Plural Parallel Systems Patents (Class 73/863.31)
  • Patent number: 11946837
    Abstract: A detection system includes a central manifold including a detection chamber, a pipe network including at least one pipe fluidly coupled to the central manifold, a plurality of inlets formed over a length of the at least one pipe and an aspirating mechanism operable to draw a fluid flow at each of the plurality of inlets through the pipe network to the central manifold. A plurality of independently operable flow control devices is associated with the plurality of inlets. At least one of the plurality of flow control devices includes a solid state flexible polymer deformable in response to application of a voltage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2024
    Assignee: CARRIER CORPORATION
    Inventors: Rajiv Ranjan, Suman Dwari, Peter R. Harris
  • Patent number: 11872758
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus for collecting powder samples in real-time in powder bed fusion additive manufacturing may involves an ingester system for in-process collection and characterizations of powder samples. The collection may be performed periodically and uses the results of characterizations for adjustments in the powder bed fusion process. The ingester system of the present disclosure is capable of packaging powder samples collected in real-time into storage containers serving a multitude purposes of audit, process adjustments or actions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2023
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2024
    Assignee: Seurat Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: James A. DeMuth, Erik Toomre, Francis L. Leard, Kourosh Kamshad, Heiner Fees, Eugene Berdichevsky
  • Patent number: 11577347
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus for collecting powder samples in real-time in powder bed fusion additive manufacturing may involves an ingester system for in-process collection and characterizations of powder samples. The collection may be performed periodically and uses the results of characterizations for adjustments in the powder bed fusion process. The ingester system of the present disclosure is capable of packaging powder samples collected in real-time into storage containers serving a multitude purposes of audit, process adjustments or actions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2022
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2023
    Assignee: Seurat Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: James A. DeMuth, Erik Toomre, Francis L. Leard, Kourosh Kamshad, Heiner Fees, Eugene Berdichevsky
  • Patent number: 11553904
    Abstract: Provided is a cell isolation instrument capable of smoothly performing a plurality of steps associated with isolation of cells, including gripping of a biological tissue, transferring of the biological tissue, and isolating of the biological tissue. A container has an opening. A sealing member seals the opening. A pair of pinching parts is connected to the sealing member, and the pair of pinching parts opens or closes by being pressed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2023
    Assignee: NIHON KOHDEN CORPORATION
    Inventors: Akane Suzuki, Takahiro Shioyama
  • Patent number: 11344978
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus for collecting powder samples in real-time in powder bed fusion additive manufacturing may involves an ingester system for in-process collection and characterizations of powder samples. The collection may be performed periodically and uses the results of characterizations for adjustments in the powder bed fusion process. The ingester system of the present disclosure is capable of packaging powder samples collected in real-time into storage containers serving a multitude purposes of audit, process adjustments or actions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2022
    Assignee: Seurat Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: James A. DeMuth, Erik Toomre, Francis L. Leard, Kourosh Kamshad, Heiner Fees, Eugene Berdichevsky
  • Patent number: 11333539
    Abstract: The present subject matter further relates to a flow rate metering device for measuring flow rate of multiple fluids of varied viscosities while being supplies to form a final mixture. The device includes a flow meter arranged on each of the plurality of feed lines of multiple fluids to measure a flow rate of respective fluid during each operation cycle; and a digital display unit coupled to each of the flow meters to display the flow rate of respective fluid during each operation cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2022
    Inventor: Ryan Wayne Brunskill
  • Patent number: 11320347
    Abstract: A portable, hydrocarbon well test unit for use with high temperature and high-pressure hydrocarbon wellbore flow includes a two-phase separator unit having a hydrocarbon inlet, a vapor outlet and a liquid outlet. A static mixer is in fluid communication with the liquid outlet. A liquid sampler positioned downstream of the static mixer ensures that liquid and gas are mixed to accurately represent a sample of the wellbore hydrocarbon flow. The sampler can be actuated to extract a sample of the mixed fluid. The sampler directs samples to a multi-position valve having a plurality of valve outlets, each outlet being in fluid communication with one of a plurality of sample bottles. A controller actuates the multi-position valve to direct a sample into a particular sample bottle, thereby allowing different types of samples to be taken over different time periods without the need for intervention for extended periods of time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2021
