By Movement Of Mixing Chamber Relative To Stationary Support Patents (Class 366/219)
  • Patent number: 11758834
    Abstract: An inclined belt conveyor capable of mixing particulate material, such as agricultural seed or fertilizer. Inserting a plurality of mixing baffles into the stream of the particulate material induces a backflow of the particulate material. In the case of wet, freshly treated plant seed, this backflow causes a mixing, polishing, and drying of the plant seed. The mixing distributes the seed treatment into an even coat by rubbing the individual seeds of the seed flow stream together. The inclined belt conveyor may also be used to blend multiple varieties or types of particulate material. The mixing baffles are oriented to induce backflow and sideways lateral movement and may incorporate a passage to allow increase particulate material flow rate. The mixing baffles can selectively deploy between an angle of 20 degrees to 70 degrees to enable the mixing inclined belt conveyor to have a transfer-speed-maximizing mode and a mixing mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2023
    Assignee: KSi Conveyor, Inc.
    Inventors: Matthew J. Edelman, Jason P. Kaeb, Paul A. Kaeb
  • Patent number: 11559818
    Abstract: A cell washer is disclosed. The cell washer includes a vessel configured to hold cells. The vessel includes an elongated body including an opening, an inner surface, and a pocket defined by a first inner surface portion of the inner surface disposed between and radially outward relative to a second inner surface portion and a third inner surface portion of the inner surface, and a cavity. The vessel also includes an actuating device capable of causing the vessel to spin about an axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2023
    Assignee: Beckman Coulter, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard Thomas, Valentin Quesada, Michael Thomas
  • Patent number: 11383212
    Abstract: A device for mixing and dispensing a flowable material or mixture of materials, the device comprising a cup having a bottom with a protrusion having an opening; a plunger having a dispensing port and air vent holes; a plug; a nozzle; and, a lid. The plug can be associated with and plug the cup protrusion opening when the cup is being filled or mixed, or the plug can be associated with the plunger port to seal off the air vent holes when material is dispensed from the device. Also disclosed is a method of mixing and dispensing a flowable material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2022
    Assignee: FLACKTEK, INC.
    Inventors: Ian Thomas LaRose, Matthew L. Gross, David Gale
  • Patent number: 11219921
    Abstract: A method for manufacturing a coated object and a coating substance spreading apparatus, which coat, as uniformly as possible, a coating substance on a curved coating target surface are provided. A method for manufacturing a coated object, the coated object being an object coated with a coating substance on a coating target surface Tf of the object T, the coating target surface Tf having a curved surface, includes dispensing the coating substance onto the coating target surface Tf; and revolving the object T, having the coating substance dispensed onto the coating target surface Tf, about a revolution axis 13a located remotely from the object T. A coating substance spreading apparatus 1 includes a revolution section 10 configured to revolve an object T about a revolution axis 13a located remotely from the object T.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2022
    Assignee: ORIGIN COMPANY, LIMITED
    Inventors: Shinichi Shinohara, Tatsuo Okubo, Takayuki Suzuki, Miya Yamazaki, Naoto Ozawa
  • Patent number: 11180429
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method of coating fertilizer particles with a coating, the method comprising providing fertilizer particles in a coating unit, one or more steps of applying a coating layer by applying one or more coating components to the fertilizer particles in the coating unit, and at least, partially curing or hardening the coating layer, wherein said curing or hardening involves a chemical reaction of said one or more coating components, discharging the coated fertilizer particles from the coating unit, optionally after a final cure or hardening step, wherein the coating unit comprises a stationary frame and at least two movable elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2021
    Assignees: Pursell Agri-Tech, LLC, Huntsman International LLC
    Inventors: Joseph Anthony Saiia, James Taylor Pursell, Jr., Stephen Mark Brooks, Leon Roberson, II, Spencer Daniel Sanders, Allen Zorn Sanders, Murray Paul Hasinoff, Daniel Paul Heberer, Justin McLean Fogarty, Kristopher Michael Modrzynski
  • Patent number: 11130106
    Abstract: A computer-implemented method for execution by a processor of a computing device. The method comprises implementing a computerized graphical user interface (GUI) that provides a user of the computing device with an opportunity to identify a pharmaceutical compounding formula; consulting a database at least partly on a basis of the identified pharmaceutical compounding formula in order to determine mixing parameters for a planetary mixer, associated with the identified pharmaceutical compounding formula; and causing a mixer to subject a container to superimposed rotation and revolution movements in accordance with the mixing parameters determined from consulting the database.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2021
    Assignee: MEDISCA PHARMACEUTIQUE Inc.
