Including Valve In Feed Conduit Patents (Class 366/182.4)
  • Patent number: 10316283
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a concentrically baffled reactor includes an outer housing that defines an interior space, an inlet through which material can be delivered into the interior space, an outlet through which material can be removed from the interior space, and multiple concentric baffles within the interior space that define multiple concentric reactor zones through which the material can sequentially flow to the outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2019
    Assignee: University of South Florida
    Inventors: Daniel H. Yeh, Onur Y. Ozcan, Robert A. Bair
  • Patent number: 10071348
    Abstract: A mixing unit for mixing a flow of liquid product is provided. The mixing unit comprises a stator forming a hollow sleeve, and a rotor having a circular displacement plate with two opposite sides, wherein at least one side has at least two chambers formed by a plurality of vanes extending in a direction being parallel with a longitudinal axis of the stator, wherein the rotor is arranged within the stator for rotating liquid product arranged in said chambers relative the stator. The displacement plate is tilted relative a longitudinal axis of the stator such that said at least two chambers have different volumes, and a side wall of the stator has at least one exit area comprising at least one through hole for allowing liquid product to exit the stator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2018
    Assignee: TETRA LAVAL HOLDINGS & FINANCE S.A.
    Inventor: Frederik Larsen
  • Patent number: 9038666
    Abstract: Systems, methods and apparatus for providing an electromagnetic flow controller. In one embodiment, an electromagnetic flow controller can have two substrates, a permanent magnet, and two electrical traces. One of the substrates may deflect away from the other substrate upon applying an electrical signal to at least one of the two electrical traces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2015
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Wei Chen, Kevin McMahan, Shiva Srinivasan
  • Patent number: 9039272
    Abstract: A measuring device comprising at least one mixer structure to receive a fiber suspension sample from at least one process part. Each mixer structure is provided with a measuring unit, a feeding valve for feeding feed liquid into a sample line for pushing the sample in the sample line towards the measuring unit, a mixing valve structure for feeding dilution liquid into the mixer structure The mixer structure mixes the flowing sample and the dilution liquid with one another in order to reduce the consistency of the sample. The measuring device measures from the first part of the mixed sample one property of the fiber suspension and the measuring device measures from the second part of the mixed sample a further property.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2015
    Assignee: METSO AUTOMATION OY
    Inventor: Pasi Kärki
  • Publication number: 20150124555
    Abstract: When a first electromagnetic valve of a first stirring tank is turned ON and a second electromagnetic valve of a second stirring tank is turned OFF, the air pressure inside the first stirring tank increases and the liquid in the first stirring tank is sent into the second stirring tank via piping. When the volume of the liquid inside the second stirring tank reaches an upper limit, the first electromagnetic valve of the first stirring tank is turned OFF and the second electromagnetic valve of the second stirring tank is turned ON. As a result, the liquid inside the second stirring tank is now sent into the first stirring tank via the piping. Ultimately, because the liquid is circulated between the first and second stirring tanks and the liquid is flowing at all times due to the repetition of said actions, separation does not occur.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2013
    Publication date: May 7, 2015
    Inventors: Shinsuke Fujiyama, Nagafumi Muta, Youhei Shimokama, Toshikazu Shiojiri, Masato Yokemura
  • Patent number: 9004094
    Abstract: The present invention concerns a valve (1), a valve closing body (14) and use of a valve (1) and a valve closing body (14) of the type used for injecting dry powder which is mixed with liquid, and where the dry powder is supplied under the liquid surface in a mixing vessel (11) in which a vacuum is typically maintained. The novel feature of a powder valve (1) according to the invention is that a closing body (14) of the valve in the closed position extends through the valve seat (13) of the valve and into the wet environment. It is hereby achieved that when the valve (1) is opened, powder or dust from powder is not deposited on the valve closing body (14). This is in spite of the valve closing body (14) being wet, due to contact with the liquid to which the powder is added. Due to its elongated shape, the valve closing body (14), which in the withdrawn position opens for inflow of powder, has the property that the inflowing powder dries the valve closing body (14) at first and keeps it dry subsequently.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Tetra Laval Holdings & Finance S.A.
