an inflow side of the screen, separating portions of the stock suspensions, so that a part of the stock suspension passes through the screen apertures as underflow and an other part is rejected as overflow, and moving the at least one clearer relative to the screen, so that one of pressure- and suction impulses are produced at the screen apertures to form pre- and back flows. In this way, a flow direction of the break-away eddy is reversed by the back flow to rinse a part of the screen lying between the screen aperture with the back flow and an adjacent downstream aperture. The pressure grader screen includes a plurality of bars arranged to form a plurality of essentially parallel grading slots through which an accepted part of the stock suspension passes during the wet screening.Type: GrantFiled: March 24, 2000Date of Patent: August 14, 2001Assignee: Voith Sulzer Papiertechnik Patent GmbHInventor: Samuel Schabel
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Patent number: 6273262Abstract: A device comprises a means for radiating ultrasound from one face of a chamber holding a sample solution containing particles to be concentrated, and a reflective face inclined to the face irradiated with the ultrasound. The frequency of the ultrasound radiated from the ultrasound radiating means is changed periodically and asymmetrically with the passage of time.Type: GrantFiled: May 25, 1999Date of Patent: August 14, 2001Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.Inventors: Kenji Yasuda, Takeshi Sakamoto
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Patent number: 6264040Abstract: A process and a structure is described for separating particles in a fluid medium based on a difference in settling velocity. The feed is introduced tangential into the separation zone. The tangential feed system includes a transition box to reduce flow velocity and disperse the slurry across the separator eliminating the efficiency losses associated with other classifiers that introduce feed directly into the separation chamber. This approach offers an improvement in process capacity and efficiency. The fluidization water is introduced to the separation chamber below a baffle plate that disperses the water across the base of the separator. The feed system may include baffles in the upper separation chamber, and a stilling well with an impact plate adjustable side walls and adjustable baffle plates to reduce flow velocity and disperse the slurry across the separator.Type: GrantFiled: December 3, 1999Date of Patent: July 24, 2001Inventors: Michael J. Mankosa, Gerald H. Luttrell
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Patent number: 6244446Abstract: A method and centrifugal separator apparatus for separating more dense particles from less dense particles contained in a slurry. The separator apparatus receives slurry into a rotor assembly which includes a bowl open upwardly and a surrounding hutch chamber. The bowl has a lower impermeable portion coupled to a drive shaft for rotating the rotor assembly, an upper impermeable portion connected to the lower portion, and a frusto-conical screen. The frusto-conical screen forms the inner wall of the hutch chamber and discharge outlets are provided in the periphery of the hutch chamber. An annular fluid inlet connected to the hutch chamber supplies elutriation liquid continuously to the interior of the hutch chamber, and a plurality of pulse blocks supply intermittent pulses of liquid to the hutch chamber. A dam is formed at the top of the screen. In operation, slurry is supplied to the lower portion of the bowl and forms a bed on the screen.Type: GrantFiled: October 8, 1999Date of Patent: June 12, 2001Inventor: Richard L. Schmittel
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Patent number: 6202855Abstract: An invention provides a process for the selection from a particulate pharmaceutical product of particles of a preselected size, said process comprising (i) obtaining a substantially homogeneous suspension of said particulate pharmaceutical product in a fluid suspension medium which is immiscible with said product and is of different density to said product, (ii) carrying out a size selection procedure to set an effective lower or upper size limit on the articles in the final particulate product, wherein step (ii) comprises either allowing said suspension to settle for a predetermined period, separating said suspension into a first and second component in a predetermined volume ratio, said first component deriving from an upper layer of said suspension and said second component deriving from a lower layer of said suspension, adding further suspension medium to said first component where said medium is more dense than the pharmaceutical product or to said second component where said medium is less dense than thType: GrantFiled: December 14, 1999Date of Patent: March 20, 2001Assignee: Nycomed Imaging ASInventors: Tore Omtveit, Bjørn Haugseter
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Patent number: 6186333Abstract: The invention relates to a method for controlling a multi-step screening apparatus (1), the method comprising controlling other accept, reject and dilution flows in relation to the flow measured in the accept channel (7a) of the first screening step (3a). Thus a simpler control unit (9) can be used and accept of higher quality can be obtained than before. The invention further relates to an apparatus for controlling a multi-step screening apparatus (1), said apparatus comprising a control unit (9) arranged to measure the flows of all accept, reject and dilution water channels (7a-7c, 5a, 5b, 11a, 11b) and to adjust the flow of the other channels on the basis of the flow of the accept channel of the first step.Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 1999Date of Patent: February 13, 2001Assignee: Valment CorporationInventors: Jouko Hautala, Juhani Valli, Timo Vuorinen, Jorma Petäjistö