    Inventor: Panagiota Danopoulos
  • Patent number: 11097234
    Abstract: A centrifugal mixing device can include a shaft assembly that is operably coupled to a motor such that the motor rotates the shaft assembly about a first axis. The devices can further include a turret that is rotatably coupled to the shaft assembly such that the turret rotates about the first axis relative to the shaft assembly. The turret can include a first support, a first canister rotatably coupled to the first support such that the first canister rotates about a second axis, and a second canister rotatably coupled to the first support such that the second canister rotates about a third axis. The turret is configured to rotate about the first axis in a first rotational direction and each of the first and second canisters is configured to rotate about the second and third axes, respectively, in a second rotational direction that is opposite the first rotational direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2021
    Assignee: TYME, INC.
    Inventor: Steven Hoffman
  • Patent number: 10328400
    Abstract: A mixer is provided for mixing a substance in a container. The mixer includes a motor; a frame configured to be controlled by the motor to rotate on an axis; a carrier disposed at a first end of the frame and configured to hold the container; a counterweight disposed at a second end of the frame opposite to the carrier, wherein the counterweight position relative to the axis is adjustable. The mixer may be a stand-alone unit, or it may be disposed in an apparatus for dispensing a cosmetic composition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: L'OREAL
    Inventors: David John Rinaldis, Guive Balooch, Florent Valceschini, Rishabh Bhandari, Catherine Chiou, Sonia Lorente Gonzalez, Pinida Jan Moolsintong, Jonathan Scott Tang, Brent Edward Timberlake, Andre Yousefi
  • Patent number: 10099228
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for performing counter flow centrifugation. The apparatus includes at least one vessel, a gear fixedly attached to at least a portion of the vessel such that rotation of the gear rotates the vessel, a handle assembly and a plurality of tubes extending through the handle assembly and to the vessel. The gear is configured to be rotated by a drive system. The handle assembly is rotatably attached to the gear and includes an opening therein. At least a portion of the gear engages at least a portion of the drive system through the opening. The handle assembly is configured to be rotated by the drive system. The vessel can be rotated at twice a speed of the handle assembly when the apparatus is inserted into a bowl of the counter flow centrifuge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2018
    Assignee: INVETECH, INC.
    Inventors: Ian Fitzpatrick, Mark Rob, Adam Cusick, Tim Craig
  • Patent number: 10052598
    Abstract: A mechanism for generating an orbital motion for mixing a fluidic sample. The mechanism may comprise a first and second cogwheel each having a through hole and a plurality of cogs. A drive shaft having a concentric first section and an eccentric second section is guided through a respective through hole of the first and second cogwheel. A coupling body engages part of the cogs to thereby generate the orbital motion of the second cogwheel and a sample holder to be mounted so as to follow a motion of the second cogwheel upon rotating the first section of the drive shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2018
    Assignee: Quantifoil Instruments GmbH
    Inventor: Andreas Vester
  • Patent number: 10012664
    Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for sample processing. A device may be provided, capable of receiving the sample, and performing one or more of a sample preparation, sample assay, and detection step. The device may be capable of performing multiple assays. The device may comprise one or more modules that may be capable of performing one or more of a sample preparation, sample assay, and detection step. The device may be capable of performing the steps using a small volume of sample.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2018
    Assignee: Theranos IP Company, LLC
    Inventors: James Wasson, John Kent Frankovich, Elizabeth A. Holmes, Timothy Smith, Michael Chen, Daniel Young
  • Patent number: 9907319
    Abstract: A dual-axis mixer for food products includes a product holder that is configured to hold a sealed product cup containing a food product to be mixed. The mixer has a primary axis of rotation about a central axis, and a secondary axis of rotation radially offset from the central axis. In doing so, the secondary axis positioned to rotate around the primary axis. Furthermore, the product holder is located at the secondary axis and is configured to rotate about the secondary axis. Rotation about the primary axis applies centripetal force to the food product, and the secondary axis rotates the product holder to churn the food product within the product cup.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2018
    Assignee: Steak 'n Shake Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Sardar Biglari, David Milton
