Liquid Contacting Discrete Commodity Patents (Class 62/373)
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Patent number: 11114073Abstract: Example aspects of a storage case for musical accessories and a method for using a storage case for musical accessories are disclosed. The storage case for musical accessories can comprise a compartment configured to receive a musical accessory therein, the compartment comprising a floor and a sidewall enclosure extending from the floor, the sidewall enclosure defining an opening distal from the floor; and a lid defining a first orifice configured to receive the musical accessory inserted therethrough, the lid movable between a closed position, wherein the opening is covered by the lid, and an open position, wherein the opening is uncovered by the lid.Type: GrantFiled: January 23, 2019Date of Patent: September 7, 2021Inventor: James C. Wheeler
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Patent number: 11105549Abstract: A refrigerator appliance includes a cabinet defining multiple food storage chambers which are operable at distinct temperatures. The refrigerator appliance includes a cabinet comprising a plurality of insulated mullions. The insulated mullions at least partially define a fresh food chamber, a freezer chamber, a convertible chamber, and a plenum. The refrigerator appliance also includes a first damper selectively providing fluid communication between the fresh food chamber and the plenum, a second damper selectively providing fluid communication between the freezer chamber and the plenum, and a fan disposed between the convertible chamber and the plenum. The fan is configured to force air from the plenum into the convertible chamber.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2018Date of Patent: August 31, 2021Assignee: Haier US Appliance Solutions, Inc.Inventors: Richard Dana Brooke, Christopher J. Schweiger
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Patent number: 11084589Abstract: A cooled cup holder provides for a cooled beverage container that is connectable to a vehicle's air conditioning system to maintain a drink cold. The assembly can additionally be provided with a second compartment which can keep a snack or sandwich cool. The cup holder assembly can be adapted to be suspended from the map pocket panel, or can be provided with its own map pocket, in which case, the assembly will replace the airplane's map pocket.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 2018Date of Patent: August 10, 2021Inventor: Shane Mansker
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Patent number: 10948461Abstract: A sample vessel assembly to carry out a sorption analysis in a container provided with a cooling liquid. The sample vessel assembly includes a sample vessel configured to be suspended within the container. The sample vessel has a sample holding region at a sample end of the vessel to hold a sample to be analyzed. A wick is disposed on the sample vessel and surrounds the sample holding region. The wick extends from the sample holding region to project toward a bottom of the container and draw the cooling liquid over the sample holding region when the sample vessel is disposed in an analysis position in the container.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2019Date of Patent: March 16, 2021Assignee: Anton Paar Quantatec, Inc.Inventors: Enrique Gadea Ramos, Martin Alexander Thomas
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Patent number: 10544387Abstract: Aspects of the disclosure relate to bioreactors for maintaining biological objects (e.g., organ or engineered tissues) under culture conditions. In some embodiments, bioreactors and cover assemblies are provided that comprise a support base for supporting a biological object. In some embodiments, bioreactors and cover assemblies are provided that comprise a movable support base configured such that a user can manipulate its position and thus the relative position of the biological object.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 2014Date of Patent: January 28, 2020Assignee: Biostage, Inc.Inventor: Herbert Hedberg
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Patent number: 9445610Abstract: A container and dispenser apparatus for sliced fruit stores, cools, and dispenses sliced wedges of fruit such as lemons. The apparatus includes a housing. A first interior wall extends through an interior space of the housing defining a fruit holding chamber. The fruit holding chamber is configured for holding a plurality of fruit wedges therein. An output opening is formed in the fruit holding chamber. The output opening is configured to receive the fruit wedges therethrough. A base is coupled to the housing. An input opening is positioned in the base. The input opening is aligned with the output opening such that the base is configured to receive the fruit wedges from the fruit holding chamber.Type: GrantFiled: November 26, 2013Date of Patent: September 20, 2016Inventor: David J. Rouillard
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Patent number: 8991203Abstract: It is an object to provide an electrostatic atomizing apparatus which is simply structured, is easy to assemble, is low in cost, has clogging resistance against foreign matter, can be used for a long time, and is highly reliable, or a home electrical appliance such as a refrigerator, air conditioner, etc. including the electrostatic atomizing apparatus. A discharge electrode formed of foam metal, whereto water that attaches to a surface is supplied by capillary action, a counter electrode provided so as to be opposed to the discharge electrode, and a water supply that is provided directly above the discharge electrode via a predetermined clearance, supplying water to the discharge electrode or the electrode holding part, are included.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2011Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Assignee: Mitsubishi Electric CorporationInventors: Makoto Okabe, Katsumasa Sakamoto, Reiji Morioka, Masumi Handa, Hiroshi Nakashima
