Abstract: The present application is directed towards systems and methods for adding components to materials being fluidized in a vibratory mixer by use of atomizers or sprayers. A mechanical system can fluidizes, mix, coat, dry, combine, or segregate materials. The system may comprise a vibratory mixer, mixing vessel containing a first material and a sprayer to introduce a second material. The vibratory mixer may generate a fluidized bed of a first material and the sprayer, coupled to the mixing vessel, may introduce a second material onto the fluidized bed to mix the materials in a uniform and even fashion.

Abstract: A system for agitating products in a retort includes a clamping assembly configured to selectively impose a first clamping force on a first end of at least one product carrier and a second opposing clamping force on a second end of the at least one product carrier, and a reciprocating assembly configured to apply linear forces on the product carriers for reciprocal movement of the product carriers along the retort. A method of processing products in a retort includes arranging products in at least one product carrier for movement along a retort and reciprocating the at least one product carrier along the retort in a non-sinusoidal pattern of movement.

Abstract: A microtiter plate mixing control system is disclosed. The system includes a frame, a suspension system attached to the frame, and a magnetically responsive horizontal platform supported on the frame by the suspension system. A solenoid is adjacent the platform for moving the platform on the suspension system. A proximity sensor is adjacent the platform for determining the position of the platform with respect to the frame. A controller is in communication with the proximity sensor and the solenoid for driving the solenoid and moving the platform in response to the proximity sensor.

Abstract: A beverage brewing apparatus includes at least one material storing unit, at least one brewing unit, at least one brewing cup and a matching system. The material storing unit is suitable for storing materials. The matching system is suitable for matching the brewing cup and the material storing unit, so that the brewing cup is suitable for receiving materials from the material storing unit. The matching system is suitable for matching the brewing cup and the brewing unit, so that the brewing unit is suitable for brewing materials in the brewing cup.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a system for performing assays on a solid phase to measure the level of analyte in a sample. Such a system may perform immunoassays using electrochemiluminescence (ECL) including a counterbalanced orbital shaking apparatus for assay consumables.

Abstract: A mixing and paint-making device and method for making paint are described. Embodiments of the paint-making device include a first and second palette hingedly coupled to a base. The base includes a paint pot shaking component configured to agitate and/or translate a paint pot. The paint pot shaking component includes a series of gears and pistons that interact to produce a shaking motion for a paint pot coupled to the paint pot shaking component. In one embodiment, the paint pot shaking component includes a crank gear adjacent a combination gear that contacts a slide crankshaft. The slide crankshaft is coupled to a slide crank arm that is secured by slide bracket coupled to the base. A paint pot harness holds a paint pot during agitation and moves in an upward and downward motion corresponding to the motion of the slide crank arm.

Abstract: A vibration generator causes a carrier to oscillate, rather than the housing of the vibration generator. The vibration generator is placed within the housing, which itself is not induced to oscillate, thus reducing or eliminating undesired noises due to excessive oscillations of the housing. The vibration generator transfers vibrations to the carrier for Petri dishes using at least one connecting element that is arranged between the carrier and the vibration generator. The connecting element protrudes through the wall of the housing and is sealed by a sealing element with respect to the wall.

Abstract: Device for shaking, within a rigid container, a powder and liquid, for conducting a test on the shaken content, includes: a frame; a first plate assembled thereto; a second plate assembled indirectly to the frame, arranged close to the first plate and movable relative to the frame and first plate; and a drive unit for moving the second plate relative to the frame and first plate. The container is carried by the second plate and is movably mounted relative thereto; the first plate includes a stop fixedly mounted on the first plate; and the second plate is moved relative to the first plate by the drive unit, in an alternating and periodic translational and/or rotational motion between a proximal position and a distal position, to move the container relative to the second plate and cause a series of impacts between the container and the stop to achieve a non-periodic shaking.

Abstract: Described herein is a device comprising a liquid container mounting structure and a support structure. The liquid container mounting structure securely holds liquid storage containers. The liquid container mounting structure is movably mounted to the support structure. The liquid container mounting structure may be configured to move the liquid container mounting structure relative to the support and/or include a crank handle or motor, such as an electric motor. The liquid container mounting structure is removable from the support structure to allow for reconfiguration and/or transport of the liquid container mounting structure.