  • Patent number: 9352320
    Abstract: A device for thermal cycling a plurality of samples, the device including a chamber for housing a plurality of sample containers, the chamber having a selectively openable port, wherein one or more selected sample containers can be introduced to or withdrawn from the chamber through the port during thermal cycling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: QIAGEN INSTRUMENTS AG
    Inventor: John Michael Corbett
  • Patent number: 9272253
    Abstract: A mobile tank container arranged to transport a liquid, comprising a circumferential wall which extends around an axis in a driving direction of the mobile tank container and two end walls which close the container volume at the front side and the rear side, wherein the tank container is provided with a valve gear comprising at least one valve which extends into the container volume, such that the valve, when used while the tank container is at least substantially full with liquid, comparatively allows circulation of liquid in the container volume in one tangential circulation direction around the axis or in one axial circulation direction along the axis, or a combination of the two directions, in the open position thereof, and that the valve comparatively impedes circulation of liquid in the opposite circulation direction in the closed position thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2016
    Assignee: TRS Transportkoeling B.V.
    Inventor: Eeuwe Durk Kooi
  • Patent number: 8985836
    Abstract: A liquid supply device according to the invention includes a container which is filled with a liquid from a liquid storage portion, and the container includes a bottom surface portion, an upper surface portion, and a stirrer which moves in the bottom surface portion and stirs the liquid. The relationship between a height Ht in the vertical direction of a central portion in the container and a height Hb in the vertical direction of the stirrer satisfy the Expression: 0.40×Ht?Hb?0.90×Ht.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventor: Shohei Shiono
  • Patent number: 8945376
    Abstract: Systems, apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture provide for resuspending and/or collecting blood and/or other types of cells in solution. In one embodiment, cells may be recovered from used surgical sponges and/or other types of surgical articles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: All Cell Recovery LLC
    Inventor: Michael C. Cordisco
  • Patent number: 8905624
    Abstract: A system and method for controlling a mixing system at a peak energy efficiency point, maximum response point or reduced sound generation point based on displacement, velocity, acceleration or jerk operating conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Inventors: Harold W. Howe, Peter A. Lucon, Jeffrey D. Thornton, Brian Jay Seaholm
  • Patent number: 8827540
    Abstract: Disclosed is a mixing device for mixing, in particular, contents of laboratory vessels. The mixing device has a receiving device for receiving mixtures, a drive for setting the receiving device in a mixing movement relative to a chassis in which the receiving device moves on a closed path, and a bearing for guiding the receiving device in the mixing movement. The bearing has at least two supports, each with two bearing areas spaced apart from each other and having at least substantially no translatory and at least two rotational degrees of freedom. One bearing area bears the support at the chassis, and the other bearing area bears the receiving device at the support. The bearing has a guidance device, which guides the rotation of the receiving device relative to the chassis during the mixing movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: Eppendorf AG
    Inventors: Arne Schafrinski, Judith Jacobs
  • Publication number: 20140086005
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention relate to a clinical instrument analyzer system for the automated analysis of patient samples. In one embodiment, the analyzer may be used to analyze bodily fluid samples, such as blood, plasma, serum, urine or cerebrospinal fluid, for example. Embodiments of the invention relate to an apparatus and method for suspending magnetic particles accumulated on the floor of a mixing tube and depositing the magnetic particles in bodily fluid samples.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2013
    Publication date: March 27, 2014
    Inventors: Kathleen Vincent, Mark Talmer, Gerhardt P. Schroeder
  • Patent number: 8459245
    Abstract: An electronically controlled, brushless DC, electromagnetic induction drive apparatus for use in a paintball marker active loader capable of directly driving the feeder element in the active loader while providing independently user selectable torque transfer capability and rotational speed whether used to continuously or intermittently rotate the loader feeder element. A plurality of selectively polarity reversible electromagnets are disposed in the loader housing and act to move a plurality of magnetic drive elements disposed on the rotating feed cone to rotate the feed cone a predetermined amount for each polarity cycle and cause paintballs to be fed into the paintball marker via a feed tube. A controller linked to the marker firing sequence manages the number and frequency of the sequential polarity changes of the electro-magnets to cause the feed cone to rotate in response to sensed movement of paintballs in the feed tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Inventors: Michael J. Fiorill, Donald Lee Kulp
