With Fluent Source Handling Or Collecting Means Patents (Class 250/364)
  • Patent number: 12038371
    Abstract: Particle analyzers having scintillation counters are provided. Particle analyzers of interest include a flow cell for transporting particles in a flow stream, a light source for irradiating a particle in the flow stream at an interrogation point, a particle-modulated light detector for detecting light from the interrogation point, and a scintillation counter for assessing particle radioactivity. In embodiments, the scintillation counter is positioned within the flow cell and configured generate particle radioactivity data that may be associated with a given particle in a plurality of particles. Methods and non-transitory computer readable storage media for practicing the invention are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2022
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2024
    Assignee: BECTON, DICKINSON AND COMPANY
    Inventors: Timothy Petersen, Geoffrey Osborne
  • Patent number: 11105973
    Abstract: The present disclosure describes optically enhanced high resolution image guides having a high core to cladding area ratio with reduced spectral transmission loss and reduced cross talk while maintaining high resolution and high transmission.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2021
    Inventors: Patrick Kreski, Robert Duffy
  • Patent number: 10947964
    Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a robust system and method that delivers precise volumes of fluid, including weight-based fluid volumes (e.g., as prescribed by a medication dose), avoids the expenses and complexity associated with having multiples devices for cutaneous, subcutaneous, and oral administration, avoids the time-consuming cleaning associated with internal component contamination, and avoids the expenses and complications associated with human and mechanical error and failure, of prior art mass fluid delivery systems and methods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2021
    Assignee: AAV LLC
    Inventors: Rudolf Holzhausen, John Earl Campbell, Jr.
  • Patent number: 10875018
    Abstract: A fluid testing cassette may comprise a microfluidic channel having a constriction and a micro-fabricated integrated sensor within the constriction. In one implementation, the constriction is less than or equal to 30 ?m. In one implementation, the cassette further comprises a nozzle connecting the microfluidic channel to the discharge reservoir, wherein a thermal resistor expels fluid within the microfluidic channel into the discharge reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2020
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventors: Manish Giri, Chantelle E. Domingue, Robert J. Moline
  • Patent number: 10790070
    Abstract: Radiation detectors and methods of using the radiation detectors that provide a route for surface decontamination during use are described. The detectors utilize light illumination of an internal surface during use. Light is in the longer UV to near-infrared spectra and desorbs contamination from internal surfaces of radiation detectors. The methods can be carried out while the detectors are in operation, preventing the appearance of the negative effects of radioactive and non-radioactive contamination during a detection regime and following a detection regime.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2020
    Assignee: Savannah River Nuclear Solutions, LLC
    Inventors: George K. Larsen, III, Simona E. Hunyadi Murph
  • Patent number: 10786183
    Abstract: A watching assistance system that assists watching over a subject on a bed includes an image acquisition unit configured to acquire an image captured by an imaging device, a criterion storage in which a criterion for determining a dangerous state are previously set for each of a plurality of determination regions set based on a region of the bed in the image, a detector configured to detect the subject from the image acquired by the image acquisition unit, a state recognition unit configured to recognize a state of the subject detected by the detector, a determination unit configured to determine a danger degree of the state of the subject recognized by the state recognition unit using the criterion for the determination region corresponding to a position at which the subject is detected by the detector, and an output unit configured to provide notification according to the danger degree determined by the determination unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2020
    Assignee: Omron Corporation
    Inventors: Jumpei Matsunaga, Kiyoaki Tanaka, Shinji Takahashi, Tatsuya Murakami
  • Patent number: 9987503
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a sensor device for detecting dose of radiation received at the sensor device, the sensor device comprising a flexible body having a cross-section being comparatively small relative to the length of the device, a cladding at the flexible body, the cladding converting incoming radiation into visible light, and an optical shape sensing device disposed within the flexible body and configured to determine a shape of the flexible instrument relative to a reference, the shape sensing device configured to collect information based on its configuration to map an intraluminal structure during a procedure. The present invention further relates to a radiation therapy system including such a sensor device and a method of operating a radiation therapy system including such a sensor device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2018
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips N.V.
