Valve Or Restriction Patents (Class 73/863.86)
  • Patent number: 11493452
    Abstract: A rotating seal-type liquid testing apparatus includes a lower cup component, an upper cup body, a top cover and a testing element. The lower cup component includes a lower cup body, a high liquid baffle, a low liquid baffle and a water-absorbing sealing plug. The low liquid baffle and the high liquid baffle divide a bottom of an inner cavity of the lower cup body into a reaction region and a cut-off region. An edge of a bottom surface of the inner cavity of the lower cup body is provided with a vent hole, and the vent hole is positioned in the cut-off region. The upper cup body is disposed in the lower cup body, a bottom surface of an inner cavity of the upper cup body is provided with a liquid outlet, and the liquid outlet is connected to the reaction region in the lower cup body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2022
    Assignee: HANGZHOU ALLTEST BIOTECH CO., LTD
    Inventors: Haijian Wang, Weike Lu, Fei Gao, Yao Xiong
  • Patent number: 11175299
    Abstract: Described is an automated transport unit for use in a laboratory environment the automated transport unit comprising a drive mechanism for moving the automated transport unit, a control system for controlling operation of the automated transport unit, a power supply for powering the automated transport unit, and a storage compartment configured to hold a material obtained from a fluid storage vessel and/or to be delivered to a fluid storage vessel. Also described is a system comprising an automated transport unit and a fluid storage vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2021
    Assignee: THE AUTOMATION PARTNERSHIP (CAMBRIDGE LIMITED)
    Inventors: Adrian Stacey, Neil Bargh, Stuart Tindal
  • Patent number: 10959581
    Abstract: Described and recited herein are example embodiments and implementations of a paper product dispenser by which the paper product may be dampened or moistened as it unrolls, based on at least the angle at which the paper product is unrolled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2021
    Inventor: James Mendenhall
  • Patent number: 10627319
    Abstract: The invention relates to a sampling apparatus for use in explosive environments comprising particles of a mean size of up to 500 ?m, the sampling apparatus comprising a displaceable arm having a sample container, which displaceable arm has a first position where the sample container is inserted into a first zone for collecting a sample of particles into the sample container, and a second zone where the displaceable arm is outside the product stream, the second zone being contained in a housing with an opening for the displaceable arm. The sampling apparatus has an interface between the first and the second zone, which interface is selected from the list consisting of a closable member, a gate valve or an air knife. The invention also relates to a dryer comprising a drying chamber and a sampling apparatus of the invention. In a further aspect the invention relates to a method of estimating the flowability of a sample of organic particles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2020
    Assignee: GEA Process Engineering A/S
    Inventors: Thomas Kniep Jørgensen, Anders Sehested, Esben Krauthammer
  • Patent number: 10627323
    Abstract: A fluid sample bag is composed of a first sheet and a second sheet of flexible polymeric material. Each sheet has an outer peripheral region, an inwardly oriented face and an outwardly oriented face. A continuous seam is located in the outer peripheral regions of the respective first and second sheets of flexible polymeric material, contiguously interposed between the first and second sheets and composed of melted polymeric material derived from the first and second sheets. The fluid sample bag has a gas permeability less than 10 ppm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2020
    Inventor: William T. Vecere
  • Patent number: 10036736
    Abstract: A liquid sampling system includes a liquid sampling valve for transferring a liquid sample from a primary stream to a secondary stream. The liquid sampling valve includes a rotor having a movable shuttle that is in selective fluid communication with the primary stream or the secondary stream. The rotor shuttle passes through a discharge station prior to completion of the valve cycle to discharge contaminants prior to re-exposure to the primary stream.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2018