Abstract: Method of robot control is disclosed that includes the steps of: providing a user interface for introducing data indicative of a drug to be subjected to a reconstitution process; accessing an internal data base for outputting, for a selected drug, a list of primitive movements P1, P2, . . . Pi, . . .

Abstract: A handheld shaker assembly for mixing a container of fluid includes a cylindrical holder that may insertably receive the container of fluid. A tubular housing is operationally coupled to the cylindrical holder. A motor is operationally coupled to the tubular housing. A primary gear is operationally coupled to the motor so the motor rotates the primary gear. A secondary gear is operationally coupled to the tubular housing. The secondary gear engages the primary gear so the primary gear rotates the secondary gear. A cam shaft is operationally coupled to the secondary gear so the secondary gear rotates the cam shaft. A first and second linkage are operationally coupled to the cam shaft so the cam shaft moves the first and second linkage. The second linkage engages the cylindrical holder so the second linkage moves the cylindrical holder. An actuator is coupled to the tubular housing to actuate the motor.

Abstract: A chemical analyzer supplies a sample and a reagent into a reaction container provided with an opening mixes a fluid which is to be measured and contains the sample and reagent supplied into the reaction container, measures a property of the fluid in the reaction container, and controls the drive for the mixer. The mixer has a vertical drive machine to move the mixing tool up and down. The control unit controls the vertical drive machine to move the mixing tool up and down in the fluid to be measured in the reaction container so as to cause upward and downward flow of the fluid which is to be measured and is positioned below the mixing tool.

Abstract: A liquid storage container which is mounted on a carriage of a liquid ejecting apparatus ejecting a liquid while reciprocating the carriage on which an ejecting head is provided and supplies the liquid to the ejecting head includes a liquid storage chamber configured to store the liquid therein, a stirring member has a stirring surface and provided in the liquid storage chamber in a state capable of being swung by the reciprocation of the carriage, a support member that supports the stirring member, and a first buffer member is provided between the support member and the stirring member.

Abstract: A food mixing machine (20) has an agitator (25) to mix food in a cup (C). A cup holder (31) is provided with a flexible boot (32) which receives the cup (C). The cup holder (31) is moveable through an opening (90) in the machine (20) and carries a gripping assembly (33) and an actuator assembly (34). The actuator assembly (34) is moveable relative to the gripping assembly (33) and is biased by springs (35) to maintain fingers (56) of the gripping assembly (33) in engagement with the cup (C). When it is desired to release the cup (C), a release assembly (80) overcomes the bias of the springs (35). As the cup holder (31) moves through the opening (90), the area between the cup holder (31) and the opening (90) is sealed by a seal assembly (91) so that food materials cannot go through the opening (90).

Abstract: Biocontainers, as well as methods and platforms for rocking the biocontainers, are disclosed.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention are directed to a beverage mixing apparatus which may be used to prepare alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverage combination cocktails. In one embodiment, the beverage mixing apparatus includes an upper assembly capable of supporting a plurality of tapered vessels having a first size and a lower assembly capable of supporting a plurality of tapered vessels having a second size. The upper assembly includes a handle assembly which functions like a plunger to submerge and release the plurality of tapered vessels having a first size into the plurality of tapered vessels having a second size when force is applied thereto.

Abstract: The invention is concerned with testing of inhalers used for medicament delivery. Such devices are often intended to be first shaken by a user to prepare them, and then fired by operation of some mechanical mechanism. In order to automate testing, the invention provides a shake device having a carriage 14 for receiving and releasably mounting one or more inhalers. The carriage is mounted upon a guideway for linear movement upon it. A linear motor 26 is operatively coupled to the carriage to reciprocally drive it to shake the mounted inhaler(s). A system embodying the invention may further comprise a fire device having a movable firing member 54, 56 for engaging with an inhaler mounted in the carriage and actuating its firing mechanism.