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Patent number: 8959935Abstract: A freezing microtome for the production of microscopable thin sections of tissue samples (60), comprising a cooling device (24, 34, 36, 38, 40, 42, 46, 48, 50, 52) for freezing the tissue samples (60), a cutting device for cutting the frozen tissue samples (60) and a working chamber, in which the cutting device and at least a part of the cooling device (24, 34, 36, 38, 40, 42, 46, 48, 50, 52) are arranged is described. The part of the cooling device (24, 34, 36, 38, 40, 42, 46, 48, 50, 52) arranged in the working chamber contains a liquid coolant (70), in which the tissue samples (60) can be inserted for freezing.Type: GrantFiled: April 16, 2010Date of Patent: February 24, 2015Assignee: Leica Biosystems Nussloch GmbHInventors: Uwe Höfling, Hermann Ulbrich, Ralf Eckert, Michael Eberhard
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Patent number: 8893519Abstract: A cooling system and method for a machining process. The system includes a coolant supply and a coolant activation assembly, where the coolant supply is configured to provide coolant to the coolant activation assembly. The coolant activation assembly includes a plurality of piezoelectric actuators. Each of the plurality of piezoelectric actuators is configured to emit a coolant stream and to impart an ultrasonic or megasonic vibration component to each coolant stream. The coolant activation assembly is configured to provide cooling to a focal point in a work zone by directing multiple coolant streams emitted by the plurality of piezoelectric actuators to the focal point such that multiple coolant streams converge at the focal point.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 2009Date of Patent: November 25, 2014Assignee: The Hong Kong University of Science and TechnologyInventors: Yongsheng Gao, Shengyin Zhou
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Patent number: 8875537Abstract: A system for cooling at least one singlulation saw used to singulate components from a substrate. The system is comprised of a coolant loop having at one or more coolant delivery element, a coolant collection element, one or more recycle tanks for contaminate particles to settle out of the captured coolant, a mixing tank configured after the recycle tanks within the loop to produce and replace lost coolant, and a cooling element to cool the coolant. The system can also include filters within the loop to remove particles not removed by the settling tank. Further, the system is able to be configured with a holding tank configured to prevent any bubbles from getting to the coolant delivery element.Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 2008Date of Patent: November 4, 2014Assignee: UTAC Thai LimitedInventors: Sorasak Utathin, Sukunya Kitcharaenthamrong, Nopnarintr Rabuapin
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Publication number: 20140216070Abstract: A blanket for cryogenically cooling at least a portion of a workpiece is provided. The blanket includes a body having an interior surface configured to face the workpiece. The blanket also includes a plurality of nozzles located on the interior surface of the body. The blanket further includes one or more tubes configured to deliver cryogenic liquid to the plurality of nozzles for spraying upon at least a portion of the workpiece. A method and system for cryogenically cooling at least a portion of a workpiece utilizing a blanket are also provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 1, 2013Publication date: August 7, 2014Applicant: The Boeing CompanyInventor: The Boeing Company
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Patent number: 8756953Abstract: The device according to the invention for the cooling of articles, comprising at least one channel which can be connected to a first coolant source such that a first stream of a first coolant can flow through the channel, the articles to be cooled being introducible into the stream, is distinguished in that at least one cross-sectional stabilizer for stabilizing the cross section of the at least one channel is formed. The device according to the invention advantageously allows the defined cooling of articles, in particular the freezing of drops of a liquid or pasty material, in particular of liquid or pasty foods. In particular, a deformation, such as warping, of the channels on account of pronounced temperature gradients and/or temperature transients is effectively reduced. Thus, even after cooling-down operations, uniform cooling conditions can be ensured.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 2008Date of Patent: June 24, 2014Assignee: L'Air Liquide, Societe Anonyme pour l'Etude et l'Exploitation des Procedes Georges ClaudeInventor: Robert Taylor
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Publication number: 20140170294Abstract: A frozen condiment is described, chosen among the group consisting of sauces, pastes, pates, creams and pizza toppings, having hygienic and organoleptic features comparable with those of a corresponding fresh condiment, which is in the form of granules having a porous surface, having an average weight of 6.0 g or less and essentially homogeneous in size having a diameter comprised between 1 mm and 20 mm, and apt to determine a rapid and uniform thawing of the deep-frozen condiment; a process for the deep-freezing of a substantially fluid condiment is also described, which involves dividing a substantially fluid condiment into a plurality of drops, which, in a first deep-freezing step, are dosed within a liquid bath at a temperature lower than ?150° C., obtaining a plurality of partially frozen granules having a hard and deep-frozen external surface and a soft not completely deep-frozen core, and a second deep-freezing step at a temperature comprised between ?30° C. and ?90° C.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 30, 2012Publication date: June 19, 2014Applicant: AMBIENTE E NUTRIZIONE S.R.L.Inventor: Giuseppina Cerea
