With Means To Apply Fluids Both Internally And Externally Patents (Class 134/170)
  • Patent number: 6463944
    Abstract: A retainer for supporting gun parts in an ultrasonic bath is provided with a plurality of supports that retain such gun parts in positions whereby cleaning of such parts by ultrasonic means is optimized. The retainer supports are specifically configured to maximize the removal of dirt and debris from gun parts, and certain supports are adjustable to accommodate a variety of gun makes and models. The retainer is also constructed to prevent direct contact between gun parts, which might otherwise result in unnecessary wearing at such contact locations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2002
    Assignee: Coltene/Whaledent, Inc.
    Inventors: Eric Heiberg, Jerry Sullivan
  • Patent number: 6457497
    Abstract: A filling machine (38) includes at least one filling tube (22), whereby a product flows through the tube, which tube is placed opposite the opening of a receptacle (12) that is to be filled. The filling tube is accommodated in a fixed housing that is joined to a support (34) for the filling tube; the housing possesses an orifice (48) whereby the filling tube is placed opposite thereto and the housing also includes a moveable obturating flap (50) that closes the orifice and seals the housing when in a closed position. The machine includes structure that enables a cleaning agent to be circulated inside the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2002
    Assignee: Sidel
    Inventors: Eric Adriansens, Eric Meunier, Rodolphe Saint-Martin
  • Patent number: 6453953
    Abstract: A flowback method for a product contained in the distribution circuit of a filling machine. The distribution circuit (22, 24, 26, 28, 30) creates an upstream/downstream link between a storage tank for said product and a filling tube (22) that is placed opposite the opening of a receptacle (12) that is to be filled. The method includes a step whereby a closed area around the filling tube (22) is defined by a sealed housing (38). The method further includes a step whereby a circulating liquid is injected into the above-mentioned area under pressure. The liquid passes through an auxiliary port (70), whereupon the product contained in the distribution method (22, 24, 26, 28, 30) flows back in the direction of the storage tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2002
    Assignee: Sidel
    Inventors: Eric Adriansens, Eric Meunier, Rodolphe Saint-Martin
  • Publication number: 20020096193
    Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus and method for treatment of waste from suction canisters. The waste treatment system includes a canister-cleaning and a reservoir chamber. The canister-cleaning chamber holds the suction canister to be treated. The reservoir chamber is fluidly connected to the canister-cleaning chamber and to a water source. The reservoir chamber adapted to be raised and lowered relative to the canister-cleaning chamber to permit cleaning fluids to flow to and from the canister cleaning-chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2001
    Publication date: July 25, 2002
    Inventor: David K. Jeng
  • Patent number: 6422248
    Abstract: The invention concerns a device for cleaning pipette needles or stirrers, the device comprising a trough which holds cleaning fluid and whose lower region has a fluid duct for filling and/or emptying purposes and whose upper region has at least one feed pipe which leads into at least one nozzle directed into the trough interior. Advantageously, the device has a cylindrical trough and an insert with nozzles which is screwed into the trough. The invention further concerns a method of cleaning pipette needles or stirrers, the material to be washed being introduced into the trough interior and sprayed with a washing fluid. The device can also be used to flush the interior of a pipette needle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2002
    Assignee: Roche Diagnostics GmbH
    Inventors: Otto Fürst, Thomas Jäck, Peter Weber, Paul Jansen
  • Patent number: 6418946
    Abstract: An apparatus for cleaning dried photoresist from a photoresist dispensing nozzle. The tip of the photoresist dispensing nozzle is inserted through an opening in a nozzle base. A catch pan is positioned beneath the nozzle base. A solvent dispensing needle is inserted through an opening in the catch pan to face the photoresist dispensing nozzle tip and sprays solvent onto the photoresist dispensing nozzle tip. The catch pan collects the solvent and dissolved photoresist particles. The catch pan includes a drain for draining the solvent and the dissolved photoresist particles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2002
    Assignee: Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.
