Miscellaneous Patents (Class 209/1)
  • Patent number: 11383247
    Abstract: A device and method for extracting particles contained in a ferrofluid medium are provided. Such methods may comprise suspending particles of different sizes in a ferrofluid medium and containing the ferrofluid medium in a cylindrical reservoir, and applying a first magnetic field to at least a portion of the reservoir. The first magnetic field is configured to indirectly exert a force on at least a portion of the particles of a predetermined size, and direct the portion of particles in a desired direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2022
    Assignee: ANCERA, LLC
    Inventor: Hur Koser
  • Patent number: 11135596
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a process for separating particles using a wet density-based separation device, wherein at least part of said particles are coated prior to being fed to said density-based separation device. In accordance with the invention separation medium that is employed in density-based separation processes can be saved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2021
    Assignee: Feelgood Metals B.V.
    Inventors: Jelle Sernee, Jaap Korneel Vandehoek
  • Patent number: 10717090
    Abstract: A method of depressing copper sulfides and iron sulfides in a molybdenite flotation recovery process that uses alkaline or alkaline earth polysulfides. The method of enriching molybdenite content from a slurry having molybdenite and at least one of iron sulfides and copper sulfides can include the steps of adding an effective amount of a depressing reagent selected from one or more alkaline polysulfides, alkaline earth polysulfides, or a mixture thereof, to the slurry, wherein the pH of the slurry is greater than about 8.0; and passing a gas through the slurry to separate material by selective flotation, and recovering the molybdenite from a froth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2020
    Assignee: Tessenderlo Kerley, Inc.
    Inventors: Alexandros Dimitriadis, Theodore E. Cook
  • Patent number: 10668481
    Abstract: A system and method for magnetic density separation of products. The system including a magnet configured to amplify a density gradient in a magnetic liquid for separating the products in the magnetic liquid according to their different density. A plate shape is disposed along a product path where respective products travel through the magnetic liquid. A driving mechanism is configured to drive the plate shape with a reciprocating motion for lowering a static friction of the respective products coming into contact with the plate shape. Accordingly, process continuity can be improved while maintaining a high separation efficiency, in particular by alleviating material build-up and clogging of products at the splitter and other surfaces with minimal disturbance to the process flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2020
    Assignee: FEELGOOD METALS B.V.
    Inventors: Peter Carlo Rem, Simon Petrus Maria Berkhout
  • Patent number: 10502665
    Abstract: The present invention relates to systems and methods for collecting and analyzing bioaerosols, including exhaled breath aerosol from a subject. The collection system comprises an inlet portion configured to receive a gaseous fluid containing water vapor and aerosol particles. A primary passage for gaseous fluid flow is in fluid communication with the inlet portion and configured to channel the gaseous fluid flow therethrough. An outlet portion is in fluid communication with the primary passage. A sample collection region is provided, which is configured to receive from the outlet portion aerosol particles from the gaseous fluid, wherein the aerosol particles are impacted onto a layer of ice.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2019
    Assignees: University of Maryland, College Park, Aerosol Dynamics, Inc.