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Patent number: 6145247Abstract: The present invention provides apparatus and methods useful, for example, for introducing a desired spacing between or classifying and sorting objects, e.g. plant embryos. Objects carried serially in a fluid stream enter the apparatus via an upstream conduit. A sensor associated with the conduit provides information regarding an object at a particular location in the upstream conduit and produces a signal. A switch coupled to the upstream conduit directs the fluid stream to an appropriate downstream conduit by applying a force to a conduit, e.g., by aligning the upstream conduit with a downstream conduit to create a fluid-tight path. Apparatus according to the present invention are particularly useful for manipulating fragile multicellular biological objects such as plant embryos.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 1997Date of Patent: November 14, 2000Assignee: Weyerhaeuser CompanyInventor: Michael K. McKinnis
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Patent number: 6142311Abstract: In a process for controlling the product composition in an apparatus for sizing and sorting mineral raw materials, wherein the apparatus comprises at least one chamber, a sizing separation of the sand fraction into a sand product mass and into a micro particle sand fraction to be discharged via the overflow, is additionally performed in the chamber by means of the level of the fluidized bed in the chamber. For the adjustment of a pre-set concentration of micro particle sand in the sand product mass, the fluidized bed level is controlled such that the micro particle sand fraction in the supplied raw material mass is divided, by means of the fluidized bed, as a function of the pre-set admissible concentration into a micro particle sand fraction to be discharged into the sand product mass and a micro particle sand fraction to be discharged via the overflow.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 1999Date of Patent: November 7, 2000Assignee: Allmineral Aufb ereitungstechnikBmbH & Co KGInventor: Rolf Korber
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Patent number: 5979664Abstract: Methods and apparatus for acoustic fiber fractionation using a plane ultrasonic wave field interacting with water suspended fibers circulating in a channel flow using acoustic radiation forces to separate fibers into two or more fractions based on fiber radius, with applications of the separation concept in the pulp and paper industry. The continuous process relies on the use of a wall-mounted, rectangular cross-section piezoelectric ceramic transducer to selectively deflect flowing fibers as they penetrate the ultrasonic field. The described embodiment uses a transducer frequency of approximately 150 kHz. Depending upon the amount of dissolved gas in water, separation is obtained using a standing or a traveling wave field.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 1998Date of Patent: November 9, 1999Assignee: Institute of Paper Science and Technology, Inc.Inventor: Pierre Brodeur
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Patent number: 5971158Abstract: This invention provides an extraction device and a method for extracting desired particles from a sample stream containing the desired particles. The device has a sample stream inlet, an extraction stream inlet, and an extraction channel in fluid communication with the sample stream inlet and the extraction stream inlet. The extraction channel is for receiving a sample stream from the sample stream inlet in adjacent laminar flow with an extraction stream from the extraction stream inlet. A sequestering material within the extraction channel captures desired particles in the extraction stream. A by-product stream outlet in fluid communication with the extraction channel receives a by-product stream comprising at least a portion of the sample stream form which desired particles have been extracted. A product outlet in fluid communication with the extraction channel receives a product which has the sequestering material and at least a portion of the desired particles.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 1997Date of Patent: October 26, 1999Assignee: University of WashingtonInventors: Paul Yager, James P. Brody
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Patent number: 5918747Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for recovering polyhydroxyalkanoate from a biological source material containing the polyhydroxyalkanoate, the process comprising: a) comminuting the biological source material; b) suspending the comminuted biological source material in a fluid; c) partitioning the polyhydroxyalkanoate from the other components of the biological source material by centrifugal fractionation to form a solid-solid separation; and d) recovering the polyhdroxyalkanoate.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 1997Date of Patent: July 6, 1999Assignee: The Procter & Gamble CompanyInventor: Isao Noda
