Abstract: A module includes a housing, a sealing feature, a locking feature, and an agitator. The housing has an opening separating inner and outer surfaces and a boss that extends through the housing such that part of the outer surface forms an inner bore of the boss having a terminus pointing toward the opening. The agitator has a base, a shaft, and a mixing element coupled to the base such that the base, in cooperation with the sealing feature, circumferentially seals the opening of the housing to form a cavity defined by the inner surface. The shaft passes through the inner bore. The locking feature when engaged permits independent or simultaneous translational and rotational movement of the shaft while an area between the terminus of the boss and the shaft remains mechanically sealed during the movement against liquid or powder encroachment into a clean area of the inner bore.

Abstract: A refrigerator includes a water tank supporter arranged in a cabinet, a water tank that is connected to the water tank supporter and that defines a cavity, and a water supply platform that is movably connected to the water tank. The water supply platform includes a body portion that has a water inlet, a water outlet configured to discharge water to the cavity, and a water supply flow passage connected between the water inlet and the water outlet. The water supply platform also includes a movable portion configured to move the body portion such that the water inlet moves from an inside of the cabinet to an outside of the cabinet or vice versa.

Abstract: A generally cylindrical collapsible mixing vessel, comprising: a) a flexible plastic film side wall, a top wall and a bottom wall, wherein both the top wall and the bottom wall are attached to the side wall and the side, top and bottom walls define an inner volume of the vessel; b) an agitator located in the inner volume and; c) at least one vortex breaker made from flexible plastic film, located in the inner volume and attached to the bottom wall and/or the side wall via string elements, wherein said vortex breaker extends along the side wall and inwards in a generally radial direction.

Abstract: An injection tube assembly comprising: a hollow cylindrical tube; a rotatable material stripping element, and a nozzle. Also, a polymer mixing system comprising: an injection tube assembly, a support apparatus for the injection tube assembly; a mixing apparatus; and if desired, an injection molding apparatus to produce an injection molded part with the mixed material.

Abstract: A hand mixer includes a container with an open end closed by a head. A passageway through the head receives a screw slidable through but rotationally engaged with the passageway. A handle is rotationally mounted on one end of the screw. A mixer wheel is fixed to the other end of the screw in the container. The mixer wheel includes a hub with two sets of blades. Both sets extend radially and each is inclined away from the other. Rings are disposed at the distal ends of each of the sets of blades. Stops at the bottom of the container and at the underside of the head limit the stroke of the wheel. The bottom end of the container receives a skid resistant cover. A conical flange extends outwardly and away from the open end of the cylindrical container. Charging passages selectively accessible extend fully about the head.

Abstract: An apparatus for frothing a liquid food product is disclosed. It comprises a drive unit (1) and a frothing unit (3). The frothing unit (3) comprises a guide rod (30), which is configured along at least one section as a threaded rod (31). A frothing element (40) is in threaded engagement with the guide rod (30) and can thus be moved along a helical path on the guide rod (30). At least one dog (36, 36?) is driven by the drive unit (1) in a circular motion about the longitudinal axis of the guide rod (30) and in the process entrains the frothing element (40) such that said element is driven to perform a helical motion on the guide rod (30). In this way, the frothing element can perform an up and down motion superimposed on the rotational motion thereof along the longitudinal direction.

Abstract: A device for mixing a liquid present in a container is provided with a threaded spindle that can be attached in the container, a body that is provided with an internal thread and can be moved by pivoting about a horizontal axis along the threaded spindle being disposed on the threaded spindle. The body is provided with mixing and/or stirring elements substantially protruding in the radial direction.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for mixing at least one sample solution (P) with at least one reagent (R) in at least one chamber (2) of a microfluidic cartridge (MC) and a device for carrying out the method. It is provided according to the invention that at least one reagent (R) is supplied to the sample solution (P) and brought into contact therewith by means of at least one movable component (11). In this way the loss of sample liquid (P) or analyte can be reduced. A device for carrying out the method is also proposed.

Abstract: A pitcher has a container for containing liquid and a mixing device disposed at least in part within the container. The mixing device has a shaft adapted for translation relative to the container. An agitating member is connected to the shaft for conjoint translation therewith relative to the container to agitate the liquid in the container. A stop is disposed on the shaft to limit translational movement of the shaft and the agitating member.

Abstract: A mug body has an open top. A lid is fitted to the open top. The lid has first and second top to bottom holes formed therein. An arm extends down from the bottom of the lid into the mug body. An actuator handle extends out from the top of the lid, through the second hole. The actuator handle is coupled to the arm to move the arm relative to the mug body. Other embodiments are also described and claimed.

