Patents by Inventor Peter E. Hughes

Peter E. Hughes 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: 8935965
    Abstract: A sampling method, fluid collection system, and auxiliary sampling device to assist an autosampler in collecting samples from a fluid source. The sampling device includes a support frame and a motorized actuator, with a piston, attached to an end of the support frame. A sample arm has an upper end disposed at an end of the support frame opposite the motorized actuator and a lower end with an inlet to receive a fluid sample. A cable and pulley mechanism links the sample arm to the piston. A fluid conduit within the sample arm has a fluid intake end connected to the inlet and a fluid discharge end connected to an autosampler. The cable and pulley mechanism pivots the sample arm when the motorized actuator pushes or retracts the piston to position the inlet at desired positions within the fluid source so that the autosampler collects multiple samples at various depths.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2015
    Assignee: The United States of America, as represented by the Secretary of the Department of the Interior
    Inventors: William R. Selbig, Peter E. Hughes, Joel W. Ballweg
  • Patent number: 8286512
    Abstract: A sampling method, fluid collection assembly, and auxiliary sampling device to assist an autosampler in collecting samples from a fluid source. The auxiliary sampling device includes a support frame with a pivot member. A linear actuator having a piston is attached to the support frame. A rotatable sample arm assembly has an upper end attached to the piston and to the pivot member of the support frame, and a lower end with an inlet to receive a fluid sample. A fluid conduit within the sample arm assembly has a fluid intake end connected to the inlet and a fluid discharge end connected to the autosampler. The linear actuator pushes or retracts the piston to vertically pivot the sample arm assembly until the inlet reaches desired positions within the fluid source so that the autosampler collects multiple samples at various depths.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Assignee: The United States of America, as represented by the Secretary of the Interior
    Inventors: William R. Selbig, Peter E. Hughes