    Inventors: Vincent L. Marinaro, Eric Kent, Ted Wakamiya
  • Patent number: 6379632
    Abstract: An endoscope cleaning and disinfecting unit has an inlet arranged on its disinfectant solution tank through which a concentrated disinfectant solution is injected into the disinfectant solution tank. A diluting solution supply supplies a diluting solution for diluting the concentrated solution to the disinfectant solution tank and a plurality of level sensors detect the quantity of the disinfectant solution held in the disinfectant solution tank in stages. A control section controls the diluting solution supply based on the information detected by the level sensors to dilute the concentrated solution injected into the disinfectant solution tank through the inlet to a predetermined concentration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2002
    Assignee: Olympus Optical Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Toshiharu Kinoshita, Mikihiko Nakagawa
  • Patent number: 6368556
    Abstract: An apparatus for operative cleaning and preparation of dental handpieces is made as an integrated unit having holding stubs (6) for receiving the handpieces inside a treating chamber (1, 30), which is designed in a pressure resisting manner and with heating means (12, 56) such that it is directly usable for autoclave treatment of the handpieces. Through the holding stubs (6) and in accordance with a control program it is possible to supply warm water and oil to the respective channels in the handpieces. The apparatus may appear as a table unit (32) holding all what is required for a complete cleaning lubrication and sterilization cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2002
    Assignee: Akeda Dental A/S
    Inventor: Per Morgenstjerne
  • Patent number: 6367492
    Abstract: Apparatus for retaining a plastic bag in an opened condition to facilitate cleaning in an automatic dish washer for bag re-use. The apparatus includes an open, segmented framework defining a form structure over which a soiled bag is positioned. First and second parallel frame sidewalls are laterally spaced apart and interconnected such that the form structure corresponds generally in size and shape to the interior of a plastic bag to be positioned thereover so that the form will maintain the bag in an open state. The framework includes a first or upper end and a second or lower end. The upper end is inserted into the open mouth of a soiled plastic bag. The upper end of the framework converges or tapers slightly to facilitate ease of insertion into the open mouth of a soiled plastic bag. The form is inserted into the bag until the mouth of the bag is seated around the second end of the framework.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2002
    Inventor: John D. Brown
  • Patent number: 6361751
    Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus for disinfecting an endoscope with a disinfecting solution, and that minimizes the surface area and air exposure of the disinfecting solution. In architecture, the endoscope disinfecting apparatus includes a disinfecting basin, an endoscope body section, an insertion tube section and a basin lid. The disinfecting basin is for disinfecting the air/water and light tube of the endoscope. The endoscope body section is for disinfecting a body and eye piece of the endoscope, and is connected to the disinfecting basin. The insertion tube section is connected to the endoscope body section and is for disinfecting a insertion tube of the endoscope. A basin lid connects to the disinfecting basin and provides a watertight seal over the disinfecting basin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2002
    Assignee: Next Step Medical Technologies L.L.C.
    Inventor: H. Thomas Hight, III
  • Patent number: 6354312
    Abstract: A connector for use with a lumen device during the cleaning and sterilization of devices is provided. The connector provides fluid communication between a fluid source and the device. In particular, during the cleaning and sterilization cycle, the connection between the connector and the device does not produce occluded areas at the point of connection where the connector is sealably attached to the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2002
    Assignee: Ethicon, Inc.
    Inventors: Szu-Min Lin, Paul T. Jacobs, Paul Leonard, Rodrigo Berho, Douglas W. Fett, Keith Schubert
  • Patent number: 6321761
    Abstract: A machine for washing bottles has a conveyor which advances intermittently from station to station. The conveyor has a carriage extending transversely thereof formed to receive at least one inverted bottle. Full cone spray nozzles located above and below the bottles as they pass along the conveyor spray warmed detergent solution on the exteriors of the bottles at each station. High pressure or solid stream jet nozzles at each stage project a jet of water from below into the inverted open mouth of each bottle at the stage to thoroughly clean the interior of each bottle. To counterbalance the forces of the jets below, which tend to lift the bottles off the conveyor, a jet of fluid from above impacts the inverted bottom of each bottle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2001
    Assignee: Portola Packaging, Inc.