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Patent number: 5902489Abstract: A chamber for exerting an ultrasound beam on a sample solution containing particles to be concentrated, separated or arranged is provided with a view toward arbitrarily controlling the shape of a spatial distribution of potential energy created by the ultrasound beam and concentrating, separating or periodically arranging the particles. In contrast to the chamber, irradiation ultrasound sources for generating ultrasound beams are provided to create an ultrasonic intensity distribution for producing a position potential energy distribution used to exert a force forwarded in a predetermined direction or a force staying at a predetermined region to each particle. Thus, a specific spatial distribution of potential energy can be realized by ultrasound beams each having a specific intensity, a specific frequency and a specific phase or an ultrasound beam formed by superimposing these on one another.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 1996Date of Patent: May 11, 1999Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.Inventors: Kenji Yasuda, Shin-ichiro Umemura, Kazuo Takeda, Mitsuru Tamura, Norio Shimizu
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Patent number: 5899339Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for recovering polyhydroxyalkanoate from biological source material containing the polyhydroxyalkanoate, the process comprising: a) comminuting the biological source material; b) suspending the comminuted biological source material in a fluid; c) partitioning the polyhydroxyalkanoate from the other components of the biological source material by centrifugal fractionation to from a solid-solid separation; and d) recovering the polyhydroxyalkanoate.Type: GrantFiled: August 19, 1997Date of Patent: May 4, 1999Assignee: The Procter & Gamble CompanyInventor: Isao Noda
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Patent number: 5872089Abstract: A descalant means, comprising L.sub.E structured liquid crystals which when placed close to, or into a liquid stream, cause the formation of microscopic liquid crystalline structures, which act as nucleation sites for the formation of crystal structures of normally liquid-soluble or insoluble salts, and other suspended particles, these crystalline structures being chemically stable and causing a large reduction in the scaling potential of the liquid, thereby avoiding scale buildup on metal or other containment surfaces and also initiating descaling of surfaces already containing scale buildup. Furthermore, said means will reduce the amount of detergents, soaps, surfactants and polymers required in washing and other forms of water use.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 1996Date of Patent: February 16, 1999Assignee: American Technologies Group, Inc.Inventor: Shui-Yin Lo
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Patent number: 5837115Abstract: A sorting apparatus and method for fractionating and simultaneously viewing individual microstructures, such as free cells, viruses, macromolecules, or minute particles in a fluid medium. The sorting apparatus is composed of a substrate having a receptacle located therein, the receptacle having sidewalls and a floor. An array of obstacles is positioned within the receptacle with the obstacles upstanding from the floor of the receptacle. A transparent cover overlies the array of obstacles to cover the receptacle and afford visual observation of migration of the microstructures exclusively through the array of obstacles. Electrodes may be positioned within the receptacle to generate an electric field in the fluid medium in the receptacle in order to induce the migration of the microstructures. Migration of the microstructures may also occur, for example, by a hydrodynamic field, an optical field, a magnetic field, or a gravity field applied to the receptacle.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 1995Date of Patent: November 17, 1998Assignees: British Technology Group USA Inc., Cornell Research Foundation, Inc.Inventors: Robert H. Austin, Wayne D. Volkmuth, Lynn C. Rathbun
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Patent number: 5837200Abstract: The sorting device is able to sort biological objects, particularly cells or viruses, in liquids as a function of physically measurable criteria or properties. The sorting apparatus is provided with a feed inlet (1) for the biological liquid which branches into a microstructured system of multi-parallel main channels (3) and sorting modules (4) each with a switch unit for distribution to two different outlet channels (19,20). Inside a sorting module (4), at least one sensor (9,10) is arranged on each main channel, and a sorting actuator (12) controlled by the relevant sensor is arranged on each switch unit (11). Finally, each outlet channel (20) is connected to a collecting channel (6) for the unselected biological cells or viruses, and each outlet channel (19) is connected to a collecting channel (5) for the selected cells or viruses. If the cells or viruses are magnetically marked, it is possible to dispense with the sensor (9,10) on the main channels (3).Type: GrantFiled: May 24, 1996Date of Patent: November 17, 1998Assignee: Bayer AktiengesellschaftInventors: Edgar Diessel, Walter Weichel
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Patent number: 5803270Abstract: Methods and apparatus for acoustic fiber fractionation using a plane ultrasonic wave field interacting with water suspended fibers circulating in a channel flow using acoustic radiation forces to separate fibers into two or more fractions based on fiber radius, with applications of the separation concept in the pulp and paper industry. The continuous process relies on the use of a wall-mounted, rectangular cross-section piezoelectric ceramic transducer to selectively deflect flowing fibers as they penetrate the ultrasonic field. The described embodiment uses a transducer frequency of approximately 150 kHz. Depending upon the amount of dissolved gas in water, separation is obtained using a standing or a traveling wave field.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 1995Date of Patent: September 8, 1998Assignee: Institute of Paper Science & Technology, Inc.Inventor: Pierre Brodeur
