Patents Issued in February 16, 2016
  • Patent number: 9259700
    Abstract: The invention concerns a composition comprising as component (A): 10% to 97% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, of one or more monocarboxylic esters of the general formula R1—CO—OR2, in which R1 is a saturated or unsaturated, branched or straight-chain, aliphatic group having 11 to 23 carbon atoms and R2 is a branched or straight-chain aliphatic group, a cycloaliphatic group or aromatic group having 1 to 13 carbon atoms, and the sum of the carbon atoms of the groups R1 and R2 is not more than 30, the monocarboxylic ester or esters possessing a boiling point of more than 250° C. under a standard pressure of 101.3 kPa, and as component (B): 3% to 90% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, of one or more dispersants, the composition possessing a viscosity at 25° C. of less than 5000 mPas. The invention further concerns the use of the composition as a dispersion medium, millbases obtained from the composition, and the use of the millbases.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: BYK-Chemie GmbH
    Inventors: Martin Fischer, Wolfgang Pritschins, Frank Vennhoff, Lucia Spikker-Heilen, Andrea Esser
  • Patent number: 9259701
    Abstract: A method of forming solid beads, the method comprising: Providing a first liquid comprising a solute and a solvent Forming liquid droplets of the first liquid Contacting the liquid droplets with a second liquid so as to cause the solvent to exit the droplets, thus forming solid beads, the solute comprising a polymer, the concentration of polymer in the first liquid being at least 7% w/v., the solubility of the solvent in the second liquid being at least 5 g of solvent per 100 ml of second liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: Q CHIP LTD.
    Inventors: Daniel Palmer, Owen Shadick
  • Patent number: 9259702
    Abstract: A composite synthesis method and apparatus, a vaporizer for the composite synthesis apparatus, a vaporizer heater and a composite. In the composite synthesis apparatus using simultaneous vaporization, two or more vaporizers are heated by heaters such that samples vaporized by the vaporizers are supplied into a reactor to synthesize a composite. The apparatus and method may prepare multiple-metal or metal-carbon heterogeneous composites, and may be applied to various metal- and carbon-based adsorbents, absorbents, gas/liquid separation membranes and various catalyst processes. Further, the composite may be applied to various industrial fields through change in metal components or carbon structures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: KOREA INSTITUTE OF ENERGY RESEARCH
    Inventors: Hee-Yeon Kim, Seok-yong Hong
  • Patent number: 9259703
    Abstract: A system for removing selenium from a solid feed stream includes a selenium dissolver configured to selectively dissolve elemental selenium from the solid feed stream and to produce a selenium rich solution and a crystallizer coupled to the selenium dissolver and configured to receive the selenium rich solution from the dissolver, to add an acid to the selenium rich solution, to remove purified selenium from the selenium rich solution, and to remove sulfur dioxide from the selenium rich solution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: Enviro Water Minerals Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul Steven Wallace
  • Patent number: 9259704
    Abstract: This disclosure relates to a static mixer (1) with a plurality of nozzles, and more generally, to a mixer and method of use thereof for mixing phosgene and amine with shaped jets or at least two rows of nozzles (15,16) where the second row (16) is used to enrich an area of deficit of the phosgene flow within the static reactive jet mixer (1). Configurations of enriching secondary flow include the use of concentric, eccentric, or offset jets of amine/phosgene, and the use of nozzles with different and irregular geometries to help focus amine/phosgene to a specific area of the principal phosgene flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: DOW GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES LLC
    Inventors: Paul Aaron Gillis, Hua Bai, Joydeep Mukherjee, Sanjib Kumar Das Sharma, Jorg-Peter Gehrke
  • Patent number: 9259705
    Abstract: A microreactor device (100) comprises a microcircuit (110) defining a reaction microchamber (112) containing a liquid and reaction medium (114), in which a chemical reaction takes place generating the gas (116), and is characterized in that the device (100) is disposed substantially vertically or inclined, defining an upper part (120) and a lower part (130) of the microchamber, and in that means (150) are provided in the upper part (120) of the said microcircuit for the in situ collection and removal of the gas formed during the reaction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: CORNING INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Elena Daniela Lavric, Ronan Tanguy
  • Patent number: 9259706