    Inventors: Donald K. Milton, Somayeh Youssefi, Susanne V. Hering, Gregory S. Lewis
  • Patent number: 10350611
    Abstract: Methods for separating particles in a ferrofluid, along with apparatus for performing the same, are provided. The method may include introducing the ferrofluid through a separation tube; applying a magnetic field to the separation tube such that a fluid constriction is created within the tube that leads to a density gradient in the fluid with a maximum value (dmax) at some region along the tube; and introducing a plurality of particles into the ferrofluid within the separation tube such that particles having densities greater than dmax flow through the ferrofluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2019
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: Paul Gregory Roth
  • Patent number: 10287522
    Abstract: A system for preparing a coal water slurry, comprising: a first unit for providing a stream of coarse coal water slurry; a second unit for providing a stream of fine coal water slurry; a concentration unit for receiving a portion of at least one of the stream of coarse coal water slurry and the stream of fine coal water slurry, and, providing a concentrated stream having a higher coal concentration than the portion of at least one of the stream of coarse coal water slurry and the stream of fine coal water slurry; and a mixing unit for mixing the concentrated stream and the remaining portions of the stream of coarse coal water slurry and the stream of fine coal water slurry. An associated method is also presented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2019
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Xijing Bi, Junli Xue, Dejia Wang, Raul Eduardo Ayala
  • Patent number: 10155222
    Abstract: The disclosure describes a prism containing a microfluidic channel. By coupling bulk acoustic wave generators to opposing sides of the prism, a standing bulk acoustic wave field can be excited in the prism and in the microfluidic channel. Because the microfluidic channel is titled with respect to the nodes of the bulk acoustic wave field, the prism microfluidic channel device can be used to separate microparticles and biological cells by size, compressibility, density, shape, or mass distribution. This technology enables high throughput cell sorting for biotechnology applications such as cancer cell detection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2018
    Assignee: CARNEGIE MELLON UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Erin R. Dauson, David W. Greve, Irving J. Oppenheim, Kelvin B. Gregory, Gregory P. Healy
  • Patent number: 10138077
    Abstract: A pneumatic conveying apparatus operable to transport material from a supply source to a process which requires a rate of change of feed rate far in excess of what is possible from a typical pneumatic conveying system and pipeline alone, and for a process where storage of large volumes of material directly adjacent to the process feed point is either not possible or disadvantageous. The pneumatic conveying apparatus (100; 101;102) comprises at least one conduit (11) and a compression device (8) operable to supply and transport pneumatic media through at least one conduit (11). The supply source (1) may be a feed hopper and is operable to discharge material into the pneumatic conveying system downstream of the supply source. In the pneumatic conveying system at least one vessel (9; 9A, 9B; 20) is arranged to receive material from the supply source (1) and to discharge material to at least one conduit (11).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2018
    Assignee: Schenck Process UK Limited
    Inventors: Richard Ellis, Brian Snowdon
  • Patent number: 10132782
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus for field-flow fractionation and to a method for separating samples by means of field-flow fractionation using this apparatus. The apparatuses of the invention comprise a separation channel which, in addition to a first outlet for sample-containing solvent, comprises a second outlet for sample-free solvent, wherein the second outlet is arranged in a region of the separation channel from which sample-free solvent may be removed during elution and a flow volume control device is arranged downstream of the second outlet. They are characterized in that the flow volume control device is a mass flow controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: Postnova Analytics GmbH
    Inventors: Roland Welz, Thorsten Klein
  • Patent number: 10124311
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for using acoustic radiation forces to order particles suspended in a host liquid are described. The particles may range in size from nanometers to millimeters, and may have any shape. The suspension is placed in an acoustic resonator cavity, and acoustical energy is supplied thereto using acoustic transducers. The resulting pattern may be fixed by using a solidifiable host liquid, forming thereby a solid material. Patterns may be quickly generated; typical times ranging from a few seconds to a few minutes. In a one-dimensional arrangement, parallel layers of particles are formed. With two and three dimensional transducer arrangements, more complex particle configurations are possible since different standing-wave patterns may be generated in the resonator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2018
    Assignee: Los Alamos National Security, LLC
    Inventors: Naveen N. Sinha, Dipen N. Sinha, Greg R. Goddard
  • Patent number: 10082016
    Abstract: A composition for stabilizing dispersed particles in an ionically charged solution is disclosed. The composition includes a carbonaceous substrate, the carbonaceous substrate operable to undergo a grafting-to approach for functionalization. The composition also includes a covalently bound stabilizing polymer, the covalently bound stabilizing polymer operable to be prepared as a diazonium salt for grafting to the carbonaceous substrate and a plurality of positively and negatively charged subgroups, the plurality of positively and negatively charged subgroups positioned within the covalently bound stabilizing polymer, where the plurality of positively and negatively charged subgroups are operable to stabilize the dispersed particles amongst positively and negatively charged ions within the ionically charged solution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2018
    Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil Company
    Inventors: Carlos A. Zuniga, John B. Goods, Jason R. Cox, Timothy M. Swager
  • Patent number: 9752113
    Abstract: Acoustic perfusion devices for separating biological cells from other material in a fluid mixture are disclosed. The devices include an inlet port, an outlet port, and a collection port that are connected to an acoustic chamber. An ultrasonic transducer creates an acoustic standing wave in the acoustic chamber that permits a continuous flow of fluid to be recovered through the collection port while keeping the biological cells within the acoustic chamber to be returned to the bioreactor from which the fluid mixture is being drawn.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2017
    Assignee: FloDesign Sonics, Inc.