Abstract: Apparatus which axially stirs solid and/or liquid and/or gaseous substances jointly or individually, characterized by the use of a linear motor or linear servo motor, which enables to select the amplitude, frequency, acceleration, application time of said movement and selection of stirring and rest cycles. The stirring produced by this apparatus can be applied for mixing and/or homogenizing substances and/or extracting the constituent elements of the stirred substances.

Abstract: Disclosed is a linear shaker apparatus capable of effectively mixing a wide variety of large volume liquid samples that provides a near linear mixing motion so as to allow for the easy break up of solids suspended in the fluid sample. The longer shaking distances and slower operating speeds employed by the linear shaker described herein, which resembles the motion a scientist or lab technician might employ when shaking such a vial by hand, does not lend itself to the electromagnetic technique employed in various prior art shakers. The linear shaker described herein employs an electric motor and linkage that allows varying the speed and stroke of the mixing operation to accommodate different laboratory protocols.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for shaking a can of paint or bottle of aerosol spray paint. The apparatus comprises a cradle securely fastened to a tang and at least one strap for securing a can or bottle into the cradle. One end of the tang is shaped so as to be received in a chuck of a hand-held power tool such as a variable speed reciprocating saw. The apparatus is useful for quickly and effectively mixing relatively small cans of paint near in time and place to using the paint.

Abstract: A cocktail shaker uses a motor to cause a container to be shaken. The shaker includes a following member coupled to a following device that is engaged in a directional mechanism, such as a slot or rod. The directional mechanism defines the path and angle of the motion imparted to the container. The throw is defined by the mechanism that transforms rotational motion of a motor to a shaking motion of the container. A mechanism for transforming rotational motion to a shaking motion may include a rotational member and an attachment member pivotally coupled to the rotational member on one end and coupled to the device holding the container on the other end. A combination of throw, path, and motor speed are capable of providing a mechanism for shaking the container that is similar to shaking the container by hand. For example, the motor speed and duration of shaking may be continuously variable or discretely selectable, which may be selected by the user.

Abstract: The invention is concerned with testing of inhalers used for medicament delivery. Such devices are often intended to be first shaken by a user to prepare them, and then fired by operation of some mechanical mechanism. In order to automate testing, the invention provides a shake device having a carriage 14 for receiving and releasably mounting one or more inhalers. The carriage is mounted upon a guideway for linear movement upon it. A linear motor 26 is operatively coupled to the carriage to reciprocally drive it to shake the mounted inhaler(s). A system embodying the invention may further comprise a fire device having a movable firing member 54, 56 for engaging with an inhaler mounted in the carriage and actuating its firing mechanism.

Abstract: A resonant shaker includes a support tray for supporting a target carrier. A sensor generates an electrical signal that is related to an acceleration of the support tray. A linear drive motor includes an armature that is coupled to the support tray. The linear drive motor provides an oscillating drive force to the support tray in response to a drive current applied to the linear drive motor. The resonant shaker also includes a controller. The controller receives the electrical signal from the sensor and a drive signal that is related to the drive current. The controller transmits a modified drive current to the linear drive motor in response to a predetermined phase relationship between the electrical signal and the drive signal.

Abstract: A method of mixing fluid samples using an electromagnetic multidirectional shaker is provided. The shaker has a first electromagnet driving a first support panel in a first direction, and a second electromagnet driving a second support panel in a second direction. The first electromagnet is affixed to a base and is operatively attached to the first support panel which is suspended from the base via one or more first spring members. The first spring members are configured to bias the first support panel to an at-rest position after it has been displaced by the first electromagnet. The second support panel is in turn supported above the first support panel by one or more second spring members. The second electromagnet is affixed to the first support panel, and is operatively attached to the second support panel. The second spring members are configured to bias the second support panel to an at-rest position after it has been displaced by the second electromagnet.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for mixing fluids and/or solids in a manner that can be varied from maintaining the integrity of fragile molecular and biological materials in the mixing vessel to homogenizing heavy aggregate material by supplying large amounts of energy. Variation in the manner of mixing is accomplished using an electronic controller to generate signals to control the frequency and amplitude of the motor(s), which drive an unbalanced shaft assembly to produce a linear vibratory motion. The motor may be a stepper motors a linear motor or a DC continuous motor. By placing a sensor on the mixing vessel platform to provide feedback control of the mixing motor, the characteristics of agitation in the fluid or solid can be adjusted to optimize the degree of mixing and produce a high quality mixant.