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a novel composite structure for artificial photosynthesis reaction and an integrated reaction device for artificial photosynthesis including the same, and a novel composite structure for water splitting reaction and an integrated reaction device for water splitting including the same.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: Sogang University Research Foundation
    Inventor: Kyung Byung Yoon
  • Patent number: 9259707
    Abstract: The invention concerns a chemical reaction process performed in a reaction chamber (1) which contains a catalyst bed, the reaction chamber (1) comprising a first end (2) and a second end (3), opposite the first end (2), the process involving alternately: a reaction phase, in which a reaction flow passes through the reaction chamber (1) from its first end (2) towards its second end (3); and a catalyst-regeneration phase, in which a regeneration flow passes through the reaction chamber (1) from its second end (3) towards its first end (2). The reaction chamber (1) preferably consists of a plurality of separate reaction compartments containing a catalyst bed and a heat-exchange system for exchanging heat therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: Arkema France
    Inventor: Jean-Luc Dubois
  • Patent number: 9259708
    Abstract: A method and device for enhanced capture of target analytes is disclosed. This invention relates to collection of chemicals for separations and analysis. More specifically, this invention relates to a solid phase microextraction (SPME) device having better capability for chemical collection and analysis. This includes better physical stability, capacity for chemical collection, flexible surface chemistry and high affinity for target analyte.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: BATTELLE MEMORIAL INSTITUTE
    Inventors: Raymond S. Addleman, Xiaohong Shari Li, Wilaiwan Chouyyok, Anthony D. Cinson, John T. Bays, Krys Wallace
  • Patent number: 9259709
    Abstract: An effective composite for absorbing both standing and flowing water which comprises a fumed silica component, a water-absorbent acrylic polymer a fibrous component, and three types of scoriaceous components is described. Bags containing the composite may also be used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: RED LION CHEM TECH, LLC
    Inventors: Allan D. Pronovost, Michael E. Hickey
  • Patent number: 9259710
    Abstract: A separation material includes a saccharide bound via a linker to a matrix for enabling the separation from a liquid of substances that selectively bind to saccharide moieties. A method for preparing the material, a method for separating from a liquid substances that selective bind to saccharides, and a device including the separation material are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: Gambro Lunia AB
    Inventors: Martin Rempfer, Wolfgang Freudemann, Cornelia Winz, Ralf Flieg, Markus Storr, Manuela Klotz, Sandra Homeyer, Torsten Knoer
  • Patent number: 9259711
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a mesopore material of a catalyst for upgrading acid-containing crude oil. Said mesopore material is an amorphous material containing alkaline earth oxide, silica and alumina, and has an anhydrous chemical formula of (0-0.3)Na2O.(1-50)MO.(6-58)Al2O3.(40-92)SiO2, based on the weight percent of the oxides, wherein M is one or more selected from Mg, Ca and Ba. Said mesopore material has a specific surface area of 200-400 m2/g, a pore volume of 0.5-2.0 ml/g, an average pore diameter of 8-20 nm, and a most probable pore size of 5-15 nm. The present invention further relates to a process for manufacturing said mesopore material and the use thereof. The catalyst prepared from the mesopore material provided in the present invention is suitable for the catalytic upgrading of inferior acid-containing crude oil and for the removal of organic acids, carbon residues and metals in the crude oil, and thus has very good economic benefits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignees: CHINA PETROLEUM & CHEMICAL CORPORATION, RESEARCH INSTITUTE OF PETROLEUM PROCESSING SINOPEC
    Inventors: Jun Long, Jiushun Zhang, Huiping Tian, Yuxia Zhu
  • Patent number: 9259712
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for producing a catalyst for the reforming of hydrocarbons, preferably methane, in the presence of CO2, water and/or hydrogen. The production of the catalyst is based on contacting of a hydrotalcite-comprising starting material with a fusible metal salt. The compounds which have been brought into contact with one another are intimately mixed and treated thermally, resulting in the fusible metal salt forming a melt. After molding, the material is subjected to a high-temperature calcination step. The metal salt melt comprises at least one metal selected from the group consisting of K, La, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu and Ce, preferably Ni. The metal salt melt more preferably comprises nickel nitrate hexahydrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: BASF SE