  • Patent number: 8369690
    Abstract: AVClip recorded in BD-ROM is obtained by multiplexing a graphics stream and a video stream. The graphics stream is a PES packet sequence that includes 1) PES packets storing graphics data (ODS) and 2) PES packets storing control information (PCS). In each ODS, values of DTS and PTS indicate a timing of decoding start for corresponding graphics data, and a timing of decoding end for corresponding graphics data, respectively. In each PCS, a value of PTS indicates a display timing of corresponding decoded graphics data combined with the video stream.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: Panasonic Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph McCrossan, Tomoyuki Okada, Kazuhiro Mochinaga
  • Patent number: 8312871
    Abstract: An electronically controlled, brushless DC, electromagnetic induction drive apparatus for use in a paintball marker active loader capable of directly driving the feeder element in the active loader while providing user selectable torque transfer capability and rotational speed whether used to continuously or intermittently rotate the loader feeder element. A plurality of selectively polarity reversible electromagnets are disposed in the loader housing and act to move a plurality of magnetic drive elements disposed on the rotating feed cone to rotate the feed cone and cause paintballs to be fed into the paintball marker via a feed tube. A controller linked to the marker firing sequence manages the sequential polarity changes of the electro-magnets to cause the feed cone to rotate in response to movement of paintballs in the feed tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2012
    Inventors: Donald Lee Kulp, Robert E. Long, Jr., Michael J. Fiorill
  • Patent number: 8293835
    Abstract: A silicone composition comprising an organopolysiloxane containing at least two silicon-bonded alkenyl and/or hydroxyl groups in the molecule and a filler having a BET surface area of at least 10 m2/g is prepared by kneading the components in a batchwise high-shear mixer. The mixer includes a rotatable mixing pan (1), a high-speed rotation agitator (3) disposed eccentrically in the pan, and a stationary scraper (4) disposed in the pan for creating a vertical counterflow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Takashi Kondo
  • Patent number: 8287177
    Abstract: A rotatable top for use with a container for measuring, mixing, and dispending drinks. The rotatable top rotates around an axis and provides multiple positions for (i) measuring volumes of liquid and dumping that liquid into the container, (ii) inserting additional liquid, ice or other solids into the container, (iii) closing and sealing the top and container for mixing the drink, and (iv) dispensing the mixed drink with or without a strainer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Assignee: Chef'n Corporation
    Inventors: David A. Holcomb, Joshua R. Stewart, Matthew Krus
  • Publication number: 20120140589
    Abstract: Disclosed is a mixing device for mixing, in particular, contents of laboratory vessels. The mixing device has a receiving device for receiving mixtures, a drive for setting the receiving device in a mixing movement relative to a chassis in which the receiving device moves on a closed path, and a bearing for guiding the receiving device in the mixing movement. The bearing has at least two supports, each with two bearing areas spaced apart from each other and having at least substantially no translatory and at least two rotational degrees of freedom. One bearing area bears the support at the chassis, and the other bearing area bears the receiving device at the support. The bearing has a guidance device, which guides the rotation of the receiving device relative to the chassis during the mixing movement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 3, 2011
    Publication date: June 7, 2012
    Inventors: Arne Schafrinski, Judith Jacobs, Florian Dürr, Martin Stranzinger
  • Patent number: 8177416
    Abstract: The invention relates to a dental device, in particular a dental mixing device, with a housing, and with a frame that supports at least one motor and a mixing arm and is mounted on at least two bearings, preferably at least three bearings, in particular four bearings, inside a housing, each of these bearings being clamped between upper and lower elastic, pretensioned damping elements (32, 34). The damping elements are supported respectively on a first, upwardly directed abutment surface (58) and on a second, downwardly directed abutment surface (50) of the housing, in particular on a stand foot (52).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: Ivoclar Vivadent AG
