Source And Object Encasement (e.g., Sterilizers) Patents (Class 250/455.11)
  • Patent number: 8679401
    Abstract: A method and apparatus comprising microwave radiation pulses to reduce a microorganism population in an object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: Microzap, Inc.
    Inventors: Willis Don Stull, Jr., Andreas Alfred Neuber, Michel Todd Brashears, Mindy Malynn Brashears, Christine Alvarado, J Chance Brooks, David E. Sharbutt
  • Publication number: 20140060095
    Abstract: Ultraviolet radiation is directed within an area. Items located within the area and/or one or more conditions of the area are monitored over a period of time. Based on the monitoring, ultraviolet radiation sources are controlled by adjusting a direction, an intensity, a pattern, and/or a spectral power of the ultraviolet radiation generated by the ultraviolet radiation source. Adjustments to the ultraviolet radiation source(s) can correspond to one of a plurality of selectable operating configurations including a storage life preservation operating configuration, a disinfection operating configuration, and an ethylene decomposition operating configuration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: Sensor Electronic Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Shur, Maxim Shatalov, Timothy James Bettles, Yuri Bilenko, Saulius Smetona, Alexander Dobrinsky, Remigijus Gaska
  • Publication number: 20140059796
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide systems and methods for disinfection of aircraft galleys and lavatories and other surfaces. The embodiments may use UV light sources and/or a disinfection unit powered by a fuel cell or other external power source.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Inventors: Razmik B. Boodaghians, Andreas Hoogeveen, Jean-Paul Libis, Yannick Brunaux, Jos Vandervossen
  • Patent number: 8658085
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for irradiating partly formed packages (10) with electron beam irradiation from at least one electron beam sterilizing device (18), characterized in that it comprises: providing at least one partly formed package (10) to be irradiated in a gaseous environment, and exposing the gaseous environment to a pre-determined pressure regulation cycle and exposing the partly formed package (10) to irradiation at least during a portion of said pressure regulation cycle. The invention also relates to a device for realizing said method. The invention further relates irradiation of a packaging material web.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Assignee: Tetra Laval Holdings & Finance S.A.
    Inventors: Anders Kristiansson, Lars Ake Näslund
  • Patent number: 8653481
    Abstract: A UV (ultraviolet) light disinfectant apparatus useful with a biofilm flow cell for in-line, non-invasive disinfecting of medium flow to and from the flow cell is provided. The disinfectant apparatus includes a UV chamber having a UV light source therein and one or more UV light-transmissive tubes that extend through the UV chamber and through which the fluid medium flows through the UV chamber for exposure to UV light for purposes of disinfectation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: Northwestern University
    Inventors: Aaron I. Packman, Wei Zhang, Tadas Sileika
  • Patent number: 8653478
    Abstract: A novel method and apparatus is presented wherein an output of infra-red solid state laser or multiple of such lasers is quadrupled in frequency to obtain a laser output that emits energy in ultra violet C spectrum, and wherein this energy is then provided within an air duct as is normal in HVAC systems so as it kill pathogens that are airborne and being carried through the conduit. Further such a method reduces production of ozone, detrimental to human health and produced in other means of generating UVC and provides ease of control of such energy so as to maintain the required energy at a steady level for prolonged period of time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: Najeeb Ashraf KHALID
    Inventor: Najeeb Ashraf Khalid
  • Patent number: 8653482
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method of freezing a body or a portion thereof. The method comprises exposing at least a part of the body to a coolant having a temperature below the freezing point of the body, and at the same time operating an electromagnetic heater, as to maintain the at least part of the body at a temperature above its freezing point; and reducing the electromagnetic heating to allow the at least a part of the body to freeze. The electromagnetic heater comprises a resonator, and the heated part of the body is heated inside the resonator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: Goji Limited
    Inventor: Eran Ben-Shmuel
  • Publication number: 20140037498
    Abstract: An electron beam sterilisation device (1) for thin-walled containers (C) is fitted with an input (40) or output unit (60) provided with a swivelling body to bring a set of containers (C) from the outside environment into the sterilisation chamber or vice versa, avoiding radioactive emissions from the sterilisation chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2012
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Inventor: Fulvio Laguzzi
  • Publication number: 20140027652