    Inventors: Bart Lipkens, Erik Miller, Benjamin Ross-Johnsrud, Walter M. Presz, Jr., Kedar Chitale, Thomas J. Kennedy, III, Lauren Winiarski
  • Patent number: 9738866
    Abstract: Acoustic perfusion devices for separating biological cells from other material in a fluid mixture are disclosed. The devices include an inlet port, an outlet port, and a collection port that are connected to an acoustic chamber. An ultrasonic transducer creates an acoustic standing wave in the acoustic chamber that permits a continuous flow of fluid to be recovered through the collection port while keeping the biological cells within the acoustic chamber to be returned to the bioreactor from which the fluid mixture is being drawn.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Assignee: FloDesign Sonics, Inc.
    Inventors: Bart Lipkens, Erik Miller, Benjamin Ross-Johnsrud, Walter M. Presz, Jr., Kedar Chitale, Thomas J. Kennedy, III, Lauren Winiarski
  • Patent number: 9587192
    Abstract: Fine coal particles are dewatered by mechanically removing water from the coal particles by vibration assisted vacuum dewatering to form a coal particle filter cake. The filter cake typically has a water content less than 35% by weight, suitable for extrusion to form discrete, non-tacky pellets. The vibration assisted vacuum dewatering may operate at a vibration frequency in the range from about 1 Hz to about 500 Hz. The vibration frequency may be adjusted during the dewatering process. In some embodiments, the vibration frequency is increased as the moisture content of the coal particle filter cake is decreased. Washing the filter cake during dewatering removes soluble contaminants. Various vibration assisted vacuum dewatering devices may be used, including a vibration assisted rotary vacuum dewatering drum, a vibration assisted vacuum disk filter, and a vibration assisted vacuum conveyor system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: EARTH TECHNOLOGIES USA LIMITED
    Inventors: James S. Swensen, Simon K. Hodson, Jonathan K. Hodson
  • Patent number: 9561511
    Abstract: The present invention is a method for applying a gradient magnetic field to a paramagnetic supporting liquid containing a mixture of first particles and second particles to separate the mixture by particle type. A magnetic susceptibility of the first particles is lower than that of the liquid, and a magnetic susceptibility of the second particles is higher than that of the liquid. A gradient magnetic field is applied to the liquid in a separation tank provided with a magnetic filter and the liquid is stirred. The first particles float in the liquid by a magneto-Archimedes effect. A horizontal magnetic force acts on the first particles by the gradient magnetic field, so that the first particles travel to a region lateral to or outward from the magnetic filter and are gathered in the region. The magnetic filter is excited by the gradient magnetic field to catch the second particles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2017
    Assignees: UBE INDUSTRIES, LTD., OSAKA UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Shigehiro Nishijima, Fumihito Mishima, Koji Kaiso, Toshihiro Shimakawa
  • Patent number: 9535000
    Abstract: Systems, including apparatus and methods, for the microfluidic manipulation, dispensing, and/or sorting of particles, such as cells and/or beads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc.