    Inventors: Frank M. Brenkus, Craig B. Garrett
  • Publication number: 20010042561
    Abstract: To completely disinfect a soft cable and a forceps hole of the used endoscope.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Inventors: Kazutoshi Kaketani, Osamu Emoto
  • Patent number: 6314970
    Abstract: A recycling, pressure cleaning system for micro dispensing tips wherein the cleaning fluid is drawn into a plunger assembly from around the submerged, micro dispensing tip, and then, under high pressure created by pressing down on the plunger, the cleaning fluid is pressurized to move rapidly through the micro dispensing tip. This pressurized fluid moving rapidly through the tip and hypo combination, forces the removal of contaminants. The procedure is repeatable. The cleaning fluid(s) remain contained within the unit. The operator and surrounding environment are protected from release of the cleaning fluid(s) and/or contaminants. The entire top section of the cleaning unit is easily removed by rotating the top section a small amount from the bottom. This allows the operator ease in access to the micro dispensing tip during attachment, removal, and inspection. In addition, removal of the contaminated waste fluid and cleaning efficiency of the cleaning apparatus is increased.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2001
    Inventor: Alan L. Everett
  • Patent number: 6296000
    Abstract: A pre-clean deluge system for cleaning automobile white bodies including a cleaning solution filtration and distribution system. The filtration system includes a series of filters specially adapted to remove metal particles from the cleaning solution. The distribution system includes deluge cannons that are position so as to deliver cleaning solution to the interior of the white body in a location during the white body travel so that the particles flushed therefrom are introduced into a small tank prior to a main tank in which the white body is subsequently immersed. The distribution system also provides regulated flow of cleaning solution to the deluge cannons, as well as a bypass to facilitate cycling of cleaning solution for end-of-shift filtration purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2001
    Assignee: Honda of America Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: John McTighe, Derek Heath, Jeff McKinley, Shawn Guthrie, Gene Hunt
  • Patent number: 6280688
    Abstract: A device for rinsing sample processing components of an analytical instruments including an inlet coupleable to a fluid source, an outlet coupleable to sample processing components of an analytical instrument, and a fluid reservoir between the inlet and outlet. The device includes a heater coupled to the fluid reservoir and the fluid reservoir includes at least two reservoir chambers connected in series and separated by a restricted passageway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2001
    Assignee: Tekmar Company
    Inventor: Martin B. Motz
  • Patent number: 6276373
    Abstract: An apparatus for washing glasses and other articles, includes a washing compartment and a plurality of fluid outlets. A tray for retaining the glasses and other articles is positionable in the washing compartment. The tray has at least one fluid directing nozzle which is alignable with the fluid outlets in the washing compartment to permit fluid to flow from the nozzles through the tray and to direct the fluid into contact with the glasses and other articles. In a preferred embodiment, at least a portion of the fluid contacts the glasses substantially tangentially. A method for washing glasses and other articles is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2001
    Inventor: Bradley L. Gotfried
  • Patent number: 6250315
    Abstract: A device for cleaning a nasal coagulator or similar instrument. The nasal coagulator is of the type that has a generally cylindrical sidewall defining a bore, in which char or the like accumulates. The device has a generally cylindrical sidewall which defines a chamber, and a flared trumpet-like ending. A prong is located within the chamber, and two slit apertures are foxed in the sidewall to communicate the chamber and the exterior of the device. In use, the coagulator is inserted into the cleaning device so that that the prong loosens any char, and the coagulator is rotated so that the char exits the slit apertures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2001
    Inventor: Joel A. Ernster
  • Patent number: 6250316
    Abstract: The invention relates to a transfer label including a backing layer and a transfer layer which is releasably attached to the backing layer. The transfer layer includes an ink layer and on each side of the ink layer a top and bottom containment layer. The top and bottom containment layer contact one another outside the perimeter of the ink layer to form a closed envelop around the ink layer. The transfer label according to the present invention can be applied to a container such as a crate and can be easily removed therefrom in a washing process without the ink dissolving in the wash liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2001
    Assignee: Heineken Technical Services B.V.