    Inventors: Michael Grass, Robert Manzke, Raymond Chan
  • Patent number: 9910163
    Abstract: An alpha ray observation device and an alpha ray observation method are provided that can correctly evaluate a signal derived from alpha rays. The alpha ray observation device according to an embodiment includes a device housing 10, an incident window 2, a condenser 3, an optical path changer 4, and a first optical detector 5. The device housing 10 is provided with an opening. The incident window 2 is provided at the opening, and can block beta rays. Emitted light originated by alpha rays caused from the measurement object set outside of the device housing 10 enters the inside of the device housing 10 through the incident window 2 with beta rays being blocked, and is condensed by the condenser 3, and the optical path is changed by the optical path changer 4, and subsequently the light is detected by the first optical detector 5. The first optical detector 5 outputs a signal according to the amount of detected light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2018
    Assignee: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOSHIBA
    Inventors: Naoto Kume, Kei Takakura, Hidehiko Kuroda, Yukio Yoshimura
  • Patent number: 9678224
    Abstract: A radiation detecting system, including: plastics scintillators juxtaposed to form at least one pair of contiguous plastics scintillators; a photomultiplier associated with each plastics scintillator to provide an electrical signal representative of the light signal generated in the plastics scintillator; a calculator connected to the photomultipliers and configured to: detect pulse coincidences between two electrical pulses provided by the photomultipliers associated with a pair of contiguous plastics scintillators; for each pulse coincidence, determine the time offset between the coincidence pulses relative to the pulse having the greatest amplitude taken as a zero reference; determine the number of pulse coincidences the time offset of which is included in a time offset window.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2017
    Assignee: Commissariat à l'énergie atomique et aux énergies alternatives
    Inventors: Guillaume Sannie, Gwenole Corre, Vladimir Kondrasovs, Stephane Normand
  • Patent number: 9383456
    Abstract: The present invention provides a flow cell that can be used to improve the linear detection range of a radio-detector. The flow cell of the present invention is simple and cost-effective to set up and provides technical advantages over methods known in the prior art, as set out in more detail hereunder. The present invention also provides a method to determine the RCP of a radioactive composition making use of said flow cell, and a HPLC system comprising said flow cell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2016
    Assignee: GE Healthcare Limited
    Inventors: Alan Peter Clarke, Thanushan Rajanayagam, Roger Paul Pettitt, Robert F. Chisholm
  • Patent number: 9018608
    Abstract: An optical liquid sensor utilizing a light source, fiber optic cables, a light detector and an irregular transparent surface is provided to detect the presence of liquid in mist and continuous form. The sensor may be integrated into a probe designed for insertion into a pressurized fluid process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Assignee: A+ Manufacturing, LLC
    Inventor: Donald P Mayeaux
  • Patent number: 8963095
    Abstract: The present invention provides electrokinetic microfluidic cytometers useful for detecting and/or sorting fluid-borne particles. In some embodiments, the electrokinetic microfluidic flow cytometer apparatus comprises a substrate having a microchannel formed therein, a particle-sensing gate that reduces the cross-sectional area of a portion of the microchannel, a pair of signal- and noise-detection electrodes, and a particle-detection circuit that is electrically connected to the signal- and noise-detection electrodes and is configured to generate a particle-detection signal responsive to differences in resistivity across the particle-sensing gate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignee: Diagnostic Chips, LLC
    Inventor: Dongqing Li
  • Patent number: 8901502
    Abstract: A device (1) is provided for determining at least one parameter of a medium which has a sensor device (2) and an electronic device (3). To provide such a device with a cooling system for at least a portion of its components, the sensor device (2) and/or the electronic device (3) are arranged at least partly in at least one inner space (4, 5) of a housing (6). A passage (7) borders the inner space (4, 5) and a cooling chamber (8) through which a cooling medium can flow is arranged in proximity of the passage (7).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Assignee: KROHNE Optosens GmbH
    Inventors: Gert Sinn, Thomas Fritsch
  • Publication number: 20140097347
    Abstract: A device (1) is provided for determining at least one parameter of a medium which has a sensor device (2) and an electronic device (3). To provide such a device with a cooling system for at least a portion of its components, the sensor device (2) and/or the electronic device (3) are arranged at least partly in at least one inner space (4, 5) of a housing (6). A passage (7) borders the inner space (4, 5) and a cooling chamber (8) through which a cooling medium can flow is arranged in proximity of the passage (7).
