Abstract: A kitchen appliance for popping popcorn comprises a housing and a popping mechanism. The housing comprises a bottom housing portion adapted to sit stably upon a surface during operation of the appliance and adapted to receive popcorn that has been popped by the appliance and a top housing portion adapted to sit stably upon the bottom housing portion during operation of the appliance and selectively removable from the bottom housing portion. The popping mechanism heats unpopped popcorn kernels in order to cause the unpopped popcorn kernels to pop. The popping mechanism is affixed within the top housing portion such that, when the top housing portion is selectively removed from the bottom housing portion and placed upright on a surface, the popping mechanism does not contact the surface.

Abstract: Granular matter placed in a vertical cylinder rotated back and forth between limiting angles creates a sidewards flying bed. A spoke is connected at one between a vertical drive shaft rotating the cylinder and a first hinge. A drive rod is connected between the first hinge and a second hinge on a rotating flywheel. Rotation of the flywheel causes the drive shaft to rotate through an angle varying back and forth between limiting angles. The cylinder's speed of rotation varies. During most of the time centrifugal forces greater than gravity act upon the granular material, causing the material to form a layer on the inner wall of the cylinder. In at least a portion of the recurring time intervals the acceleration and deceleration produce tangential forces greater than the centrifugal forces acting upon the layer, causing the granular material to fly sidewards in a direction tangential to the cylinder's circumference.

Abstract: A method of mixing a formation fluid sample obtained in a downhole sampling chamber. The method includes positioning the downhole sampling chamber having a longitudinal axis in a rotary stand and rotating the downhole sampling chamber generally about the longitudinal axis. The method also includes imparting angular momentum to the formation fluid sample in the downhole sampling chamber, thereby mixing the formation fluid sample.

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.

Abstract: A clinical instrument analyzer system for automated analysis of patient samples with a system for suspending particles or methods for the separation of particles, such as magnetic particles, is described herein. The system for suspending particles comprises a reagent cartridge comprising a reagent holder for holding a plurality of tubes. The plurality of tubes comprise a mixing tube for holding particles, rotatably mounted in the holder and a motor operatively connectable to a slot longitudinally positioned on the lower section of the mixing tube. The particles in the mixing tube are suspended when the mixing tube rotates in accordance with the embodiments of the invention. The analyzer can be used to analyze bodily fluid samples, such as blood, plasma, serum, urine or cerebrospinal fluid.

Abstract: Presented herein is a mixing apparatus to mix liquid and solids, solids and solids, liquids and liquids or combinations thereof into a homogenous solution in a sealed container shaken in a side to side, up and down, and/or orbital pattern with a warming plate to heat the contents to a desired temperature or for a specific time period with a decreased risk of foreign contaminants in accordance with prescribed instructions for preparing a mixture.

Abstract: The present invention provides a stirring mechanism with magnetic force. It has a central rotary arm with permanent magnet, as well as a plurality of lever arms, each having one respective permanent magnet. A track disk rotates synchronously with the central rotary arm. An elliptic track slot in the track disk traps the lever arms to swing forward and backward. The lever arms exhibit alternate motions of approaching and leaving, thereby causing a stirring effect.

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.

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.

Abstract: A gyroscopic paint mixer having a rotatable frame with a clamp lock providing automatic transfer from an unclamping to a clamping condition, providing silent operation through the use of one way clutches, the mixer also having a vertical stop apparatus coupled to an access door for stopping and holding the rotatable frame in an upright position, the mixer also having a bail retainer supported by a carriage assembly mounted for rotation on a clamp plate with a cam urging the bail retainer to the side of the frame when the bail retainer is released from the paint container with the paint container in an upright position in the rotatable frame.

Abstract: The agitator of the present invention comprises: a drive source; a differential unit; a rotation-direction switching unit; and a brake unit. The drive source generates rotational driving forces. The differential unit and rotation-direction switching unit are positioned in a driving-force transmission path between agitation vessels containing agitation-target material. The brake unit alternately stops the rotation of two rotating shafts extended from the differential unit. Here, the differential unit of the agitator has functions of receiving the rotational driving forces from the drive source and transmitting the rotational driving forces to the two rotating shafts in a differential manner. The rotation-direction switching unit has a function of inverting the rotation direction of the rotational driving forces transmitted to the agitation vessel while the rotation of the rotating shaft is being stopped by a brake.