    Abstract: In a weathering chamber, a UV radiation device is arranged and at least one sample can be arranged in a sample plane spaced apart from the UV radiation device. The UV radiation device has a plurality of UV light emitting diodes (UV LEDs) containing two or more classes of UV LEDs having different emission bands. The emission bands are chosen in such a way that a spectral distribution with which a specific spectral UV characteristic is approximated can be obtained in the sample plane.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2013
    Publication date: January 30, 2014
    Applicant: ATLAS MATERIAL TESTING TECHNOLOGY GmbH
    Inventors: Bernd RUDOLPH, Mkrtych KHUDAVERDYAN, Peter MARCH
  • Patent number: 8637842
    Abstract: A method of using automatic whole body personnel contamination monitors and/or means for decontaminating individuals exposed to radioactive material contamination is provided. The inventive method involves the use of these monitors and/or decontamination means in intermodal containers of mobile-unit structures dedicated to responding to radiological emergency situations. Also provided are such mobile-unit structures, as well as systems that employ such mobile-unit structures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Assignee: UniTech Services Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Leslie B. Case, III, Michael R. Fuller, Gregg A. Johnstone, Thomas Pearce O'Kelley, Glenn E. Roberts
  • Patent number: 8633453
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a device for curing photoactivatable paint coatings. The device comprises a curing radiation source configured to emit radiation sufficient to cure a photoactivatable paint coating at a target location. The radiation source is located at a source location operably spaced from the target location where the photoactivatable paint coating is to be cured thereon. A motorized support for supporting the curing radiation source at the source location is provided where the motorized support is configured to advance the curing radiation source along a travel path. The motorized support is further configured to cycle the curing radiation source along the travel path between a first position and a second position in order to vary over time the angle of attack of the radiation emitted from the curing radiation source toward the target location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Nirupama Karunaratne, Darin John Long, Robert Ricci, William Lacey, Michel Van Muyen
  • Patent number: 8633454
    Abstract: A sterilizing apparatus for sterilizing a feeding bottle assembly for a baby, the feeding bottle assembly comprising a feeding bottle, a top end and a base end, the top end having an open neck; the sterilizing apparatus comprising a housing which is adapted to attach to and sit on the top end of the bottle, an ultraviolet (UV) light source on the housing which extends into the bottle for UV sterilization of the bottle when the housing is attached to the bottle, and a switch which automatically switches on the UV light source when the sterilizing apparatus is attached to the bottle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: Shasta Limited
    Inventor: Anne Marie Durkin
  • Publication number: 20140008548
    Abstract: A device has a weathering chamber, in which a UV radiation device is arranged and at least one sample can be arranged. The UV radiation device has a plurality of UV light emitting diodes (UV LEDs) containing UV LEDs of different emission bands. The UV LEDs can be driven in such a way that in each case UV LEDs of a specific emission band can be switched on and off jointly, independently of UV LEDs of the other emission bands. In the method, at least one sample is irradiated with radiation from at least one UV LED of a specific emission band and variations of the sample on account of the irradiation are subsequently analyzed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2013
    Publication date: January 9, 2014
    Inventors: Bernd RUDOLPH, Peter MARCH
  • Patent number: 8623275
    Abstract: This disinfection system for medical instruments of the type comprising a disinfection chamber adapted to implement a cycle for disinfecting instruments, is characterized in that each instrument is associated with a radiofrequency label containing identification information and in that the chamber is associated with radiofrequency means for acquiring identification information about the or each instrument when put in place and removed from the chamber at the start and end of a disinfection cycle, with means of acquiring information characterizing the disinfection cycle and with means for combining identification information about the or each instrument with information characterizing the disinfection cycle in order to generate traceability information on the disinfection of the or each instrument.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Assignee: Germitec
    Inventor: Clement Deshays
  • Patent number: 8618503
    Abstract: An electron beam sterilizer has a bottle holder 28 provided with a rotation shaft 38, a neck gripper 70 mounted to a lower end of the rotation shaft 38, a rotating body 30 for rotating and moving the neck gripper 70 and a rotator revolver (segment gear 54, pinion gear 46, disc-shaped cam 66, etc.), and while conveying the resin bottle 2 in the state of being held, the resin bottle 2 is sterilized by irradiation with the electron beam through the irradiation window 19 of the electron beam irradiation device 18. The entire surface of the resin bottle 2 is completely sterilized by being rotated by the rotator during the movement in front of the irradiation window 19 and, thereafter, the rotator is inverted in position to return the neck gripper to thereby discharge the bottle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignee: Shibuya Kogyo, Ltd.