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2022
    Inventors: Mayur Borad, Juan Pablo Rodriguez, Dane Anderson
  • Patent number: 10866167
    Abstract: A system for on-stream sampling of pressurized process gas such as natural gas or the like, said system optimized for use with pressurized process gas having liquid entrained therein, or otherwise referenced as “wet”. In the preferred embodiment, a probe and method of sampling is contemplated to provide linear sample of fluids from a predetermined area of said fluid stream. Further taught is the method of preventing compositional disassociation of a gas sample having entrained liquid utilizing a probe having a passage formed to facilitate capillary action in fluid(s) passing therethrough. The present invention further contemplates the use of a screen or membrane provided exterior the probe tip body to block or lessen the likelihood of undesirable particulates or liquids from entering the probe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Assignee: Maveaux Holdina LLC
    Inventor: Valmond Joseph St Amant, III
  • Patent number: 10801226
    Abstract: A combination pool hook and water tester for pool maintenance without needing to reach or bend to water level includes a pole, a hook, and a bottle receptacle. The pole is tubular and has a side wall forming an inside, a hook end and a bottle end each open to the inside, a plurality of air inlet apertures proximal the hook end, and a plurality of water inlet apertures proximal the bottle end. The hook is selectively engageable within the hook end and is configured to secure and remove a pool skimmer lid, a pool skimmer basket, and a pool sweep. The bottle receptacle is selectively engageable with the bottle end. The bottle receptacle has a threaded end configured to receive a water test collection bottle. The plurality of water inlet apertures takes in water to fill the water test collection bottle when submerged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2020
    Inventor: Carl Capps
  • Patent number: 10701856
    Abstract: Described herein are implements that include a vehicle having a system for sensing or testing soil and/or vegetation as the vehicle traverses a field.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2020
    Assignee: The Climate Corporation
    Inventors: Dale Koch, Todd Swanson, Kent Levy, Adam Vaccari, Jason Stoller
  • Patent number: 10583484
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus for collecting powder samples in real-time in powder bed fusion additive manufacturing may involves an ingester system for in-process collection and characterizations of powder samples. The collection may be performed periodically and uses the results of characterizations for adjustments in the powder bed fusion process. The ingester system of the present disclosure is capable of packaging powder samples collected in real-time into storage containers serving a multitude purposes of audit, process adjustments or actions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2020
    Assignee: SEURAT TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: James A. DeMuth, Erik Toomre, Francis L. Leard, Kourosh Kamshad, Heiner Fees, Eugene M. Berdichevsky
  • Patent number: 10557777
    Abstract: A sampling container apparatus for a remotely operated vehicle (“ROV”) is disclosed. An example sampling container includes a tank configured to hold a sample collected from an underwater environment. The tank includes at least one opening that contains a plunger therein. The plunger includes a contraction or retraction mechanism that pulls the plunger into the tank causing the plunger to actuate from an open position to a closed position. The plunger is retained in the open position by a retainer plate. To enable the plunger to actuate to the closed position, the tank is rotated relative to the retainer plate, causing the plunger to traverse a travel channel in the retainer plate. The travel channel includes a plunger window, which when reached by the plunger, enables the plunger to be pulled through the retainer plate, thereby sealing the opening of the tank and preserving the collected sample.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2020
    Assignee: Aquabotix Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Durval M. Tavares, Michael Aprea
  • Patent number: 10379009
    Abstract: A method of, and apparatus for sampling a solid or liquid sample using a sampling tool which has a sampling rod/tube that is configured to house a sampling pod, the apparatus comprising: a main body portion with at least one sample collecting cavity; and a removable/opening lid portion that in use fits/closes over at least part of said main body portion and thereby covers and the cavity; the method further comprising the following steps: Inserting said sampling pod main body portion within said sampling rod/tube and taking a solid or liquid sample from a vessel/container; removing sampling rod/tube from said vessel or container and covering said collecting cavity to seal said cavity; transporting said sample within said sampling pod to place of a analysis; and at place of analysis removing at least part of said covering from main body portion to expose sample for analysis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2019
    Assignee: SAMPLING SYSTEMS LTD.