Abstract: The device (10) comprises a substantially stationary outer frame (14) and a movable inner frame (18) supported by the outer frame (14). The inner frame (18) is provided with a lower support plate (26) for a receptacle (C) containing the product to be mixed and with an upper clamping plate (30) which can be moved towards the inner plate (26) to clamp the receptacle (C). The lower and upper plates (26, 30) are both rotatably mounted about a vertical axis (Z). The device comprises a first electric motor (32), first driving means (38, 40, 42, 44, 45) arranged to impart a vertical oscillation movement to the receptacle (C) and second driving means (38, 40, 42, 58, 60, 56, 54, 52, 48, 26) arranged to impart a rotational movement about a vertical axis (Z) to the receptacle (C) at the same time as the vertical oscillation movement. The first and second driving means are both operated by the first electric motor (32).

Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided for non-invasively mixing ingredients in closed containers. Mixing is performed by inducing waves in the liquid to be mixed. This is achieved by rocking the container in precise phase so as to produce resonance. With the waves moving back and forth in resonance, it is possible to mix with very low energy requirements compared to prior art. Mixing ingredients with resonant waves in a closed container eliminates the need for an invasive mixer and has obvious advantages in minimizing contamination. This makes the device ideal for biological processing that typically require sterile operation.

Abstract: A portable mixer comprising a frame assembly. Wheels are operatively mounted on the frame assembly. A deck assembly is pivotally mounted on the frame assembly for tilting forwardly and rearwardly. A mixing bag is suspended from the frame assembly.

Abstract: A rocker for extended, refrigerated storage or transport of fish sperm comprising a platform for sperm containers, drive mechanism, a power supply with an on/off switch or rheostat, and water resistant housing. This device imparts continuous rocking motion to the sperm containers so that the sperm is continuously oxygenated, thus increasing the viability of the sperm.

Abstract: A flow-through microcentrifuge comprising a container in which a sample is placed, and a power source capable of rotating the container around an axis. High speed rotation causes the components of the sample to separate according to their respective densities. Pressurized gas, a flowing liquid, electromagnetism, or an engine can power rotation of the container. Due to the small size of the flow-through microcentrifuge, speeds can reach up to 600,000 rpm, with a corresponding increase in centrifugal acceleration up to 1,500,000 g. In addition to separation, the flow-through microcentrifuge can resuspend pelleted material in a liquid by rotating in one direction and then in the opposite direction, repeatedly. The flow-through microcentrifuge is also able to mix two or more reagents using this method. The flow-through microcentrifuge is modular in nature, meaning two or more can be placed together in any configuration and run by the same power source.

Abstract: An orbital shaking attachment can be fitted or removed from a magnetic stirrer thereby giving the stirrer the extra function of orbital shaking in addition to its primary function of magnetic stirring. The principal of he invention could also be used to make a dedicated orbital shaker for other applications such as in an over, incubator or liquid filled tank. The orbital shaking attachment includes a top-plate/platform with a circular magnet attached centrally to its underside and a base-plate with a central circular hole. The two plates are separated by ball bearings which are able to roll around orbitally in bearing cups on both plates. When operated the base-plate is static and the top-plate/platform moves orbitally. The device is constructed mainly from nonferrous material except for the circular magnet and ball bearings.

Abstract: A pharmaceutical mixing container for storing a liquid having at least two factions which tend to separate during storage. A cartridge housing having an inner volume is closed at one end by a septum arrangement and at another end by a slidable sealing member. The cartridge housing is installed within a cartridge cover having an outwardly extending pitched land. An outer sleeve having a matching pitched groove formed on the inner surface thereof is received about the cartridge cover. The cover is rotationally mounted to a base member. By translating the outer sleeve away from the base member, the cartridge cover and cartridge housing are rotated to provide turbulent mixing action for any liquid within the cartridge housing. In an alternate embodiment, the cartridge cover is omitted and the pitched land is provided directly on the outer surface of the cartridge housing.