    Inventors: Yukinobu Nishino, Tokuo Nishi, Yukihiro Yamamoto
  • Patent number: 8614425
    Abstract: A device for sterilizing water, comprising a UV lamp, at least one vessel through which water flows, an inlet and an outlet, a reaction chamber being arranged in said vessel. The outlet of the container forms a free down spout. The UV lamp and the vessel are arranged in a cartridge, the cartridge comprising at least fixing means for detachable fixing to a connection device, and connection means for supplying the current and water from a connection device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2013
    Assignee: Brita GmbH
    Inventors: Berthold Conradt, Ron Kemmer
  • Patent number: 8614426
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a light disinfection device, and the disinfection device at least comprises a disinfection light tube, a controlling body, a circular reflector and a stowage platform. The disinfection light tube is a light source with a circular shape. The controlling body electrically connects with and controls the disinfection light tube. The circular reflector is disposed along the outer side of the disinfection light tube to cover part of light emitted from the disinfection light tube. The stowage platform connects with the controlling body via a rotatable shaft and comprises a transparent plate disposed at the end of the rotatable shaft. Furthermore, the stowage platform extends to the inner side of the disinfection light tube and rotates by the control of the controlling body to let the disinfection light tube irradiate an object on the stowage platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2013
    Assignee: National Yang Ming University
    Inventors: Fu-Jen Kao, Wei R. Chen, Shin-Shian Lee
  • Publication number: 20130323119
    Abstract: An apparatus configured to disinfect an intravenous (IV) access port is disclosed. The apparatus has at least one sterilizing cap with a body configured to removably couple to the access port and an illuminator coupled to the body. The body and illuminator are configured to expose at least one surface of the access port to a dose of ultraviolet (UV) light. In certain embodiments, the illuminator includes a source of UV light, such as a light-emitting diode (LED). In certain embodiments, the illuminator receives the UV light from a remote source through a fiber-optic cable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2012
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Applicant: CareFusion 303, Inc.