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Publication number: 20140000297Abstract: A liquid or suspension is formed into frozen particles through contact of a diverging cone spray of the liquid or suspension with a converging cone spray of a liquid cryogen. The converging cone spray of the liquid cryogen is sprayed from a converging annulus defined by an outer surface of an atomization nozzle and an inner surface of a liquid cryogen housing surrounding the atomization nozzle.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 29, 2012Publication date: January 2, 2014Applicant: Air Liquide Industrial U.S. L.P.Inventor: Rolf Helmut WIELAND
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Patent number: 8572864Abstract: The invention relates to a method and a device for handling carcasses of slaughtered animals during suspended transport after evisceration and before weighing in an abattoir by means of an air stream, in which a horizontally directed stream of conditioned air is made to flow around the carcasses at speeds of 1.5 to 6 m/s with a suction effect. Suspension conveyors are set up in a separate room in a meandering arrangement along parallel tracks transversely to the horizontally aligned extraction openings and inlet openings for air, and the inlet openings and extraction openings are connected through an air-conditioning plant, arranged outside the room, for dehumidifying and cooling the air extracted from the room.Type: GrantFiled: August 14, 2008Date of Patent: November 5, 2013Assignee: Promethon AGInventor: Heidrun Gräfe
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Patent number: 8573000Abstract: A cryogenic tunnel freezer (10) having modular design and construction including a lower section (16) that can be raised and lowered relative to an upper section (14), the upper and lower sections (14, 16) defining a tunnel (12) when the lower section (16) is in a closed (raised) position. Product is moved through the tunnel (12) via a belt (22) formed of arrays of plastic modules (76) that are reinforced by metal chains (140) and rods (150). The lower run (23) of the belt (22) rides on the floor (48) of the lower section (16) and the upper run (21) rides on the lower run (23) when the belt (22) is operated. The flow of cryogenic fluid through the tunnel (12) is aided by vaporization of a cryogenic fluid and baffles (98), but no air-moving devices located within the tunnel (12).Type: GrantFiled: March 11, 2009Date of Patent: November 5, 2013Assignee: Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.Inventors: Jean-Philippe Trembley, Jeremy Paul Miller, Michael Robert Himes
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Patent number: 8453952Abstract: The electrostatic atomizing device includes a discharge electrode and an opposed electrode provided with an aperture. The opposed electrode has its inner surface opposed to the discharge electrode. The inner surface is a recessed surface which surrounds a tip of the discharge electrode. The inner surface has at least one part shaped into a spherical surface which is centered on the tip of the discharge electrode and has a constant radius. The opposed electrode is provided with a cylindrical electrode extending from a periphery of the aperture away from the discharge electrode.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2009Date of Patent: June 4, 2013Assignee: Panasonic CorporationInventor: Yukihiro Masuda
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Publication number: 20130047633Abstract: Provided is an apparatus and method comprising, an airlock chamber; a cryogenic chamber; an equilibrator positioned between the airlock chamber and the cryogenic chamber that is configured to allow for the passage of a sample along to the cryogenic chamber; and a cooling unit that is thermally coupled to the equilibrator. Collectively, the airlock chamber, equilibrator, and the cryogenic chamber define a travel path. A machine-readable medium, comprising instructions which when executed by a controller causes a sample to be cooled, is also provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 29, 2012Publication date: February 28, 2013Applicant: General Electric CompanyInventor: General Electric Company
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Patent number: 8348651Abstract: A facility that is especially suited for the freezing of juices and similar products, which includes a cooling tank that supplies the product by means of an impelling pump to a freezing chamber that receives a supply of a liquefied gas at a temperature of around ?140° C., preferably nitrogen, and pressurized air through an electro-valve to transform the juice into micro-drops or pellets and to freeze the droplets or the pellets inside the freezing chamber, which then exit the chamber through one or more dispensing valves, said freezing not affecting the original characteristics of the juice, in terms of its vitamin, protein and enzyme content.Type: GrantFiled: January 15, 2008Date of Patent: January 8, 2013Inventor: Victorino Juan Mata
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Publication number: 20120060541Abstract: A storage cassette including a plurality of generally vertical compartments for storing sample tube racks and/or SBS formatted plates is constructed to be flexible along its substantially vertical axis thereby facilitating reliable robotic placement and retrieval of the cassette from nesting tubes located within a horizontal freezer compartment. Insulated walls and solid shelves minimize heat transfer from storage racks or plates placed in the storage cassette when the cassette is removed from an ultra-low temperature or cryogenic freezer. The outer walls of the cassette includes mechanical indexing locations to ensure appropriate positioning when robotically removing storage racks or plates from the cassette.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 9, 2011Publication date: March 15, 2012Applicant: HAMILTON STORAGE TECHNOLOGIES, INC.Inventors: Frank Hunt, Julian Warhurst, Bruce Zandi, Robert Cloutier