    Inventors: Thomas Lynn Brandt, Neal Donald Turner, Erwin Anton Rosens, Patrick Johannes Blom
  • Patent number: 6248177
    Abstract: A method of cleaning a wafer carrier utilizes two isolated fluidic circuits. The wafer carrier having an interior and an exterior. The carrier is sealingly attached to a cleaning apparatus having separate isolated areas, one isolated area including the interior and the other the exterior. Fluid of the first fluidic circuit is sprayed on the interior and fluid from the second circuit is sprayed on the exterior reducing cross contamination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2001
    Assignee: Fluoroware, Inc.
    Inventor: David L. Halbmaier
  • Patent number: 6216710
    Abstract: A method of removing liquid from pores contained in a permeable metal part is disclosed. The part has a tubular construction defining an interior surface and an exterior surface having an upper end opening and a lower end opening at an opposite end thereof. The method includes the step of sealing the upper end opening and the lower end opening of the permeable metal part so as to define an closed interior chamber. The method further includes the steps of injecting a cleaning fluid into the closed interior chamber. The method yet further includes the step of pressurizing the interior chamber with a gas at a pressure sufficient to cause the cleaning fluid to permeate through the pores from the interior surface to the exterior surface. The liquid is forced through the exterior surface and removed from the pores. An apparatus for removing quench oil from a permeable metal part is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2001
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Scott E. White, Harold E. Winkler
  • Patent number: 6200468
    Abstract: A liquid treatment apparatus comprising a gas distribution network in a water impound; a device for introducing treating gas into the network; a source of cleaning agent; a device for intermittently introducing the cleaning agent into the network alone or in admixture with the treating gas; a plurality of synthetic thermoplastic or thermoset resin plenums; a plurality of a least ten diffusion elements sealingly engaged and in communication with the plenums for receiving the treating gas and cleaning agent, the elements having air diffusion pores extending therethrough, but being free of through-holes other than air diffusion pores, the pores defining paths for discharge of the treating gas and cleaning agent and which exhibit an increase in dynamic wet pressure and/or bubble release pressure as a result of deposition of foulants; retaining ring engaging the diffusion elements about their peripheries for securing the elements to the plenums; sealing device adjacent the peripheries of the diffusion elements for
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2001
    Assignee: Sanitaire Corporation
    Inventors: Frank L. Schmit, Lloyd Ewing, David T. Redmon
  • Patent number: 6199562
    Abstract: An apparatus including a dispense line, a solvent line, and a solvent vapor bath having a purge section is disclosed. The purge section of the apparatus has a cleaning member disposed therein containing at least one dispense hole corresponding to the dispense line. The purge section contains a plurality of ports to receive the dispense line and the solvent line. The solvent line is directed toward the cleaning member when the dispense line extends through the dispense hole. A method of cleaning a dispense line is also disclosed. In the method, a solvent vapor bath comprising a purge region having a cleaning member disposed therein and containing at least one dispense hole is provided. The purge region contains a plurality of ports to receive the dispense line and a solvent line, the solvent line being directed toward the cleaning member when the at least one dispense line extends through the at least one dispense hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2001
    Assignee: Micron Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Bruce L. Hayes, Mark V. Peckham
  • Patent number: 6179017
    Abstract: A filling assembly for an aseptically operating deep-drawing packing machine, wherein a conveying region for the web of packing sheet is provided within a pipe held in sterile condition. Arranged behind a packing sheet-forming station is a filling station comprising at least one loading tube stationary with respect to the conveying region yet displaceable in a direction vertical to the conveying region. In order to enable the packing machine to continue to run also during cleaning of the filling station, two filling stations are arranged in series on the pipe maintained in sterile condition within openings displaceable on the sterile pipe above the conveying region. Only one of the said filling stations is respectively in the operating position while the other of said filling stations is in the cleaning position. The filling stations in view of their displaceable openings on the sterile pipe are reciprocable between an operating position and a cleaning position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2001
    Assignee: Hassia Verpackungsmaschinen GmbH
    Inventor: Peter Walter
  • Patent number: 6170494
    Abstract: A storage apparatus for photoresist dispensing nozzles has solvent inlets positioned directly opposite the nozzles when the nozzles are in their home positions. Photoresist cleaning solvent is introduced through these inlets at periodic intervals and directly applied on the nozzles to keep them clean.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2001
    Assignee: Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.