    Inventor: Jim Alwan
  • Publication number: 20130323120
    Abstract: A device is presented for disinfecting needleless connectors. The device has a housing that contains a UV light source. The UV light source is operably connected to a power source. The housing has a receptacle configured to selectively receive a shield. The shield has an inner reflective chamber with an internal surface that reflects UV light. In use, the UV light source can illuminate a needleless connector inserted within the shield.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2013
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Applicant: Becton, Dickinson and Company
    Inventor: Yiping Ma
  • Patent number: 8597569
    Abstract: Technologies are described herein for providing sterilization of a touchscreen or other tactile input surface of a user input device. A self-sterilizing user input device includes a touchscreen for receiving tactile user input and an ultraviolet (UV) light source that emits UV light onto a touchscreen at a sterilization wavelength. A controller selectively activates and deactivates the UV light source according to whether a user is at or near the user input device. According to one aspect, the user input device includes a backlight to illuminate the touchscreen. The UV light source is positioned with the backlight to provide the UV light from a rear side of the touchscreen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: Microsoft Corporation, LLC
    Inventors: Robert Warren Gruen, James F. St. George
  • Patent number: 8598539
    Abstract: A germicidal device for elevator buttons includes a casing and a lamp tube installed inside the casing and capable of emitting germicidal light. The casing can be fixedly mounted on an elevator control panel for the germicidal light emitted from the lamp tube to project onto all elevator buttons on the elevator control panel, so as to continuously kill any germs on the elevator buttons. The casing is provided on a bottom with an elongated slot, via which the germicidal light emitted from the lamp tube is outward projected onto all the elevator buttons. The lamp tube can be a UV germicidal lamp tube for emitting UV germicidal light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Inventor: Tsung-Tse Chuang
  • Patent number: 8597588
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for sanitizing headsets during a period of non-use by placing the headsets on a support construct in the form of a rack within which there is a source of ultraviolet radiation. The headsets are mounted straddling the rack, resiliently gripping the rack to be secured in place, and the rack with mounted headsets is enclosed within a case. The source is activated to pass ultraviolet radiation through the rack to impinge upon the headsets, during a timed duration of operation, with the case automatically locked closed for that duration, thereby sanitizing the headsets. Reflective surfaces within the case serve effectively to immerse the headsets within ultraviolet radiation for the duration of operation, and air is circulated within the case, passing through the rack, during the sanitizing operation to assure complete sanitization of the headsets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: Vcom International Multimedia Corporation
    Inventors: Stephen Trabalka, Martin Siegel, David Kyhl
  • Patent number: 8597568
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method for inactivating viruses and/or bacteria in medicinal-leech extracts by means of electromagnetic radiation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: Bayer Pharma AG
    Inventors: Sebastian Schmidt, Jörg Peters, Juergen Michels
  • Patent number: 8586944
    Abstract: An electron beam emitter including a vacuum chamber having a width. An electron generator can be positioned within the vacuum chamber for generating electrons. An elongate nozzle can extend from the vacuum chamber along a longitudinal axis and have an exit window at a distal end of the nozzle. The nozzle can have a width that is less than the width of the vacuum chamber. The electron generator can be shaped and dimensioned, and positioned with the vacuum chamber to form and direct a narrow electron beam that enters and travels through the nozzle, and exits out the exit window.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: Hitachi Zosen Corporation
    Inventor: Tzvi Avnery
  • Patent number: 8575567
    Abstract: UV hard-surface disinfection system that is able to disinfect the hard surfaces in a room, while minimizing missed areas due to shadows by providing multiple UV light towers that can be placed in several areas of a room such that shadowed areas are eliminated and that can be transported by a cart that is low to the ground such that the towers may be loaded and unloaded easily by a single operator. The system is able to be controlled remotely, such that during activation of the system, no operator is present, and to automatically cut power to all towers in the event that a person enters the room.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Surfacide, LLC
    Inventors: Waldemar John Lyslo, Mark Howard Schwartz, Stephen Boyd Pettis
  • Patent number: 8569715
    Abstract: A cognitive stimulating sterilizing device for providing visual, tactile and, or audible stimulation for infants that also selectively sterilizes select items and the surrounding ambient. This including a housing adapted for removable connection to cribs, changing tables and similar furniture, an ultraviolet light source in the housing for sanitizing items in the housing when closed and the ambient when opened, audio source and compartments for holding and storing select items. The housing may include reflective and/or transparent surfaces for directing and/or passing ultraviolet light. A sensor, such as an infrared sensor, detects the presence of a human in the surrounding area in a motion-independent manner, such as by detecting fluctuations in infrared energy emitted by the human. A microcontroller receives data from the sensor and directs the activation and/or deactivation of the ultraviolet light source according to whether a human is detected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: Jansyl Industries, LLC
    Inventor: Sylvia Tantillo
  • Publication number: 20130277574
    Abstract: Provided is an apparatus for disinfecting an object by at least partially removing a biologically-active contaminant there from. A housing encloses a disinfection chamber in which a portion of the object is to be received to be disinfected, and includes an inlet aperture through which the object is introduced to the apparatus. An ultraviolet light source emits ultraviolet light to be imparted on the portion of the object introduced to the disinfection chamber for deactivating at least a portion of the biologically-active contaminant present on the object. A controller controls operation of at least one of a feeder and the ultraviolet light to achieve a level of disinfection of the object, rendering the object suitable for use in a substantially-sterile application.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2013
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Inventor: Roderick M. Dayton
  • Patent number: 8563946
    Abstract: The invention provides a phototherapy device that includes a controlled environment defined by a plurality of transparent panels and at least one light emitting diode portion that projects light into the controlled environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips N.V.