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2013
    Publication date: April 10, 2014
    Applicant: KROHNE OPTOSENS GMBH
    Inventors: Gert Sinn, Thomas Fritsch
  • Patent number: 8582106
    Abstract: An automatic optical measurement system (100) is provided. The measurement system (100) includes a sample vial (10) and an automatic optical measurement apparatus (90) configured to receive the sample vial (10). The automatic optical measurement apparatus (90) is configured to detect a presence of the sample vial (10) in the automatic optical measurement apparatus (90) and measure a light intensity of light substantially passing through the sample vial (10) if the sample vial (10) is present. The measured light intensity is related to sample material properties of a sample material within the sample vial (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: Hach Company
    Inventors: Perry A. Palumbo, Brian Harmon
  • Patent number: 8362435
    Abstract: A method and device for detecting, differentiating from background and providing partial identification (i.e., classification) for biological particles found in aerosols or surface dust. The method is based on the phenomenon that luminescent excitation-emission (EEM) graphs of microorganisms obtained before and after perturbation by irradiation with ultraviolet light show characteristic patterns which differ according to the type of particle. For example, Bacillus endospores may be distinguished from vegetative bacteria, and gram positive vegetative bacteria may be distinguished from gram negative bacteria, and all these may be distinguished from many types of background particles, e.g. house dust, road dust, and pollen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Air Force
    Inventor: Burt V. Bronk
  • Publication number: 20120276002
    Abstract: Provided are a contrast agent for optical imaging, a use thereof and an apparatus using the same. The contrast agent for optical imaging of the present disclosure allows optical imaging without requiring a fluorophore or a luminophore. As a result, the optical images can be acquired without changing the physicochemical properties of a substrate. The contrast agent for optical imaging of the present disclosure may be used as an optical/nuclear bimodal imaging contrast agent for many applications, and allows radiation therapy as well as monitoring of a therapeutic effect thereof through optical imaging at the same time. Further, when a fluorophore is attached thereto, light emission may be enhanced without energy input from outside since light is emitted from the fluorophore, thereby increasing luminescence intensity and improving tissue penetration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2010
    Publication date: November 1, 2012
    Applicant: Kyungpook National University Industry-Academic Cooperation Foundation
    Inventors: Jeong Soo Yoo, Jeong Chan Park
  • Patent number: 8262997
    Abstract: A blood counting device comprises a capillary conduit for drawing from a subject in which a radiotracer has previously been injected a quantity of blood in the micro-liter range to produce in the capillary conduit a flow of blood from which beta radiation is emitted. At least one direct beta radiation detector is placed closely adjacent to the capillary conduit. The direct beta radiation detector consists of a semiconductor photodiode which detects the beta radiation from the flow of blood when directly hit by this beta radiation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: Société de Commercialisation des Produits de la Recherche Appliquée-Socpra Sciences Sante et Humaines S.E.C.
    Inventors: Laurence Convert, Jules Cadorette, David Lapointe, Roger Lecomte
  • Publication number: 20120217385
    Abstract: An example optic module verification device for use in periodic normalization of a testing machine used to test samples in wells is disclosed. The example testing machine includes a plurality of photon counters that each count photons emitted from different wells. The example verification device includes a plurality of verification wells located so as to each be associated with one of the photon counters when used in the testing machine. The example device also includes a photon emitter in each verification well, each photon emitter including a C14 source, a scintillator adjacent the C14 source, and a filter over the scintillator. The example photon emitters each have a determined initial base value for emitted photons, and each photon emitter is positioned in its verification well to emit photons through the filter to the associated photon counter when used in the testing machine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2012
    Publication date: August 30, 2012
    Inventors: Paul A. Matuszewski, Omar S. Khalil, Kurt M. Klosterman, James L. Dempski, Jose Pioquinto
  • Patent number: 8188438
    Abstract: An electrokinetic microfluidic flow cytometer apparatus can include a substrate, a pair of signal and noise detection channels, and a particle detection circuit. The substrate includes an input port, an output port, and a microchannel that fluidly connects the input port and the output port to allow fluid to flow therebetween. The signal and noise detection channels are defined in the substrate and are fluidly connected to the microchannel from locations that are adjacent to each other. The signal and noise detection channels extend in opposite directions away from the microchannel to receive ambient electrical noise. The particle detection circuit generates a particle detection signal in response to a differential voltage across the signal and noise detection channels, which tracks changes in resistivity across an adjacent portion of the microchannel while at least substantially canceling a common component of the ambient electrical noise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Assignee: Diagnostics Chips, LLC
    Inventor: Dongqing Li
  • Patent number: 8067756
    Abstract: In an extreme ultraviolet light source apparatus generating an extreme ultraviolet light from a plasma generated by irradiating a target, which is a droplet D of molten Sn, with a laser light, and controlling the flow direction of ion generated at the generation of the extreme ultraviolet light by a magnetic field or an electric field, an ion collection cylinder 20 is arranged for collecting the ion, and ion collision surfaces Sa and Sb of the ion collection cylinder 20 are provided with or coated with Si, which is a metal whose sputtering rate with respect to the ion is less than one atom/ion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Assignee: Gigaphoton, Inc.