    Inventors: Vincent L. Marinaro, Eric Kent, Ted Wakamiya
  • Patent number: 6116858
    Abstract: A jet finishing machine comprises: a water nozzle (1) for spouting a water jet flow of water in a liquid phase; a steam nozzle (3) for increasing the speed of a steam flow (4) in a gas phase to an ultrasonic speed to produce a steam jet flow (11) and for spouting the steam jet flow in excess of a thermal equilibrium with the water jet flow; and a mixing nozzle (2) for mixing the steam jet flow with the water jet flow so as to allow the steam jet flow to accelerate the water jet flow to form a two-phase jet flow (12) of the water jet flow and the steam jet flow and for directly spouting the two-phase jet flow onto a work piece (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2000
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventor: Tadashi Narabayashi
  • Patent number: 6090213
    Abstract: An automated cleaning system for parts is disclosed. The parts to be cleaned are elongated tubes closed on one end which are mounted upside down on nozzles on a fixture. The fixture is placed in a wash tank where cleaning fluid is forced through the nozzles and into the insides of the parts. Ultrasonic techniques are also employed to assist in the cleaning. The fixture is moved to the next tank where rinse fluid is forced through nozzles. Again, ultrasonic techniques are used in the rinse tank. The fixture is placed in the drying tank where heated air is circulated into the tank while a vacuum is applied to the nozzles to draw out the heated air through the nozzles. Humidity from ambient air is isolated by virtue of the heated inlet air to the drying tank and an operable lid on the dry tank. Numerous parts can be processed at once in an automatic system which provides an improved technique for cleaning the parts while shortening the cycle time for the entire process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2000
    Inventor: Lee Moyers
  • Patent number: 6068815
    Abstract: A system for reprocessing and sterilizing a previously used endoscope having at least one lumen is disclosed. The reprocessing system includes a reaction chamber into which individual chemical components of a sterilant are transferred by pneumatic force. The system includes a central processor which controls the asynchronous reprocessing and sterilization of at least two endoscopes. A novel sterilant is also disclosed. Also disclosed is a combination of the sterilization device and the sterilant and methods of using the same.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2000
    Assignee: Minntech Corporation
    Inventors: Raymond Paul Oberleitner, John E. Marxer, Ward J. Sly, Patricia M. Stanley, Gregory Worsnick, Kurt J. Weimer, Bruce D. Martin, Mary Beth B. Henderson, Bradley K. Onstad
  • Patent number: 6066298
    Abstract: It is an object to provide an apparatus adaptable to an apparatus for analyzing liquid samples in the chemical field or the biochemical field, and capable of performing pretreatment, such as washing of the needle and diluting of the collected sample.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2000
    Assignee: Tosoh Corporation
    Inventor: Shingo Fukunaga
  • Patent number: 6066294
    Abstract: An apparatus for the sterilization of a medical device includes a multi-chambered compartment having at least a first and a second rigid chamber therein. Each of the first and second chambers is adapted to independently serve as a sterilization chamber and can be operated independently. The apparatus also has a removable interface between the first and second chamber. The interface can have an opening for receiving a lumen device in such a way that the first and second chamber is put in fluid communication through the lumen. A source of sterilant is also included in the apparatus. This source is adapted to provide the sterilant in the first and/or second chamber. Containers sealed with gas-permeable, but microorganism-impermeable membrane can be used in the apparatus so that the sterility of the devices in the container is kept after the completion of a sterilization cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2000
    Assignee: Ethicon, Inc.
