Patents by Inventor Alan P. MacKenzie

Alan P. MacKenzie has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 5689895
    Abstract: A device for positioning a probe, such as a temperature sensor, in a flask for freeze drying. The device includes a stopper adapted to be secured to an open end of the flask. The stopper has a center opening and at least one radial opening spaced from the center opening. The radial opening allows for fluid communication between inside and outside of the flask when the stopper is secured to the open end of the flask. The center opening receives a guide tube which extends into the flask and is sized to receive the probe such that substantially no fluid communication between the inside of the flask and the outside of the flask occurs through the guide tube or center opening. A channel formed in an upper surface of the stopper and an O-ring positioned about an outer diameter of a neck of the flask secure the probe in position relative to the guide tube. The multiple radial openings define an annular passageway which mimics fluid communication through a standard slit-type stopper employed in freeze drying.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 25, 1997
    Assignee: S.P. Industries, Inc., The Virtis Division
    Inventors: David T. Sutherland, Alan P. MacKenzie, Dean B. Wise