    Inventors: Yoshifumi Ueno, Georg Soumagne, Shinji Nagai, Akira Endo, Tatsuya Yanagida
  • Patent number: 8058621
    Abstract: A system to detect a plurality of elements is proposed. The system includes one or more X-ray sources for transmitting X-rays towards a sample and also includes plurality of photon detectors. An array of crystals are arranged in a curvature with appropriate geometry for receiving a plurality of photon energies emitted from the sample and focusing the photon energy on the plurality of detectors. The plurality of photon detectors are spatially arranged at Bragg angles corresponding to signature photon energies to detect the plurality of elements simultaneously.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Vamshi Krishna Reddy Kommareddy, Paul Joseph Martin, Saratchandra Shanmukh, Paul Burchell Glaser, Susanne Madeline Lee, Ramakrishna Rao, Manoharan Venugopal
  • Publication number: 20110095190
    Abstract: A system to detect a plurality of elements is proposed. The system includes one or more X-ray sources for transmitting X-rays towards a sample and also includes plurality of photon detectors. An array of crystals are arranged in a curvature with appropriate geometry for receiving a plurality of photon energies emitted from the sample and focusing the photon energy on the plurality of detectors. The plurality of photon detectors are spatially arranged at Bragg angles corresponding to signature photon energies to detect the plurality of elements simultaneously.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 26, 2009
    Publication date: April 28, 2011
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Vamshi Krishna Reddy Kommareddy, Paul Joseph Martin, Saratchandra Shanmukh, Paul Burchell Glaser, Susanne Madeline Lee, Ramakrishna Rao, Manoharan Venugopal
  • Publication number: 20110089328
    Abstract: An electrokinetic microfluidic flow cytometer apparatus can include a substrate, a pair of signal and noise detection channels, and a particle detection circuit. The substrate includes an input port, an output port, and a microchannel that fluidly connects the input port and the output port to allow fluid to flow therebetween. The signal and noise detection channels are defined in the substrate and are fluidly connected to the microchannel from locations that are adjacent to each other. The signal and noise detection channels extend in opposite directions away from the microchannel to receive ambient electrical noise.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2010
    Publication date: April 21, 2011
    Inventor: Dongqing Li
  • Patent number: 7923692
    Abstract: A device for collection of radionuclides includes a mixture of a polymer, a fluorescent organic scintillator and a chemical extractant. A radionuclide detector system includes a collection device comprising a mixture of a polymer, a fluorescent agent and a selective ligand. The system includes at least one photomultiplier tube (PMT). A method of detecting radionuclides includes providing a collector device comprising a mixture comprising a polymer, a fluorescent organic scintillator and a chemical extractant. An aqueous environment is exposed to the device and radionuclides are collected from the environment. Radionuclides can be concentrated within the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: Battelle Energy Alliance, LLC
    Inventors: Troy J. Tranter, Christopher P. Oertel, John R. Giles, Nicholas R. Mann, Michael E. McIlwain
  • Publication number: 20100108874
    Abstract: One embodiment of the present invention discloses a film element for detecting authenticity, particularly for security elements, security papers, documents of value, coins, chips, and the like, wherein it includes a transparent film and/or a motif layer or a structured layer, including or representing a luminescent motif. The transparent film is preferably made of polycarbonate or PMMA, and the luminescent motif is preferably introduced into the film element via laser processing, particularly laser engraving, via steel embossing or gravure printing or a kiss-cut method or via perforation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2008
    Publication date: May 6, 2010
    Inventor: Loessil Fariborz Martin Zahedi
  • Publication number: 20100072371
    Abstract: Apparatus derives a sample liquid property and has a container with an outlet section having an overflow edge at a horizontal sample surface. A light source above the surface generates a probe light beam at a non-zero angle ?1 to a normal to the surface. A detector above the surface detects intensity of light emitted out through the surface along a first detection axis forming a non-zero angle ?1 with the surface. An optical barrier between the probe light beam and the first detection axis blocks reflected or scattered light. An inlet section receives sample liquid and has an opening to the main section beneath the sample surface. A separating member separates the sample surface of the inlet section from the sample surface of the main section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2009
    Publication date: March 25, 2010
    Applicant: SWAN Analytische Instrument AG
    Inventor: HEINZ WAGNER
  • Patent number: 7619222