    Assignee: IDEX Health & Science LLC
    Inventors: Jon Nichols, Michael Keller, Audrey Schrock, Carl Sims, Carl Servin
  • Patent number: 9714886
    Abstract: When injecting a sample into carrier-liquid channels (3A and 3B), injection shock is prevented. Septa 13 and 14 constitute the upper wall and the lower wall of a sample injection part (11) of the carrier-liquid channels (3A and 3B). A needle (27) can vertically penetrate the septum (13) on the upper wall side and also penetrate the septum (14) on the lower wall side. A needle moving unit (28) induces the needle (27) to penetrate the septum (14) on the lower wall side and induces the tip of the needle to face the inside of a sample vessel (26). A measurement pump (29) is operated for drawing and as a result a sample is drawn into the needle (27). Next, the needle (27) is extracted from the septum (14) on the lower wall side, the tip of the needle is induced to face the inside of the sample injection part (11), the measurement pump (29) is caused to discharge and as a result the sample within the needle (27) is injected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2017
    Assignee: Sekisui Medical Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Takayuki Oka, Takuya Yotani, Hideki Muraki
  • Patent number: 9038488
    Abstract: Methods and devices for inline sampling of a bulk material, such as a powder, are provided. The material's bulk density can be determined from samples drawn using methods and devices described herein. One embodiment of a method of sampling a material allows the material to flow through a sampling compartment, closes off the flow of material below the sampling compartment, builds up a column of material through the sampling compartment, shifts the sampling compartment to remove a slice of material in the column, and places the slice of material into a sample container. A device for sampling a material is provided in another embodiment. The device includes an inlet, an outlet aligned with the inlet, and a sample collector. The sample collector can include at least one through hole and be configured to move such that the at least one through hole can be moved into and out of alignment with the inlet and the outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2015
    Assignee: Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
    Inventors: James E. Sinclair, B. Albert Griffin, Minh Vuong
  • Patent number: 9032819
    Abstract: A liquid sampling system includes a liquid sampling valve for transferring a liquid sample from a primary stream to a secondary stream. The liquid sampling valve includes a rotor having a movable shuttle that is in selective fluid communication with the primary stream or the secondary stream. The rotor shuttle passes through a discharge station prior to completion of the valve cycle to discharge contaminants prior to re-exposure to the primary stream.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2015
    Assignee: IDEX Health & Science LLC
    Inventors: Jon Nichols, Michael Keller, Audrey Schrock, Carl Sims, Carl Servin
  • Patent number: 8978492
    Abstract: A sampling container having a bottle connected to a cap with the cap in communication with a one-way valve for the transport of fluid into the bottle; and the one-way valve configured to receive fluids there through into the opening of the bottle. Further optional embodiments also include a vacuum adapter for attaching the cap to a vacuum pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: Des-Case Corporation
    Inventors: Jonathan L. Haworth, Cody Curtsinger, Aaron Holmes, Brian Swain
  • Patent number: 8974750
    Abstract: A nozzle device which can perform accurate quantitative suction without being affected by a pressure when, for example, a nozzle (2) is inserted into a closed container (T). The nozzle device has the nozzle (2) that is inserted into the closed container (T) and that sucks a liquid in the closed container (T), an exposure to atmosphere mechanism (3) that opens the closed container (T) to the atmospheric air, and an opening/closing structure (4) that is arranged at a proximal end of the nozzle (2) and that has an internal flow channel (411) communicated with a flow channel in the nozzle (2) and an opening/closing mechanism for opening and closing the internal flow channel (411), and an opening/closing control section (5) that controls the opening/closing mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Assignee: Horiba, Ltd.