Abstract: A vibrating machine, specifically designed for extracting, mixing and separating liquid and powder organic and inorganic materials, in liquid or powder form, comprises two shoulders supporting a plurality of test tubes, each shoulder being rigidly coupled to a cam follower, affected by a cam in turn driven by a motor, so as to cause the test tube supporting shoulders to perform a rectilinear reciprocating symmetrically opposite movement.

Abstract: A method for generating a vortex-like mixing action within a liquid held in a container by causing the container to move back and forth in a constant sinusoidal pattern at high speeds. Momentum forces acting upon the liquid solution cause it to generate an internal mixing motion of the liquid solution without the aid of extraneous mixing members.

Abstract: A vibrating machine, specifically designed for extracting, mixing and separating liquid and powder organic and inorganic materials, in liquid or powder form, comprises two shoulders supporting a plurality of test tubes, each shoulder being rigidly coupled to a cam follower, affected by a cam in turn driven by a motor, so as to cause the test tube supporting shoulders to perform a rectilinear reciprocating symmetrically opposite movement.

Abstract: An electromagnetic vibratory microplate shaker is disclosed of simplified design and improved mixing capability over previously known microplate shaker devices, comprising an electromagnetic drive assembly mounted within a rigid base and operatively connected to a microplate support platform. The support platform is in turn supported by a plurality of horizontally arrayed leaf springs. During operation, an electromagnet is rapidly energized and de-energized causing an armature of the drive assembly to be pulled in and released up to 7,200 times per minute, in turn imparting a vertical reciprocating vibration to the support platform and the microplates or multi-tube racks held thereon.

Abstract: A mixing system, apparatus and/or method. Pathogen reduction of and/or mixing storage solutions into blood or blood components are useful purposes for these. Squeezing or clapping devices may be used to activate the mixing process, as may rotational devices or laterally movable, rotational and/or orbital devices. Constriction elements may also be used to create useful vortex mixing actions. Photoradiation may be provided while the components continue to be mixed together for pathogen reduction of blood or blood components.

Abstract: A reciprocating laboratory shaker with multiple force cancellations to reduce vibration and noise while permitting, typically, oscillations ranging to ¾″ peak-to-peak at speeds ranging to 6000 cpm with sample loads ranging to one pound (1 lb.) for shaking durations ranging to at least five minutes (5 min.), so as to liquify and break down cells in mixtures of biological samples and ceramic beads. The shaker has a frame; a motor with a double-ended shaft; a statically- and dynamically-balanced crankshaft at each shaft end, the two crankshafts having 180° phase difference; and two pistons, each of which is constrained for linearly reciprocating movement and connected by an associated linkage to an associated crankshaft. Engagement features on each piston engage and retain diverse jig fixtures holding samples for shaking.

Abstract: In a method and apparatus for suspending solid particles in a predetermined volume of liquid contained inside a container having a wall, the wall being partly isolated from the liquid by a deposit adhering to its internal face, and bringing together at least some of the particles in the agglomerated state, the container is subjected to a reciprocating movement along a reference axis, at a frequency adapted to cause within the predetermined volume of liquid, without any other external action, an ebb and flow on either side of the reference axis, detaching the deposit, and dispersing the particles toward the center of the volume of liquid.

Abstract: An electromagnetic vibratory microplate shaker is disclosed of simplified design and improved mixing capability over previously known microplate shaker devices, comprising an electromagnetic drive assembly mounted within a rigid base and operatively connected to a microplate support platform. The support platform is in turn supported by a plurality of horizontally arrayed leaf springs. During operation, an electromagnet is rapidly energized and de-energized causing an armature of the drive assembly to be pulled in and released up to 7,200 times per minute, in turn imparting a vertical reciprocating vibration to the support platform and the microplates or multi-tube racks held thereon.