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Publication number: 20120017628Abstract: It is an object to provide an electrostatic atomizing apparatus which is simply structured, is easy to assemble, is low in cost, has clogging resistance against foreign matter, can be used for a long time, and is highly reliable, or a home electrical appliance such as a refrigerator, air conditioner, etc. including the electrostatic atomizing apparatus. A discharge electrode formed of foam metal, whereto water that attaches to a surface is supplied by capillary action, a counter electrode provided so as to be opposed to the discharge electrode, and a water supply means that is provided directly above the discharge electrode via a predetermined clearance, supplying water to the discharge electrode or the electrode holding part, are included.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 27, 2011Publication date: January 26, 2012Applicant: Mitsubishi Electric CorporationInventors: Makoto OKABE, Katsumasa Sakamoto, Reiji Morioka, Masumi Handa, Hiroshi Nakashima
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Publication number: 20110179812Abstract: A method of cooling foodstuff comprises immersing at least one perforated container containing foodstuff into an ice slurry bath for a period of time sufficient to allow ice slurry to enter the at least one perforated container and then subsequently removing the at least one perforated container from the ice slurry bath. Various apparatuses for cooling foodstuff are also provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 12, 2007Publication date: July 28, 2011Applicant: SUNWELL ENGINEERING COMPANY LIMITEDInventor: Vladimir Goldstein
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Patent number: 7966842Abstract: The refrigerator includes a vegetable compartment (107) thermally insulated by a rear partition (111), and a mist generation department (139) for atomizing a mist into the vegetable compartment (107), and the mist generation department (139) includes a atomizing electrode (135) for atomizing the mist into the vegetable compartment (107), a voltage applicator (133) for applying a voltage to the atomizing electrode (135), and a cooling pin (134) coupled to the atomizing electrode (135), in which the atomizing electrode (135) is cooled to a temperature lower than the dew point by a outlet air-duct for freezer compartment (141), and the moisture in the air is cooled to condense dew on the atomizing electrode (135), and is atomized as a mist into the vegetable compartment (107), and dew can be condensed from moisture onto the atomizing electrode (135) stably and in a simple configuration, and the freshness of the food is enhanced while the reliability of the refrigerator is enhanced.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2009Date of Patent: June 28, 2011Assignee: Panasonic CorporationInventors: Toyoshi Kamisako, Yoshihiro Ueda, Kazuya Nakanishi, Tadashi Adachi, Kazuyuki Hamada, Kiyotaka Tabira, Yasuyuki Okamoto, Kenichi Okabe, Masashi Yuasa, Kenichi Kakita, Kiyoshi Mori, Tosiaki Mamemoto, Katsunori Horii
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Patent number: 7854238Abstract: The present invention provides a conduit trap, which can also operate as condensation recovery device when installed in a refrigeration system drainage line. The conduit trap is generally a hollow body defining a fluid path that includes an upper conduit 20, having a waste outlet 30 and optionally a condensation collection outlet 32. A lower conduit 22 extends downwardly from the upper conduit and has a narrowing that creates an inner sealing region for receiving a sealing means, such as float 50. Condensation can be directed from the refrigeration system through the conduit trap for recovery or for disposal without exposing the refrigeration drainage line and occupied space in which the refrigeration unit is located to sewer gasses even in dry weather when a gravity based, fluid-filled trap would fail.Type: GrantFiled: September 5, 2007Date of Patent: December 21, 2010Inventor: Jesus M. Zatarain
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Publication number: 20100307183Abstract: The device according to the invention for the cooling of articles, comprising at least one channel which can be connected to a first coolant source such that a first stream of a first coolant can flow through the channel, the articles to be cooled being introducible into the stream, is distinguished in that at least one cross-sectional stabilizer for stabilizing the cross section of the at least one channel is formed. The device according to the invention advantageously allows the defined cooling of articles, in particular the freezing of drops of a liquid or pasty material, in particular of liquid or pasty foods. In particular, a deformation, such as warping, of the channels on account of pronounced temperature gradients and/or temperature transients is effectively reduced. Thus, even after cooling-down operations, uniform cooling conditions can be ensured.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 5, 2008Publication date: December 9, 2010Applicant: L'Air Liquide Societe Anonyme Pour L'Etude Et L'Exploitation Des Procedes Georges ClaudeInventor: Robert Taylor
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Publication number: 20100300121Abstract: The method and device according to the invention for the cooling of articles, in which the articles are introduced into at least one channel, through which a first stream of a first coolant flows, the channel being cooled by a second stream of a second coolant, is distinguished in that the first stream is fed from a first coolant conveyance unit and the second stream is fed from a second coolant conveyance unit. Advantageously, the second stream of the second coolant is a high-purity coolant stream which comprises, in particular, essentially pure liquid nitrogen. High purity is understood in this context to mean, in particular, that the second stream of the second coolant carries with it no articles or remains of articles or other impurities. The cooling conduit thereby remains clean and does not have to be cleaned in a complicated way.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 5, 2008Publication date: December 2, 2010Applicant: L'Air Liquide Societe Anonyme Pour L'Etude Et L'Ex Des Procedes Georges ClaudeInventor: Robert Taylor