    Inventors: Ekkehard Schwab, Andrian Milanov, Stephan Schunk, Thomas Roussiere, Guido Wasserschaff, Andreas Strasser
  • Patent number: 9259713
    Abstract: Preparation of a catalyst comprising at least one metal from group VIII said process comprising stabilization of an oxide support, by impregnation of said oxide support, rapid drying, calcination of impregnated and dried oxide support, stabilization stage being followed at least once by impregnation of stabilized oxide support, drying of stabilized and impregnated oxide support operating in a fluidized bed in the presence of a gas, said support being subjected to a temperature rise ramp of between 0.5 and 5° C/min to attain a temperature of between 50 and 170° C, the residence time of said support once the drying temperature is reached being between 20 and 180 min, and calcination of said dried impregnated stabilized oxide support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: IFP Energies nouvelles
    Inventors: Sylvie Maury, Fabrice Diehl, Adrien Berliet, Joseph Lopez
  • Patent number: 9259714
    Abstract: In an embodiment, the present disclosure pertains to photocatalysts with high solar-to-hydrogen overall water splitting efficiency. In an embodiment, the photocatalyst is a nanocrystalline cobalt (II) oxide (CoO) nanoparticle. In some embodiments, the present disclosure pertains to methods of synthesizing the photocatalysts disclosed herein. Such a method may comprise using femtosecond laser ablation of cobalt oxide micropowders. In some embodiments, such a method comprises mechanical ball milling of cobalt oxide micropowders. In an embodiment, the photocatalyst disclosed herein decomposes water under visible light without the aid of any co-catalysts or sacrificial reagents. In some embodiments, the present disclosure pertains to methods of splitting water to produce hydrogen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON
    Inventors: Jiming Bao, Longb Liao
  • Patent number: 9259715
    Abstract: A hydrogenation catalyst comprising nickel, rhenium, and cadmium is disclosed. Process of using hydrogenation catalyst for producing propylene glycol from polyol feedstock are also disclosed. The present invention relates generally to catalysts and more particularly, to catalysts having an enhanced ability to produce propylene glycol from sugar alcohols while reducing the production of by-products.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: Archer Daniels Midland Company
    Inventors: Kevin Martin, Josh Terrian, Leandra Vircks
  • Patent number: 9259716
    Abstract: Compositions and methods for the preparation of ZPGM oxidation catalyst systems are disclosed. ZPGM catalyst systems may be employed within catalytic converters under lean hydrocarbon, air to fuel ratio condition to oxidize toxic gases, such as carbon monoxide and other hydrocarbons that may be included in exhaust gas. ZPGM oxidation catalyst systems are completely free of PGM catalyst and may include: a substrate, a washcoat, and an overcoat. Washcoat may include silver as ZPGM catalyst, and carrier material oxides. Similarly, overcoat may include at least one ZPGM catalyst, carrier material oxides and OSMs. Overcoat of the disclosed ZPGM catalyst system may include copper and cerium as ZPGM catalysts. Suitable known in the art chemical techniques, deposition methods and treatment systems may be employed in order to form the disclosed ZPGM catalyst systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: CLEAN DIESEL TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventor: Zahra Nazarpoor
  • Patent number: 9259717
    Abstract: The present invention relates to: a catalyst activation method for Fischer-Tropsch synthesis; a catalyst regeneration method for Fischer-Tropsch synthesis; and a method for producing a liquid or solid hydrocarbon by using the Fischer-Tropsch synthesis reaction. The temperatures required for a metal carbide producing and activating reaction is markedly lower than existing catalyst activation temperatures, and the catalyst can be activated under conditions that are the same as Fischer-Tropsch synthesis reaction conditions, and thus there is no need for separate reduction equipment in the reactor, and a Fischer-Tropsch synthesis catalyst which has been used for a long time can be regenerated within the reactor without the catalyst being isolated or extracted from the reactor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology
    Inventors: Kyoung Su Ha, Geun Jae Kwak, Jae Hoon Jung, Joo Young Cheon, Min Hee Woo, Yun Jo Lee, Ki Won Jun
  • Patent number: 9259718
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for preparing a catalyst for glycerin dehydration, a catalyst for glycerin dehydration prepared thereby, and a method for preparing acrolein. More particularly, the catalyst for glycerin dehydration prepared by the preparation method is able to minimize by-product formation to improve acrolein selectivity and to maintain high catalytic activity during the reaction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: LG CHEM, LTD.