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an automatic radioactivity analyzer of mixed liquid beta emitter which comprises: a sample preparation part (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7) for extracting a liquid sample from liquid-phase radioactive nuclear wastes; a sample injection part (9 and 10), including a sample transportation part for transporting a bottled sample to a radioactivity detection part to perform measurement; the radioactivity detection part (11) including two photon multiplier tubes; an exterior gamma-ray source injection part (12) for compensating for measurement efficiency according to quenching effects; a signal processing part (13), including a pre-amplifier circuit (14), a high-voltage generator circuit (15), an analogue-to-digital converter circuit (21), and a digital signal processor (DSP) (24), for generating beta spectrums by the aid of a fast coincidence counter (20) and a multi-channel analyzer (22); a main control PC (25) and a graphic user interface (GUI) program (29) for remotely automatically me
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2009
    Assignee: Korea Institute of Nuclear Safety
    Inventors: Cheol-Su Kim, Byung-Hwan Rho, Chang-Kyu Kim
  • Patent number: 7605384
    Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for preparing a small amount of a radioactive substance combination, including a one-part body, a mixing device integrated in the body and adapted to receive a small amount of chemical substances, and at least one receptacle integrated in the body and connected to the mixing device and adapted to hold a small amount of a chemical substance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2009
    Assignee: Isotopen Technologien Munchen AG
    Inventors: Julian Bernd Sonnenhol, Andreas Eursch, Mark Harfensteller, Michael Schilp, Oliver Buck, Lisa Maria Ehrenfried, Tuomo Nikula
  • Publication number: 20090189088
    Abstract: An apparatus for detecting particles of interest that are dispersed in a fluid mix, which typically includes other particles. The apparatus typically is associated with an interrogation platform arranged to operate in harmony with an opaque member having an orifice sized to promote single-file travel of the particles there-through. A currently preferred embodiment includes a light pipe configured to impinge stimulation-radiation substantially transverse to a direction of fluid flow through the opaque member. Particles of interest may be tagged using antibody-binding, fluorescing molecules. Stimulation radiation from the source causes the tagged particles to undergo a Stokes-shift emission of fluorescence. The resulting fluorescence is detected by the radiation detector and indicates passage of the particles of interest. One workable opaque member is advantageously included in a thin film assembly carried on a removable and disposable card that is adapted for reception in the interrogation platform.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2009
    Publication date: July 30, 2009
    Inventors: Harold E. Ayliffe, Curtis S. King
  • Publication number: 20090114828
    Abstract: In some embodiments, the present disclosure provides a monitoring device that is capable of autonomously measuring in situ radiation activity in the subsurface, such as tritium activity. In particular embodiments, the device includes a water decomposition reactor which decomposes an aqueous sample, such as a reactor which includes a reactive metal alloy, such as NaK. In further embodiments, the device includes a detector and a hydrogen getter. The hydrogen getter removes hydrogen and tritium gas from the detector, allowing multiple measurements to be made without removal or servicing of the device. The present disclosure also provides instruments having detector and reactor portions separated by an isolation valve. Particular embodiments of the device include a high pressure valve, such as a rotary valve, for selectively placing the device in communication with a sample source, such as liquid in a well.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2007
    Publication date: May 7, 2009
    Inventors: David L. Decker, Thomas G. Carnahan, James E. Murphy, Brad F. Lyles
  • Publication number: 20080185102
    Abstract: A system (and method) for real-time measurement of trace metal concentration in a chemical mechanical polishing (CMP) slurry, includes an electromagnetic radiation flow cell carrying a CMP slurry, a slurry pickup head coupled to the flow cell, and an analyzer for measuring properties of the slurry flowing through the flow cell.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2008
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventor: Theodore G. Van Kessel
  • Patent number: 7397036
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for measuring the fluorescence of nanodrop liquid samples is described in which the sample is held by surface tension between two anvil surfaces. Each anvil surface has an embedded optical fiber with its end finished flush with the surface in the containment area wetted by the sample with the fiber in line. Sample excitation is provided from the side of the sample remote from the containment area. By selection of the fiber transmission numeric aperture the impact of exciting and ambient light on the measurement is minimized. A method of virtual filtering is taught in which any ambient or exciting light that does impinge on the measuring sensor is corrected by subtracting a scaled representation of the source from the measurement. The method and apparatus is capable of detecting 1 femptomole of sodium fluorescein in 1 microliter of TE buffer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2008