    Inventors: Soichi Oue, Yoshihiro Yano, Narihiro Oku
  • Patent number: 8863595
    Abstract: The automated sample extraction device is a device for the automatic extraction of chemical samples. The device includes a housing defining an open interior region. A rotating carousel is disposed within the housing, and a plurality of sample holders are mounted thereon. A plurality of sample storage tanks each contain a unique chemical sample, and a desired volume of at least one chemical sample is drawn from a respective one of the sample storage tanks to a respective at least one of the plurality of sample holders. The carousel is rotated so that the desired volume of the at least one chemical sample may be dispensed into a receptacle positioned adjacent the carousel. The at least one chemical sample may then be mixed, heated, cooled, shaken and/or vibrated within the receptacle prior to dispensing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: Kuwait University
    Inventor: Sadeq Ahmad Al-Qasem
  • Publication number: 20140130616
    Abstract: A sampling system for use in a sampling station that includes a sampling device that is releasable connectable to a branch line so that it may be removed when not needed at that site via a releasable coupling. The device has a main tube connected to the releasable coupling via a valve that is manually operated through an operating tube that is connected to the main tube so that it also functions to clear the main tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2012
    Publication date: May 15, 2014
    Inventor: Daniel Leigh Roe
  • Patent number: 8701506
    Abstract: A liquid sampling apparatus. The liquid sampling apparatus includes a body, a first port, and a second port, and a liquid conduit therebetween. A nose portion is provided adjacent the first port sized and shaped for interfitting engagement with, and for opening of, a biased normally closed outlet valve in a liquid reservoir. When liquid is allowed to exit a liquid reservoir, the sampling apparatus allows flow of the liquid between the ports. The body may be provided having a flexible portion, allowing the second port to be directed at a sampling container. The liquid sampling apparatus maybe constructed in polyethylene or other material suitable for use with the liquid being sampled, such as lubricant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Inventor: James O. Morris
  • Patent number: 8683878
    Abstract: A sampling device has a valve body that comprises an inlet for connecting to an unloading pipe of a container containing dry bulk product, the inlet being shaped to receive a flow of dry bulk product from the container. The valve body has a first outlet which, when opened, discharges the dry bulk product that enters the valve body through the inlet. The valve body also has a second outlet which, when opened, discharges a sample of the dry bulk product, the second outlet having a cross-sectional area that is smaller than a cross-sectional area of the first outlet. The sampling device enables a sample of dry bulk product, e.g. cement, slag, fly ash, cement kiln dust, silica fume, silica sand, lime, alumina, flour, or any other similar dry powdery substance to be obtained safely from a transport container or vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Inventor: Greg Secord
  • 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: 8613422
    Abstract: A device is provided for transferring fluid into or out of a tank and is particularly useful in transferring fluid in a substantially aseptic, hygienic, or sterile manner. The device has a body with an elongate passage extending through the body. The body has a proximal end and a distal end. A longitudinally displaceable cannula is disposed in and extends along the passage in the body. A septum sealing the passage is at a first location; the septum being pierceable and self-sealing. A diaphragm sealing the passage is at a second location intermediate the septum and the distal end of the passage. The cannula extends through and is secured to the diaphragm and has a sharpened end disposed adjacent to or in the septum. Longitudinal displacement of the cannula causes its sharpened end to pierce and project through the septum, the diaphragm stretching to accommodate the displacement of the cannula while maintaining its aseptic seal of the passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2013
    Assignee: Allpure Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael A. Zumbrum
  • Publication number: 20130276553
    Abstract: An apparatus with a reduced dead volume associated with sampling, comprising: a sample container configured to store a fluid, a sample line configured to transport the fluid from a first sampling area to a second area in the sample container, at least one valve in the sample line, the valve configured to selectively range from a closed configuration to an open configuration, and a flow restrictor configuration placed in the sample line, the flow restrictor configured to minimize the dead volume for the sample container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2013
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Inventors: Maxim Yushko, Ramon Hernandez Marti
  • Patent number: 8549935
    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: September 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: EMD Millipore Corporation
    Inventors: James F. Furey, Stephen P. Proulx
  • Patent number: 8544349