    Inventors: Wang Rae Joe, Jun Seon Choi, Ji Yeon Kim, Joo Young Cheon
  • Patent number: 9259719
    Abstract: A method of increasing an amount of zeolite contained in a zeolite-containing material, where the method includes the steps of: providing a sample of a zeolite-containing material having at least one rare earth element therein; increasing the amount of zeolite in the sample of the zeolite-containing material by reacting the sample of the zeolite-containing material with an extracting agent that extracts at least a portion of the at least one rare earth element from the sample of the zeolite-containing material; separating the reacted sample, from which has been extracted at least some of the at least one rare earth element previously associated therewith, from the extracting agent; and obtaining the reacted sample in which the amount of zeolite in the reacted sample has been increased.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Inventor: Albert A. Vierheilig
  • Patent number: 9259720
    Abstract: A method for making a new crystalline molecular sieve designated SSZ-100 is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: Chevron U.S.A. Inc.
    Inventors: Stacey Ian Zones, Dan Xie, Cong-Yan Chen, Ann Jia-Bao Liang
  • Patent number: 9259721
    Abstract: There is disclosed a porous material. The porous material contains aggregates, and a bonding material which bonds the aggregates to one another in a state where pores are formed among the aggregates, the bonding material contains crystalline cordierite, the bonding material further contains a rare earth element or a zirconium element, and a ratio of a mass of the bonding material to a total mass of the aggregates and the bonding material is from 12 to 45 mass %. The bonding material preferably contains, in the whole bonding material, 8.0 to 15.0 mass % of MgO, 30.0 to 60.0 mass % of Al2O3, 30.0 to 55.0 mass % of SiO2, and 1.5 to 10.0 mass % of a rare earth oxide or zirconium oxide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: NGK Insulators, Ltd
    Inventors: Shuichi Ichikawa, Atsushi Mizuno
  • Patent number: 9259722
    Abstract: In a process for producing cumene, benzene and a C3 alkylating agent comprising isopropanol are supplied to an alkylation zone comprising a molecular sieve alkylation catalyst under alkylation conditions such that the isopropanol reacts with the benzene to produce a reaction product comprising cumene. Subsequently, the supply of benzene and C3 alkylating agent to the alkylation zone is ceased and a gaseous stripping agent is supplied to the molecular sieve alkylation catalyst under conditions effective to remove nitrogenous impurities deposited on the catalyst during the preceding alkylation reaction. The supply of benzene and C3 alkylating agent to the alkylation zone is then reinitiated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: BADGER LICENSING LLC
    Inventors: Ronald Birkhoff, Shyh-Yuan H. Hwang
  • Patent number: 9259723
    Abstract: A quaternary ammonium salt represented by formula (5) (wherein R1 represents an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, R2 represents an alkyl group having 1 to 10 carbon atoms, R3 represents an alkyl group having 1 to 10 carbon atoms that is optionally substituted with one or more phenyl groups; or a phenyl group that optionally has one or more groups selected from the group consisting of alkyl groups having 1 to 10 carbon atoms and a trifluoromethyl group, R4 represents an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, R5 represents an alkyl group having 1 to 10 carbon atoms, C* represents an asymmetric carbon atom, and X? represents a halide ion) can be used as a catalyst having good stability under basic conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: SUMITOMO CHEMICAL COMPANY, LIMITED
    Inventors: Toshiaki Aikawa, Tetsuya Ikemoto
  • Patent number: 9259724
    Abstract: A highly active supported bimetallic nanocatalyst and its preparation method is disclosed. During the preparation, using an ion exchange or adsorption resin bearing basic functional groups as the support of the said catalyst, successively introducing the first metal precursor FeCl4? and the second metal precursor (PdCl42?, NiCl42? or CuCl42?) onto the resin through ion exchange process; then under the protection of nitrogen gas, simultaneously reducing the two metals with either NaBH4 or KBH4; washing the resulting material with deoxygenated water and drying it, and the said catalyst is therefore obtained. The supported bimetallic material is characteristic of independent distribution of the two metals within the support. The independently distributed structure of the two metals enhances the catalytic efficiency of the second metal and the catalytic stability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignees: NANJING UNIVERSITY, JIANGSU YONGTAI ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY CO. LTD.