    Inventors: Simon Jonathan Fenner, Jonathan Paul Fenner, Michael John Fenner
  • Patent number: 10024770
    Abstract: The invention discloses a gas autosampler comprising a propeller, a transmission device, a sample chain and a sample feeding cone. As the injector of the present invention is directly used as a sample feeding bottle, the transfer times can be reduced and the pollution possibility can be reduced. Meanwhile, the sample chain can increase and reduce the position number according to the requirements, and the motor controlling can feed the samples for multiple times, so that the samples can be automatically fed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2018
    Assignee: Institute of Botany of the Chinese Academy of Sciences
    Inventors: Wei Liu, Hua Su
  • Patent number: 9995659
    Abstract: A system for on-stream sampling of pressurized process gas such as natural gas or the like, said system optimized for use with pressurized process gas having liquid entrained therein, or otherwise referenced as “wet”. In the preferred embodiment, the probe tip is situated laterally from one side of the inner pipe wall to the other so as to span the entire inner diameter (ID) of the pipe, the probe tip having formed along its outer surface sample collection slot along the length of said outer surface, providing a “linear sample” of the fluid flow of the entire breadth of the flow, providing an accurate sample of even disassociated flow with entrained liquid particles and flow. Embodiments for continuous sampling, batch mode, spot sampling are provided, as well as an anti-vibration feature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2018
    Assignee: Mayeaux Holding LLC
    Inventor: Valmond Joseph St Amant, III
  • Patent number: 9791068
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to method, system for microfluidic control. One or more embodiments of the disclosure relate to pneumatically actuated “lifting gate” microvalves and pumps. In some embodiments, a microfluidic control module is provided, which comprises a plurality of pneumatic channels and a plurality of lifting gate valves configured to be detachably affixed to a substrate. The plurality of lifting gate valves are aligned with at least one fluidic channel on the substrate when affixed to the substrate. Each of the valves comprises: a pneumatic layer, a fluidic layer, and a pneumatic displacement chamber between the pneumatic layer and the fluidic layer. The fluidic layer has a first side facing the pneumatic layer and a second side facing away from the pneumatic layer, wherein the second side has a protruding gate configured to obstruct a flow of the fluidic channel when the fluidic layer is at a resting state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2017
    Assignee: The Regents of the University of California
    Inventors: Richard A. Mathies, Jungkyu Kim, Erik C. Jensen
  • Patent number: 9322747
    Abstract: A system and method for collecting a selected phase of a representative sample from a multiphase fluid flowing through a flowline, preferably located subsea. The system includes a multiphase sampling apparatus attachable to the flowline for sampling the representative sample; a vehicle sampling apparatus (e.g., ROV) locatable proximate the flowline having a power supply and a fluid sample collector for storing at least one selected phase of the representative sample; an interface for connecting the multiphase sampling apparatus and the vehicle sampling apparatus; and a temperature control arrangement disposed between the multiphase sampling apparatus and the vehicle sampling apparatus configured to minimize the temperature difference between the representative sample and the multiphase fluid flowing through the flowline.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Asmund Boe, Jonathan W. Brown, Paul B. Guieze, John A. Kerr, Ricardo Vasques
  • Patent number: 8955399
    Abstract: A system for preparing samples for chemical analysis comprises at least one sample container, and a container receptacle apparatus for receiving the sample container. The sample container comprises an elongate tubular body having a crucible portion proximal to a closed end for receiving a sample therein, and an expansion portion proximal to an open end. The container receptacle apparatus comprising a housing having a heating compartment, a cooling compartment spaced apart from the heating compartment, and an insulating region located between the heating compartment and the cooling compartment. The heating compartment is shaped to receive the crucible portion of the sample container, and the cooling compartment is shaped to receive the expansion portion of the sample container. The apparatus also includes a heating mechanism for heating the sample within the crucible portion of the sample container, and a cooling mechanism for cooling the expansion portion of the sample container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2015
    Assignee: 7685297 Canada Inc.