    Inventor: Geert Guy Georges Morren
  • Patent number: 8558203
    Abstract: This invention provides for a removable/replaceable, wavelength-transforming sleeve/sheath to be placed around a primary UV radiation source that emits a primary UV wavelength spectral distribution; such that at least a portion of the sleeve/sheath transforms at least a portion of the primary UV wavelength spectral distribution to a different secondary wavelength spectral distribution. Additionally, the sleeve/sheath may help to prevent breakage of the primary UV radiation source and to contain the broken pieces in the event of breakage. In some embodiments, a portion of the sleeve/sheath may be coupled with a UV reflective surface to direct radiation in a preferred direction. Individual sleeves/sheaths may have various patterns of wavelength-transforming materials that emit one or more secondary wavelength spectral distributions and the sleeve/sheath may also have one or more sections that allow transmission of the primary UV wavelength spectral distribution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Inventor: William G Gardner
  • Publication number: 20130264495
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is an ultraviolet irradiation device for removing organic contaminants from implants using ultraviolet rays. In the present invention, the implants can be easily and smoothly put into or pulled out of a processing chamber, and the implants can be reliably prevented from being recontaminated after the ultraviolet irradiation process has finished. For this, the ultraviolet irradiation device includes a housing provided with an openable door, an ultraviolet lamp installed in the housing, a carriage provided in the housing so as to be extractable, and an implant mount unit placed on the carriage in such a way that the implant mount unit can be disposed facing the ultraviolet lamp in the housing. The implant mount unit includes a mounting board removably placed on the carriage, and an implant support removably placed on the mounting board.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2011
    Publication date: October 10, 2013
    Applicant: USHIO DENKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Yoshimasa Ogawa
  • Patent number: 8552400
    Abstract: An electron beam cap-sterilizer radiates an electron beam onto caps while the caps are continuously conveyed. The caps are conveyed in the restricting conveying section while the movements of the caps are restricted, so that the caps roll down freely and separately from each other in the free conveying section. The electron beam radiating device emits electron beams onto the inside of the caps in the lateral direction while the caps are conveyed in the free conveying section. A deflecting device is provided in the free conveying section. The deflecting device is located at the opposite side of the electron beam radiating device to deflect the electron beams emitted by the electron beam radiating device onto the outside of the caps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: Shibuya Kogyo Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Toshiaki Naka, Yukinobu Nishino, Tokuo Nishi, Ryoji Koudo, Satoshi Masumoto, Soma Watanabe, Yusuke Hirosawa, Mitsuhiro Fujita
  • Publication number: 20130256560
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided for sanitizing an article, the apparatus comprising a housing defining an enclosed internal chamber and having an opening at a door side into the chamber. A door is configured to selectively close the door side of the housing for substantially sealing the chamber. A UV light source is disposed internally of the housing for irradiating the chamber, and an electronic circuit is electrically connected to the UV light source and adapted to power the UV light source for a predetermined period of time. A reflector unit is disposed on one of the walls, the reflector unit including a reflective section projecting outwardly at an angle with respect to the wall. With the article placed in the chamber and the door closed and the electronic circuit activated, the UV lamp is illuminated for the predetermined period of time for sanitizing the article.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2012
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Inventor: Earl Yerby
  • Patent number: 8541758
    Abstract: An ultraviolet reactor for irradiating a flow of fluid includes a set of UV lamps and baffles spaced along the ramps. The baffles generate helical flow of the fluid flowing along the lamps to enhance exposure of microorganisms carried in the fluid to UV radiation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: Aqua Treatment Services, Inc.