    Inventors: Bingcai Pan, Lei Yang, Shujuan Zhang, Weiming Zhang, Lu Lv
  • Patent number: 9259725
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, a catalyst includes a metal ion, and an acyclic ligand having at least one aza-containing moiety, where the ligand is complexed to the metal ion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: Lawrence Livermore National Security, LLC
    Inventors: William C. Floyd, III, Carlos A. Valdez, Roger Aines, Sarah Baker, Joe H. Satcher, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9259726
    Abstract: A method for producing epoxidation catalysts is provided. The catalyst comprises a support, a catalytic species, maganese and at least one alkali metal and/or promoter. The catalytic species may be silver. The catalyst is prepared by a method wherein at least a portion of the manganese is impregnated in a step separate from the at least one alkali metal and/or promoter. Advantageously, catalysts produced by the present method may exhibit greater efficiencies than catalysts produced by conventional methods. A method for the epoxidation of alkylenes using the catalysts so produced is provided as is a method for using the alkylene oxides for the production of 1,2-diols, 1,2-carbonates, 1,2-diol ethers, or alka-nolamines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: Dow Technology Investments LLC
    Inventors: Srikant Gopal, Lakshmi N. Vutukuru Murthy, Arun G. Basrur
  • Patent number: 9259727
    Abstract: A gas-reforming catalyst is modified to obtain stability in high temperature. The catalyst uses ?-Al2O3 as a carrier and is nano-porous. Hence, reaction surface is greatly broadened; and platinum contained inside does not become bigger after times of use. The catalyst does not deposit carbon and has long life. The stability of the catalyst can be still remained even at a temperature higher than 800° C.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: Institute of Nuclear Energy Research, Atomic Energy Council, Executive Yuan, R.O.C.
    Inventors: Ning-Yih Hsu, King-Tsai Jeng, Shean-Du Chiou, Su-Hsine Lin, Hwa-Yuan Tzeng, Wan-Min Huang, Yuan-Ming Chang, Ruey-Yi Lee
  • Patent number: 9259728
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a catalyst having metal catalyst nanoparticles supported on natural cellulose fibers and a method of preparing the same, whereby natural cellulose fibers are subjected to specific pretreatment to increase a surface area and form defects on the surface thereof and metal catalyst nanoparticles are then supported on the cellulose catalyst support in a highly dispersed state, thereby providing improved catalysis while allowing production of the catalyst at low cost. The catalyst may be utilized for various catalytic reactions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: Korea Institute of Energy Research
    Inventors: Hee-Yeon Kim, Nam-Jo Jeong, Seong-Ok Han
  • Patent number: 9259729
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and means to produce chromatography media having improved pressure-flow properties. More closely, the invention relates to bimodal particle size distribution and the use of layer functionalization as means to change pressure-flow properties of chromatography media. The invention relates to a method for production of chromatography media having improved pressure-flow properties, comprising mixing large beads/particles, comprising an inner core and an outer functionalized shell/lid, with smaller beads/particles, wherein the ratio of the particle size of large and small beads: [D50V for large particles/D50V for small particles]>1.2, and wherein the volume ratio of large and small beads in the column: [Total volume of large beads/Total volume beads] is in the range 0.05-0.9.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: GE Healthcare Bio-Sciences AB
    Inventors: Jan Bergstrom, Bo-Lennart Johansson
  • Patent number: 9259730
    Abstract: Invention; It is about the tubes used to obtain blood products through centrifuge in order to cure open and closed injuries, to heal hard and soft tissues and to diagnose in all fields of medicine and dentistry. Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF) obtained in the tubes the surface of which contacts blood and made from pure titanium or titanium alloys has a better structure of fibrin than that is obtained through classical methods. The efficiency of the high speed centrifuge is increased with this designed tube and Platelet Rich Fibrin can be removed from the tube without spoiling it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Inventors: Akman Serhan, Tunali Mustafa
  • Patent number: 9259731
    Abstract: Provided is a liquid reagent containing microchip having a fluid circuit formed of a space inside thereof. Liquid present in the fluid circuit is transferred to a desired position in the fluid circuit by applying centrifugal force. The fluid circuit includes a reagent retaining portion for accommodating a liquid reagent. The microchip includes an air introduction path formed of a groove provided on an outer surface of the microchip and coupled to the reagent retaining portion for introducing air into the reagent retaining portion, and a sealing portion provided so as to be detachable from the microchip for sealing the air introduction path. A method of using the microchip and a packaged liquid reagent containing microchip using the microchip are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: Rohm Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shun Momose, Hidetaka Okada