    Inventors: Ravi K. Kanipayor, Ron J. Emburgh
  • Patent number: 8957778
    Abstract: The present invention uses a wireless memory/communication device at least on the one or more sample storage devices, preferably on both the one or more sample storage devices and the sampling holder, optionally the port on the equipment as well. Data such as that relating to the vessel, the location of the port on the vessel, the device, its manufacture date or lot number, the date of the installation, sterilization and/or taking of a sample along with the person who installed the device and/or took the sample can be read and preferably added to the wireless device when a read/write type of device as these events occur through a scanner/reader/writer device (fixed or hand held). The sample storage device in the laboratory can also then be read and recorded to track the sample storage device's life.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2015
    Assignee: EMD Millipore Corporation
    Inventors: George Adams, John Dana Hubbard, Aaron Burke, Anthony DiLeo
  • Patent number: 8920657
    Abstract: A grey water dividing and treatment system is provided. A drain system of the grey water dividing and treatment system receives grey water from a grey water producing source. A grey water dividing apparatus of the grey water dividing and treatment system divides the grey water received from the drain system into a number of cells, and determines a contamination level of each of the cells. Grey water treatment tanks of the grey water dividing and treatment system receive the grey water from the grey water dividing apparatus based on the determined contamination level of each of the cells and treat the grey water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: Empire Technology Development LLC
    Inventor: Hideki Kawasaki
  • Patent number: 8857281
    Abstract: A probe for use in determining the amount of a first gas component in a combustion gas containing the first gas component and a second gas component which is obtainable from the first gas component by reduction or oxidation, the probe comprising: a first component probe for taking a first sample of the gas and converting the first gas component present in the first sample to the second gas component, the first component probe including a first passage for conveying the first sample, the wall of the first passage in contact with the first sample being made of a material that converts the first gas component to the second gas component; and a second component probe for taking a second sample of the gas, the second component probe including a second passage for conveying the second sample.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Robert Edmund Pearce
  • Patent number: 8833139
    Abstract: An immersion probe for analysis of gases in molten metal is provided. The immersion probe generally comprises a gas sampler, a gas injection tube and a porous ceramic filter. The porous ceramic filter has a groove that associates it to the gas sampler, the groove comprising an outer portion and an inner portion with respect to the gas sampler, the inner portion of the porous ceramic filter having an increase in body for better association of the porous ceramic filter to the gas sampler. An adhesive material provides mechanical support of the porous ceramic filter, the adhesive material being located in both the inner portion and the outer portion of the gas sampler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: ECIL Met Tec Ltda.
    Inventors: Pablo Heigi Nakaoka Santucci, Artur Hess, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8833187
    Abstract: An apparatus for obtaining samples from a structure includes a support member, at least one stabilizing member, and at least one moveable member. The stabilizing member has a first portion coupled to the support member and a second portion configured to engage with the structure to restrict relative movement between the support member and the structure. The stabilizing member is radially expandable from a first configuration where the second portion does not engage with a surface of the structure to a second configuration where the second portion engages with the surface of the structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: UT-Battelle, LLC
    Inventors: Randall F. Lind, Peter D. Lloyd, Lonnie J. Love, Mark W. Noakes, Francois G. Pin, Bradley S. Richardson, John C. Rowe
  • Patent number: 8808625
    Abstract: In a dispensing apparatus for dispensing a liquid, such as a sample solution, on a substrate, such as a glass slide, the dispensing apparatus includes a capillary provided with a distal end and a proximal end, a pump unit configured to pump an operating liquid into the capillary and to pump the operating liquid out of the capillary, and a controller configured to control the pump unit so as to change a position of a liquid surface of the operating liquid in the capillary so that a predetermined volume of liquid is suctioned from the distal end into the capillary and the liquid suctioned in the capillary is discharged from the distal end. As a result, it is possible to precisely dispense extremely small volume amounts of liquids such as a nanoliter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology
    Inventors: Hiroshi Aoki, Hiroaki Tao, Masaki Torimura, Takashi Ikeda
  • Patent number: 8800365
    Abstract: Method for registering filling potential of a waste container of a microplate washing device has a needle for aspirating liquids, a waste container, a pump for generating a partial vacuum and a pressure sensor for determining air pressure in the container, a sensor controller, and a first valve for blocking the line between the needle and the waste container. The pump and needle are connected to the container and the method includes closing the first valve, generating a partial vacuum in a test range, closing a further valve between the container and the pump, opening the first valve, triggering a partial vacuum dissipation in the container, measuring a test time for the partial vacuum dissipation in the test range, comparing the test time to a known threshold time, and deciding that the waste container is fillable or not.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2014
    Assignee: Tecan Trading AG
    Inventors: Wolfgang Streit, Juha Koota, Wolfgang Fuchs
  • Patent number: 8776622
    Abstract: Portable devices and related methods for collecting and storing atmospheric samples for subsequent chemical analysis are provided. A sample cartridge according to one implementation includes self-sealing inlet and outlet ports configured to close automatically when not in use, and a sample retention portion between the inlet and outlet ports that is adapted to trap an atmospheric sample. The sample cartridge may also include a memory device for recording data regarding the sample. Another embodiment provides a portable sampler configured to removably secure a self-sealing sample cartridge. A portable sampling device may also be used with an analytical instrument. The analytical instrument may analyze the sample and read the data recorded on the sample cartridge's memory.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Assignee: FLIR Detection, Inc.