Abstract: A fluidic system and method includes a channel reservoir which holds 1.5 milliliters or less of fluid. The agitation mechanism, which is partially integrated with the channel or reservoir, includes a fiber or rod at least partially situated within the channel or reservoir, and which acts to move or vibrate to stir and/or agitate fluid within the channel or reservoir. The fluid is then extracted from an extraction area following the agitation or stirring operation.

Abstract: A mug body has an open top. A lid is fitted to the open top. The lid has first and second top to bottom holes formed therein. An arm extends down from the bottom of the lid into the mug body. An actuator handle extends out from the top of the lid, through the second hole. The actuator handle is coupled to the arm to move the arm relative to the mug body. Other embodiments are also described and claimed.

Abstract: A mixer (10) includes a coupler (22) receiving an upper end of a shaft (24) rotatably connected to an offset pin (20) of a circulating plate (18) mounted to a rotatable output (14) of a motor (12). The shaft (24) is slideably mounted by a linear bearing (40) to a swivel plate (32) which is mounted to swivel relative to a support rod (106). Due to the non-parallel angle (C) of the offset pin (20) to the rotatable output (14), the shaft (24) and a paddle (30) mounted thereto moves up and down, rotates about the offset pin (20) and swivels at swivel angles (A, B) in first and second planes in a multi-direction which is angular and non true circular.

Abstract: A mug body has an open top. A lid is fitted to the open top. The lid has first and second top to bottom holes formed therein. An arm extends down from the bottom of the lid into the mug body. An actuator handle extends out from the top of the lid, through the second hole. The actuator handle is coupled to the arm to move the arm relative to the mug body. Other embodiments are also described and claimed.

Abstract: A mixer (10) includes a coupler (22) receiving an upper end of a shaft (12) rotatably connected to an offset pin (20) of a circulating plate (18) mounted to a rotatable output (14) of a motor (12). The shaft (12) is slideably mounted by a linear bearing (40) to a swivel plate (32) which is mounted to swivel relative to a support rod (106). Due to the non-parallel angle (C) of the offset pin (20) to the rotatable output (14), the shaft (12) and a paddle (30) mounted thereto moves up and down, rotates about the offset pin (20) and swivels at swivel angles (A, B) in first and second planes in a multi-direction which is angular and non true circular.

Abstract: The invention relates to a mixing appliance pertaining to a chemical or biochemical analyser and comprising a pipette having a head, a body and a free end. The head of the pipette is fixed to a head supporting block. The inventive mixing appliance comprises driving elements for triggering the oscillation of the free end of the pipette. Said driving elements consist of an actuating unit that is fixed to a frame, both elements being associated with a guiding block provided with an eccentric block that is mounted in such a way as to rotate freely about an axis and is in contact with the body of the pipette. The head supporting block is mounted in such a way as to rotate freely in the frame about an axis perpendicular to the plane in which the pipette oscillates.

Abstract: A hydrogen-oxygen gas generator comprising an electrolytic cell, an electrode group formed from an anode and a cathode mutually installed in that electrolytic cell, a power supply for applying a voltage across the anode and cathode, a gas trapping means for collecting the hydrogen-oxygen gas generated by electrolyzing the electrolyte fluid and a vibration-stirring means. The gas trapping means is comprised of a lid member installed on the electrolytic cell, a hydrogen-gas extraction tube connecting to the hydrogen-oxygen gas extraction outlet of that lid member. A vibration-stirring means for stirring and agitating the electrolytic fluid is supported by support tables. The distance between the adjacent positive electrode and negative electrode within the electrode group is set within a range of 1 to 20 millimeters.

Abstract: In one aspect, a mixing arrangement is provided for a tank mixing system which includes a tank defined by a side wall, a bottom and a top, the top including at least one opening therethrough. The arrangement includes a non-rotating elongated arm extending through the opening in the top of the tank, the arm pivoted for movement about a pivot axis; an impeller positioned on the arm for movement therewith and within the tank, the impeller moving back and forth along an arcuate path within the tank as the arm pivots back and forth about the pivot axis. In another aspect, a ball-and-socket assembly is positioned above the top of the tank and is movable along a curved path to mope an impeller in a curved path within the tank.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an improved vessel for cell culture and methods for its use. The vessel of the present invention comprises a collapsible bag with an inner surface, an outer surface and a top periphery and a headplate having a circumferential edge wherein the top periphery of the bag is sealed to the edge of the headplate. The present invention also relates to an impeller for use with the vessel and a method for culturing cells.