  • Patent number: 9259732
    Abstract: A system for separating an analyte from other components of a sample contained in a receptacle, where the system includes a receptacle holding station and a magnetic separation station. The receptacle holding station is configured to receive and hold a receptacle and includes one or more magnets positioned to apply a magnetic field to the contents of the receptacle. When present in the receptacle holding station, a receptacle remains stationary relative to the one or more magnets. The magnetic separation station includes one or more magnets and is constructed and arranged to perform a magnetic separation procedure on the contents of a receptacle transported from the receptacle holding station to the magnetic separation station by an automated receptacle transport. The magnetic separation procedure includes isolating an analyte immobilized on a magnetically-responsive solid support within the receptacle and removing other components of the sample from the receptacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: GEN-PROBE INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Christopher B. Davis, Norbert D. Hagen, James T. Tuggle
  • Patent number: 9259733
    Abstract: The invention concerns a device comprising a circuit comprising a bag (10) comprising two flexible films (65, 66), a press (9) comprising a first shell (16) disposed upright on a front face of a base of the device and a second shell (17) mounted on said first shell, which shells clamp said bag to form conduits (13); said press is provided with a system (170) for jamming at the location of a treatment zone (67) of the bag, which comprises a jamming member (171) provided with at least one jamming nipple (173) and a complementary jamming member (172) provided with a jamming channel (174) configured to receive said nipple; said jamming member (171) and complementary jamming member (172) and said bag (10) being configured in order for the latter to have a portion (175) in said treatment zone in which said films are jammed between said nipple and said channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: EMD Millipore Corporation
    Inventors: Ronald Tuccelli, Sebastien Cirou, Virginie Buisson, Christine Abouayad El Idrissi, Jim Kelly
  • Patent number: 9259734
    Abstract: The technology described herein generally relates to systems for extracting polynucleotides from multiple samples, particularly from biological samples, and additionally to systems that subsequently amplify and detect the extracted polynucleotides. The technology more particularly relates to microfluidic systems that carry out PCR on multiple samples of nucleotides of interest within microfluidic channels, and detect those nucleotides.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: HandyLab, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeff Williams, Kalyan Handique, Kerry Wilson
  • Patent number: 9259735
    Abstract: The present invention provides control methods, control systems, and control software for microfluidic devices that operate by moving discrete micro-droplets through a sequence of determined configurations. Such microfluidic devices are preferably constructed in a hierarchical and modular fashion which is reflected in the preferred structure of the provided methods and systems. In particular, the methods are structured into low-level device component control functions, middle-level actuator control functions, and high-level micro-droplet control functions. Advantageously, a microfluidic device may thereby be instructed to perform an intended reaction or analysis by invoking micro-droplet control function that perform intuitive tasks like measuring, mixing, heating, and so forth. The systems are preferably programmable and capable of accommodating microfluidic devices controlled by low voltages and constructed in standardized configurations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: HandyLab, Inc.
    Inventors: Kalyan Handique, Karthik Ganesan, Sundaresh N. Brahmasandra
  • Patent number: 9259736
    Abstract: Apparatus for controlling the temperature of a reaction mixture held within a reaction container, the apparatus including a radiation source for exposing the reaction container to radiation thereby heating the reaction mixture, a temperature sensor for sensing a temperature indicative of a reaction mixture temperature and a controller for controlling the radiation source in accordance with the reaction mixture temperature to thereby selectively heat the reaction mixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: QIAGEN INSTRUMENTS AG
    Inventor: John Corbett
  • Patent number: 9259737
    Abstract: A lab member for use in a laboratory liquid handling system including a pipetting module and a drive system, the pipetting module including first and second pipettors, the first and second pipettors including first and second pipettor shafts, respectively, a first pipetting tip extending from an end of the first pipettor shaft, and a second pipetting tip extending from an end of the second pipettor shaft, includes a lab object and first and second integral adapter structures. The first and second adapter structures are configured to engage the first and second pipettor shafts, respectively. The first adapter structure is configured to releasably secure the lab member to the first pipettor shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: PerkinElmer Health Sciences, Inc.