    Inventors: Szu-Min Lin, Paul Taylor Jacobs
  • Patent number: 6045698
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method of cleaning a filtration installation of the type including a plurality of immersed membranes in at least one tank containing an effluent to be filtered, said method being characterised in that it includes the steps consisting of:at least partially draining the effluent contained in said tank in a way that exposes said membranes to the air;causing at least one cleaning solution to pass through said membranes along a flow path opposite to the filtration flow of the effluent by feeding in said cleaning solution from the permeate side of said membranes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2000
    Assignee: Omnium de Traitements et de Valorization (oTV)
    Inventors: Pierre Cote, Annie Tazi-Pain, Patricia Grelier
  • Patent number: 6041797
    Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus for cleaning a vacuum drum used for transferring gummed labels. The apparatus operates by sealing the drum and backwashing a cleaning fluid through the vacuum ports to unplug the perimeter holes. The apparatus comprises a cylindrical housing closed on one end by a plate and, on the opposing end, by a detachable lid. A drum seat, the size of which corresponds to the size of the vacuum drum to be washed, is locked to the bottom of the housing. The drum seat has an inlet for receiving the cleaning fluid and means for dispensing the received fluid to the vacuum ports of the vacuum drum under pressure. Initially, the cleaning fluid is heated to dissolve the adhesive. Subsequently, a cooler liquid is flushed through the vacuum drum to cool it for handling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2000
    Inventor: David S Casselman
  • Patent number: 6035870
    Abstract: The invention relates to a rinsing device for trocar sleeves. A rinsing and accommodating tube for a trocar sleeve integrated into a basket system may be pivoted from a horizontal rinsing position into a vertical equipping and removal position by way of a pivoting part which is pivotably mounted on a base. All disassemblable individual parts of the trocar sleeve are mounted in a basket system with point contact free of areas shaded to rinsing and may after assembly of the individual parts remain in the basket for sterilization.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2000
    Assignee: Richard Wolf GmbH
    Inventor: Harry Monch
  • Patent number: 6014994
    Abstract: The operation of filling plants for filling drinks or other foods is subject to stringent regulations under the law on foodstuffs. In this connection, an essential aspect is the cleanness of the filling plant, which consists of a filler and a conveyor. To clean a filling plant, it is known to provide four separate cleaning systems with four separate supply stations and control systems as well as line systems.The invention provides, for all partial cleaning systems in a common central cleaning circuit (40a, 57), a common supply station (10) comprising the componentsfresh water container (12)storage containers (13-16)heating station (29)dosing station (27),which can selectively be connected to or disconnected from the cleaning circuit by means of valves and rotary valve flaps, as well as a programme control system (11) as well as a common partial line system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2000
    Assignee: DiverseyLever, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael G. Schmidt
  • Patent number: 6003531
    Abstract: There is disclosed a pipette-washing device for use with an automatic biochemical analyzer. The pipette-washing device includes a wash fluid-ejecting block for ejecting a wash fluid toward pipette. An upwardly spreading groove is formed in the top surface of the body of the block and extends along the trajectory of the front end of the pipette. The groove is connected at its lower end with the vertical wash fluid channel. A lateral draining channel is formed in the body of the block and connected with the lower end of the vertical wash fluid channel. When the pipette moves, the front end of the pipette moves through the groove. The block is inclined at an angle to the vertical within a plane in which the groove extends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 21, 1999
    Assignee: JEOL Ltd.
    Inventors: Akio Kimura, Shin Saito
  • Patent number: 6003530
    Abstract: A washing apparatus for spray guns and their components wherein a washing operation is provided which is realized by feeding clean liquid and air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 21, 1999
    Assignee: Rosauto S.R.L.