    Abstract: A fluid transfer device for transferring fluid into or out of a fluid vessel, such as a tank, and is particularly useful in transferring fluids with particulates or high viscosity in a substantially aseptic, hygienic, or sterile manner. The device has a body with an elongate passage extending through the body. The body has a proximal end and a distal end. A longitudinally displaceable shaft is disposed in and extends along the passage in the body. A plug sealing the passage is at a first location. A diaphragm sealing the passage is at a second location intermediate the plug and the distal end of the passage. The shaft extends through and is secured to the diaphragm. A fluid transfer opening is located in the passage between the diaphragm and the plug. Longitudinal displacement of the shaft causes the fluid transfer opening to be in fluid communication with a fluid vessel, the diaphragm stretching to accommodate the displacement of the shaft while maintaining an aseptic seal of the passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Assignee: Allpure Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael A. Zumbrum
  • Patent number: 8522630
    Abstract: A system for retrieving a fluid sample from a fluid source. The preferred embodiment of the present invention contemplates a system for insertion of a probe into a pressurized fluid stream by means of male threads which are threadly engaged in a female threaded housing. An elastomeric seal is employed to form a fluid barrier around a segment of the probe's outer surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: A+ Manufacturing, LLC
    Inventor: Donald P. Mayeaux
  • Patent number: 8518166
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an air filtering system capable of enhancing inspection convenience, which is disposed in the ceiling and comprises a housing, a filter, a first sampling tube, and a second sampling tube. On both ends of the housing, an intake and an outtake are disposed opposite to each other. The filter is disposed in the housing, and has an intake surface and an outtake surface opposite to each other. The filter divides the inner space of the housing into a first sampling zone and a second sampling zone. A first end of the first sampling tube is fixed on the housing, and communicates with the first sampling zone. Likewise, a first end of the second sampling tube is fixed on the housing, and communicates with the second sampling zone. Besides, a second end of the first sampling tube and a second end of the second sampling tube are both fixed on the wall. Thereby, the inspection convenience for the inspection staffs can be enhanced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Atomic Energy Council-Institute of Nuclear Energy Research
    Inventors: Yuan-Shun Tasi, Hsiu-Wei Lee
  • Patent number: 8511184
    Abstract: Device for taking samples from the bottom boundary layer of a water body, consisting of compact bottom sediments, overlying water-saturated mud layer, and near-bottom water layer directly connected with the latter, belongs among oceanographic devices. Disturbance of the probes' structure is avoided by the construction of the device with several shorter tubes with their inlet holes being located at different heights, instead of one long sampling tube. There are distinctive tubes for taking samples from layers at different heights from the bottom. The sampling tube divided into sections is furnished with isolating valves that divide the interior of the tube into layers isolated from each other. Soft and regulated drop of the device is achieved using the inflatable contact belt. Using an upper inflatable balloon avoids the vertical stability of the device and raising it to the surface without cabling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: OÜ Dimentio
    Inventors: Martin Voll, Ants Erm, Andres Voll, Mehis Voll
  • Patent number: 8505396
    Abstract: A fluid transfer device for transferring fluid into or out of a fluid vessel, such as a tank, and is particularly useful in transferring fluids with particulates or high viscosity in a substantially aseptic, hygienic, or sterile manner. The device has a body with an elongate passage extending through the body. The body has a proximal end and a distal end. A longitudinally displaceable substantially hollow substantially hollow shaft is disposed in and extends along the passage in the body. A plug sealing the passage is at a first location. A diaphragm sealing the passage is at a second location intermediate the plug and the distal end of the passage. The shaft extends through and is secured to the diaphragm and has a fluid transfer opening between the diaphragm and the plug.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Allpure Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael A. Zumbrum
  • Publication number: 20130152707
    Abstract: An apparatus and method that allow multiple samples of a liquid in a primary container (here called a ‘pouch’) to be taken with minimal danger of contaminating the liquid in the container during the sampling process are disclosed. In an embodiment, a closed sterile sight chamber is connected with the pouch in a sterile manner to allow fluid to flow into the chamber while at the same time allowing air within the chamber to be displaced through a bacterial filter to atmosphere. The connection between the sight chamber and the pouch is then terminated (severed or closed), isolating the pouch from the sampling apparatus. Only then are samples of liquid withdrawn from the sight chamber, while allowing air to flow into the chamber through the bacterial filter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2013
    Publication date: June 20, 2013
    Applicant: NOBLE HOUSE GROUP PTY LTD.
    Inventor: Noble House Group Pty Ltd.
  • Patent number: 8448676
    Abstract: A multiple sump fuel sampler with catch can that includes an upper fuel sampling and testing reservoir with integral lower catch can reservoir arranged such that a self-closing valve is placed between the upper sampling reservoir and the lower catch can. This self-closing valve can be easily opened and closed by a user to allow fuel in the upper sampling reservoir to drain down into the lower catch can reservoir. Embodiments of the invention include a means of spill-free dumping of fuel accumulated in the lower catch can reservoir via an integral no-drip pour spout.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: Innoquest, Inc.