    Inventors: Lee Brady, Larry Schoell, Gary Millard, Richard R. Harazin
  • Patent number: 9259738
    Abstract: A hammer assembly for attachment to a rotor of a rotary material crusher. The hammer assembly has an adaptor for attaching to the rotor, having a base portion and a hammer mounting portion, with the base portion being attachable to the rotor at the periphery portion thereof, and a hammer for mounting on the adaptor, having at least one impact portion, for crushing material, and a mounting portion for engagement with the hammer mounting portion of the adaptor. The hammer mounting portion of the adaptor includes bearing surfaces facing a direction of impact when crushing material, and the mounting portion of the hammer includes bearing surfaces for mating with the bearing surfaces of the hammer mounting portion of the adaptor. The hammer assembly further includes a retainer rod for preventing demounting of the hammer from the adaptor. The retainer rod passes through an opening formed by a retainer rod groove in the hammer and a retainer rod groove in the adaptor which face each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: RQI, INC.
    Inventor: Gregory Kurt Orphall
  • Patent number: 9259739
    Abstract: Provided is a vertical-type mill whereby abrasion of a hopper and accumulation of coarse particles in the hopper can both be prevented. A vertical-type mill provided with a milling mechanism for milling a material to be milled and obtaining solid particles by meshing of a milling roller or milling ball and a milling table, a classification mechanism having a classifier for classifying milled solid particles and a hopper (11) for collecting coarse particles that are classified by the classifier and dropped downward and leading the coarse particles toward the milling mechanism, a raw material feeding pipe (1) for charging the material to be milled into the milling table, and housings (43a, b), wherein the raw material feeding pipe is provided in the hopper so that the relationship 0.15?L?/L?0.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Hitachi Power Systems, Ltd.
    Inventors: Takashi Aizawa, Takehiro Aoyama, Fumiya Hamanaka
  • Patent number: 9259740
    Abstract: A generally elastic riffle assembly useful with a dry washer is provided with a frame that is receivable within the washer opening through which the mined particulates descend while the washer is agitated to separate the denser particulates and a set of inclined transverse riffles aligned across the frame to form wedge shaped transverse cavities in which the descending particulates are collected. Each of the riffles further include a plurality of generally vertical posts attached to their elevated edges which assist in the separation of the particulate flow and in setting off of the various modes of elastic motion of their corresponding riffle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Inventor: Robert Rieck
  • Patent number: 9259741
    Abstract: There is presented a system 10,100 for sorting microscopic objects 76, 78, 80, where the system comprises a fluid channel 66 with an inlet 68 and an outlet 70, where the fluid channel is arranged for allowing the fluid flow to be laminar. The system furthermore comprises a detection system 52 which enables detecting microscopic objects in the fluid channel and furthermore enables determining their position. The system furthermore comprises a controller 67, such as a computer, which receives the positions and accordingly controls a source of light beams so as to “shoot” light beams towards selected microscopic objects so as to “push” them into a new position. The system thereby enables sorting the selected microscopic objects. In more specific embodiments, the detection system furthermore assigns different categories to different microscopic objects, so as to enable sorting based on multiple categories.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: Danmarks Tekniske Universitet
    Inventor: Jesper Glückstad
  • Patent number: 9259742
    Abstract: A device for collecting particles in air comprising a collecting chamber (4), a capillary tube (12) whereof one end (12.1) terminates in the chamber (4), a collecting electrode, the capillary tube (12) containing polarisable liquid. Sufficient difference in voltage is applied between the liquid and the collecting electrode (16) for a corona effect between the drop of liquid at the end of the capillary tube (12) and the collecting electrode (12) and the spraying of the drop (20) by electrospray. The corona discharge causes flow of air through the collecting chamber (4) and the electrospray ensures wetting of the collecting electrode (16).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignees: Commissariat à l'énergie atomique et aux énergies alternatives, CENTRE NATIONAL DE LA RECHERCHE SCIENTIFIQUE
    Inventors: Jean-Maxime Roux, Jean-Luc Achard
  • Patent number: 9259743
    Abstract: A spray head for a sprayer includes a body portion that receives a supply of fluid and a head portion in fluid communication with the body portion. The head portion of the spray head includes an outer surface which includes a plurality of spray nozzles used to direct a high velocity fluid flow from the spray head and a plurality of spray holes arranged as an outer ring which concentrically surrounds the spray nozzles and directs a lower velocity curtain of water that substantially surrounds the high velocity fluid flow. The lower velocity curtain of water reduces splashing that may result from the high velocity spray directed from the spray nozzles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: KOHLER CO.