    Inventors: Kun Guo, Amir M. Sadri, Daniel Y. Chu, Nenad Kircanski, Paul J. Patt, Tal Rosenzweig
  • Patent number: 9440263
    Abstract: Systems, methods and computer readable media for material separation and conveying using tuned waves are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Inventors: Spencer Allen Miller, Reza Khoshnoodi
  • Patent number: 9199217
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for using acoustic radiation forces to order particles suspended in a host liquid are described. The particles may range in size from nanometers to millimeters, and may have any shape. The suspension is placed in an acoustic resonator cavity, and acoustical energy is supplied thereto using acoustic transducers. The resulting pattern may be fixed by using a solidifiable host liquid, forming thereby a solid material. Patterns may be quickly generated; typical times ranging from a few seconds to a few minutes. In a one-dimensional arrangement, parallel layers of particles are formed. With two and three dimensional transducer arrangements, more complex particle configurations are possible since different standing-wave patterns may be generated in the resonator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2015
    Assignee: LOS ALAMOS NATIONAL SECURITY, LLC
    Inventors: Naveen N. Sinha, Dipen N. Sinha, Gregory Russ Goddard
  • Patent number: 8893893
    Abstract: A method of controlling operation of a froth floatation cell for separating substances comprises introducing gas into liquid in the cell, creating a froth controlling gas flow rate into the cell in order to maximize gas recovery for the cell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Assignee: Imperial Innovations Limited
    Inventor: Johannes Jacobus Le Roux Cilliers
  • Patent number: 8868231
    Abstract: In a system, one or more robotic arms are positioned adjacent a transport surface that is moving workpieces, and one or more picking elements are connected to each of the robotic arms. The picking elements have physical picking features that remove the workpieces from the transport surface and move the workpieces to another location. A controller is operatively connected to the robotic arms and the picking elements, and the controller independently controls the robotic arms and the picking elements to dynamically position the picking elements in coordination with a dynamic size, spacing, and transport speed of the workpieces being moved by the transport surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: Xerox Corporation
    Inventors: Kenneth P. Moore, Douglas K. Herrmann, Derek A. Bryl, Paul N. Richards, Richard Scarlata
  • Patent number: 8812236
    Abstract: A method for optimizing drilling fluids by creating a proper particle size analysis and distribution curve of particle sizing within drilling fluid. The particle size distribution curve is maintained with a maximum particle sizing of 6 microns so as to not allow for coarser drilled solids to degrade beyond the point of mechanical separation to prevent a build-up of low gravity solids that can no longer be removed from the drilling fluid during the drilling operation due to their size. An optimal drilling system requires that drilling fluids be modified through the following process to attain the appropriate particle sizing distribution to: make the most efficient use of the drilling operation, reduce the amount to drilling fluids utilized, and reduce formation damage. The method generates corrective actions to modify the drilling fluids or adjust solids control equipment parameters, to obtain a unique particle size distribution throughout the drilling process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: Particle Size Engineering, LLC
    Inventors: Thomas W. Freeman, Paula S. DeWitte, Robert W. Troy
  • Patent number: 8753891
    Abstract: A method of particle separation, wherein a collimated light source operable to generate a collimated light source beam is provided. The collimated light source beam includes a beam cross-section. A body is provided, wherein the body defines a wall and a first channel in a first plane. The first channel includes a first channel cross-section, the first channel being oriented to receive the collimated light source beam such that the beam cross-section completely overlaps the channel cross-section. The collimated light source beam is transmitted through the channel. A fluid sample is transmitted through the channel, fluid sample including a plurality of particles of a same type. All of the particles of the plurality of particles are separated axially along the collimated light source beam. All of the particles of the plurality of particles are retained against the wall in the collimated light source beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Assignee: The United States of America, as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Sean J. Hart, Alexander V. Terray
  • Patent number: 8723104
    Abstract: The present invention is concerned with a system for sorting target particles from a flow of particles. The system has a microscope, a light source, a CCD camera, microfluidic chip device with microfluidic channels, a detection apparatus for detecting the target particles with predefined specific features, a response generating apparatus for generating a signal in response to the detection of the target particles, and an optical tweezing system for controlling movement of optical traps, the optical tweezing system is operably linked to the response signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: City University of Hong Kong
    Inventors: Dong Sun, Xiaolin Wang
  • Patent number: 8695808
    Abstract: In a method of sorting mailpieces, in which method the mailpieces sorted into the sorting outlets of a postal sorting machine are transferred from said sorting outlets to an unstacker magazine of the machine, or to an unstacker magazine of another sorting machine for the purpose of being sorted again into sorting outlets, said mailpieces are handled by means of shuttle trays of variable storage capacity for the purpose of transferring them from the sorting outlets to the unstacker magazine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Solystic
    Inventors: Bruno Cartal, Eric Moullard, Damien Hugues
  • Patent number: 8529760
    Abstract: A device and method of using same, wherein the device includes a collimated light source operable to generate a collimated light source beam, the collimated light source beam comprising a beam cross-section. The device further includes at least one body defining a first channel in a first plane, the first channel comprising a first channel cross-section, the first channel being oriented to receive the collimated light source beam such that the beam cross-section completely overlaps the first channel cross-section. Optionally, the body defines a second channel in a second plane orthogonal to the first plane, wherein the body defines a third channel in a third plane orthogonal to the first plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: The United States of America, as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Sean J. Hart, Alexander V. Terray
  • Patent number: 8485363
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for separating solid materials on the basis of a mutual difference in density, wherein the materials to be separated are brought into contact with a magnetic fluid across which fluid a density gradient is generated by means of a magnetic field such that fractions of solid materials of different densities are obtained, said device being provided with a magnet, an inflow chamber, a separation chamber, and means for discharging fractions of solid materials of different densities in separation, wherein the magnetic fluid flows from the inflow chamber to the separation chamber, wherein the magnet is arranged above the separation chamber, and wherein at least one duct for the supply of the solid materials to be separated is located below the inflow chamber and the separation chamber and encloses an angle with the inflow chamber and the separation chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignees: Bakker Holding Son B.V., AKG Polymers B.V.