Abstract: An orbiting platform mixer having a reversing cycle of operation. In response to input signals defining set points for the platform velocity, the mixing cycle time and the reversing period, a control commands a reversing cycle of a rotation of the orbiting platform in one direction at the at the platform velocity for the rotation period. After a pause, the control commands a rotation of the orbiting platform in the opposite direction for the rotation period; and the above reversing cycle is repeated for a period of time equal to the mixing cycle time. The control permits the input signals to be changed at an accelerated rate in response to the continued single state, that is, pressed state, of a push-button.

Abstract: This invention involves a cylinder of circular section, with one end raised about 5 degrees above the other, and capable of being rolled back and forth through an arc of approximately 210.degree., 105.degree. in either direction from a central position, or in some cases for complete revolutions, into which trash, garbage, and possibly septage are introduced repeatedly through a hole in the top of the high end when the cylinder is in the central position, and then the cylinder is rocked from one extreme position to the other so that the material inside is tumbled upon itself and aerated and randomly dispersed, and by repeatly falling tends to progress from the high, input end toward a discharge opening in the low end as digested compost. These units can be built by any reasonably competent mechanic. The smaller ones require a cold chisel, electric drill, and ideally a saber-saw or acetylene torch. The larger ones will require some welding.

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: An apparatus for purifying waste water by precipitating out foreign material as solids and separating the solids from the purified water comprising a rotatable semi-cylindrical open container and a band filter beneath the container for receiving the contents of the container and separating the precipitated solids from the purified water. As the container slowly rotates, the contents spill over the edge of the container onto the moving band filter. The purified water is recovered in a filtrate container beneath the filter while the solids are discharged to waste from the end of the band filter. A microprocessor controls the sequence of operations, including the rotation of the container, the stirring mechanism, the feeding of the precipitation agent and the duration of stirring.

Abstract: A paint shaker apparatus utilizing a typically hand held pneumatic random orbital sanding tool (14) as motor and crankshaft. A base housing (10) is adapted to receive and support a pneumatic random orbital sanding tool (14) with the sanding pad removed. The base housing (10) is adapted to be supported on a supporting surface and further includes a container cradle assembly (62) to receive and support a container to be shaken. The container cradle assembly (62) provides a clamp mechanism for holding a container to be shaken and is secured to a main shaft (40) rotatably mounted on the base housing (10) for oscillation about a vertical axis. A crank arm (44) is attached to the main shaft (40) and is connected to the sanding pad spindle (60) by a connecting rod (48).

Abstract: A lifting apparatus includes a load support device for engaging and supporting a load as the load support device and the load are moved between a lowered position and a raised position relative to a base. A pair of spaced lifting arms are connected at first pivotal connections to the base and at second pivotal connections to the load support device for moving the load support device between its lowered and raised positions. A stabilizer arm is connected at a third pivotal connection to the load support device, and at a fourth pivotal connection to the base, for controlling a rotational orientation of the load support device about an axis of the second pivotal connection relative to the base. A sprocket is rigidly attached to each of the lifting arms substantially coaxial with the first pivotal connection, and a chain is operably engaged with each sprocket.

Abstract: A self-leveling mixing apparatus includes a transportable skid frame. A mixing tub is supported from the frame in a manner such that the tube is movable between first and second positions relative to the frame. The tube has a tub fluid outlet defined in a lower portion thereof. A suction conduit is supported from the skid frame for transport therewith and includes a manifold inlet, a manifold outlet, and a tub outlet conduit portion located upstream of the manifold outlet and connected to the tub fluid outlet. A leveling valve is also included and is disposed in the suction conduit upstream of the manifold outlet for controlling a level of fluid in the tub. A connector linkage operably connects the tube and the leveling valve for adjusting the leveling valve in response to movement of the tub relative to the skid frame.