    Inventors: Ken S. Hanna, Pete Kajuch, Gregory De Swarte
  • Patent number: 9259744
    Abstract: A pull-out faucet is provided. The faucet includes a spout having an outlet end, a spray head having an engaging end, and a sleeve disposed between the outlet end of the spout and the engaging end of the spray head and configured to detachably couple the spray head to the spout. The sleeve comprises a substantially rigid first portion and a substantially compliant second portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: KOHLER CO.
    Inventor: David E. Hansen
  • Patent number: 9259745
    Abstract: This document discusses, among other things, apparatus and methods for a multi-section applicator having variable-rate sections. In an example, an apparatus can include at least one distribution manifold, a user interface, and an applicator controller. The at least one distribution manifold distributes a substance and can include an inlet port configured to receive the substance, a plurality of outlet ports, one or more sensors located at an outlet port, a controllable valve that supplies the substance to the inlet port. The applicator controller measures a value of the distribution parameter using the sensor signal produced by the at least one sensor of an outlet port, detects when the measured value differs from a specified target value by more than a specified error threshold value, and presents an indication, using the user interface, that the measured value differs from the target value according to the detection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: Raven Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Jared Ernest Kocer, Joshua D. Grabow, Warren L. Thompson, Steve S. Jensen, Patrick A. Hansen, Nicholas O. Michael, Scott Porter, Clarence Walt Fowler, David Anthony Fowler
  • Patent number: 9259746
    Abstract: An adjustable nozzle comprising a nozzle body with an inlet, an outlet and a flow chamber having a smooth bore extending between the inlet and the outlet. An elastic water impervious material is in fluid communication with the inlet and is tapered and is able to expand due to its elasticity. An adjustable non-rusting member connected to the nozzle body expands or constricts to either increase or decrease the inner diameter of the nozzle body to adjust the flow rate through the nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: WaterShield LLC
    Inventor: Robert M. Marino
  • Patent number: 9259747
    Abstract: A fluid control valve, the fluid control valve including a first disc, a fluid inlet, and a second disc slidably coupled to the first disc and movable relative thereto, the second disc located between the fluid inlet and the first disc. The first disc includes a first outlet port coupled to a first outlet, a second outlet port coupled to a second outlet, and a third outlet port coupled to a third outlet. Movement in a first direction of the second disc relative to the first disc fluidly couples the fluid inlet to at least one of the first outlet port, the second outlet port, and the third outlet port, and wherein movement in a second direction of the second disc relative to the first disc controls the volume of fluid flowing from through the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: KOHLER CO.
    Inventor: Perry D. Erickson
  • Patent number: 9259748
    Abstract: An electrostatic spraying device comprises a capillary spray electrode having a spraying end, a reference electrode, and a reservoir in fluid communication with the spray electrode. In use, the electrodes are connected across a generator in order to establish an electronic field between the electrodes and cause fluid in the reservoir to be sprayed from the spray electrode. The spray electrode has a focus that defines a point at which the electronic field is focussed on the spraying end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: Sumitomo Chemical PLC
    Inventor: Alastair Bruce Pirrie
  • Patent number: 9259749
    Abstract: An electrostatic painting apparatus includes a painting gun having at one end thereof a paint spray section, and a connection section detachably connectable to an external paint supply section for receiving a supply of paint from the supply section and supplying the received paint to a paint storage section that stores and supplies the supplied paint to the painting gun. The connection section is surrounded and protected by a peripheral wall, so that paint can pass by the other end of the painting gun without reaching the connection section. Consequently, the connection section can be prevented from being undesirably smeared with the paint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Masashi Takebe, Naoki Kishimoto, Masaaki Shoji, Toshiyuki Kokubo, Takayuki Ueki