    Inventor: Wolfgang Müller
  • Patent number: 8177417
    Abstract: The present invention provides a continuous blender having a drive unit assembly with a shell assembly mounting assembly and a shell assembly structured to be removably coupled to the shell assembly mounting assembly by one or more clamps. The drive unit assembly may be coupled to shell assemblies having different lengths and diameters. Thus, by changing the shell assembly coupled to the drive unit assembly, the output of the continuous blender may be dramatically changed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: Harsco Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph Ditzig, Thomas Chirkot, Kiet C. Ly
  • Publication number: 20110280098
    Abstract: A liquid supply device according to the invention includes a container which is filled with a liquid from a liquid storage portion, and the container includes a bottom surface portion, an upper surface portion, and a stirrer which moves in the bottom surface portion and stirs the liquid. The relationship between a height Ht in the vertical direction of a central portion in the container and a height Hb in the vertical direction of the stirrer satisfy the Expression: 0.40×Ht?Hb?0.90×Ht.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 12, 2011
    Publication date: November 17, 2011
    Inventor: Shohei SHIONO
  • Patent number: 8017094
    Abstract: A rack for holding containers containing liquids used in clinical chemistry analyzers. The rack comprises (a) a frame having two or more sections, each section being adapted for receiving a liquid containing component, at least one of the sections of the frame being adapted for receiving a first liquid containing component which is adapted for being removably but tightly mechanically connected to said frame, (b) at least one movable part adapted to be removably coupled to a shaker device, the movable part being adapted for receiving and holding a second liquid containing component, at least one of the sections of the frame being adapted for receiving the movable part and allowing motion of the movable part within predetermined limits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Assignee: Roche Molecular Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas Meyer, Reto Schorno, Thomas Schlaubitz
  • Patent number: 8017091
    Abstract: A device consisting of a low-RPM motor wherein the motor spins a flat disk, a peg is attached to the disk, a stationary spring armature wherein the peg can activate the stationary spring armature as the disk rotates, and a tube containing beads in a fluid positioned in a top plate wherein the spring armature can contact the tube. This device can further include a soft closed-cell foam top mounted on the top plate wherein the tube is inserted and maintained by the foam in such a way as to allow for slight motion of the tube induced by the contact by the spring armature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Turan A. Kayagil, Julie A. Richardson
  • Publication number: 20100068087
    Abstract: A blender apparatus (10) comprises an electric motor (11) driving a shaft (12) through a gear box (13). The shaft at a region (14) passes through an upright member (15) of the support structure (16). The shaft at region (14) passes through the upright member by means of a bush or bearing (not shown) suitable to facilitate rotation of the shaft. The rotation of the shaft further drives the holder (17) that is fixable mounted to the shaft such that holder 17 rotates-with the shaft. A powder container (18) is mounted on the holder and secured by a suitable attachment device (19) to ensure that the powder container rotates with the holder during operation. Suitable attachment devices could include a clamping device or a simple elastic strap. The required quantities of metallic and non-metallic powders are poured into the opening (20) in container (18). The body of powder (21) is then sealed into container (18) with a suitable seal (22) before the container is mounted in the holder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2007
    Publication date: March 18, 2010
    Inventor: John James Saveker
  • Patent number: 7670043
    Abstract: A device generating pulsed motions comprises: (A) two parallel shafts (3; 4) each having a longitudinal axis (5; 6), a rear end (7; 8) and a front end (9; 10), (B) a gear unit (2) comprising at least two gears (20; 21) where at least two gears (20) are oval gears and each gear (20; 21) is connected to a rear end (7; 8) of the two shafts (3; 4), (C) two arcuate drive levers (30; 31) each having a first end (32; 33) and at least one second end (34; 35), where each first end (32; 33) of the drive levers (30; 31) is connected to one front end (9; 10) of the two shafts (3; 4) in rotatable manner about a first axis of rotation (11; 12), and (E) a drive body (40) which is connected to the second ends (34; 35) of the drive levers (30; 31) in rotatable manner about two second axes of rotation (13; 14), where (F) the drive body (40) is a polysomic body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Assignee: Hortimax B.V.
