Patents Assigned to Ecolab
  • Compositions including hardness ions and gluconate and methods employing them to reduce corrosion and etch
    Patent number: 7741262
    Abstract: The present invention relates to compositions including a water soluble magnesium salt, water soluble calcium salt, and gluconate, which have a beneficial effect on corrosion during cleaning. The present compositions can reduce corrosion of a variety of surfaces including glass, aluminum, chrome, copper, and steel. The present invention also relates to methods employing these compositions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Assignee: Ecolab Inc.
    Inventors: Kim R. Smith, Michel M. Lawrence, Michael J. Bartelme
  • Dry lubricant for conveying containers
    Patent number: 7741257
    Abstract: The passage of a container along a conveyor is lubricated by applying to the container or conveyor a mixture of a water-miscible silicone material and a water-miscible lubricant. The mixture can be applied in relatively low amounts, to provide thin, substantially non-dripping lubricating films. In contrast to dilute aqueous lubricants, the lubricants of the invention provide drier lubrication of the conveyors and containers, a cleaner conveyor line and reduced lubricant usage, thereby reducing waste, cleanup and disposal problems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Assignee: Ecolab Inc.
    Inventors: Arturo S. Valencia Sil, Lawrence A. Grab, Bruce E. Schmidt, David A. Halsrud, Guang-Jong Jason Wei, Eric D. Morrison, Hector R. DiBenedetto
  • LOW AND EMPTY PRODUCT DETECTION USING LOAD CELL AND LOAD CELL BRACKET
    Publication number: 20100147876
    Abstract: A system and method detect when a product container from which a product is dispensed is empty or nearly empty, and provides a notification of the product status. The system includes a load cell that deflects at a first rate of distance per unit load when a load less than a critical load is positioned to be weighed by the load cell, and a load cell bracket positioned such that the free end of the load cell contacts the load cell bracket when a load substantially equal to or greater than the critical load is positioned to be weighed by the load cell. The load cell bracket may prevent the load cell from further deflection, or it may permit deflection of the load cell at a second rate of distance per unit load when the load cell is in contact with the load cell bracket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2010
    Publication date: June 17, 2010
    Applicant: Ecolab Inc.
    Inventors: Richard J. Mehus, Bruce W. Weber, Ben J. Wiltsie
  • Dual generator single power source for tandem pool and spa
    Patent number: 7736522
    Abstract: A sanitizer generation system supplies power to a first and a second sanitizer generator. Each of the sanitizer generators is connected to a body of water by a circulation system. The system includes a power supply and a control system connected to the power supply and the sanitizer generators. The control system selectively delivers electric current from the power supply to the first and second sanitizer generators.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Assignee: Ecolab Inc.
    Inventors: Patrick H. Kilawee, Clyde A. Bailey, Leonard J. Kadlec
  • AUTHENTICATION OF CONTROLLED DOSING PROCESSES
    Publication number: 20100146587
    Abstract: Authentication of products dispensed in an automated chemical dispensing system occurs via electronic communication of product information. The dispensing system includes a plurality of dispense stations, each of which is configured to dispense a corresponding specified chemical product. A product container includes an electronically readable label or tag that includes product information that identifies the chemical product in the container. A product dispenser reads the product information and automatically determines whether the specified product has been loaded onto or into the dispense station. If the product is thus “authenticated,” the system may permit dispensing of the chemical product. If the product is not authenticated, the system may prevent dispensing of the chemical product and/or generate an error message.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2008
    Publication date: June 10, 2010
    Applicant: Ecolab Inc.
    Inventors: Brian L. Sholes, Christopher J. Opelt, Joshua P. Magnuson, Megan W. Malvey
  • METHOD FOR WASHING AN ARTICLE USING A MOLDED DETERGENT COMPOSITION
    Publication number: 20100144578
    Abstract: A method for washing an article using a molded detergent composition is provided. The method includes generating an aqueous solution from a solid block molded detergent composition and washing the article with the use solution. The molded detergent composition is a result of mixing and molding a mixture without heating. The molded detergent composition includes a hydrated component, a hydratable component and an enzyme. The hydrated component is provided in a solid state during mixing and molding. The hydratable component includes water, if present at all, at a level of less than about 2 wt. % based on the weight of the hydratable component. The hydratable component is a component which successfully competes with the hydrated component for at least a portion of the water of hydration. The enzyme constitutes between about 0.01 wt. % and about 10 wt. % of the mixture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2010
    Publication date: June 10, 2010
    Applicant: Ecolab Inc.
    Inventors: Kim R. Smith, Victor Fuk-Pong Man, Wendy Wiseth, Richard Stardig
  • METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR RECAPTURING AND REUSING UNREACTED ANTIMICROBIAL SOLUTIONS IN SPRAY APPLICATIONS
    Publication number: 20100136189
    Abstract: A system providing for on-site reclamation and re-use of reclaimed antimicrobial solution includes a dispenser, at least one receptacle, piping, and at least one pump. The dispenser sprays antimicrobial solution toward moving raw food products. Unspent antimicrobial solution that did not contact the moving raw food products and rebound antimicrobial solution that did contact the raw food products combine to form a reclaimed antimicrobial solution. The reclaimed antimicrobial solution is collected in the receptacle and is pumped through the piping to a location for reuse.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2010
    Publication date: June 3, 2010
    Applicant: ECOLAB INC.