    Assignee: NanoDrop Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Charles William Robertson, Joel Bruce Hansen
  • Patent number: 7354553
    Abstract: An improved elemental mercury analyzer utilizes a fluorescence assembly in combination with a fluorescence quenching reduction mechanism to detect the concentration of elemental mercury within an emission gas sample, via fluorescence of the mercury within the gas sample, while minimizing fluorescence quenching of the gas sample. In one arrangement, the analyzer contains the emission gas sample under a vacuum or negative pressure while detecting fluorescence of the elemental mercury within the emission gas sample. By performing fluorescence detection of the emission gas sample at reduced pressure relative to the pressure of the as-sampled emission gas, the analyzer reduces the number of particle collisions within the emission gas sample over a certain period of time. Such collisional deactivation, and/or the addition of oxygen depleted gas such as nitrogen to the gas sample, reduces fluorescence quenching of the emission gas sample, improving accuracy of detection of mercury.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2008
    Inventors: Dirk Appel, James H. Grassi, Dieter Kita, Jeffrey Socha
  • Patent number: 7206376
    Abstract: A wellbore tool for measuring the density of a fluid flowing in a wellbore by a photon attenuation technique includes a tube defining a flow path for the fluid, a photon source at one end of the tube, and a photon detector arranged to receive photons which have passed along the tube. In a preffered implementation, a source which emits coincident photon pairs, preferably 22Na, is used. In this embodiment, the tube defining the fluid flow path has first and second relatively straight and aligned measurement portions disposed on opposite sides of the photon source, so that each measurement portion receives a respective photon of some of the coincident pairs for transmission longitudinally along it. Respective detectors at the other ends of the measurement portions receive respective ones of the photon pairs. The detected coincident photons are counted, and the density of the fluid is derived from the count rate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2007
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: John Barry Fitzgerald
  • Patent number: 6953937
    Abstract: A pulse discrimination method for discriminating between pulses having a short decay period and a long decay period, may comprise: Detecting the pulse; integrating a rise portion of the pulse; integrating a decay portion of the pulse; and comparing the integrated rise portion of the pulse with the integrated decay portion of the pulse to distinguish between a pulse having a long decay period and a pulse having a short decay period.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2005
    Assignee: Battelle Energy Alliance, LLC
    Inventors: Edward L. Reber, Rahmat Aryaeinejad, David F. Spencer
  • Patent number: 6855270
    Abstract: The present invention relates to the use of nanoscintillation systems, or nanoparticles containing fluor molecules, that can be used to detect an electron-emitting or alpha-particle-emitting radioisotope in the absence of organic-solvents commonly used in organic-based liquid scintillation cocktails. The invention also relates to compositions and use of three oil-in-water microemulsion precursors that can be engineered rapidly, reproducibly, and cost-effectively to produce useful nanoparticles less than 100 nanometers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2005
    Assignee: The University of Kentucky Research Foundation
    Inventors: Russell J. Mumper, Michael Jay
  • Publication number: 20040178388
    Abstract: The present invention relates to the use of nanoscintillation systems, or nanoparticles containing fluor molecules, that can be used to detect an electron-emitting or alpha-particle-emitting radioisotope in the absence of organic-solvents commonly used in organic-based liquid scintillation cocktails. The invention also relates to compositions and use of three oil-in-water microemulsion precursors that can be engineered rapidly, reproducibly, and cost-effectively to produce useful nanoparticles less than 100 nanometers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2002
    Publication date: September 16, 2004
    Applicant: The University of Kentucky Research Foundation
    Inventors: Russell J. Mumper, Michael Jay
  • Publication number: 20040051044
    Abstract: The invention refers to a device for determining the nuclide content of a radioactive fluid. The device comprises a space (2) for receiving the fluid, a primary detector (6) for detection of gamma radiation emitted form the fluid in the space (2), and a processing member (10) for determining the nuclide content of the fluid based on the detected gamma radiation. The primary detector (6) includes a first detector part (8) having a front end directed towards the space and a second detector part (9) arranged adjacent to said front end between the first detector part (8) and the space (2).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2003