    Inventors: John R. Filson, II, Jesse Rodriguez
  • Publication number: 20130243646
    Abstract: The present invention relates to team sports and sports implements, and more specifically to methods and devices for sanitizing balls during play. One or more sports balls are may be introduced into the device of the present invention which comprises one or more ultra-violet light sources, and has an insertion and a dispensing region, between which each of said plurality of balls travels at a rate that ensures that each of said plurality of balls remains in said apparatus for at least a kill-time period. Ultra violet rays are presented to the surfaces of the plurality of sports balls as the ball traverses between the insertion and extraction regions of the device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2012
    Publication date: September 19, 2013
    Inventors: Timothy A. Kearns, J. Thomas Webb, Ron Brunkow, Ladi O. Shogbamimu
  • Patent number: 8536541
    Abstract: A device for disinfecting publicly-used equipment includes a plurality of reflective units disposed along the interior of each wall of the device. Each of the reflective units can include a reflective back section and at least three reflective sections disposed about the reflective back section. UV lamps can be disposed to extend along the walls, and at partially disposed adjacent to a one or more reflective back sections of the reflective units. The UV lamps together with the reflective units collectively direct sufficient UV light on the equipment such that the equipment can be disinfected. The walls and ceiling of the device define a tunnel into which the equipment to be disinfected is inserted. Optionally, the device can include a door to prevent children and others from entering the tunnel while the UV lamps are illuminated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: Yorba Linda Enterprises, LLC
    Inventors: Thomas L. Taylor, Pat Hilt
  • Publication number: 20130234041
    Abstract: An ultraviolet area sterilizer or disinfector is incorporated into a building structure where concern exists regarding the presence of pathogenic bacteria on environmental surfaces. Ultraviolet C (UV-C) generators generate UV-C that is directed to architectural partitions of an enclosed area. The architectural partitions reflect UV-C to kill pathogens in the enclosed area. The device transmits a calculated dose of UV-C from a fixture mounted to an architectural partition in the enclosed area. Once an effective cumulative dose of UV-C has been reflected to radiation sensors, as measured by the sensors, the device shuts down. The device may allocate power to specific UV-C emitters so as to direct UV-C radiation more uniformly throughout the area, as measured by the sensors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2013
    Publication date: September 12, 2013
    Inventor: JEFFERY L. DEAL
  • Patent number: 8530859
    Abstract: Methods and systems for sterilization of objects by gas-cluster ion-beam (GCIB) irradiation are disclosed. The sterilization may be in conjunction with other beneficial GCIB surface processing of the objects. The objects may be medical devices or surgically implantable medical prostheses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: Exogenesis Corporation
    Inventors: Sean R. Kirkpatrick, Richard C. Svrluga
  • Patent number: 8529770
    Abstract: A portable UV-C purification system is provided that includes a current reduction technique for an electric pump to reduce power demands on an associated generator to thereby produce a light weight and efficient system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: Water of Life, LLC.
    Inventor: Stephen A. Yencho
  • Patent number: 8528728
    Abstract: The present invention for a storage case for an ophthalmic lens, wherein the storage case facilitates disinfecting of the ophthalmic lens with disinfecting radiation. Various embodiments may include an alignment device, such as a pedestal or a concave bowl to position the lens to receive disinfecting radiation. In addition, the case may include one or more disinfecting radiation windows for admitting disinfecting radiation into the storage case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: Johnson & Johnson Vision Care, Inc.