    Inventor: William C. Hughes
  • Patent number: 8424397
    Abstract: The invention relates to a particle counter apparatus for counting particles in a fluid flowing in a pipe or a pipeline. The particle counter apparatus comprises a pipe portion through which the fluid flows, where the pipe portion is provided with a fluid sample outlet for withdrawal of a fluid sample. Furthermore the particle counter apparatus also comprises a first fluid transfer body extending from the fluid sample outlet to a particle counter, and a second fluid transfer body extending from the particle counter to a fluid return outlet mounted in the pipe portion downstream of the fluid sample outlet. In the pipe portion there is mounted a propeller unit comprising a propeller and a generator, with the result that particles are distributed uniformly in the fluid before the withdrawal of fluid samples, and electric power is provided for operation of the particle counter apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Fras Technology AS
    Inventor: Sølve Fjerdingstad
  • Patent number: 8365617
    Abstract: An in situ sampling device for capturing a material sample from a vessel. Embodiments of the present invention may be disposed as elongate probes having extendable sample capture elements. A sample capture element of such a device may include a concave sample capture pocket located near a distal end thereof. The sample capture pocket is adapted to capture a known volume of material when the sample capture element is extended into said material. The material sample remains trapped in the sample capture pocket upon sample capture element retraction. The sample capture pocket may be provided with a port for receiving material therein and a port for expelling material therefrom. These ports may be placed in communication with corresponding material transfer channels extending through the sample capture element. A device of the present invention provides for substantially contemporaneous sample capture and sample processing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: Mettler-Toledo AG
    Inventors: Peter Alfred Blacklin, Wayne Fowler, Jr., Joel Michael Hawkins, Howard William Ward, II
  • Publication number: 20120291565
    Abstract: A system and method for valving on a sample processing device. The system can include a valve chamber, a process chamber, and a valve septum located between the valve chamber and the process chamber. The system can further include a fluid pathway in fluid communication with an inlet of the valve chamber, wherein the fluid pathway is configured to inhibit a liquid from entering the valve chamber and collecting adjacent the valve septum when the valve septum is in a closed configuration. The method can include rotating the sample processing device to exert a first force on the liquid that is insufficient to move the liquid into the valve chamber; forming an opening in the valve septum; and rotating the sample processing device to exert a second force on the liquid to move the liquid into the valve chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Inventors: Peter D. Ludowise, Jeffrey D. Smith
  • Patent number: 8256307
    Abstract: Testing of engine particulate matter production during a transient is made more accurate by selecting an appropriate sized opening for a test probe of the sampling system located in the exhaust line upstream from a particulate trap. By examining the pressure signature at the test probe location and utilizing that information in conjunction with a desired volumetric flow rate into the sampling system, a flow opening size for the test probe can be selected that reduces potential oversampling which may be otherwise induced due to the back pressure increases in the exhaust line caused by the presence of the particulate trap. The flow opening into the test probe of the sampling system behaves relative unrestricted when pressure differentials at the test probe location are relatively low, such as during steady state operating conditions, but restricts flow into the sampling system when pressure differentials are relatively high, such as at a pressure during a transient event.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Russell R. Graze, Jr., Linda M. Riedlinger, Jerry K. Randall
  • Patent number: 8215391
    Abstract: A coiled tubing deployed fluid sampler (50) for collecting a single phase fluid sample from a well. The fluid sampler (50) is actuated to establish fluid communication between an interior (56) and an exterior of the fluid sampler (50) such that a fluid sample is obtained from the well in a chamber (92) of the fluid sampler (50). The fluid pressure in the coiled tubing string is then increased, which pressurizes the fluid sample in the chamber (92). Thereafter, the coiled tubing and the fluid sampler (50) are retrieved to the surface with the pressurized fluid sample remaining above its saturation pressure during collection and retrieval to the surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Cyrus A. Irani, Gian Franco Callarotti
  • Patent number: 8215390
    Abstract: A coiled tubing deployed fluid sampler (50) for collecting a single phase fluid sample from a well. The fluid sampler (50) is actuated to establish fluid communication between an interior (56) and an exterior of the fluid sampler (50) such that a fluid sample is obtained from the well in a chamber (92) of the fluid sampler (50). The fluid pressure in the coiled tubing string is then increased, which pressurizes the fluid sample in the chamber (92). Thereafter, the coiled tubing and the fluid sampler (50) are retrieved to the surface with the pressurized fluid sample remaining above its saturation pressure during collection and retrieval to the surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Cyrus A. Irani, Gian Franco Callarotti