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Patent number: 5527460Abstract: Particulate material suspended in a fluid is separated and recycled by means of an ultrasonic resonance wave. In a preferred embodiment, the ultrasonic resonance field is generated within a multilayered composite resonator system including a transducer, the suspension and a mirror parallel to each other. Dimensions and frequencies resonant to the whole system but not exciting Eigen-frequencies of transducer and mirror itself are chosen so that thermal dissipation is minimized. Generally, the process is suitable for all kinds of particles (solid, liquid or gaseous disperse phases) especially for hydrosols (particles in water) and for separation of biological particles such as mammalian, bacterial and plant cells or aggregates. Specialized applications in biotechnology are described including an acoustic filter for mammalian cell bioreactors or the selective retention of viable cells relative to non-viable cells.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 1993Date of Patent: June 18, 1996Assignee: SonoSep Biotech Inc.Inventors: Felix Trampler, Ewald Benes, Wolfgang Burger, Martin Groschl
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Patent number: 5427663Abstract: A sorting apparatus and method for fractionating and simultaneously viewing individual microstructures, such as free cells, viruses, macromolecules, or minute particles in a fluid medium. The sorting apparatus is composed of a substrate having a receptacle located therein, the receptacle having sidewalls and a floor. An array of obstacles is positioned within the receptacle with the obstacles upstanding from the floor of the receptacle. A transparent cover overlies the array of obstacles to cover the receptacle and afford visual observation of migration of the microstructures exclusively through the array of obstacles. Electrodes may be positioned within the receptacle to generate an electric field in the fluid medium in the receptacle in order to induce the migration of the microstructures. Migration of the microstructures may also occur, for example, by a hydrodynamic field, an optical field, a magnetic field, or a gravity field applied to the receptacle.Type: GrantFiled: June 8, 1993Date of Patent: June 27, 1995Assignees: British Technology Group USA Inc., Cornell Research Foundation, Inc.Inventors: Robert H. Austin, Wayne D. Volkmuth, Lynn C. Rathburn
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Patent number: 5401422Abstract: The present invention is a filtration method and device for separating particles of a suspension according to their mass. The invention includes a rotating uncloggable filter. The filter rotates inside of a stationery housing. Separation by particle size is achieved by adjusting the rotational speed of the filter. The filter is particularly useful for washing photographic suspensions.Type: GrantFiled: April 6, 1993Date of Patent: March 28, 1995Assignee: Eastman Kodak CompanyInventor: Andre G. Mignot
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Patent number: 5372721Abstract: A method is disclosed for determining the distribution according to size of particles which make up a noncontinuous phase dispersed within a matrix which is not completely soluble in an aqueous solution. The method involves dissolving the matrix containing the particles in an essentially nonaqueous liquid causing the particles to be suspended. The suspension is then eluted through a separating medium which sorts the particles according to size. A detector monitors the effluent from the separating medium and creates a record of the data. This record is then compared to data obtained from known standards in order to estimate the size distribution in the sample.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 1993Date of Patent: December 13, 1994Assignee: The Dow Chemical CompanyInventors: Martin A. Langhorst, Joseph B. Henry
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Patent number: 5290401Abstract: The invention relates to a method for separating plastic particles (P) from a suspension (L), e.g. from a cellulose mass or cellulose pulp suspension, in which the fiber-floc material is broken for loosening the plastic particles (P). In the method, turbulent flows are caused to said suspension (L), by means of which flows the particles (P) to be separated are separated from the remaining mass as the fiber network is decomposing, whereby lighter particles (P) are separated. In the method, the suspension (L) obtained in the previous phase is subjected to such a treatment that a concentration difference is achieved, which prevents the fiber network from reforming and thereby the plastic particles (P) from binding thereto, and a flow (F) is directed to the separation point, where the plastic particles (P) are separated from the suspension (L).Type: GrantFiled: January 10, 1992Date of Patent: March 1, 1994Assignee: Savcor-Consulting OyInventors: Hannu Savisalo, Martti Pulliainen, Markku Ainali, Timo Laurila, Pentti Jarvela, Esko Paakkonen
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Patent number: 5240618Abstract: Improved apparatus and procedures for electrical field-flow fractionation is disclosed. A test sample is injected into the liquid carrier stream flowing through the flow channel of the apparatus. The apparatus comprises a thin flow channel having a top, a bottom, and two side walls, with a fluid carrier inlet at one end and an outlet at the other end. The top and bottom walls are formed such that at least the inner surfaces thereof that face the flow channel are made of an electrically conductive material so that the inner surfaces thereof form electrodes as well as opposite, broad boundary surfaces of the flow channel. A voltage differential is applied to the electrically conductive inner surfaces of the top and bottom walls. The carrier fluid flowing through the channel can be deionized or distilled water as well as water containing a red-ox couple such as quinone/hydroquinone.Type: GrantFiled: February 3, 1992Date of Patent: August 31, 1993Assignee: University of Utah Research FoundationInventors: Karin D. Caldwell, Yu-Shu Gao