    Publication date: March 18, 2004
    Inventors: Bjorn Bjurman, Bjorn Grapengiesser, Lembit Sihver
  • Patent number: 6700125
    Abstract: A radioactive dust monitor comprising a dust collecting electrode serving also as a radiation detecting surface, an ionization line extending in air in a spaced relation with the dust collecting electrode and a radiation detection part. The radiation detection part is provided with a scintillator disposed close to said dust collecting electrode and a photoelectric conversion part converting light emitted from the scintillator into an electric signal. Dust in air is collected by the dust collecting electrode due to a corona discharge which is generated by applying a negative high voltage to the ionization line and by applying a positive high voltage to the dust collecting electrode, and light emitted from the scintillator due to radioactive rays radiated from the collected radioactive dust is detected by the photoelectric conversion part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Assignee: Japan Nuclear Cycle Development Institute
    Inventors: Yasuhisa Ito, Kenji Izaki, Tadayoshi Yoshida
  • Patent number: 6674082
    Abstract: The method and apparatus provide a technique for monitoring radioactive source emissions by detecting photons arising from scintillation within the environment of the area or item under monitoring, caused by the passage of emissions from the radioactive source. The technique includes options for excluding ambient light photons through suitable shielding and/or selective in detection of photons from only certain wavelengths or wavebands. The technique enables levels/types and locations of emissions sources to be determined. The technique is applicable to environmental monitoring instruments, scanning instruments and other types.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: British Nuclear Fuels PLC
    Inventor: Richard Donald Gunn
  • Publication number: 20030183769
    Abstract: A radioactive dust monitor comprising a dust collecting electrode serving also as a radiation detecting surface, an ionization line extending in air in a spaced relation with the dust collecting electrode and a radiation detection part. The radiation detection part is provided with a scintillator disposed close to said dust collecting electrode and a photoelectric conversion part converting light emitted from the scintillator into an electric signal. Dust in air is collected by the dust collecting electrode due to a corona discharge which is generated by applying a negative high voltage to the ionization line and by applying a positive high voltage to the dust collecting electrode, and light emitted from the scintillator due to radioactive rays radiated from the collected radioactive dust is detected by the photoelectric conversion part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2001
    Publication date: October 2, 2003
    Inventors: Yasuhisa Ito, Kenji Izaki, Tadayoshi Yoshida
  • Patent number: 6492642
    Abstract: The invention relates to the field of radio-ecological monitoring, in particular to a method for measuring the content of radionuclides in components of the environment. The technical result is enhancement of the sensitivity of liquid scintillation analysis of radionuclides with low activity in the presence of radionuclides with high activity. Selection and preparation of a sample for measurements are carried out, the spectrum of the sample is measured and recorded, the measured spectrum Pi is grouped, model spectrum Mi=&Sgr;cj Mij, wherein cj designates relative contributions of base spectra of radionuclides in the model spectrum, is created on the basis of a library of base spectra of radionuclides Mij, where i is the No.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2002
    Assignee: Moskovskoe Gosudarstvennoe Predpriyatie-Obiedinenny Ekologo-Tekhnologichesky I Nauchno-Issledovatelsky Tsentr Po Obezvrezhivaniju Radioaktivnykh Otkhodov I Okhrane Okruzhajuschei Sredy (Mosnpo “Rad
    Inventors: Sergei Vladimirovich Belanov, Igor Anatolievich Kashirin, Sergei Vladimirovich Malinovsky, Andrei Igorevich Sobolev, Viktor Alexandrovich Tikhomirov, Konstantin Mikhailovich Efimov, Alexandr Ivanovich Ermakov, Maria Evgenievna Egorova
  • Patent number: 6303936
    Abstract: An extraction-scintillation medium of substantially free-flowing, porous, solid particulate matter having one or more fluors retained within the particulate matter and an extraction agent adsorbed on or bound to the surface of the particulate matter. The medium is capable of extracting one of a selected radionuclide from an aqueous stream and permits transmission of light therethrough, which light is emitted from the one or more fluors in response to radiation absorbed thereby from the selected radionuclide. A sensor system using the extraction-scintillation medium for real-time or near real-time detection of the selected radionuclide is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2001