  • Patent number: 8192689
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for taking out and analyzing a sample from a polymerization reactor comprising one or more sample conduits (2), for taking a sample out of said reactor and for conducting said sample to one or more sample flash tanks (3), whereby said conduits each are in communication with said reactor (19) and each are provided with at least two sampling valves (4, 5); comprising one or more sample flash tanks (3), for separating said solid particles and evaporated gas, whereby said sample flash tanks are connected to said conduits (2) and provided with means for analyzing said evaporated gas (7), and comprising one or more sample receivers (6), for purifying said solid particles, whereby said receivers are connected to said sample flash tanks (3) and provided with means (8) for analyzing said solid particles. The invention further relates to a method for improving a polymerization reaction in a polymerization reactor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Assignee: Total Petrochemicals Research Feluy
    Inventor: Hugo Vandaele
  • Publication number: 20120085182
    Abstract: A valve for collecting a sample from a contents of a container is provided. The sampling must occur without contamination. To this end, according to the described system, the valve comprises a stationary part securely connected to the tank, a mobile part releaseably connected to the stationary part, and an actuating mechanism for switching between a base position and a switched position. The stationary part comprises a rotatably supported first partial body of a shutoff body substantially rotationally symmetrical about an axis. The mobile part comprises a rotatably supported second partial body of the shutoff body. The first partial body and/or the second partial body comprise a recess for receiving or conveying the sample.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2010
    Publication date: April 12, 2012
    Inventor: Günter Untch
  • Publication number: 20120085183
    Abstract: A device for sampling fluids that has an outer conduit having a first end connected to a non-pressurized fluid reservoir and a second end adjacent to the testing location that is remote from the fluid reservoir. An inner fluid conduit is positioned within the outer conduit, the inner fluid conduit having a first end extending into the fluid reservoir and the second end adjacent to the testing location, the second end having a connector. A pressure source selectively connects to the connector and selectively applies a vacuum to the second end of the inner fluid conduit to draw fluid from the through the inner fluid conduit and applying pressure to purge the inner fluid conduit of fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2011
    Publication date: April 12, 2012
    Applicant: BAY6 SOLUTIONS INC.
    Inventors: Roger L. MARCHAND, Douglas J. TSCHETTER
  • Patent number: 8146660
    Abstract: A coiled tubing deployed fluid sampler (50) for collecting a single phase fluid sample from a well. The fluid sampler (50) is actuated to establish fluid communication between an interior (56) and an exterior of the fluid sampler (50) such that a fluid sample is obtained from the well in a chamber (92) of the fluid sampler (50). The fluid pressure in the coiled tubing string is then increased, which pressurizes the fluid sample in the chamber (92). Thereafter, the coiled tubing and the fluid sampler (50) are retrieved to the surface with the pressurized fluid sample remaining above its saturation pressure during collection and retrieval to the surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Cyrus A. Irani, Gian Franco Callarotti
  • Patent number: 8074528
    Abstract: An in-line valve sampling system connected to a pipe conduit extracts a sample of process media in a receiving container or receptacle for testing. The valve sampling system provides a resilient sealing mechanism for corrosive process media at elevated and fluctuating temperature ranges by providing a packing cartridge having a thin film of PTFE material biased by at least one O-ring to provide a seal between a valve spindle and a raised portion of the packing cartridge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Assignee: Neotecha AG
    Inventor: Peter Zollinger
  • Publication number: 20110283817
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for removing fluid from fluid valves are described. An example apparatus for controlling fluid flow includes a fluid regulator having a body defining an inlet port, an outlet port and an aperture therebetween. The body further defining a bore fluidly coupled to a valve and at least one of the outlet port or the inlet port. The valve is to enable fluid contained within the body to be removed therefrom.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2010
    Publication date: November 24, 2011
    Inventor: Trent Decker
  • Patent number: 7997156
    Abstract: A F.O.G. water sampling apparatus includes a housing having an inlet, an outlet, a floor that slopes downward from the inlet to the outlet and an open top. A first insert placed in the housing for normal operation includes a pipe having end flanges making a friction fit within the housing and connecting the inlet and outlet and spanning above the housing floor. A second, substitute insert to receive a F.O.G. sampling jar has a floor that slopes downward from the inlet to the outlet and at the floor of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Assignee: Thermaco, Inc.