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Publication number: 20100293971Abstract: A compact rapid liquid chilling apparatus and method are provided. A liquid is placed in a container having an inherent void volume. The housing includes a container-securing space dimensioned to receive ice and maintain substantially all of the ice atop the container placed therein and in thermal communication with the container without allowing substantially any of the ice to fall below the container. A rotating mechanism disposed in the housing rotates the container placed in the container-securing space. As the ice melts as it chills the rotating container, the resulting water falls freely below the container as substantially all of the unmelted ice remains above the container. A lid preferably closes around the container to form a portion of the container-securing space when closed. The lid preferably includes an ice supply window, and an ice measuring bin preferably is attachable to the window.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 14, 2010Publication date: November 25, 2010Applicant: The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and ArtInventors: Gregory H. Loibl, George Sidebotham, Michael B. Gutierrez
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Patent number: 7797951Abstract: A chiller apparatus is disclosed. The chiller apparatus comprises a revolving drum, a cooling system, and a baffle assembly. The revolving drum includes a flight assembly that is continuously welded throughout the revolving drum for moving a product from an infeed end of the revolving drum to a discharge end. The cooling system is coupled to the revolving drum for supplying a cooled fluid to the revolving drum. The baffle assembly includes a plurality of triangular baffles seal welded to the inside of the revolving drum and to the flight assembly for turning the product. The seal weld formed between the baffle assembly, the flight assembly, and the revolving drum prevents the cooled fluid from forming stagnation points that contaminate the product.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2006Date of Patent: September 21, 2010Assignee: DN'S Leasing LLCInventor: John Patterson
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Patent number: 7707848Abstract: A system for rapidly cooling a liquid in a container within a refrigerator-freezer or freezer is provided. The housing has a space for receiving a container, and a rotator rotates the container about an axis. While the container is rotating, a sprayer sprays chilled cooling medium on the container in the housing. A reservoir stores the cooling medium when the system is not being used and maintains the cooling medium at a given temperature. At least one chilling surface is preferably provided over which the cooling medium flows and where ice may be stored. A recirculator such as a pump recirculates the cooling medium throughout the system.Type: GrantFiled: October 25, 2005Date of Patent: May 4, 2010Assignee: The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and ArtInventors: Gregory H. Loibl, George Sidebotham
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Publication number: 20100101243Abstract: The invention relates to a cooling device (100) for cooling a metal strip (200) after a forming in a cold rolling stand (200) having at least one nozzle (112) for spraying a cooling medium (400) onto the surface of the metal strip (200). In order to make such known cooling device more effective and efficient, it is proposed according to the invention to provide a plate (500), which in an operating position is arranged parallel to the surface of the metal strip (200) in the run-out of the cold rolling stand (300) and to arrange the nozzle in the operation position in such a manner that the cooling medium is sprayed at an acute spray angle ? into a cavity between the surface of the metal strip and the opposing plate, with a spray direction (R) opposite to the running direction (L) of the metal strip.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 12, 2008Publication date: April 29, 2010Inventors: Florian Lindner, Jochen Münker, Olaf Norman Jepsen, Peter Rainer
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Patent number: 7703301Abstract: A system for rapidly cooling a liquid in a container within a refrigerator-freezer or freezer is provided. The housing has a space for receiving a container, and a rotator rotates the container about an axis. While the container is rotating, a sprayer sprays chilled cooling medium on the container in the housing. A reservoir stores the cooling medium when the system is not being used and maintains the cooling medium at a given temperature. At least one chilling surface is preferably provided over which the cooling medium flows and where ice may be stored. A recirculator such as a pump recirculates the cooling medium throughout the system.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2007Date of Patent: April 27, 2010Assignee: The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and ArtInventors: Gregory H. Loibl, George Sidebotham