Abstract: A fluid bed processing system for particles with an agitation system includes a product chamber with an interior and a plurality of elongated structures. The elongated structures extend at least partially across the interior of the product chamber and are positioned in the product chamber where the particles are located. The fluid bed processing system also includes a system for engaging the elongated structures to agitate the particles in the product chamber.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an improved vessel for cell culture and methods for its use. The vessel of the present invention comprises a collapsible bag with an inner surface, an outer surface and a top periphery and a headplate having a circumferential edge wherein the top periphery of the bag is sealed to the edge of the headplate. The present invention also relates to an impeller for use with the vessel and a method for culturing cells.

Abstract: A bone cement mixing device has a canister which is modular in design and constructed from a transparent material. The mixing device further has a mixing head assembly having a crank that is operatively coupled to a mixing blade via a gear train. The gear train is configured to drive the mixing blade in a reciprocating manner including the varying of the angular velocity, direction of travel, and angular distance of travel of the blade while the crank is rotated at a constant velocity and direction. The mixing blade has a fluid passage defined therein which allows the liquid cement component to be delivered at various locations within the mixing chamber of the canister. A method of mixing bone cement is also disclosed.

Abstract: A bone cement mixing apparatus comprises a cylindrical syringe body which functions as a mixing chamber, a mixing element rotatably mounted in the mixing chamber and a drive for causing rotation of the mixing element. The drive includes a handle which is axially movable relative to the mixing chamber and a gear mechanism which couples the handle of the mixing element and translates linear handle motion into rotary mixing element motion. The drive is supported by a chamber lid which engages the syringe body and the lid and drive may be detachable from the syringe body and from the mixing element thereby allowing the lid assembly and drive to be reused.

Abstract: A bone cement mixing device has a canister which is modular in design and constructed from a transparent material. The mixing device further has a mixing head assembly having a crank which is operatively coupled to a mixing blade via a gear train. The gear train is configured to drive the mixing blade in a reciprocating manner including the varying of the angular velocity, direction of travel, and angular distance of travel of the blade while the crank is rotated at a constant velocity and direction. The mixing blade has a fluid passage defined therein which allows the liquid cement component to be delivered at various locations within the mixing chamber of the canister. A method of mixing bone cement is also disclosed.

Abstract: A bone cement mixing device has a canister which is modular in design and constructed from a transparent material. The mixing device further has a mixing head assembly having a crank that is operatively coupled to a mixing blade via a gear train. The gear train is configured to drive the mixing blade in a reciprocating manner including the varying of the angular velocity, direction of travel, and angular distance of travel of the blade while the crank is rotated at a constant velocity and direction. The mixing blade has a fluid passage defined therein which allows the liquid cement component to be delivered at various locations within the mixing chamber of the canister. A method of mixing bone cement is also disclosed.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for producing superabsorbent foam wherein the method includes forming a reaction mixture comprising a superabsorbent foam forming composition, stirring, and applying mechanical waves to form a superabsorbent foam.

Abstract: A stirring pitcher which is easy to break down for cleaning and which has a uniquely shaped container that has at its bottom a trough with a contour that matches the contour of the stirrer spoon end. The stirrer includes a handle portion that extends above a container cover, and a stirrer portion which extends below the cover. Preferably the stirrer portion is detachable from the handle portion. The stirrer includes a pivot which is transverse to the longitudinal direction of the container trough, so that pivoting of the spoon about the pivot causes the spoon end to sweep the complete volume adjacent the container bottom.

Abstract: A stirring pitcher which is easy to break down for cleaning and which has a uniquely shaped container that has at its bottom a trough with a contour that matches the contour of the stirrer spoon end. The stirrer includes a handle portion that extends above a container cover, and a stirrer portion which extends below the cover. Preferably the stirrer portion is detachable from the handle portion. The stirrer includes a pivot which is transverse to the longitudinal direction of the container trough, so that pivoting of the spoon about the pivot causes the spoon end to sweep the complete volume adjacent the container bottom.

Abstract: A cooking apparatus includes a pan or skillet coupled with a lid of the invention which together form a special cooking chamber where a utensil may remain operable while it is in the cooking chamber and while the lid is in place on the skillet. In addition, a special port in the lid permits on to add spices, cooking oils and other ingredients to the cooking chamber without removing the lid. In this way, a lid of the invention allows one to prepare foods in a cooking chamber without having to remove the lid portion thereof. Preferred lids of the invention include: a dome shaped transparent element, having a slot and a port therein, a handle thereon and a port cover which is removable from the port by way of a hinge and a is driven by a finger lever.