Abstract: A reciprocating laboratory shaker (10) includes a platform (12) driven by a motor (62) which is constrained to move in a reciprocating fashion by a pair of flexible bands (30, 32) located on opposite sides of the platform (12). A frame (24), which preferably supports the drive motor (62), includes a pair of upright supports (28) which are attached to a pair of wide, but thin, flexible plastic bands (30, 32) at least at two locations. Each of the two flexible bands (30, 32) includes a pair of rollers (34, 36, 38, 40) attached to the inside surface (50) of the bands (30, 32). The laboratory platform (12) is attached to the remaining outside face (52) of the bands and is driven by the drive motor (62) having an appropriate crank mechanism (54). The two flexible bands (30, 32) constrain the motion of the platform (12) to substantially a single direction, x, while preventing it from moving in either the y or z directions.

Abstract: A shaker apparatus including a base member that has a front side and a top portion. A bottle holder is provided and has a flat member. The flat member has an interior side with a pair of end plates projecting outwardly. A rocker arm extends from an exterior side of the flat member and is symmetrically spaced from the pair of end plates. A generally cylindrical housing member is included and has a first end mounted to the top side of the base member, a second end edge and an inner support plate. The housing member having a battery compartment. Lastly, a vibrator is seated on the inner support plate of the housing member. The vibrator has an upper side with a pair of support brackets. The support brackets are coupled with the rocker arm of the bottle holder to support the bottle holder above the base member.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for preparing tissue samples for DNA, RNA or protein extraction of the present invention includes a reciprocating saw mounted to a frame and connected to a plurality of tissue sample containers containing tissue samples and agitation members. By activating the reciprocating saw, the tissue samples are ground by the agitation members. A control circuit is connected to the saw for controlling the speed and duration of the agitation.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for shaking aerosol spray paint cans. It comprises a flexible membrane (1) capable of forming a suction bond with an aerosol can (4), the membrane (1) being attachable to a power tool having a reciprocal motion output, for example a jig-saw.

Abstract: A beverage blender including a beverage support section and a base section, the beverage support section positioned in spaced-apart relation above the base section by at least one support structure disposed therebetween. The support structure maintains the beverage support section in the spaced-apart relation above the base section while also permitting relative movement between the beverage support section and the base section, the relative movement including a high frequency, low turbulence vibration of the beverage support section such that a beverage container positioned atop the beverage support section is correspondingly vibrated to thoroughly blend its contents. Additionally, a containment portion is disposed on the beverage support section to retain the beverage container thereon.

Abstract: An apparatus for agitating an electrochemiluminescent test sample in a sample container having a mouth for permitting withdrawal of the electrochemiluminescent test sample therefrom and a body extending away from the mouth. The apparatus includes a base, a first member movably mounted with respect to the base and including a first engaging mechanism for engaging the body of the sample container at a first position, and a second member fixedly mounted with respect to the base and including a second engaging mechanism for engaging the body of the sample container at a second position between the first position and the mouth thereof. In this apparatus, a first motive mechanism is provided for moving the first member so that at least a portion of the sample container adjacent to the first position thereof together with the electrochemiluminescent test sample therein is agitated in response to the motion of the first member.

Abstract: A mixer for mixing a container's contents has a holder for holding the container, a first mechanism for effecting rotation of the holder, and a second mechanism for effecting reciprocating linear motion of the holder. The first mechanism effects rotation of the holder and the second mechanism effects reciprocation of the holder simultaneously so as to effect thorough mixing of the contents of the container held thereby.

Abstract: Self-supporting apparatus and methods therefore are disclosed for repeatedly agitating an aerosol canister such as an aerosol canister of paint. The apparatus includes a tubular member for retaining a canister of paint. Additionally, a cap is forced upon the top end of the canister in order to force the bottom of the canister against a rotating cam member. As the cam member rotates, the canister and the contents therein are agitated.

Abstract: A food mixer includes a dual mount sensor arrangement which prevents operation of the mixer unless a protective safety guard is secured to the mounts. Each mount is physically spaced from each other so that a user must take extraordinary, and deliberate measures to circumvent the safety feature. The dual mount arrangement may be used in conjunction with a bowl lowering shut-off feature for disabling the mixer when the mixing bowl is lowered to a position where the user's safety is at risk.