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Publication number: 20100077770Abstract: The refrigerator includes a vegetable compartment (107) thermally insulated by a rear partition (111), and a mist generation department (139) for atomizing a mist into the vegetable compartment (107), and the mist generation department (139) includes a atomizing electrode (135) for atomizing the mist into the vegetable compartment (107), a voltage applicator (133) for applying a voltage to the atomizing electrode (135), and a cooling pin (134) coupled to the atomizing electrode (135), in which the atomizing electrode (135) is cooled to a temperature lower than the dew point by a outlet air-duct for freezer compartment (141), and the moisture in the air is cooled to condense dew on the atomizing electrode (135), and is atomized as a mist into the vegetable compartment (107), and dew can be condensed from moisture onto the atomizing electrode (135) stably and in a simple configuration, and the freshness of the food is enhanced while the reliability of the refrigerator is enhanced.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 22, 2009Publication date: April 1, 2010Applicant: Panasonic CorporationInventors: Toyoshi Kamisako, Yoshihiro Ueda, Kazuya Nakanishi, Tadashi Adachi, Kazuyuki Hamada, Kiyotaka Tabira, Yasuyuki Okamoto, Kenichi Okabe, Masashi Yuasa, Kenichi Kakita, Kiyoshi Mori, Tosiaki Mamemoto, Katsunori Horii
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Publication number: 20100077791Abstract: The refrigerator includes a vegetable compartment (107) thermally insulated by a rear partition (111), and a mist generation department (139) for atomizing a mist into the vegetable compartment (107), and the mist generation department (139) includes a atomizing electrode (135) for atomizing the mist into the vegetable compartment (107), a voltage applicator (133) for applying a voltage to the atomizing electrode (135), and a cooling pin (134) coupled to the atomizing electrode (135), in which the atomizing electrode (135) is cooled to a temperature lower than the dew point by a outlet air-duct for freezer compartment (141), and the moisture in the air is cooled to condense dew on the atomizing electrode (135), and is atomized as a mist into the vegetable compartment (107), and dew can be condensed from moisture onto the atomizing electrode (135) stably and in a simple configuration, and the freshness of the food is enhanced while the reliability of the refrigerator is enhanced.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 22, 2009Publication date: April 1, 2010Applicant: Panasonic CorporationInventors: Toyoshi Kamisako, Yoshihiro Ueda, Kazuya Nakanishi, Tadashi Adachi, Kazuyuki Hamada, Kiyotaka Tabira, Yasuyuki Okamoto, Kenichi Okabe, Masashi Yuasa, Kenichi Kakita, Kiyoshi Mori, Tosiaki Mamemoto, Katsunori Horii
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Publication number: 20090314010Abstract: The injection device according to the invention, intended to be attached to the wall of the bottom of a container containing a product to be cooled in bulk, comprises a hollow cylindrical body in which a valve forced by a spring is inserted, a through-channel appreciably parallel to said valve intended to be fed by pressurized cryogenic fluid, one end of said through-channel being connected to the cryogenic fluid feed system and the opposite end opening into the seat of the valve.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 28, 2007Publication date: December 24, 2009Applicant: L'Air Liquide Societe Anonyme Pour L'Etude Et L'Exploitation Des Procedes Georges ClaudeInventors: Herve Flamant, Olivier Pouchain, Jacques Fouche, Jo Algoet
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Patent number: 7591139Abstract: A method of freezing with brine comprising releasing at least one ingredient in an effective amount from an automated device into the brine so that the brine is rendered unusable for its intended purpose, thereby ensuring that the brine is used only in a optimal composition.Type: GrantFiled: February 16, 2007Date of Patent: September 22, 2009Assignee: Winterlab LimitedInventors: Barnet Liberman, Kevin Charles Vandervoort, Andrew M. Preissner
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Publication number: 20080216489Abstract: A system of rapidly cooling hot bulk liquids includes a chilling station having a reservoir for holding a cooling medium. The reservoir includes an outlet for removing excess of the cooling medium. A container bay disposed substantially above the reservoir is adapted to receive at least one container of hot bulk liquid to be cooled. At least one rotator is adapted to rotate the container placed in the container bay substantially around the container's longitudinal axis. A spray jet outlet is disposed substantially above the container bay and in fluid communication with the reservoir. The spray jet outlet is adapted to spray the container with the cooling medium while the roller is rotating the container. The container includes a void volume, preferably at least 5%. The rotator rotates the container at a rate that depends on the size of the container and/or the viscosity of the contents of the container.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 7, 2008Publication date: September 11, 2008Inventors: Gregory H. Loibl, George Sidebotham, Michael B. Gutierrez
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Patent number: 7415832Abstract: Improved brine solutions and uses thereof for uncontaminatedly and/or efficiently freezing items such as foods, and biological samples. In accordance with one embodiment, a brine solution containing a sufficient amount of dye in conferring the solution a distinctive color is used in the freezing process. In accordance with another embodiment, a brine solution containing deionized water is used for improving the freezing efficiency and/or freezing capacity.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 2004Date of Patent: August 26, 2008Assignee: Winterlab LimitedInventors: Barnet L. Liberman, Peter H. Glidden, Sr., Kevin C. Vandervoort, Robert J. Peacock, II