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Patent number: 5193688Abstract: A new field flow fractionation process for the separation of particles using a modified channel structure to achieve hydrodynamic relaxation without involving a stop-flow procedure and thus provide improved speed of operation as well as improved sample concentration, the new improved channel structure comprising a thin channel having one or more permeable wall sections contained in the enclosing wall or walls of the channel, the permeable wall sections making up not more than 25% of the total wall area of the channel, and adjustable flow control valves for controlling the flowrate of any fluid at the inlet end of the channel and independent flow control valves for controlling the flow rate of the fluid being introduced into or withdrawn from the permeable wall sections.Type: GrantFiled: July 5, 1991Date of Patent: March 16, 1993Assignee: University of UtahInventor: John C. Giddings
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Patent number: 5191982Abstract: A bean sifting device which comprises a water-supply assembly, a water tank, a floating-sifting tank, and a supporting frame; the water-supply assembly can have water in the water tank to be forced by use of a pump in the water-supply assembly to flow into the floating-sifting tank through a pipe and slanting water outlet; the water would generate a whirl by use of a round and curved bottom and the wall of the floating-sifting tank; as a result of the effect of a centrifugal force and the different specific gravity gravity of beans, the bad beans will float in the upper water in the tank, and will flow into the water damping area to pass through a slot hole, a round passage and an exhausting port; finally, the bad beans will flow in a sieve basket so as to fulfill a purpose of sifting beans in different classes automatically.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 1992Date of Patent: March 9, 1993Inventor: Hsu C. Tong
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Patent number: 5188238Abstract: There is disclosed a separation vessel which is defined by a cylindrical wall (2) and a base (38), there being a solids collection region (12) centrally disposed of the base (38), an outlet (8) disposed in an upper region of the vessel, and a flow modifying member (14) positioned adjacent the base (38), the arrangement of the vessel being such that liquid carrying particulate material may flow upwardly to the top of the vessel toward the outlet (8) in a substantially axial direction. Also disclosed is a method of separating components of a liquid mixture from each other and a method of classifying a particulate material.Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 1991Date of Patent: February 23, 1993Assignee: Hydro International LimitedInventors: Robert P. M. Smisson, Timothy J. Lamb
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Patent number: 5183604Abstract: A method is disclosed for determining the distribution according to size of particles which make up a noncontinuous phase dispersed within a matrix which is not completely soluble in an aqueous solution. The method involves dissolving the matrix containing the particles in an essentially nonaqueous liquid causing the particles to be suspended. The suspension is then eluted through a separating medium which sorts the particles according to size. A detector monitors the effluent from the separating medium and creates a record of the data. This record is then compared to data obtained from known standards in order to estimate the size distribution in the sample.Type: GrantFiled: January 24, 1992Date of Patent: February 2, 1993Assignee: The Dow Chemical CompanyInventors: Martin A. Langhorst, Joseph B. Henry
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Patent number: 5169005Abstract: A device for separating material of lighter specific gravity from material of a heavier specific gravity. The device is comprised of a generally semi-cylindrical outer tank comprised of end walls and a semi-cylindrical bottom portion, a material introducing system to introduce the material to be separated into the outer tank, a medium introducing system to introduce media into the outer tank under pressure, a baffle system secured within the outer tank containing sides wherein the sides project above the surface of the medium within the tank when the baffle system is secured to the end walls of the semi-cylindrical tank, a paddle drum system comprised of an generally cylindrical inner tank and paddles secured thereto and a drive system secured to the support system of the device wherein the drive system rotates the paddle drum system.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 1991Date of Patent: December 8, 1992Inventor: William F. Beane
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Patent number: 5164094Abstract: A process for the flocculation, precipitation, agglomeration or coagulation of substances or microorganisms present in a liquid in a dissolved, colloidally dissolved, suspended or emulsified state and a device for carrying out the process. The respective liquid is exposed to one or several fields of stationary ultrasonic waves, the ultrasonic frequency f being higher than one seventh of a cutoff frequency fo which depends on the kinematic viscosity of the liquid and the effective radius of the particles present in the liquid.The device includes an ultrasonic treatment tank which receives the liquid to be purified and is provided with an ultrasonic transducer radiating the ultrasonic waves to an opposing reflecting surface.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 1989Date of Patent: November 17, 1992Inventor: Wolfgang Stuckart