Abstract: An apparatus and process for reconstituting dry pharmaceuticals and other materials in which a peristaltic pump controlled by a timer automatically dispenses the desired amount of solvent to reconstitute a pharmaceutical at an appropriate concentration and an agitator, preferably also controlled by the timer, mixes the pharmaceutical and solvent.

Abstract: A shaker apparatus (10) for shaking the contents of a bottle of nail polish (100) including a bottle holder unit (15) slideably disposed on a pair of vertical guide posts (32) and operatively associated with a rotary drive unit (14) having an eccentric cam head element connected to a variable speed motor (40) for imparting a vertically reciprocating motion to a bottle of nail polish (100) disposed within the bottle holder unit (15).

Abstract: An apparatus and process for reconstituting dry pharmaceuticals and other materials in which a peristaltic pump controlled by a timer automatically dispenses the desired amount of solvent to reconstitute a pharmaceutical at an appropriate concentration and an agitator, preferably also controlled by the timer, mixes the pharmaceutical and solvent.

Abstract: A shaker apparatus is provided for laboratory testing. The apparatus comprises a base that is reciprocally movable relative to a sub-base. A frame is mounted to the base and includes spaced apart vertical supports with a horizontal support assembly rotatably mounted therebetween. A plurality of test vessels are mounted to the horizontal support assembly and can be rotated with the horizontal support assembly 180.degree. relative to the base. The vessels may be subjected to simultaneous shaking for identical periods of time. The horizontal frame assembly to which the vessels are mounted can be inverted between adjacent periods of shaking to permit selected refilling of the vessels, escape of gases therefrom and drainage of material from the vessels.

Abstract: A centrifuge device is provided which may impart selectively controlled centrifugal force to samples under consideration, or a shaking or agitation movement to the samples, as required. A feature of the invention is the use of two roller clutches on the single drive shaft of the device so that a selective movement may be imparted to the samples through the same drive by utilizing a locking mechanism to provide rotation from the shaft in opposite directions. Rotation in one direction causes the imposition of centrifugal force through one clutch, while rotation in the opposite direction causes rotation through the second clutch and the imposition of agitation. In that direction, the sample support mechanism is moved vertically, controlled by a cylinder cam. A further feature of the invention is selective agitation movement and selective degree of agitation through selection of a particular cam profile.

Abstract: A device to mechanically decompose a barrier which separates two or more mutually miscible ingredients and mixes the said ingredients, preferably a mixer for amalgam in capsules. The device 1 comprises first members to fixedly hold the said ingredients and second members to impart to the said ingredients a sufficiently rapid motion to accomplish the said barrier decomposition and mixing.The said first members comprise a closable space 4 into which the said ingredients and said capsule 2 respectively are admissible and by which these or this respectively is or are respectively aligned with the said second members 14, 15. The said second members 14, 15 are arranged to be started only upon or after closing of the said closable space 4.

Abstract: An improved apparatus for pressuring a hard frozen comestible, similar to hardened ice cream, while simultaneously subjecting it to mechanical action to reduce the crystal and cell structure of the material to transform it into a soft, smooth and creamy texture only slightly less cold than its starting temperature. The apparatus includes a hopper for receiving the hard frozen comestible to be treated, an auger positioned above the hopper and automatically actuated by movement of the hopper toward the auger to produce conditioning of the comestible by the auger as the hopper and auger move toward one another into an adjacent relationship. The auger is powered by a drive assembly that includes an electrically driven motor and a fluid drive unit to provide a constant drive force on the auger without undue stress on the drive motor.

Abstract: Apparatus is disclosed for automatically sonicating microtiter trays and arrays of test tubes, vials, and other small sample containers. An inverted cuphorn on an ultrasonic transducer introduces sonic energy through an extended fluid bath, on a one-by-one basis, into sample containers partially immersed therein. Stepped or continuous movement sample container positioning is by an x-y positioning table driven by reversible motors under the direction of an electromechanical controller. The dwell time of each sample container in the sonic energy field is selectable.