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Publication number: 20080110196Abstract: A coolant delivery device (100) comprises a coolant outlet (124) and an exhaust (140, 160). The coolant outlet (124) is contained within a housing (150) that has an opening provided with sealing means (180), to which opening the coolant outlet (124) is arranged to direct a coolant. In use of the device, coolant is delivered to a surface to be cooled, and the coolant vaporises at the surface so as to produce coolant gas. Since the sealing means (180), in use of the device, form a seal between the housing (150) and the surface, the coolant gas is constrained to escape the device through the exhaust (140, 160), and does not disturb or disrupt the ambient environment. The device is particularly useful for applying thermal tensioning to welds through the delivery of a cryogenic spray to a weld line.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 15, 2006Publication date: May 15, 2008Applicant: BAE SYSTEMS plcInventors: Stephen Arthur Morgan, Andrew David Wescott, Peter Michael Devall, Stewart Wynn Williams
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Patent number: 7313925Abstract: An atomizer for thermal management system for efficiently thermally managing one or more heat producing devices. The atomizer for thermal management system includes a housing having a coolant passage and a dispensing end, an orifice within the dispensing end, and an actuator manipulating a plunger within the housing. The plunger includes a head that is sealable within a recessed portion of the orifice to open or close the orifice. The coolant passes through the coolant passage into the orifice for spraying upon a heat producing device. The actuator may reciprocate so that the coolant spray emitted through the orifice is pulsating. The pulsing frequency may be increased to increase cooling or decreased to decrease cooling of the heat producing device.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 2004Date of Patent: January 1, 2008Assignee: Isothermal Systems Research, Inc.Inventors: Charles L. Tilton, Jeff Weiler, Randal T. Palmer, Philip W. Appel, Paul A. Knight
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Patent number: 7293426Abstract: An apparatus for freezing a biological sample having a frame, an enclosure adapted to conduct a cryogenic fluid therethrough, and a block in the enclosure such that the block is cooled to a temperature capable of freezing the sample. A force generating device is mounted on the frame generally above the enclosure. A sample holder is removably attached to the force generating device having a cavity at its free end for receiving a sample to be frozen. The force generating device, sample holder, and block are constructed to compress the sample between the block and the sample holder such that the holder penetrates the surface of the block and effectively seals the sample during compression.Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 2004Date of Patent: November 13, 2007Assignee: Washington UniversityInventor: John E. Heuser
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METHOD OF MAINTAINING THE STABILITY AND QUALITY OF FROZEN DESSERTS DURING STORAGE AND TRANSPORTATION
Publication number: 20070256443Abstract: Processes for maintaining the stability and quality of frozen desserts during storage and transportation including an improvement. This improvement process involves introducing a liquid or solid cryogen into an insulated storage compartment, and allowing the cryogen to evaporate, or sublimate, thereby cooling the storage compartment, while simultaneously allowing for the control of the pressure within this compartment.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 20, 2006Publication date: November 8, 2007Inventors: James T.C. Yuan, Amit Vohra -
Patent number: 6845623Abstract: In a method of cooling a tank molded from thermoplastic plastic material, a molded tank is received from a metallic die assembly at a temperature somewhat lower than a melting point of the plastic material, the molded tank is retained in a jig frame, and cooling water is sprayed onto an external surface of the molded tank. Preferably, the method further comprises the step of blowing cooling air into the tank substantially at the same time as spraying cooling liquid onto an external surface of the molded tank. Thus, the molded plastic tank can be removed from the metallic die assembly at a relatively high temperature, and the use efficiency of the metallic die assembly can be improved. Also, because the tank is not subjected to any pressure or buoyant force, it is prevented from undesirably distorting. In particular, by blowing cooling air into the tank, the tank can be cooled even more quickly.Type: GrantFiled: January 13, 2003Date of Patent: January 25, 2005Assignee: Yachiyo Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Hirokazu Omura, Satoru Tanaka, Tadayuki Morita, Yasuhiro Katsuki
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Publication number: 20040237543Abstract: The invention relates to a method for directly cooling fine-particle, powdery solid substances by using a cooling medium provided in the form of low-boiling condensed gases or of cold gases obtained therefrom, whereupon bulk material packings are subsequently filled with these solid substances. The invention also relates to a device for directly cooling the fine-particle, powdery solid substances and to fine-particle, powdery solid substances, which are located inside bulk material packings and which, compared to air, have a lower oxygen content in the gas phase between the solid substance particles.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 5, 2004Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventors: Gerhard Auer, Dirk Weber, Werner Schuy, Frank Wittekopf
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Publication number: 20040211194Abstract: A process for cooling animal carcasses from a kill temperature to a temperature at which deterioration is substantially prevented comprises circulation of refrigerated air over the carcass to freeze an outer layer of the carcass, followed by application of water to the carcass to form a sufficiently continuous layer of ice on the carcass. Preferably, the carcass is chilled by a multi-stage quick chill process in which the carcass is exposed to super-cooled, high velocity air. Immediately before or immediately after formation of the ice layer, the carcass is transferred to a refrigerated chamber to allow the interior and exterior of the carcass to equilibrate to the temperature at which deterioration is substantially prevented. The inventors have found that this process provides reduced moisture loss and reduced bacterial loading over prior art processes in which water is applied to the carcass during the quick chill process.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 28, 2003Publication date: October 28, 2004Inventors: Robert T. Kaminski, Dan A. Lenton