    Inventors: Gerrit Dinand Klein Nagelvoort, Hendrik Jan Klein Nagelvoort, Erwin Johannes Bakker
  • Patent number: 8398861
    Abstract: A separation method for extracting a target 1 from a separation subject (101) in which the target (1) to be extracted and a non-target (2) are mixed. The method includes the steps of distinguishing the target (1) from the non-target (2); obtaining positional information of the target (1) distinguished; attaching a liquid to the target (1) based on the positional information; and extracting the target (1) from the separation subject (101) by bringing a catch member (140) into contact with the separation subject (101) such that viscosity of the liquid causes the target (1) to adhere to the catch member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Panasonic Corporation
    Inventors: Masatoshi Miyasaka, Tamao Kojima, Hiroyuki Naka
  • Patent number: 8381913
    Abstract: A method for separating seeds of different densities in a process stream, wherein the seeds are introduced into a magnetic process fluid for the formation of the process stream, which process stream is subjected to a magnetic field for the realization of a density stratification in the process stream, such that the individual seeds in the process stream assume a density-dependent position, after which the seeds located in or near a predetermined position or positions in the process stream, are separated from the remaining seeds in the process stream.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignees: Technische Universiteit Delft, Western Seed International B.V.
    Inventors: Peter Carlo Rem, Simon Peter Maria Berkhout, Jacques Rene Alphons De Koning
  • Patent number: 8131652
    Abstract: This invention provides methods, apparatus, and systems for classifying addresses. An address is evaluated based upon a postal code or standardized postal code, such as a U.S. Postal Service ZIP+4 code, serving the address. If the address cannot be classified based on the standardized postal code, the address is classified based on additional information, such as a U.S. Postal Service delivery point code. A mailer may then determine whether the address is a business or residential (or non-business) address. Furthermore, a mailer may predict when surcharges may apply and compare the rates of various carriers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Assignee: United States Postal Service
    Inventors: John F. Gullo, James D. Wilson, Robert F. Snapp, David J. Payne
  • Patent number: 7939047
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to methods of separating carbon nanotubes (CNTs) by their electronic type (e.g., metallic, semi-metallic, and semiconducting). Perhaps most generally, in some embodiments, the present invention is directed to methods of separating CNTs by bandgap, wherein such separation is effected by interacting the CNTs with a surface such that the surface interacts differentially with the CNTs on the basis of their bandgap, or lack thereof. In some embodiments, such methods can allow for such separations to be carried out in bulk quantities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2011
    Assignee: William Marsh Rice University
    Inventors: James M. Tour, Christopher A. Dyke, Austen K. Flatt
  • Publication number: 20110100880
    Abstract: Method for producing a stationary wave field of arbitrary shape comprising the steps of defining at least one volume being limited in the direction of the axis of propagation of a beam, of the type 0?z?L; defining an intensity pattern within the said region 0?z?L by a function F(z), describing the said localized and stationary intensity pattern, which is approximated by means of a Fourier expansion or by a similar expansion in terms of (trigonometric) orthogonal functions; providing a generic superposition of Bessel or other beams highly transversally confined; calculating the maximum number of superimposed Bessel beams the amplitudes, the phase velocities and the relative phases of each Bessel beam of the superposition, and the transverse and longitudinal wavenumbers of each Bessel beam of the superposition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2005
    Publication date: May 5, 2011
    Applicant: Bracco Imaging S.p.A.