Abstract: A paint shaker (1) for use in in-store paint tinting operations comprising a platform (2) and clamping member (4) for accommodating a paint container (3) which is to be shaken wherein the shaker is provided with means for sensing resistance to downwards movement of the clamping member (4a or 34) and clamping member detection means (34) which do not allow the shaking operation to start until the container is clamped and the clamping member is in a pre-selected position chosen because it is a position that the clamping member must occupy if it is to clamp a container properly either directly or via a capsule from which colorant has been expelled.

Abstract: A self-leveling mixer apparatus includes a base and a generally downwardly tapered movable mixing tub supported from the base in a manner such that the tub is movable between first and second positions relative to the base. A leveling valve is provided for controlling a level of fluid in the movable mixing tub. A connector linkage is operably associated with the mixing tub and the leveling valve for adjusting the leveling valve in response to movement of the mixing tube relative to the base. A rotating mechanical agitator is disposed within the tub for inducing a generally vortex type of fluid flow pattern within the generally downward tapered tub.

Abstract: A microwave appliance serving to warm blood or blood derivatives stored in a bag possesses a microwave generator and a receiving apparatus, provided in the warming chamber, for a bag (8). This axis (26) of the bag (8) is arranged transversely to the axis of rotation (4) of a reversibly controlled electric motor. The axis (26) of the receiving apparatus is, in this design, arranged obliquely to the axis of rotation (4) of the electric motor (5). The receiving apparatus possesses a clamping plate (6) for receiving the bag (8).

Abstract: A shaker particularly adapted for mixing the components of a liquid base material in a miniature size container includes a housing which carries a low voltage, high speed rotary output electric motor. The motor may be energized by batteries or by a domestic power source through an adaptor. An eccentrically offset bearing member attached to the motor rotates to reciprocate a connecting rod which in turn oscillates a cradle about its vertical axis. To mix the contents of the container, the container is set in the cradle in a horizontal orientation and held in such by a strap. This orientation not only promotes mixing by placing the contents in a gravitationally unstable position but subjects the contents to centrifugal and horizontal accelerating and deaccelerating forces during oscillation. Within a short time period the components are mixed to a homogeneous consistency.

Abstract: A mixing system comprising a movable mixing tub, a pumping source and a leveling valve interconnected to the mixing tub and the inlet or outlet of 10 the pumping source. The mixing system may include jet-type mixer to mix dry materials with fluid to be further mixed in the movable mixing tub.

Abstract: A cooking device including an open topped vessel having a prismatic form and a polygonal base which is mounted for rotation about a horizontal axis parallel to its length. Motor means for oscillating the vessel in a rocking motion about the axis and a heat source is fixedly mounted above the vessel.

Abstract: An agitator for use in developing photographic film has an upright oscillatable shaft with a platform at its upper end for supporting a developing tank, spring means urging the upright shaft to a neutral position, a motor-driven shaft normal to the upright shaft, a pair of radial arms carried by the motor-driven shaft, and a pair of vertically spaced arms carried by the upright shaft and extending across the path of movement of the radial arms. Upon rotation of the motor-driven shaft a first radial arm contacts a first spaced arm and rotates the upright shaft from its neutral position. When the first radial arm passes by the first spaced arm the spring means returns the upright shaft toward its neutral position until the first spaced arm strikes the second radial arm. The second radial arm then acts on the first spaced arm to rotate the upright shaft away from the neutral position.

Abstract: A wine breather apparatus for aerating wine having a motor driven oscillating coupler for connecting two wine containers to flow wine from one container to the other upon oscillating of the coupler and the containers to aerate the wine with a valve on the coupler for allowing outside air into the coupler and containers during oscillation thereof to aerate the wine.

Abstract: A cooker for meatballs and the like has a semi-cylindrical trough mounted on a frame for rotation about its own substantially horizontal but slightly inclined axis. The trough is rocked to and fro by a controlled driving device to swing between extreme positions and optionally to stop between the extreme positions. The trough has a meatball inlet at one end and a meatball outlet at the other end. Between those ends the trough has interrupted, interior, helical vanes staggered with respect to each other on opposite sides of the center of the trough to impell the meatballs from one end to the other as the trough rocks. The trough includes a jacket having inlet and outlet connections for heating oil and may also have radiant heaters directed toward the inside of the trough.