    Assignee: Clemson University
    Inventors: Timothy A. DeVol, Jonathan M. Duffey, James T. Harvey, Joel M. Williamson, David D. Brown, James E. Roane
  • Patent number: 6229146
    Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for the position sensitive detection of radioactivity in a fluid stream, particularly in the effluent fluid stream from a gas or liquid chromatographic instrument. The invention represents a significant advance in efficiency and cost reduction compared with current efforts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: UT-Battelle, LLC
    Inventors: Joseph L. Cochran, John F. McCarthy, Anthony V. Palumbo, Tommy J. Phelps
  • Patent number: 6139749
    Abstract: A method for separation, identification, and quantification of radioactive species in an environmental fluid, such as surface or ground water, by passing the fluid through a sheet article. The sheet article is an essentially homogenous, fibrous or fibrillated, matrix or membrane that includes (1) ion-specific separators that sorb or react with the targeted radioactive species and (2) scintillators which emit light in response to radioactive emissions from the targeted species. The separators can be macrocyclic ligand-containing particles. The scintillators can be particles, fibers, a coating on the particles, or a coating on the fibrous matrix or membrane. The scintillator can be an organic scintillator or an inorganic crystalline scintillator. In one embodiment both the scintillator and the separator are incorporated into the same particle or fiber. A scintillation counter can be used to detect and quantify the emitted light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2000
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Garold L. Goken, Kent A. Orlandini, Mitchell D. Erickson, Louis C. Haddad, David C. Seely, Keith M. Hoffmann, Susan K. Dallas
  • Patent number: 5952238
    Abstract: A method for assay of an analyte by use of a material labeled with a chemiluminescent substance, which comprises adding a quencher and/or decreasing the specific activity of a chemiluminescent substance labeled probe, thereby decreasing the quantity of chemiluminescence.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1999
    Assignee: Chugai Seiyaku Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Yasuhiro Tsuji, Keiichi Kamisango, Mitsuo Otsuka
  • Patent number: 5952655
    Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided to concentrate and detect very low levels of radioactive noble gases from the atmosphere. More specifically the invention provides a method and apparatus to concentrate xenon, krypton and radon in an organic fluid and to detect these gases by the radioactive emissions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1999
    Assignees: The United States of America as represented by the United States Department of Energy, University of Cincinnati
    Inventors: Kenneth C. Gross, John D. Valentine, Francis Markum, Mary Zawadzki, Charles Dickerman
  • Patent number: 5856670
    Abstract: A continuous sample detector has a cell assembly with a spaced pair of sample cells. Each of these cells is mounted in a sample chamber and each is adapted to conduct a continuous sample flow. These sample cells are connected through a plurality of sample lines. The continuous sample detector also includes a sensor that is mounted and arranged proximate the cell assembly. Relative motion between the sensor and the cell assembly will enable the sensor to alternately detect radiation predominantly from a selected one of the cells. The sensor and the cells are positioned within the common housing to detect radiation with the sensor from predominantly a first one of the sample cells. The sample flow may at that time pass through the first one of the sample cells. The relative position of the sensor and the sample cells may then be changed within the common housing to detect radiation with the sensor from predominantly a second one of the sample cells.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 5, 1999
    Inventors: Edward Rapkin, Gavin A. Steele
  • Patent number: 5793046
    Abstract: A scintillating optical fiber sensitive to low energy radiation has a clear, solid, elongated core with a thin cladding layer surrounding substantially all of the core along substantially all the length of the core and a dye dopant dispersed within the thin cladding layer. When a low energy radiation particle contacts the thin cladding layer, energy from the particle is transferred to photons having a radiant energy frequency determined by the dye dopant color, and a fraction of the photons are transmitted through the fiber by total internal reflection. A detector using the scintillating optical fiber is also disclosed having a sensor for detecting and indicating the presence of photons operatively connected to an end of at least one optical fiber, such that when the fraction of photons are transmitted through the fiber by total internal reflection to the end, the sensor detects the photons and subsequently provides an indication that low energy radiation has been detected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 11, 1998
    Assignee: McDermott Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Larry Jeffers, Stuart Reed