    Inventors: Chandler Adams, Claudie Cayce Warf, Roger Tippett
  • SURGICAL DRAPE HAVING A FLUID COLLECTION POUCH WITH AN INFLATABLE RIM
    Publication number: 20100137820
    Abstract: According to one embodiment of the invention, an apparatus used for collecting fluids during a medical procedure includes a fluid collection pouch having an open end, an inflatable bladder substantially surrounding a perimeter of the open end, and a pump coupled to the inflatable bladder. The pump is operable to inflate the inflatable bladder. According to another embodiment of the invention, an apparatus used for collecting fluids during a medical procedure includes a fluid collection pouch having an open end with a perimeter, a channel surrounding approximately one half of the perimeter of the open end, an inflatable bladder disposed within the channel, and a pump disposed within the channel and coupled to the inflatable bladder. The pump is operable to inflate the inflatable bladder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 2, 2010
    Publication date: June 3, 2010
    Applicant: ECOLAB INC.
    Inventors: Dan R. Lee, Michael A. Gil, Lewis Dorsey Cox, Lloyd G.B. Cooper
  • Silicone conveyor lubricant with stoichiometric amount of an acid
    Patent number: 7727941
    Abstract: The passage of a container along a conveyor is lubricated by applying to the container or conveyor a composition comprising a water-miscible silicone material wherein the composition comprises a stoichiometric amount of an organic acid. The compatibility of the lubricating composition with polyethylene terephthalate is increased because of the presence of a stoichiometric amount of acid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Ecolab Inc.
    Inventors: Eric D. Morrison, Richard D. Johnson, Robert D. Hei
  • Stable aqueous antimicrobial enzyme compositions comprising a tertiary amine antimicrobial
    Patent number: 7723281
    Abstract: The invention relates to an enzyme stabilization system, compositions with the enzyme stabilization system, and methods of using the enzyme composition. Preferred ratios of acid to amine are effective at stabilizing enzyme. Optional nonionic surfactants and solvents also positively contribute to enzyme stability. The compositions are useful in cleaning applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignee: Ecolab Inc.
    Inventors: Brandon L. Herdt, Werner Strothoff, Alice Siegmann
  • ENHANCED STABILITY PERACID COMPOSITIONS
    Publication number: 20100108942
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to stabilized peracid compositions. Stabilizing compositions including a metal salt and a chelating agent are added to compositions including peracids. The results stabilized peracid compositions have increased shelf life and storage stability.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2008
    Publication date: May 6, 2010
    Applicant: ECOLAB INC.
    Inventors: Victor F. Man, Keith G. LaScotte, Yvonne M. Killeen, Steven E. Lentsch
  • Solid product dispenser
    Patent number: 7708023
    Abstract: A dispenser (10) uses first and second flow controls (70, 73). The flow controls maintain first and second flow ranges independent of diluent pressure within a pressure range, wherein the use solution's concentration is maintained over the pressure range. A third flow control (75) may also be utilized in a third diluent passageway for maintaining a third flow range independent of the diluent pressure within the pressure range. A bypass valve assembly (41) is operatively connected to the third incoming diluent passageway. The bypass valve has a temperature control valve. The temperature control valve having a bypass passageway, wherein additional diluent is added to the use solution, thereby controlling the use solution's concentration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2010
    Assignee: Ecolab Inc.
    Inventors: John E. Thomas, Robert J. Plantikow, Thomas P. Berg, Thomas Batcher, Daniel F. Brady, Scott T. Russell, Terrence P. Everson
  • Compositions including Ca and Mg ions and gluconate and methods employing them to reduce corrosion and etch
    Patent number: 7709434
    Abstract: The present invention relates to compositions including a water soluble magnesium salt, water soluble calcium salt, and gluconate, which have a beneficial effect on corrosion during cleaning. The present compositions can reduce corrosion of glass, aluminum, or steel. The present invention also relates to methods employing these compositions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2010
    Assignee: Ecolab Inc.
    Inventors: Kim R. Smith, Michael E. Besse, Michael Bartelme, Michel M. Lawrence
  • MULTIPLE ENZYME CLEANER FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS AND ENDOSCOPES
    Publication number: 20100095988
    Abstract: The liquid composition is based on surfactants and enzymes, and is particularly useful for manual cleaning of instruments. In manual and ultrasonic application the composition in use concentration shows low foaming and gives a cleaning solution which is not cloudy at least at a temperature in the range from 16° C. to 40° C. In addition, the composition has good cleaning efficacy over a broad temperature range (20 to 55° C.) and shows good material compatibility.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2009
    Publication date: April 22, 2010
    Applicant: ECOLAB INC.