    Inventors: Erasmo Recami, Michel Zamboni Rached, Hugo Enrique Hernandez Figueroa, Valerio Abate, Cesar Augusto Dartora, Kleber Zuza Nobrega, Marco Mattiuzzi
  • Patent number: 7892434
    Abstract: Improved systems and methods are provided herein for passively filtering out droplets of different size such as satellite droplets from the generation of primary droplets and use these satellite droplets as the source for monodispersed production of submicron emulsions. The systems and methods described use active flow control to sort droplets of different size into desired collecting zones and use conventional shearing principles, and, as a result, provide 100% filtration of satellite droplets regardless of size differences.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: The Regents of the University of California
    Inventors: Abraham P. Lee, Yung-Cheih Tan
  • Patent number: 7875192
    Abstract: A slurry dividing apparatus is configured to divide a main slurry stream into smaller constituent slurry streams, wherein each stream contains a desired proportion of suspended solids. The dividing apparatus includes a main flow channel and a plurality of branch flow channels extending upward from a flow divider that terminates an upper end of the main flow channel. The main slurry stream enters the main flow channel, at an inlet opening thereof, and is decelerated, by an upward extension and expanding cross-section of the main flow channel, before reaching the flow divider and being divided into the smaller constituent slurry streams flowing within the plurality of branch flow channels. Each of the smaller streams flows up and then over a weir, which extends across an upper portion of each of the branch flow channels, and then down into a corresponding discharge flow channel of the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Assignee: Carter Day International, Inc.
    Inventors: Pius N. Eigenmann, Stephan Barclay Meydell, III, David A. Hauch
  • Patent number: 7785472
    Abstract: A method of separating, concentrating or purifying uniform carbon nanotubes with desired properties (diameter, chiral vector, etc) in a highly sensitive manner by the use of structure-sensitive properties peculiar to carbon nanotubes; and an apparatus therefor. There is provided a method of separating, concentrating, or purifying carbon nanotubes with the desired properties contained in a sample, comprising the steps of (a) irradiating a sample containing carbon nanotubes with light; and (b) selecting carbon nanotubes with desired properties. In a preferred embodiment, the light irradiation of the step (a) can be carried out in the presence of a metal so as to cause specified carbon nanotubes to selectively induce a photocatalytic reaction, resulting in metal deposition. Further, in a preferred embodiment, a given magnetic filed can be applied in the steps (b) so as to attain accumulation or concentration or carbon nanotubes with metal deposited.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2010
    Assignee: Japan Science and Technology Agency
    Inventor: Kei Murakoshi
  • Patent number: 7775368
    Abstract: Laminar flow of a carrier liquid and polymeric molecules through micro-channels is used to straighten, align, separate, and/or sort the polymeric molecules. The polymeric molecules may be analyzed and/or manipulated in the carrier liquid or attached to a wall of the micro-channel for subsequent treatment and analysis. Micro-channels can be manufactured using an elastic molding material. One micro-channel embodiment provides fluid flow using a standard laboratory centrifuge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Assignee: Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation
    Inventors: David Charles Schwartz, Eileen T. Dimalanta, Juan J. de Pablo
  • Patent number: 7581645
    Abstract: A method for manufacturing carbon nanotubes with a desired length includes the steps of: providing an array of carbon nanotubes; placing a mask having at least an opening defined therein on the array of carbon nanotubes, with at least one portion of the array of carbon nanotubes being at least partially exposed through a corresponding opening of the mask; forming a protective film on at least one exposed portion of the array of carbon nanotubes; removing the mask from the array of the carbon nanotubes, with the carbon nanotubes being compartmentalized into at least a first portion covered by the protective film and at least one uncovered second portion; breaking/separating the first portion from the second portion of the array of the carbon nanotubes using a chemical method, thereby obtaining at least a carbon nanotube segment with a protective film covered thereon; and removing the protective film from the carbon nanotube segment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2009
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Chi-Chuang Ho, Bor-Yuan Hsiao, Ching-Chou Chang
  • Patent number: 7578941
    Abstract: The present invention is generally directed to new liquid-liquid extraction methods for the length-based separation of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and other 1-dimensional nanostructures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2009