    Inventors: Matthew Briscoe, Brent Rardin, Dennis Barket, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8776620
    Abstract: Disclosed is a fluid sampling device comprising a plurality of inlet channels, each of which is arranged to receive an airflow from an associated direction, such that a sampling medium associated with a particular inlet channel is exposed to airflow from the associated direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Assignee: Lancaster University Business Enterprises Limited
    Inventors: Roger J. Timmis, Kevin C. Jones
  • Patent number: 8770049
    Abstract: A device, system and method for sampling sample material for an analyte including a receiving swab, wherein at least a portion of the receiving swab is compressible; a sensor for sensing the analyte; and a casing, wherein the casing at least partially encloses the receiving swab and the sensor and allows for a transfer of sample material received by the receiving swab to the sensor along a transfer path inside of the casing. The compressible portion of the receiving swab is located inside the casing, wherein by compressing the compressible portion, the transfer path is closable towards the outside of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips N.V.
    Inventors: Eduard Gerard Marie Pelssers, Jeroen Hans Nieuwenhuis
  • Publication number: 20140174207
    Abstract: Apparatuses and systems for sampling fluid and providing fluid to an analyzer are provided. In an embodiment, a sampler may have a state switch for the housing cover. In another embodiment, multiple fluid streams may be housed in a single housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2012
    Publication date: June 26, 2014
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventor: Brian Keith Clay
  • Patent number: 8752412
    Abstract: A sniffing leak detector which comprises a first suction line in a sniffing probe, the line leading to a main device, is provided with a larger second suction line through which gas is sucked in from the sniffing tip by a gas delivery pump. By connecting the second suction line, the distance sensitivity is increased. By disconnecting the second suction line, on the other hand, the sensitivity is increased. Thus, it is possible to first search for leaks by use of a high gas throughput and subsequently exactly determine the leaks under the quantitative aspect by use of a reduced flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Assignee: Inficon GmbH
    Inventors: Daniel Wetzig, Stefan Mebus, Norbert Rolff
  • Patent number: 8701504
    Abstract: In a sample-processing system that includes one or more function modules and one or more buffer units each combined as a pair with one of the function modules, in case of device stoppage due to failure, since a number of sample racks are held in the buffers, resetting involves a huge amount of time for storage of the racks. In addition, if the system configuration includes a plurality of buffer units, the resetting time increases with the number of buffer units. Sample rack ID reading means is provided in each buffer unit and during resetting, IDs of the sample racks in the buffer unit are read in the buffer unit. The buffer unit then uses the read information to make an inquiry to a control unit as to transport destinations of each sample rack. After this, sample processing based on transport destination instructions from the control unit is restarted using the buffer unit as a restarting position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: Hitachi High-Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Hitoshi Tokieda, Yoshimitsu Takagi, Masashi Akutsu, Shotaro Sagawa
  • Patent number: 8646342
    Abstract: The present invention provides a fluid sampling device comprising a port insert, a plurality of flexible conduits, and a plurality of sample containers. The port insert comprises a body having a plurality of shafts therethrough and a rotatably displaceable member for individually opening and closing any of said shafts to enable the flow of fluid therethrough. Flexible conduits (e.g., flexible tubing) are equal in number to the shafts, with each flexible conduit connected to or otherwise in fluid communication with an individual shaft. Similarly, sample containers (e.g., flexible bags) are equal in number to the conduits, with each sample container connected to an individual conduit opposite the connection to the shaft. A specific configuration for the port insert, as well as kit containing sterilized components of the fluid sampling device, are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: EMD Millipore Corporation
    Inventors: James F. Furey, Stephen P. Proulx
  • Patent number: 8640556