    Inventor: Rosa Giuseppe
  • Patent number: 5985038
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for cleaning hollow elements (6), such as medical instruments having cannulae, is disclosed in which a pulsed flow of cleaning fluid is passed through the element while ultrasonic waves are simultaneously applied to the fluid. The ultrasonic waves loosen any debris during the time when the fluid is substantially at rest, and the pulses of fluid then remove the debris. The apparatus can include a tank (2) containing cleaning fluid (3) into which the element is placed, the cleaning fluid being pumped from the tank into the hollow element. The frequency of the fluid pulses is preferably between zero and 300 Hz, and that of the ultrasonic waves is preferably greater than 15 kHz.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Inventor: Lawrence Ralph Dawson
  • Patent number: 5970995
    Abstract: A kit for removing calcium deposits in a shower head extending from a shower arm without removing the shower head from the shower arm. The kit includes a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is replaceably attached to the shower arm, adjacent the shower head. The second portion is replaceably suspended from the first portion and receives the shower head and is filled with a mild acid, with the shower head submerged therein, so as to allow the mild acid to dissolve the calcium deposits in the shower head soaking in the mild acid in the second portion, without having to remove the shower head from the shower arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1999
    Inventor: William W. Schy
  • Patent number: 5968458
    Abstract: Apparatus for sterilizing specula is described. The apparatus comprises a bath suitable for containing disinfectant solution; a plurality speculum supporting means located within the bath; a rotatable plate located above the speculum supporting means, the rotatable plate having an aperture disposed in such a manner that on rotation of the plate, the aperture may be moved from a position above a first speculum supporting means to a position above a second speculum supporting means; and means for rotating the rotatable plate in one direction only.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 19, 1999
    Inventor: Ahmed Adnan Shaikho
  • Patent number: 5964257
    Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus and a method for cleaning a liquid dispensing nozzle that is utilized in semiconductor process machines by providing a cleaning solvent reservoir tank capable of receiving a dispensing nozzle and then flowing a cleaning solvent through the nozzle under pressure, and then purging through the dispensing nozzle with a processing fluid to later be utilized such that any residual cleaning solvent is purged out of the dispensing nozzle to prevent the possible back-flow or syphoning of the cleaning solvent into a processing fluid supply and the dilution of such processing fluid. The present invention apparatus is further equipped with a cleaning solvent buffer tank for holding and feeding a cleaning solvent to the reservoir tank such that the pressure in the reservoir tank can be suitably controlled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 12, 1999
    Assignee: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company, Ltd.
    Inventors: Hsun-Peng Lin, Fu-Tein Wung, Chih-Hsiung Lee
  • Patent number: 5961937
    Abstract: A device for the sterilization of a dental, medical or similar instrument comprising a chamber (4), preferably frusto-conical in shape or downward tapering, with two walls (1, 2) separated by a hollow space, subdivided along axis into smaller spaces (3', 3", 3'", 3""), connected to the interior of the chamber by rings of holes (5', 5", 5'", 5"") with downward pointing jets, and passing at a distance (e) from the axis (K) of the chamber (4). These jets sterilize the entire internal and external surface area of the instrument along it length. The pressure upstream of the holes (5', 5", 5'", 5""), their diameter and direction, ensures that the lower and more contaminated part of the instrument is more thoroughly treated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 5, 1999
    Assignee: Bitiess Microtecnica S.A.
    Inventor: Luciano Gobbato
  • Patent number: 5947137
    Abstract: A draw-tube solvent retaining and draining cover is disclosed, comprised of a main body, of a generally linearly elongated, cylindrical, hollow configuration. The main body is of sufficient length to allow a conventional pick-up tube to pass through the main body and into a paint can. Grooves to improve gripping are located on the exterior circumferential surface of the main body. The main body is comprised of an upper portion and a lower portion, which connect via mated threads on the bottom of the upper portion and the top of the lower portion. An upper cap is located on the top of the upper portion, releasable secured to the top portion of the main body via mated threads. The upper cap is releasably secured to the packing cylinder of the majority of airless sprayers via a universal attachment means. The upper cap has a pick-up tube hole and a return hose hole. O-rings are located between the various components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1999
    Inventor: Tim Sheafer
  • Patent number: 5948358
    Abstract: There is disclosed a washing device for use with an automatic biochemical analyzer using reaction containers. The washing device comprises a sucking portion and a draining tube. When the sucking portion is advanced into any one reaction container placed in position and is set in a given position, a communication passage is created between the inner wall surface of the container and the outer wall surface of the sucking portion and between the bottom surface of the container and the bottom surface of the sucking portion. During draining, the container is depleted of wash liquid. Outside air flows from the communication passage into the container through its opening at the top end at a flow rate more than a given value. The air flow blows away the water droplets adhering to the inner wall surface of the container. The blown water droplets are urged downward toward the sucking port in the suction portion. Then, the water droplets are discharged into a waste tank through the draining tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1999
    Assignee: Jeol Ltd.