    Inventors: Randall B. Pugh, Edward R. Kernick, William Chester Neeley, Dwight Abouhalkah, Leslie A. Voss, Karson S. Putt, James Daniel Riall
  • Patent number: 8525128
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for the inactivation of pathogens such as bacteria and viruses in donor blood, blood plasma and erythrocyte concentrates by photodynamic treatment and/or irradiation with ultraviolet light in flexible irradiation bags under intense movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Blutspendedienst der Landesverbande des Deutschen Roten Kreuzes Niedersachsen, Sachsen-Anhalt, Thuringen, Oldenburg und Bremen g.G.m.b.H.
    Inventor: Harald Mohr
  • Patent number: 8519357
    Abstract: A cleaning apparatus is provided. The apparatus includes a casing that defines an inlet opening on a first surface thereof and an outlet opening on a second surface thereof. An elongate path is formed therebetween for receiving an article to be cleaned. A sanitizing device is carried by the casing in proximity to the path for sanitizing the article to be cleaned. A first roller is carried by the casing and extends into the path. The first roller is configured to rotate in the direction of the path to thereby translate the article to be cleaned from the inlet opening to the outlet opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Inventor: Anthony Peter Noto
  • Patent number: 8519356
    Abstract: A sterilization apparatus for sterilizing containers, such as plastic water bottles employs ultra violet (UV) light sterilization technology in a portable fashion. The apparatus is a standalone unit that is intended for residential use, is portable, and is specifically configured to receive and treat multiple sized bottles without additional add-ons. The apparatus positions and includes features to hold the bottle in a horizontal position within the housing of the apparatus such that the horizontally oriented UV bulb is disposed within the inside of the bottle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Inventor: William P. Boyle
  • Publication number: 20130214174
    Abstract: An apparatus includes an enclosure including one or more ultraviolet lights configured to kill germs, the enclosure including a drawer for placing items into and removing items from the enclosure, wherein the enclosure is configured for insertion into an existing cabinet. The apparatus can include an adjustable width bracket, wherein the adjustable width bracket allows the enclosure to be secured against side surfaces within the existing cabinet. The apparatus can also include an adjustable depth bracket, wherein the adjustable depth bracket allows the enclosure to be secured against a back surface within the existing cabinet. The apparatus can also include a bottom bracket, wherein the bottom bracket allows the enclosure to be secured against a bottom surface of the existing surface. In one example, the enclosure is connected to an air filtration system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2013
    Publication date: August 22, 2013
    Inventors: Georg Domenig, Caroline Domenig
  • Patent number: 8513623
    Abstract: Disclosed is an installation (1) for sterilizing objects (8) by means of a radiation source (50). The installation (1) comprises an irradiation zone (5) in which the radiation source (50) is arranged. An entry zone (3), which is preceded by a feed zone (2), is mounted in front of the irradiation zone (5) while an exit zone (4), which is followed by a subsequent processing zone (9), is mounted behind the irradiation zone (5). A transportation line (6) that is used for conveying the objects (8) extends through the installation (1). One respective shield (7) is associated with the entry zone (3) and the exit zone (4). The entry zone (3) encompasses a first inlet opening (31) that has a passage to the feed zone (2) as well as a second inlet opening (32) which has a passage to the irradiation zone (5). The exit zone (4) has a first outlet (41) that has a passage to the irradiation zone (5) as well as a second outlet opening (42) which has a passage to the subsequent processing zone (9).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: Skan AG
    Inventors: John Thomas Newman, Volker Sigwarth, Paul Alexander Smith
  • Patent number: 8511045
    Abstract: An apparatus for sterile filling of beverage containers has a first module and a second module. The first module rinses and sterilizes empty containers and delivers the sterilized containers to the second module. The second module fills and caps the containers with beverage product at ambient temperature in an active sterilization zone utilizing an e-beam sterilization unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: Stokely-Van Camp, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael J. Mastio, Rei-Young Amos Wu, Michael F. McGowan, Subodh K. Raniwala, Gregory Schimmel, James D. Schuman, Steven Havlik, Richard O. Powell