    Assignee: William Marsh Rice University
    Inventors: Kirk J. Ziegler, Daniel J. Schmidt, Robert H. Hauge, Richard E. Smalley, Irene Morin Marek, legal representative
  • Publication number: 20090161102
    Abstract: Methods and assemblies are provided for evaluating plants for presence of pests. Methods may include separating pests from a plant to produce a sample of pests for analysis, illuminating the sample to produce emitted light from the sample, and comparing the emitted light from the sample to a model to discriminate pests within the sample. Assemblies may include a separating unit operable to separate pests from a plant to produce a sample comprising pests, a light source for illuminating at least part of the sample, and an imaging device adjacent the light source for receiving light from the illuminated sample and creating an image of the sample.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2008
    Publication date: June 25, 2009
    Applicant: Monsanto Technology LLC
    Inventors: Kevin L. Deppermann, Steven H. Modiano, Cynthia L. Ludwig, Brad D. White, Beth J. Calabotta
  • Patent number: 7514063
    Abstract: A method of obtaining purified semiconducting SWCNTs from a bulk mixture of metallic SWCNTs and semiconducting SWCNTs by first creating an aqueous solution containing the bulk mixture and adding a functionalized particle or nanoparticle to the solution, whereby the functionalized particle or nanoparticle reacts chemically with the metallic SWCNTs to form a high density particle-nanotube composite that can be physically separated by centrifugation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2009
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: George S Tulevski, Ali Afzali-Ardakani, Daniel P Sanders
  • Patent number: 7510083
    Abstract: An apparatus for separating a mineral from a slurry of mineral and impurities, including a fluid vessel having a first, open end and a second end and a feed well disposed near the first end. The feed well has a first, open end, for receiving the slurry, and a second end. At least one first member is received through the first ends of the vessel and the feed well for providing aerated water, creating a froth in the feed well including substantially the mineral. The mineral froth substantially separates from the impurities and floats out of the feed well towards the first end of the vessel, and a collection unit receives the mineral froth. The impurities and any remaining mineral fall toward the second end of the vessel. A measurement unit is placed within the vessel for measuring at least one of density and pressure of the fluid in the vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2009
    Assignee: The Mosaic Company
    Inventors: Stanley A. Patterson, David R. Spedden, Anthony F. Harding, David Kennedy
  • Patent number: 7374685
    Abstract: A method for separating semiconducting single-walled carbon nanotubes from metallic single-walled carbon nanotubes is disclosed. The method utilizes separation agents that preferentially associate with semiconducting nanotubes due to the electrical nature of the nanotubes. The separation agents are those that have a planar orientation, ?-electrons available for association with the surface of the nanotubes, and also include a soluble portion of the molecule. Following preferential association of the separation agent with the semiconducting nanotubes, the agent/nanotubes complex is soluble and can be solubilized with the solution enriched in semiconducting nanotubes while the residual solid is enriched in metallic nanotubes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2008
    Assignee: Clemson University
    Inventor: Ya-Ping Sun
  • Publication number: 20080105597
    Abstract: A separation system includes an air separator that in one embodiment primarily receives Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) containing relatively light MSW recyclable materials such as paper, cardboard, plastic containers, and/or metal containers. The air separator blows the relatively light MSW recyclable materials up though a chamber and onto a first conveyer while the other relatively heavy MSW material drops down a chute onto a second conveyer. A separation screen receives the relatively light MSW recyclable materials from the air separator and separates the relatively flat paper and cardboard from the plastic and metal containers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 3, 2006
    Publication date: May 8, 2008
    Applicant: EMERGING ACQUISITIONS, LLC
    Inventors: Steve Miller, Roy Miller
  • Patent number: 7318527