    Abstract: An automated sample collection workstation is provided. The workstation includes a processor, a peristaltic pump, a valve actuator, and an algorithm. The peristaltic pump and the valve actuator are in electrical communication with the processor. The valve actuator can move a plurality of valves, when disposed therein, among an off position, a flush position, and a sample position. The algorithm is resident on the processor and is configured to: move all of the valves to the off position and place the pump in an off state when no sampling or flushing is required, move all of the valves to the flush position and place the pump in an on state for a predetermined flush time period when flushing is required, and move a respective one of the valves to the sample position, move any of the valves upstream of the respective valve to the flush position, and place the pump to the on state for a predetermined sample time period when a sample is required.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: Alfa Wassermann
    Inventor: Jan Hofman
  • Patent number: 8539988
    Abstract: The device for the transfer of a medium comprises a magazine having two main faces (17) of which one is adapted to cooperate with a container and a lateral face (18) extending between said main faces (17) as well as at least one sliding valve (3) housed in a cavity of said magazine (2) and in which there is formed a transfer duct (59) for said medium which issues on said face (17) adapted to cooperate with said container, said valve (3) having a closed position in which it sealingly isolates said duct (59) from said container and an open position in which said duct (59) is placed in communication with said container; said valve (3) comprising a valve member (40), an isolation sleeve (41) surrounding at least partially said valve member (40) as well as spring means (58) adapted to be compressed by said valve member (40) when said valve (3) is in its open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: EMD Millipore Corporation
    Inventor: Pierre Guedon
  • Patent number: 8511149
    Abstract: This invention provides a device for detecting an analyte in a liquid sample, comprising a cup body (7), a lid (1) and a base (15), wherein, said the cup body (7) comprises a liquid storage chamber (9) and a test strip groove locating in one side of liquid storage chamber, the storage chamber (9) and the test strip groove communicates each other through a small hole in the bottom of liquid storage chamber, the test strip groove is configured with a test strip plate, said lid being able to seal the opening of the cup tightly, said opening of cup being directly connected with the liquid storage chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignees: Hangzhou D2 Technology Co., Ltd
    Inventor: Xinlong Lv
  • Patent number: 8491184
    Abstract: A sensor apparatus and sensor apparatus system for use in conjunction with a cassette, including a disposable or replaceable cassette. In some embodiments, the cassette includes a thermal well for permitting the sensing of various properties of a subject media. The thermal well includes a hollow housing of a thermally conductive material. In other embodiments, the cassette includes sensor leads for sensing of various properties of a subject media. The thermal well has an inner surface shaped so as to form a mating relationship with a sensing probe. The mating thermally couples the inner surface with a sensing probe. In some embodiments, the thermal well is located on a disposable portion and the sensing probe on a reusable portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: DEKA Products Limited Partnership
    Inventors: Dean Kamen, N. Christopher Perry, Jason A. Demers, Brian Tracey, Arun D. Chawan, Kevin L. Grant
  • Patent number: 8470242
    Abstract: An assembly suitable for use in a laboratory instrument is set forth. The assembly comprises a plurality of guide rods that are disposed generally parallel with one another and a plurality of carriage assemblies connected for movement along the plurality of guide rods. A sub-carriage assembly is disposed on at least one of the carriage assemblies and is connected to the carriage assembly for movement in a direction transverse to the plurality of guide rods. A plurality of carriage drive mechanisms are employed to move the plurality of carriage assemblies independently along said plurality of guide rods and a sub-carriage drive mechanism is provided to move the sub-carriage assembly in a direction transverse to said plurality of guide rods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Beckman Coulter, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert J. Mattila, Brian D. Wilson
  • Patent number: 8470149
    Abstract: A method for dispensing liquid for use in biological analysis may comprise positioning liquid to be dispensed via electrowetting. The positioning may comprise aligning the liquid with a plurality of predetermined locations. The method may further comprise dispensing the aligned liquid from the plurality of predetermined locations through a plurality of openings respectively aligned with the predetermined locations. The dispensing may be via electrowetting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Applied Biosystems, LLC
    Inventors: Charles S. Vann, Debjyoti Banerjee, Timothy G. Geiser, James C. Nurse, Nigel P. Beard
  • Patent number: 8429986