    Inventor: Markus Fritschi
  • Patent number: 7527898
    Abstract: In order to provide a method of producing a gel negative electrode for an alkaline battery for preparing a gel negative electrode in which a zinc powder, a gelling agent and an electrolyte are disposed uniformly, by an agitator including a cylindrical agitation container disposed so that the center axis X of the cylinder is parallel to the horizontal direction, the agitation container is rotated around the center axis X and the left and right portions of the agitation container are swung around an axis Y, which is orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the agitation container, thereby agitating and mixing the alkaline electrolyte and the dry mixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2009
    Assignee: Panasonic Corporation
    Inventors: Shigeto Noya, Yasuo Mukai, Kenji Shiotani, Hideki Misaki
  • Publication number: 20090040866
    Abstract: A water bath for laboratory use capable of two mixing motions is disclosed. Master magnets are mounted on eccentric shafts turned in a circular orbit by an electric motor beneath the bath. Slave magnets are mounted on a basket within the bath. The basket rides on spherical bearings within the bath. The bearings are received within tracks on the basket. A first set of the tracks are linear. A second set of the tracks are endless. When the bearings are received in the linear tracks, the basket moves in linear reciprocal motion in response to motion of the master magnets. When the bearings are received in the endless tracks, the basket moves in an orbit in response to motion of the master magnets. The tracks and the bearings are positioned so that a particular motion may be selected by orienting the basket within the bath.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 9, 2007
    Publication date: February 12, 2009
    Inventors: William A. Rollin, III, Brad P. Thorstensen
  • Patent number: 7438462
    Abstract: Methods and mechanisms for shaking containers are disclosed. The shaking motion can be made to vary in a dynamic fashion so that the different components within the container are not made to separate, as if subjected to the processing of a centrifuge. Such dynamic motion can appear to be random. A cantilevered base plate or other type of based place can be coupled to a base. A motor can be coupled to the base plate and configured to rotate a generally vertical shaft. A cam or other type of wheel can be coupled to the shaft and configured to eccentrically rotate about the shaft, wherein the wheel is configured to rotate within a bearing. A container base is coupled to the bearing such that the container base is configured to translate or otherwise move is general accordance with the eccentric rotation of the cam. The container base can be configured to tilt based at least in part on the translation of the container base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2008
    Inventors: Christine J. Bodie, Daniel Jay Fields
  • Publication number: 20080212404
    Abstract: The present invention provides a continuous blender having a drive unit assembly with a shell assembly mounting assembly and a shell assembly structured to be removably coupled to the shell assembly mounting assembly by one or more clamps. The drive unit assembly may be coupled to shell assemblies having different lengths and diameters. Thus, by changing the shell assembly coupled to the drive unit assembly, the output of the continuous blender may be dramatically changed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2008
    Publication date: September 4, 2008
    Applicant: Harsco Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph Ditzig, Thomas Chirkot, Kiet C. Ly
  • Patent number: 7347613
    Abstract: The present invention provides a continuous blender having a drive unit assembly with a shell assembly mounting assembly and a shell assembly structured to be removably coupled to the shell assembly mounting assembly by one or more clamps. The drive unit assembly may be coupled to shell assemblies having different lengths and diameters. Thus, by changing the shell assembly coupled to the drive unit assembly, the output of the continuous blender may be dramatically changed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2008
    Assignee: Harsco Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph Ditzig, Thomas Chirkot, Kiet C. Ly
  • Patent number: 7078003
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for the transfer between a solid matter and a liquid, comprising an outer drum and a perforated inner drum, means for commonly rotating the drums, and means situated inside the inner drum for moving the solid matter. In between the two drums, a number of troughs are formed which, during the rotation of the drums, bring up liquid and pour it out higher up through the inner drum. Along the front rim of each trough, the drum is provided with a drain opening, opposite to which means are provided for preventing, when the drain opening, during the rotation of the drums, is at the bottom, the penetration of solid matter through said opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2006