    Abstract: An apparatus (100, 100?, 100?) for separating organic material from inorganic material includes a container (1), a feeding apparatus (4), a charging apparatus (9), a lifting apparatus (21), a discharging apparatus (24) and a removal apparatus (7). The feeding apparatus (4) is located in the upper portion of the container (1), and it serves to introduce inorganic material polluted with organic material into the container (1). The charging apparatus (9) is located in the lower portion of the container, and it serves to introduce cleaning water into the container (1). The lifting apparatus (21) is located in the container (1), and it serves to substantially subject the inorganic and organic material to an upwardly directed component of movement. The lifting apparatus (21) and the charging apparatus (9) produce a fluidized layer (22) in the container (1) during operation of the apparatus (100, 100?, 100?). The fluidized layer (22) causes the organic material to be separated from the inorganic material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2008
    Assignee: Hans Huber AG Maschinen-und Anlagenbau
    Inventor: Wolfgang Branner
  • Patent number: 7304258
    Abstract: A system for transporting and selectively sorting particles includes a first wall and a traveling wave grid extending along the first wall. The system includes a second wall having a passage extending therethrough and a gate operatively associated with the passage. A controller is adapted to output a multi-phase electrical signal. The controller is in communication with the traveling wave grid and the gate. A method of using the system is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2007
    Assignee: Xerox Corporation
    Inventors: Meng H. Lean, John J. Ricciardelli, Osman Todd Polatkan, Michael J. Savino, Eric Peeters, Scott Elrod
  • Patent number: 7296682
    Abstract: A method for controlling operation of a flotation cell, where the liquid level and the foam level in the cell are measured and controlled. The method includes measuring at least one quality characteristic of the accept leaving the cell and determining the set value(s) for the liquid level and/or the foam level on the basis of the measured quality characteristic. The method is particularly suitable for flotation of a pulp suspension, particularly in deinking flotation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2007
    Assignee: Andritz AG
    Inventors: Helmuth Gabl, Andreas Gorton-Hülgerth, Erwin Hertl
  • Publication number: 20070246402
    Abstract: In a method for recognizing a graphical item of mailing data on mailed items which are to be mechanically sorted, an image of a mailed item is recorded and encoded using gray values. The recorded image is digitized in binary form in accordance with a variable threshold characteristic curve, so that at least one item of mailing data is recognized for sorting the mailed item. In the event of incomplete recognition of the item of mailing data, the recorded image is digitized using a reset threshold characteristic curve. After a predefined number of incomplete recognitions, manual sorting is initiated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 5, 2007
    Publication date: October 25, 2007
    Applicant: SIEMENS AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT
    Inventors: Peter Schumm, Klaus Vollmann
  • Patent number: 7217901
    Abstract: A system for transporting and selectively sorting particles includes a first wall and a traveling wave grid extending along the first wall. The system includes a second wall having a passage extending therethrough and a gate operatively associated with the passage. A controller is adapted to output a multi-phase electrical signal. The controller is in communication with the traveling wave grid and the gate. A method of using the system is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2007
    Assignee: Xerox Corporation
    Inventors: Meng H. Lean, John J. Ricciardelli, Osman Todd Polatkan, Michael J. Savino, Eric Peeters, Scott Elrod
  • Patent number: 7163106
    Abstract: A strainer for fibrous suspensions, having a container, a filtering basket inside the container and a rotor inside the filtering basket coupled to motorization means suited to set it rotating. In the container there are a drain chamber of the rejected suspension, a delivery chamber of the filtered suspension, and a collector body arranged in the upper part of the container. The collector body has a lower collector and an upper collector, both with radial longitudinal profile in the shape of a truncated cone and connected to each other in correspondence with the long bases. The lower collector has its short base facing the filtering basket and the upper collector has its short base facing upwards.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2007
    Assignee: Comer S.p.A.
    Inventor: Giancarlo Dal Maso
  • Patent number: RE41762
    Abstract: The present invention provides a nanostructured device comprising a substrate including nanotroughs therein; and a lipid bilayer suspended on or supported in the substrate. A separation method is also provided comprising the steps of supporting or suspending a lipid bilayer on a substrate; wherein the substrate comprises nanostructures and wherein the lipid bilayer comprises at least one membrane associated biomolecule; and applying a driving force to the lipid bilayer to separate the membrane associated biomolecule from the lipid bilayer and to drive the membrane associated biomolecule into the nanostructures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Assignee: STC.UNM
    Inventors: Gabriel P. Lopez, Steven R. J. Brueck, Linnea K. Ista