    Inventors: William C. Batten, Bruce W. Kyles, Randolph H. Batten
  • Patent number: 7967067
    Abstract: A coiled tubing deployed fluid sampler (50) for collecting a single phase fluid sample from a well. The fluid sampler (50) is actuated to establish fluid communication between an interior (56) and an exterior of the fluid sampler (50) such that a fluid sample is obtained from the well in a chamber (92) of the fluid sampler (50). The fluid pressure in the coiled tubing string is then increased, which pressurizes the fluid sample in the chamber (92). Thereafter, the coiled tubing and the fluid sampler (50) are retrieved to the surface with the pressurized fluid sample remaining above its saturation pressure during collection and retrieval to the surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Cyrus A. Irani, Gian Franco Callarotti
  • Patent number: 7955843
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for an aseptic fluidic interface between bioprocess systems is provided. The apparatus includes an inlet valve, adapted for automatic control, that is coupled to a biofluid source site. A sampling conduit extends from the inlet valve to an outlet valve. The outlet valve is adapted for automatic control and is coupled to a biofluid process site. A trap is at the sampling conduit. A waste valve, adapted for automatic control, is located at a waste conduit extending from the sampling conduit to a waste site. Also included is a wash fluid source that is coupled to at least one of the inlet or outlet valves. In the method, the sample is automatically directed to the biofluid process site by opening the outlet valve, and closing the waste valve. Also included is isolating the biofluid sites by closing the inlet and outlet valves, and opening the waste valve to drain biofluid from the trap to the waste site.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Assignee: Groton Biosystems, LLC
    Inventor: George E. Barringer, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20110083520
    Abstract: Devices using a winch are currently used for taking samples in the boundary layer formed at the bottom of a water basin. In order to minimize the potential mixing effect at the whole length of the sampling tube, the design is presented where the sampling tube disassemble into sections is provided with horizontal valves dividing the interior of the tube into layers isolated from each other in the presented application, several shorter sampling tubes are used with their inlet holes being located at different heights. Thus, layers located at different heights are sampled by different sampling tubes. Substitution of contacts elements (shoes) with a contact surface, e.g. inflatable support belt, guarantees the stability of the sampling tube on the soft bottom. To ensure the vertical stability of the sampling tube, the device is provided with an upper stabilizing balloon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2010
    Publication date: April 14, 2011
    Applicant: OU DIMENTIO
    Inventors: Martin Voll, Ants Erm, Andres Voll, Mehis Voll
  • Patent number: 7921740
    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: July 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: Millipore Corporation
    Inventors: James F. Furey, Stephen P. Proulx
  • Patent number: 7874221
    Abstract: A sample pump system for metering the amount of sample taken from a pressurized fluid process such as a natural gas pipeline or the like, the sample pump system designed for immersion, directly or indirectly, into the pressurized fluid stream so that the sampling is taken at the prevailing pressure and temperature of the fluid stream. A spot sample cylinder device is further provided which employs a method of collection wherein the initial cylinder volume of the collection vessel or sampling cylinder is zero. The spot sample cylinder is inserted into the pressurized gas (or fluid) source, said sample cylinder employing a piston or moveable end configured such that purging of the cylinder sample cavity is not required, since the sample cavity volume is essentially eliminated prior to sampling by the location of the piston within the cavity, the cavity expanding upon sampling via piston movement within the cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Assignee: A+ Manufacturing, LLC
    Inventor: Donald P. Mayeaux
  • Publication number: 20100154569
    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: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2009
    Publication date: June 24, 2010
    Applicant: MILLIPORE CORPORATION
    Inventor: Pierre Guedon
  • Publication number: 20100147087