    Assignee: De Smet Engineering naamloze vennootschap
    Inventors: Jean Baie, Fédérico Lopez, Etienne Le Clef
  • Patent number: 6874928
    Abstract: Apparatus for mixing a number of components comprising a vessel for receiving the components, drive means for rotating or oscillating the vessel about an axis to effect mixing of the components within the vessel, and at least one spectroscopic monitoring means for repeatedly scanning the mixture to obtain data for use in monitoring changes in the spectroscopic profile of the mixture as mixing proceeds, the monitoring means by mounted off-axis relative to the axis about which the vessel is rotatable or oscillatable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2005
    Assignee: Astra Zeneca U.K. Limited
    Inventors: Ali Mohammad Afnan, Robert Symes Chisholm
  • Patent number: 6840664
    Abstract: An improved tumble drum is provided for mixing one food product with another food product, and includes a rotating tumble drum for rotating the products about a drum axis of rotation, with the drum having a product input in one end and a product output in an axial opposing end. A tumble drive motor rotates the tumble drum. Another drive mechanism reciprocates the tumble drum linearly in a direction aligned with the axis of rotation. The product is discharged from the axial opposing end of the tumble drum. A product tray is providing for inputting food product to the tumble drum, and the rotating tumble drum may be fixed to the product tray such that the drive mechanism linearly rotates both the tumble drum and the product tray in a slow forward/backward manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2005
    Inventors: David L. Burke, Jonny Fitzgerald, Thomas G. Knodell, Jr., Kenneth C. Petri, P. Blake Svejkovsky, Paul A. Svejkovsky
  • Patent number: 6837843
    Abstract: Apparatus for automatically extracting biological components from multiple distinct samples including a rotor supporting pendulous tubes and means for modifying the angular position of the tubes in a radial plane of the rotor independently of centrifugal force to cause a rocking movement of the tubes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2005
    Assignee: Genomic S.A.
    Inventors: Michel Gazeau, Philippe Lare
  • Publication number: 20040240314
    Abstract: An insert for a container includes an outer wall, a upstanding spout, and a bottom wall. The outer wall is configured to fit within an opening of the container and defines the periphery of the insert. The outer wall has a lower edge and an upper edge that is disposed at a first elevation. The upstanding spout is located within the outer wall and includes at least one substantially straight portion. The straight portion has a lower edge as well as a substantially straight upper edge that is disposed at a second elevation less than the first elevation. The bottom wall connects the lower edge of the outer wall and the lower edge of the spout to form a channel between the outer wall and the spout.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2003
    Publication date: December 2, 2004
    Applicant: Masterchem Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Adam Armendariz, David Armendariz, John A. Heiser, Christopher E. Jones
  • Patent number: 6776517
    Abstract: Apparatus for mixing a number of components comprising a vessel for receiving the components, drive means for rotating or oscillating the vessel about an axis to effect mixing of the components within the vessel, and at least one spectroscopic monitoring means for repeatedly scanning the mixture to obtain data for use in monitoring changes in the spectroscopic profile of the mixture as mixing proceeds, the monitoring means by mounted off-axis relative to the axis about which the vessel is rotatable or oscillatable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2004
    Assignee: AstraZeneca UK Limited
    Inventors: Ali Mohammad Afnan, Robert Symes Chisholm
  • Publication number: 20040099616
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided for separation of suspended solid particles from fluids, for separation and mixing of fluids, and for dissolving gases in aqueous fluids. The apparatus employs a grooved ring to divide the fluid stream and impart a high velocity on each of the divided or sub-streams. A grooved ring with any number of grooves that may be spiral in shape is used to create a high velocity circular motion on a divided stream for separation of suspended solid particles by centrifugal force in a cyclone filter and for saturation of liquid with gases in a fluid mixer where gases are introduced through a diffuser. A grooved ring with any number of grooves that may be radial is used in a fluid mixer to divide a stream of fluid, produce a high velocity flow through each groove, introduce a second fluid through an orifice into the first fluid flowing through each groove, and direct the fluid mixture to a center impact zone where the various streams collide to complete the mixing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2003
    Publication date: May 27, 2004
    Applicant: Hydrotreat, Inc.