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Publication number: 20040099003Abstract: The aspect of this invention is to provide a freshness maintaining apparatus designed to keep various items fresh for a lengthy period of time. The apparatus includes a water storage unit (10). A support unit (11) is installed in the water storage unit (10), and cooling water is contained in the water storage unit under the support unit. A filtering unit (30) is connected to the water storage unit (10) via a drain line (20) to remove impurities from water flowing to the filtering unit. A cooling unit (40) is connected to an end of a water supply branching pipe (32) of the filtering unit (30) to cool the filtered water fed from the filtering unit to a predetermined temperature. A humidifying unit (50) is connected to another end of the water supply branching pipe (32) to atomize the filtered water fed from the filtering unit (30).Type: ApplicationFiled: December 30, 2003Publication date: May 27, 2004Inventor: Young-Sil Yu
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Publication number: 20040083741Abstract: Viable biological material is cryogenically preserved (cryopreservation) by immersing the material in a tank of cooling fluid, and circulating the cooling fluid past the material at a substantially constant predetermined velocity and temperature to freeze the material. The material may either be directly plunged into the cooling fluid without preparation, or chemically prepared prior to freezing. A method according to the present invention freezes the biologic material quickly enough to avoid the formation of ice crystals within cell structures (vitrification) and allows the samples to maintain anatomical structure and remain biochemically active after thaw. The temperature of the cooling fluid is preferably between −20 degrees centigrade and −30 degrees centigrade, which is warm enough to minimize the formation of stress fractures and other artefacts in cell membranes due to thermal changes.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 9, 2003Publication date: May 6, 2004Inventors: Samuel D. Prien, John Blanton, Brian Wood, Allan J. Cassell
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Publication number: 20040040334Abstract: A beverage cooler carton is provided which is intended to receive ice or other cooling means to keep contents packaged therein cool. The carton is made of a material which is impervious to liquid which may be contained within the carton during use. The carton includes folding end panels which extend continuously between adjacent upper and lower panels; therefore, there are no seams or breaks in the material around a periphery of the carton which might degrade the ability of the carton to hold a liquid. Also disclosed is a method of assembling the cooler carton.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 27, 2002Publication date: March 4, 2004Inventor: Kevin R. Rusnock
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Patent number: 6622512Abstract: A shaped article is capable of at least one of containing and delivering a cryogenic fluid. The article has a porous structure that restricts the passage of cryogenic fluid in the liquid phase while permitting the passage of cryogenic fluid in the gaseous phase. The article may be in the form of a tube or container. The article permits a liquid cryogen to be transported to a specific site, and then cool the site by means of conduction from the cold article and convection of cold gas, the phase change of the evaporating liquid greatly enhancing the heat loss.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 2002Date of Patent: September 23, 2003Assignees: Gore Enterprise Holdings, Inc., W. L. Gore & Associates (UK) Ltd.Inventors: Mark John Robbie, David Myers
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Patent number: 6615605Abstract: A method and apparatus for adjusting a device is provided in which characteristics of the device used at low temperature such as a high temperature superconductive filter are measured and adjusted without deterioration of the device. The device used at low temperature is disposed within an atmosphere of substitutional gas such as nitrogen and the like. The device is cooled by using cryogen, for example, liquid nitrogen, stored in a bath which is disposed in a glove box. The cryogen has a temperature near the temperature at which the device is used. The device is placed on a cooling stage which is partially soaked in the cryogen, thereby said device is cooled by the cryogen having a temperature near the temperature at which the device is used. Characteristics of the device are measured and adjusted while cooling the device by using the cryogen.Type: GrantFiled: October 8, 2002Date of Patent: September 9, 2003Assignee: NEC CorporationInventor: Wataru Hattori
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Publication number: 20030145620Abstract: A chilling apparatus (1) for chilling drinking vessels (44) comprising a liquid gas reservoir (3) in fluid communication with a chilling nozzle (4) under the control of a valve (41) controlled by a control unit (6), so that the drinking vessel may be chilled by a metered quantity of liquid gas vapourising from the chilling nozzle. The reservoir is provided with a vent (36) to prevent a buildup of vapourised liquid gas in the pipework and/or reservoir.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 16, 2003Publication date: August 7, 2003Inventor: Brian Newman