    Abstract: A sampling device has a valve body that comprises an inlet for connecting to an unloading pipe of a container containing dry bulk product, the inlet being shaped to receive a flow of dry bulk product from the container. The valve body has a first outlet which, when opened, discharges the dry bulk product that enters the valve body through the inlet. The valve body also has a second outlet which, when opened, discharges a sample of the dry bulk product, the second outlet having a cross-sectional area that is smaller than a cross-sectional area of the first outlet. The sampling device enables a sample of dry bulk product, e.g. cement, slag, fly ash, cement kiln dust, silica fume, silica sand, lime, alumina, flour, or any other similar dry powdery substance to be obtained safely from a transport container or vessel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2008
    Publication date: June 17, 2010
    Inventor: Greg Secord
  • Patent number: 7658201
    Abstract: A valve for sterile sampling of a liquid sample from a container includes a valve body (1) with a valve chamber (2). The valve includes a sample inlet (6) in the valve chamber (2), a first valve seat (7), a first valve plug (5a) for closing the sample inlet (6) through abutment against a first valve seat (7), an outlet (8) from the valve chamber (2), a cleaning inlet (9) in the valve chamber (2) for disinfection fluid, a second valve seat (10) and a second valve plug (5b). The outlet (8) is positioned between the two valve seats (7, 10), and the second valve seat (10) and the second valve plug (5b) are positioned in such a manner that the second valve plug (5b) through abutment against the second valve seat (10) cuts off the inflow of disinfection fluid in an area (2b) of the valve chamber (2) at the sample inlet (6).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2010
    Assignee: Keofitt A/S
    Inventor: Henrik Lysgaard Salomon
  • Publication number: 20090308182
    Abstract: A sampling device for obtaining a full stream cut of a slurry flowing in a pipe has a body connected in a section of pipe, with a first bore through the body forming a continuation of the pipe, and a second bore intersecting the first and supporting a cylinder for rotary and/or axial movement between first and second positions. The cylinder has a transverse bore which, in the first position is aligned with and forms a continuation of the flow path. When the cylinder is moved to the second position, the material in the transverse bore is captured and drained as a full stream cut sample. The cylinder may be quickly returned to the first position to permit continued flow through the pipe, or a second transverse bore in the cylinder may provide substantially continuous flow.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 16, 2008
    Publication date: December 17, 2009
    Inventor: David J. Akers
  • Patent number: 7578205
    Abstract: The present invention provides fluid sampling device comprising a sampling head having a series of openings through it from one major surface to the other, a plurality of conduits at the downstream side of the openings and a plurality of sample containers. The openings are selectively opened and closed through the use of switches mounted within each opening and the head of the device members, each switch being movable within said head between closed and open positions. The conduits (e.g., flexible tubing) are equal in number to the openings, with each conduit connected to an individual port fitting arranged on a face of the head downstream of the respective opening. Similarly, the 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 port. A specific configuration for the device, as well as a kit containing pre-sterilized components of the fluid sampling device, are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2009
    Assignee: Millipore Corporation
    Inventor: Brett M. Belongia
  • Patent number: 7521671
    Abstract: The invention provides an ultra-sonic jet multi-photon resonance ionization type mass analyzing device. The laser beam ionization mass analyzing device includes a pulsed gas ejecting device 12 for ejecting in pulse mode carrier gas containing sample molecules into a vacuum vessel 17, a laser beam irradiation system for irradiating laser beam for selective photo-reaction of sample molecules in said pulsed gas, repeller and extraction electrodes 18 and 19 generating an electric field for extraction of sample molecular ions generated by the photo reaction and a mass analyzing device 26 for mass analysis of extracted sample molecular ions. The laser beam irradiation system is set to irradiate laser beam to sample molecules near a position whereat a pressure time distribution of pulsed gas translating in the vacuum vessel 17 transitions from a flat-top pressure distribution to a triangular pressure distribution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2009
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha IDX Technologies
    Inventors: Naotoshi Kirihara, Norifumi Kitada, Kenji Takahashi, Haruaki Yoshida, Mizuho Tanaka, Yasuo Suzuki