    Abstract: There are provided an apparatus and method for groundwater sampling, using a hydraulic coupler according to the present invention. In more particular, in the groundwater sampler which is positioned at multiple depths within a groundwater borehole to simultaneously take groundwater samples at the multiple depths, couplers are each connected to both ends of a water sampling pipe made of a metal pipe material. In case of positioning the sampler at a targeted depth, a socket and a plug forming each coupler are connected to each other, so that the both ends of the water sampling pipe—to lead groundwater to freely flow in/out. Thereafter, at the targeted depth, the sockets or plugs are permitted to be separated in the couplers at the both ends of the water sampling pipe by using a lift device, so that the both ends of the water sampling pipe are sealed to simultaneously taking groundwater samples at multiple depths.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Assignee: Korea Institute of Geoscience and Mineral Resources
    Inventors: Bong Joo Lee, Kyung Seok Ko
  • Patent number: 8420027
    Abstract: A dosing device for liquids, with a distributor rail and a plurality of dosing units for the liquid that are hydraulically connected to the replaceable distributor rail. Each dosing unit has a valve unit, preferably a suction valve, a discharge valve and a discharge cannula. A piston-cylinder unit is detachably arranged on each valve unit for drawing in and measured discharging of the liquid. Each valve unit has a hydraulic connection element for detachable hydraulic connection to the distributor rail. The distributor rail has an elongate fluid supply line, a supply connection for the liquid being provided on an end of the distributor rail and dosing unit connections being distributed laterally along the length of the rail. Each of the dosing unit connections are detachably coupled to the hydraulic connection elements of the dosing units. The distributor rail is a replaceable part made of a preferably recyclable, injection-moldable plastic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: Brand GmbH + Co KG
    Inventors: Peter H. Mahler, Thomas Stricker, Harry Siebert, Eberhard Albrecht
  • Patent number: 8365616
    Abstract: An analytical system for solutions containing soluble solids or high concentrations of dissolved solids. The system includes a container having upper and lower portions; a lead an/or a tubing line extending into the upper portion of the container, for withdrawing a portion of a gas in the upper portion of the container; and a sampling probe extending into the lower portion of the container, for withdrawing a portion of a sample of a liquid or of a mixture of a liquid and a solid. The sampling probe is a probe support shaft which may be provided with a filter for separating liquid and solid phases from one another if the sample is a liquid-solid mixture. Gas in the headspace above the liquid or the liquid-solid mixture can be withdrawn through the lead and/or the tubing line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Inventors: Duane K. Wolcott, Graham D. Marshall
  • Patent number: 8346598
    Abstract: Apparatus for personalization and registration of vehicle devices of different types in a road toll system, comprising: for each type of vehicle device, a respective personalization module that is configured to write personalization data into a vehicle device of this type and generate the associated registration data, which contains the personalization data, an interface module common to all personalization modules that is configured to receive their registration data and, following a release request, send it to a registration database of the road toll system, and a testing unit that reads out the personalization data of a personalized but not yet registered vehicle device, checks the registration data generated by the responsible personalization module for agreement of the personalization data contained therein with the read-out personalization data, and if it agrees, sends a release request with respect to this registration data to the interface module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: Kapsch Trafficcom AG
    Inventors: Albert Hafenscher, Jasja Tijink, Oliver Nagy
  • Patent number: 8337283
    Abstract: A system for presenting a crop sample to a crop property sensor is in particular suited for a harvesting machine and comprises a bypass line branching off from a crop feeding assembly, a conveyor for feeding the branched-off crop through the bypass line without damaging the crop, and a crop property sensor for sensing one or more properties of the crop in the bypass line. The bypass line is upwardly angled or extends vertical, such that the conveyor elevates the material from the crop guiding channel to the crop property sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Georg Kormann, James J. Phelan, Andrzej Kozicki, Thomas Herlitzius, Jens Teichmann, Andi Günther
  • Patent number: 8327725