    Inventor: Shin Saito
  • Patent number: 5941290
    Abstract: An apparatus and a system for cleaning or sanitizing industrial filling equipment is described. The apparatus is a movable arm spray manifold which is used to position a spray manifold below a filling valve of a filling machine and a clean interior portion of the filling station. The system may couple the movable arm spray manifold with one or more stationary arm spray manifolds to provide a cleaning system for the filling station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 24, 1999
    Assignee: Diversey Lever, Inc.
    Inventor: Clifford Elmer Vaughn, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5937875
    Abstract: An apparatus for cleaning a sprayer, the sprayer having a material inlet, comprising a housing, a rack within the housing for supporting the sprayer, an adapter having one end adapted to connect to the material inlet of the sprayer, a tube within the housing having one end connected to the other end of the adapter, a solvent supply, and means for circulating solvent connecting the solvent supply to the tube, for circulating solvent from said solvent supply, through the tube and the adapter, and into the sprayer. The apparatus includes a sprayer trigger holder, comprising a unitary, resilient, spring wire clip, having at one end a C-shaped portion for holding the trigger in a retracted position, and the other end of the wire clip having a hook-shaped portion for hanging the sprayer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1999
    Inventor: Richard Nygren
  • Patent number: 5906802
    Abstract: An improved cleaning and sterilizing apparatus adapted for cleaning and sterilizing medical instruments in which a wash cycle and rinse cycle are repeated if proper cleaning of the instrument has not been obtained. Using a turbidity monitor or comparable instrument, an indicia representative of the particles in the rinse water is obtained. If the indicia does not meet some pre-defined standard, such as those set by the Food and Drug Administration, then the wash/rinse cycles are repeated. This is done either until the standards are met or for a certain number of times. If the standards are met, then the medical instrument is sterilized for later use. In the preferred embodiment, proper sterilization is monitored by the turbidity monitor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 25, 1999
    Inventor: Terrence R. Langford
  • Patent number: 5902547
    Abstract: A method for disinfecting a needle of a tagging gun is disclosed. The device used in the method includes a container having sides, a bottom and an open end opposite the bottom. A user breakable capsule is located inside the container with a liquid disinfectant inside the capsule. A needle penetratable seal seals the open end of the container until such time as the device is needed. When the capsule is broken, the disinfectant is released into the container and the tagging gun needle is pushed through the seal into contact with the disinfectant. In the preferred embodiment, a finger guard is attached adjacent to the open end of the container for helping to prevent the user from contacting the point of the needle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 11, 1999
    Assignee: Bryan D. Hill
    Inventor: Bryan D. Hill
  • Patent number: 5882597
    Abstract: In a preferred embodiment, a bioassay plate washer, including: a housing; a first wash assembly disposed in the housing; the first wash assembly including wash and aspirate manifolds having defined therein, respectively, a wash liquid chamber and a vacuum chamber; a plurality of wash needles for communication between the wash liquid chamber and a first point below the first wash assembly; a plurality of aspirate needles for communication between the vacuum chamber and a second point below the first point; and each one of the plurality of aspirate needles being disposed internally of each one of the wash needles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 16, 1999
    Inventor: Thomas W. Astle
  • Patent number: 5882589
    Abstract: A device for cleaning, disinfecting, and/or drying an endoscope consists of a basin supported on a base. The basin forms a channel that defines a teardrop shape. The device includes a lid that sealingly engages the basin. During operation, the endoscope to be cleaned is completely immersed in cleaning solution in the basin. The basin includes injectors arranged so as to create a rotating flow of cleaning liquid and sterile rinsing water or recycled drying air within the channel. The vessel also includes injection nozzles that attach to various inlets of the endoscope to inject products at specified pressures and to continuously test the tightness of the seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 16, 1999
    Assignee: Leon Shipper
    Inventor: Bernard Mariotti
  • Patent number: 5875800
    Abstract: A cleaning device for cutlery, includes a cleaning chamber with a spraying device acting in the cleaning chamber, the cleaning chamber being disposed so that it can be removed from the cleaning device. Also in a method for cleaning and disinfecting cutlery, the disinfecting and the cleaning are carried out consecutively in this or in the reverse order in the same cleaning chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 2, 1999
    Inventor: Jan Hendrik Hulskotte