Abstract: A cooking apparatus in the form of a skillet with a complementary lid has a specially designed provision which accommodates a cooking utensil. The cooking utensil may be used to manipulate food being cooked while the skillet and lid remain coupled together thus preventing splattering of food residue about the cooking area. The skillet and lid, in combination form a cooking chamber. The chamber remains substantially enclosed throughout the cooking process. As the food being cooked needs attention, for example stirring or flipping, the utensil may be employed to effect such without disturbing the integrity of the cooking chamber. A lid of the apparatus may be formed of glass material to allow a chef a view into the chamber. In addition, a specialized coupling between a skillet rim and the lid provides improved reduction of mess.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for producing a superabsorbent foam is provided. The method includes forming a reaction mixture comprising at least one compound capable of forming a superabsorbent foam, stirring the reaction mixture, applying mechanical waves to the reaction mixture and repeating the stirring and applying a selected number of times thereby forming the superabsorbent foam.

Abstract: A lid has a first side, and a second side opposite the first side. The lid is adapted to cover an opening of a paint can such that the second side faces an inside of the paint can. An internally threaded first shaft is mounted to the lid such that the first shaft is rotatable about a longitudinal axis thereof with respect to the lid. A paddle is connected to the first shaft on the second side of the lid. An externally threaded second shaft is partially received within the first shaft and extends generally perpendicularly outward from the first side of the lid. The first shaft is rotated when the second shaft is translated along the first shaft. In another embodiment, the second shaft is not externally threaded, but is formed from an elongated planar member coiled about a longitudinal axis thereof, and the first shaft has a coiled internal slot configured to receive the second shaft.

Abstract: A bone cement mixing apparatus comprises a cylindrical syringe body which functions as a mixing chamber, a mixing element rotatably mounted in the mixing chamber and a drive for causing rotation of the mixing element. The drive includes a handle which is axially movable relative to the mixing chamber and a gear mechanism which couples the handle to the mixing element and translates linear handle motion into rotary mixing element motion. The drive is supported by a chamber lid which engages the syringe body and the lid and drive may be detachable from the syringe body and from the mixing element thereby allowing the lid assembly and drive to be reused.

Abstract: Dispersion apparatus for dispersing a first material in a second material comprising an enclosure having disposed therein an apertured divider defining first and second sub-enclosures within said enclosure on opposite sides of said divider, a first inlet for said first material communicating with said first sub-enclosure, a port for said second material communicating with said second sub-enclosure, and means for enhancing the passage of materials through said divider.

Abstract: A pitcher for grinding and mixing material therein including a pitcher body, a removable lid and a rotary and reciprocal shaft journaled in the lid and having an apertured grinding and mixing plate attached to one end of the shaft. The grinding and mixing plate includes a plurality of mixing holes, four equally spaced semicircular rim segments, and a set of grinding teeth located on the underside thereof facing a set of fixed grinding teeth located in a row on the bottom of the pitcher with the two sets of grinding teeth being mutually facing and interfitting. The mixer plate can be rotated to grind up frozen concentrate or reciprocated within the container to mix liquids therein. The holes in the aperture plate provide a mixing action in both the rotary and reciprocating modes of operation.

Abstract: Apparatus for mixing or otherwise agitating fluid material comprises an elongated vessel (1) to contain the material, means (6, 7, 9, 10) to impose oscillatory motion upon the material in a lengthwise direction, and a plurality of stationary obstacles (19, 35) mounted on the inner wall (2) of the vessel and arranged in sequence lengthwise. The obstacles present sharp ridge-form tips (20, 37) each ridge pointing in a direction (30) at right angles to that of the oscillating motion. Each adjacent pair of obstacles and the length of vessel wall between them define a trough-shaped space (26) in which the oscillating motion repeatedly forms vortices and then ejects those vortices vigorously into the remainder of the fluid outside the trough, so promoting the agitation of that fluid. The invention applies particularly to cylindrical vessels in which the obstacles are ring-shaped (19) or are constituted by the successive turns of a helix (35).

Abstract: Improved agitation means for use in a clothes washing machine of the type in which an agitator is oscillated by means of a drive mechanism to secure agitation of the clothes placed within the washing machine. The present invention provides a first agitator element and a second agitator element driven from a common driving source, the second agitator element being provided with means to urge clothes into a rollover pattern established by the coaction of the agitator elements and thereby impart a highly efficient rollover motion to the clothes. The first agitator element, which may employ either rigid or flexible vanes, or a combination thereof, is preferably located below and coaxial to the second agitator element which may be driven either intermittently, or continuously, in a unidirectional rotary motion.