    Abstract: There is provided a sample collection container, a sample collection apparatus, and a sample collection method used in a supercritical fluid system capable of collecting a multi-constituent sample contained in a supercritical fluid at low cost and high collection efficiency. The pressure of a supercritical fluid containing a sample is reduced to a pressure close to the atmospheric pressure, and the depressurized supercritical fluid is forced to undergo adiabatic expansion to form gas-phase CO2 containing a liquid component in the form of aerosol. The gas-phase CO2 is fractionated for each constituent of the contained sample, transferred to a probe 60 of Liquid Handler, and dispensed into a large number of collection vials 300 under the atmospheric pressure, each of which is provided with a vial cap 100.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: JASCO Corporation
    Inventor: Takeshi Kanomata
  • Patent number: 8216511
    Abstract: A specimen rack and a specimen carrier system includes a luminous body disposed on a vicinity of a specimen container loading slot to notify, to an operator, information concerning an analyzing situation and condition of the specimen contained in the specimen container held by the specimen rack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Hitachi High-Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Kiyoteru Noguchi, Hitoshi Ohtake, Yoshimitsu Takagi, Takuya Yamaguchi, Yoshiaki Saito, Yasuaki Takebe
  • Patent number: 8196479
    Abstract: A portable multi-tube air sampler device for capturing samples of trace elements in a suspected contaminated environment which includes a plurality of sample tubes for collecting sample trace elements, parallel inlet and outlet manifolds which minimize the length of the sample inlet path while utilizing short straight sample tubes, a hinged retainer bar mechanism which allows for easy removal and replacement of the various sample tubes, and a removably attachable controller unit which can be installed on the exterior portion of the carrying case for controlling the operation of the sampling protocol. Other embodiments include heated inlet manifold and sample intake paths to prevent contamination accumulation and carryover, a clean cycle option with a filter valved into the inlet flow path to enhance the purging cycle, and a mechanism for converting the present device to a desorbing auto sampler configuration. The present system likewise incorporates a purging cycle prior to each sampling cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: Midwest Research Institute, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard K. Ludwick, Keith D. Wilson
  • Patent number: 8181504
    Abstract: A smoke evaluation device includes a manifold in fluid communication with a source of smoke, and a first sampling line and a second sampling line in fluid communication with the manifold. The first sampling line and the second sampling line are arranged to convey parallel smoke flows. A first filter station is located in the first sampling line, and is adapted to support a filter paper in fluid communication with the smoke. A first circuit board station is located in the second sampling line, and is adapted to support a circuit board in fluid communication with the smoke.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: Factory Mutual Insurance Company
    Inventor: Archibald Tewarson
  • Patent number: 8163150
    Abstract: A method for dispensing liquid for use in biological analysis may comprise positioning liquid to be dispensed via electrowetting. The positioning may comprise aligning the liquid with a plurality of predetermined locations. The method may further comprise dispensing the aligned liquid from the plurality of predetermined locations through a plurality of openings respectively aligned with the predetermined locations. The dispensing may be via electrowetting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Assignee: Applied Biosystems, LLC
    Inventors: Charles Vann, Debjyoti Banerjee, Timothy Geiser, James Nurse, Nigel Beard
  • Patent number: 8129196
    Abstract: The present inventions provides an apparatus and method for the parallel loading of multiple samples in a microarray containing a plurality of sub-arrays. The method makes use of a microarray containing multiple sub-arrays, a loading channel array, and a fluid handling robot or an assembly robot or machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Assignee: Roche Nimblegen, Inc.
    Inventors: Roland D Green, Mark McCormick, Gary Barrett
  • Patent number: 8061220
    Abstract: A device for simultaneously dispensing a solution containing a sample to a test device and aspirating the sample from the device. In one embodiment the device is hand-held and includes a control mechanism, e.g., button for activating the dispensing and aspiration of the sample. The testing device may take the form of a multi-well plate with a plurality of wells arranged in rows and columns, with the bottom of the wells formed as a photonic crystal biosensor. The device can be configured with dispense and aspirate manifolds and associated dispense and aspirate ports which are positioned in all the wells along a row or column of wells so as to simultaneously aspirate and dispense solution to all the wells in a row or column of the multi-well plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Assignee: SRU Biosystems, Inc.
    Inventors: Lance G. Laing, Timothy F. Smith, John Gerstenmeier, III, Gangadhar Jogikalmath