    Inventor: Johnny Arnaud
  • Publication number: 20040099615
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided for separation of suspended solid particles from fluids, for separation and mixing of fluids, and for dissolving gases in aqueous fluids. The apparatus employs a grooved ring to divide the fluid stream and impart a high velocity on each of the divided or sub-streams. A grooved ring with any number of grooves that may be spiral in shape is used to create a high velocity circular motion on a divided stream for separation of suspended solid particles by centrifugal force in a cyclone filter and for saturation of liquid with gases in a fluid mixer where gases are introduced through a diffuser. A grooved ring with any number of grooves that may be radial is used in a fluid mixer to divide a stream of fluid, produce a high velocity flow through each groove, introduce a second fluid through an orifice into the first fluid flowing through each groove, and direct the fluid mixture to a center impact zone where the various streams collide to complete the mixing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2003
    Publication date: May 27, 2004
    Applicant: Hydrotreat, Inc.
    Inventor: Johnny Arnaud
  • Patent number: 6709151
    Abstract: A mixing device for mixing liquid, flowable or powdery materials comprises a pivoted first component, with a second component pivoted on the first component, with a drive mechanism for generating a rotational movement of the first component, and with a reversing device for transmitting and reversing a rotational movement of the first component to the second component, in such a way that the direction of rotation of the first component is opposite to the direction of rotation of the second component, the reversing device having at least one axial reversing element and at least one radial reversing element which are operatively connected to one another and with the frame and the second component via a flexible belt element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Assignee: Hauschild & Co. KG
    Inventor: Gerd-Ulrich Schmidt
  • Publication number: 20030095470
    Abstract: Apparatus for mixing a number of components comprising a vessel for receiving the components, drive means for rotating or oscillating the vessel about an axis to effect mixing of the components within the vessel, and at least one spectroscopic monitoring means for repeatedly scanning the mixture to obtain data for use in monitoring changes in the spectroscopic profile of the mixture as mixing proceeds, the monitoring means by mounted off-axis relative to the axis about which the vessel is rotatable or oscillatable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 8, 2003
    Publication date: May 22, 2003
    Applicant: AstraZeneca UK Limited
    Inventors: Ali Mohammad Afnan, Robert Symes Chisholm
  • Publication number: 20030067838
    Abstract: A mixing device for mixing liquid, flowable or powdery materials comprises a pivoted first component, with a second component pivoted on the first component, with a drive mechanism for generating a rotational movement of the first component, and with a reversing device for transmitting and reversing a rotational movement of the first component to the second component, in such a way that the direction of rotation of the first component is opposite to the direction of rotation of the second component, the reversing device having at least one axial reversing element and at least one radial reversing element which are operatively connected to one another and with the frame and the second component via a flexible belt element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2002
    Publication date: April 10, 2003
    Inventor: Gerd-Ulrich Schmidt
  • Patent number: 6517230
    Abstract: Apparatus for mixing a number of components comprising a vessel for receiving the components, drive means for rotating or oscillating the vessel about an axis to effect mixing of the components within the vessel, and at least one spectroscopic monitoring means for repeatedly scanning the mixture to obtain data for use in monitoring changes in the spectroscopic profile of the mixture as mixing proceeds, the monitoring means by mounted off-axis relative to the axis about which the vessel is rotatable or oscillatable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2003
    Assignee: AstraZeneca UK Limited
    Inventors: Ali Mohammad Afnan, Robert Symes Chisholm
  • Patent number: 6482363
    Abstract: The invention relates to a system that feeds gaseous or liquid media into moveable sample vessels or reaction vessels in vacuum centrifuges or reaction chambers that are provided with an integrated shaker. An adapter plate fitted with needles that are allocated to individual vessels is arranged inside the centrifuge or reaction chamber above the sample vessels. The adapter plate is provided with a system for the introduction of the gaseous or liquid medium. The height of the adapter plate can be adjusted. This enables the depth at which the needles are introduced into the sample vessels to be chosen at will.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2002
    Assignee: Hettlab AG
    Inventor: Werner Döbelin