    Inventors: Laurence Geret, Carola Stingl, Silke Denzin
  • ULTRA-CONCENTRATED LIQUID DEGREASER COMPOSITION
    Publication number: 20100093596
    Abstract: A substantially nonaqueous concentrate composition is provided comprising an amine oxide surfactant, a water-soluble solvent, a source of alkalinity, a chelating agent and a hydrotrope wherein the concentrate composition is useful in preparing a stable, aqueous totally water soluble solution. The composition may optionally include any one or combination of a nonionic surfactant, anionic surfactant, a corrosion inhibitor, dye, perfume, or preservative. The ultra-concentrated composition of the invention is uniquely suited for multiple delivery methods including coating on a substrate before dilution, or adding the liquid concentrate directly to the diluent.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 6, 2009
    Publication date: April 15, 2010
    Applicant: ECOLAB INC.
    Inventor: Tami J. Tadrowski
  • ULTRA-CONCENTRATED SOLID DEGREASER COMPOSITION
    Publication number: 20100093597
    Abstract: A substantially nonaqueous solid concentrate composition is provided comprising an amine oxide surfactant, an alkali metal hydroxide, a secondary source of alkalinity, a chelating agent, a non-ionic surfactant, and a hardening agent wherein the concentrate composition is useful in preparing a stable, aqueous solution. The composition may optionally include any one or combination of an anionic surfactant, a corrosion inhibitor, dye, perfume, or preservative. The ultra-concentrated composition of the invention is uniquely suited for solid deliveries.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 6, 2009
    Publication date: April 15, 2010
    Applicant: ECOLAB INC.
    Inventor: Tami J. Tadrowski
  • Low and empty product detection using load cell and load cell bracket
    Patent number: 7694589
    Abstract: A system and method detect when a product container from which a product is dispensed is empty or nearly empty, and provides a notification of the product status. The system includes a load cell that deflects at a first rate of distance per unit load when a load less than a critical load is positioned to be weighed by the load cell, and a load cell bracket positioned such that the free end of the load cell contacts the load cell bracket when a load substantially equal to or greater than the critical load is positioned to be weighed by the load cell. The load cell bracket may prevent the load cell from further deflection, or it may permit deflection of the load cell at a second rate of distance per unit load when the load cell is in contact with the load cell bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2010
    Assignee: Ecolab Inc.
    Inventors: Richard J. Mehus, Bruce W. Weber, Ben J. Wiltsie
  • Methods for manufacturing and using a cleaning composition for handling water hardness
    Patent number: 7696142
    Abstract: A method for providing a ready to use cleaning composition is provided. The method includes diluting a concentrate with water of dilution. The concentrate includes an anionic surfactant, an alkanolamine and a water hardness anti-precipitant mixture. The water hardness anti-precipitant mixture includes a maleic anhydride/olefin co-polymer and an EO-PO co-polymer. The EO-PO co-polymer having the formula: (EO)x(PO)y(EO)x (PO)y(EO)x(PO)y (PO)y(EO)x(PO)y(EO)x(PO)y EO is an ethylene oxide group, PO is a propylene oxide group, x is between about 10 to about 130 and y is between about 15 to about 70.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2010
    Assignee: Ecolab Inc.
    Inventors: Kim R. Smith, Mark D. Levitt, Stephen Engel, David J. Falbaum, Jerry D. Hoyt
  • UV FLUOROMETRIC SENSOR AND METHOD FOR USING THE SAME
    Publication number: 20100084572
    Abstract: An ultraviolet (UV) fluorometric sensor measures a chemical concentration in a sample based on the measured fluorescence of the sample. The sensor includes a controller, at least one UV light source, and at least one UV detector. The sensor emits UV light in a wavelength range of 245-265 nm from the light source through the sample in an analytical area. The UV detector measures the fluorescence emission from the sample. The controller transforms output signals from the UV detector into fluorescence values or optical densities for one or more wavelengths in the wavelength range of 265-340 nm. The controller calculates the chemical concentration of the chemical in the sample based on the measured fluorescence emissions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2009
    Publication date: April 8, 2010
    Applicant: Ecolab Inc.
    Inventors: Eugene Tokhtuev, Christopher J. Owen, Viktor Slobodyan, Anatoly Skirda, Paul Schilling, Anna Pilipchenko, Paul R. Kraus, Katherine M. Sanville, Joseph Phillip Erickson
  • Acidic aqueous chlorite teat dip with improved visual indicator stability, extended shelf life, sanitizing capacity and tissue protection
    Patent number: RE41279
    Abstract: The mastitis control teat dip composition having a visible indicator aspect of the invention provides a softening, soothing, smoothing, relaxing property, a rapid initial kill, a useful highly pseudoplastic rheology, a barrier/film-forming capacity, a unique antimicrobial composition that is stable over an extended period of time, and unexpected long term microbial control when compared to the prior art materials disclosed in patents and used in the marketplace. The indicator aspect provides ease of visually detecting the material on the animal skin and can indicate efficacy of the material. The compositions of the invention are made by combining an aqueous liquid composition containing the visual indicator combined with the organic components which can be combined with a simple aqueous solution of a salt of chlorous acid, preferably an alkali metal chlorite.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: Ecolab Inc.
    Inventors: David D. McSherry, Francis L. Richter