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Patent number: 5110454Abstract: A mixture of rock, soil particles and wood pieces (10') is introduced into a water tank (34) generally between a manifold (64) for a plurality of jet nozzles (62) and a vane or baffle (66) towards which the nozzles (62) discharge streams of water. Buoyant and nonbuoyant wood pieces (14) are moved by currents produced by jet streams issuing from the nozzles (62) towards and over the baffle (66) onto a wood piece conveyor (150) which removes the wood pieces (14) out from the water tank (34). Rocks (16) from the mixture drop down onto a rock receiving portion (82) of a rock conveyor (82, 84) which collects the rock (14) and removes it out from the water tank (34). Soil particles (18) from the mixture are washed off from the rock (16) and wood pieces (14) and settle to the bottom of the tank (34). A drag chain conveyor (160) moves accumulated soil particle mud out from the bottom of the chamber (34).Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 1988Date of Patent: May 5, 1992Assignee: Recovery Systems Technology, Inc.Inventors: Jim L. Parker, Dave Forman
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Patent number: 5089126Abstract: This invention provides an apparatus and method for the complete fractionation of submicron particles according to size by capillary hydrodynamic fractionation. This objective is achieved by using small diameter capillaries; introducing a minor fraction of a liquid dispersion of particles to be separated into at least one capillary fraction; passing the minor fraction through the capillary; and, at the exit of the capillary, diluting the minor fraction with the same liquid as is carrying the fractionated sample. These modifications in the flow patterns are essential to the use of capillaries with diameters smaller than 60 microns. This invention is especially adapted for rapid analytical separation of not only rigid colloidal particles but also of soft latexes.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 1989Date of Patent: February 18, 1992Assignee: Lehigh UniversityInventors: Cesar A. Silebi, Jose D. Ramos
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Patent number: 5076943Abstract: A fluid particle separator comprises a tube having an output end open to atmospheric pressure for transporting axially migrated particles suspended in a carrier fluid. A physical barrier, such as a smaller diameter tube axially inserted near the output end of the tube, and resistance matched to the tube, allows separation of the axially migrated particles from the carrier fluid by being designed so that the pressure drop from its inlet to its outlet is substantially equal to the pressure drop in the remainder of the tube from the barrier to the tube output end.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 1989Date of Patent: December 31, 1991Inventor: Allen L. Rakow
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Patent number: 5011022Abstract: Apparatus and methods are disclosed for separating or fractionating particles of differing sedimentation rates in a fluid. For fractionation, the mixture is introduced into a tube and subjected to a cyclic sequence of alternating axial flows, with optional waiting periods of zero flow. The velocities and time periods of the individual flows in the cycle are adjusted so that particles of greater and lesser sedimentation rates tend to be driven in opposite directions. At the end of each cycle there is a step of resuspension of sedimented particles without axial dispersion and independent of axial flows.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 1988Date of Patent: April 30, 1991Inventors: Prakash T. Palepu, Cheng-Kuang Wu, Robert J. Adler
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Patent number: 5006266Abstract: Particulate material influenced by the acoustic forces in an ultrasonic standing wave is manipulated in a liquid column (16) by the use of at least two standing waves having axes extending transversely across the column at different orientations to its longitudinal axis. The nodes of the standing waves intersect within the column to give regions of greatest acoustic influence that allows a relative displacement between the particles and the liquid in a direction transverse to the axes of the standing waves. The effects of acoustic streaming can be reduced and the physical arrangement of the ultrasound apparatus in relation to the column is simplified.Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 1989Date of Patent: April 9, 1991Assignee: National Research Development CorporationInventor: Cornelius J. Schram
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Patent number: 4961842Abstract: A device for separating liquids from solids and solids from solids is provided by utilizing a tall column filled with liquid which is subjected to a siphon action that pulls the liquid/solids mixture vertically through the column clarifying the liquid and classifying the solids. This siphon method provides a most efficient method of classification of solids and clarification of liquids. Atmospheric pressure and gravity create forces within the device which simultaneously act on every particle. The interior of the tall column has no moving parts.Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 1988Date of Patent: October 9, 1990Inventors: Douglas K. Schulz, Karl F. Meyers