  • Patent number: 8506195
    Abstract: The sanitized brush, with skin powder, is retained in a sanitization system. The neck brush handle has a powder chamber, a bristle face with outwardly extending bristles and a powder input port. A portion of the powder chamber wall is flexible and a movable actuator depresses the flex-wall, compresses the size of the chamber and forces powder from an exit port on the bristle face. The sanitization system includes a brush stand holding the brush above a UV lamp. A sensor determines when the brush is on the stand and a timer is triggered ON controlling the lamp and counts down OFF. Additional features include: a base supporting the stand above the UV lamp; a rechargeable battery; an on-hook brush sensor (mechanical or optical); and a removable cover with a transparent segment to visually confirm lamp ON condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Inventor: Ricky Diaz
  • Patent number: 8502165
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is an ultraviolet sterilizer having a watertight function. The ultraviolet sterilizer includes a housing and an ultraviolet sterilization unit. The housing has an inlet through which ballast water is drawn into the housing, and an outlet through which the ballast water is discharged from the housing after the ballast water has been sterilized. The ultraviolet sterilization unit is provided in the housing and includes an ultraviolet lamp applying ultraviolet rays to the ballast water to sterilize the ballast water. The ultraviolet sterilizer further includes a cap which supports each of the opposite ends of the ultraviolet sterilization unit and is watertightly coupled to the housing. Thus, even if the ultraviolet sterilization unit is damaged, ballast water is prevented from being drawn into a reception space which contains external devices, and explosive gas which may cause the ultraviolet sterilizer to explode is also prevented from entering the cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: Panasia Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Soo-Tae Lee, Tae-Sung Pyo, Su-Kyu Lee
  • Publication number: 20130193344
    Abstract: An apparatus for sterilizing cap-like closures for closing bottles includes a conveying system to move the cap-like closures through a treatment zone in which the cap-like closures are exposed to ultraviolet radiation for sterilization, the treatment zone having ultraviolet radiation sources for emitting ultraviolet light. Within the treatment zone, the conveying system includes a rotor that can be driven to rotate about a vertical rotor axis, and closure holders formed on a periphery of the rotor. Each closure holder is oriented with a longitudinal extension thereof in a direction of the rotor axis. The closure holders are configured for moving the cap-like closures vertically from top to bottom through the treatment zone on a treatment section between a closure supply and a closure discharge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2011
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: KHS GmbH
    Inventor: Alfred Drenguis
  • Patent number: 8497488
    Abstract: A treatment device includes one or more treatment stations each including an electron-beam emitter and supporting device for supporting a container beneath the emitter, the emitter being capable of emitting an electron beam passing through the upper opening of a container supported by the supporting means, so as to sterilize the container, and a protection system for stopping the radiation emitted by the emitter(s). The protection system includes an upper portion connected to the emitter, lower portion connected to the supporting device and a moving device capable of moving the upper portion relative to the lower portion, between a retracted position and at least one operative position in which the portions from a protective enclosure in which the emitter and container are positioned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2013
    Assignee: HEMA
    Inventors: Philippe Lejeune, Philippe Macquet
  • Patent number: 8481970
    Abstract: A sanitizer for sanitizing a portable electronic device is provided, the sanitizer having a base including a cavity for receiving the electronic device, at least one ultraviolet radiation source for emitting ultraviolet radiation into the cavity, a cover cooperating with the base, the cover moving between an open position wherein the electronic device can be inserted into or removed from the cavity and a closed position wherein the cavity is enclosed so as to substantially maintain the ultraviolet radiation within the cavity, and a controller for enabling the ultraviolet radiation source to be activated only when the cover is closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: Spectronics Corporation
    Inventors: Jonathan Cooper, Robert E. Cannuscio