    Inventors: Holger Colding-Kristensen, Hans Henrik Mortensen
  • Patent number: 9004744
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for mixing fluids, such as beverage syrup and water, uses countercurrent injection to improve blending of the fluids. A mixing chamber has a first inlet through which a first fluid is fed to the mixing chamber, and a second inlet through which a countercurrent injection nozzle extends and is operative to inject a second fluid into a stream of the first fluid. The countercurrent injection nozzle is equipped with a check valve to control the flow of fluid into the mixing chamber. The mixing chamber may include additional inlets that may be fitted with countercurrent injection nozzles to permit the countercurrent injection of other fluid, such as flavorings, into the stream of the first fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Techni-Blend, Inc.
    Inventor: David M. Kemp
  • Patent number: 8967849
    Abstract: Apparatus (20) for injection of fluid into extrusion system components such as a preconditioner (24) or extruder (100) is provided, preferably as a composite assembly including a fluid injection valve (52) and an interconnected static mixer section (54). Alternately, use may be made of the fluid injection valve (52) or static mixer section (54) alone. The invention greatly simplifies the fluid injection apparatus used in extrusion systems, while giving more efficient absorption of thermal energy with a minimum of environmental contamination, and the ability to inject multiple streams into the extrusion systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: Wenger Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott Eugene VanDalsem, Brian D. Streit
  • Publication number: 20150045210
    Abstract: Parallel reactor systems for synthesizing materials are disclosed. The reactor systems may be suitable for synthesizing materials produced from corrosive reagents. Methods for preparing materials by use of such parallel reactor systems are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2013
    Publication date: February 12, 2015
    Applicant: FreeSlate, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel Giaquinta, Robert S. Busacca, Robert K. Rosen, John F. Varni, Jeffrey C. Yoder
  • Publication number: 20150016211
    Abstract: Apparatus (20) for injection of fluid into extrusion system components such as a preconditioner (24) or extruder (100) is provided, preferably as a composite assembly including a fluid injection valve (52) and an interconnected static mixer section (54). Alternately, use may be made of the fluid injection valve (52) or static mixer section (54) alone. The invention greatly simplifies the fluid injection apparatus used in extrusion systems, while giving more efficient absorption of thermal energy with a minimum of environmental contamination, and the ability to inject multiple streams into the extrusion systems.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2013
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Inventors: Scott Eugene VanDalsem, Brian D. Streit
  • Patent number: 8858066
    Abstract: Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer program products and implementing techniques for mixing liquid components. Quantities of two or more liquid components are transferred from pressurized source reservoirs to one or more destination locations by means of a fluid outlet that includes a dispense valve, and the two or more liquid components are mixed in the destination locations to create a plurality of fluid mixtures. Two or more dispensing technologies can be combined to provide for increased efficiency in the dispensing of high volume liquid components. The amounts of liquid components being dispensed can be monitored during the dispensing to provide feedback control of the dispensing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignee: FreeSlate, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey A. Brown, Hyeok Hahn, Peter Calcavecchio, Jason Gao
  • Patent number: 8858065
    Abstract: Apparatus (20) for injection of fluid into extrusion system components such as a preconditioner (24) or extruder (100) is provided, preferably as a composite assembly including a fluid injection valve (52) and an interconnected static mixer section (54). Alternately, use may be made of the fluid injection valve (52) or static mixer section (54) alone. The invention greatly simplifies the fluid injection apparatus used in extrusion systems, while giving more efficient absorption of thermal energy with a minimum of environmental contamination, and the ability to inject multiple streams into the extrusion systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignee: Wenger Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott Eugene VanDalsem, Brian D. Streit
  • Patent number: 8746963
    Abstract: A continuous, semi-continuous or fed-batch mixing apparatus and process for producing and maintaining a consistently mixed substance uses a tubular vessel equipped with a plurality of annular baffles configured to initiate and maintain uniform mixing and efficient dispersion of the substance in the tubular vessel, with a pump to impart unidirectional linear and non-oscillatory motion to the substance in the tubular vessel thereby promoting and maintaining uniform mixing and efficient dispersion of the substance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Assignee: Nitech Solutions Limited
    Inventors: Xiongwei Ni, Andrew Fitch, Ian Laird
  • Publication number: 20140124689
    Abstract: This invention relates to a hydraulic system comprising a hydraulic cross connection (90), housed in a housing case (99) to be mounted on a rear planar support (98), comprising inlet and outlet ducts (70, 71), at least one tubular element (105, 106) insertable in each one of said ducts (70, 71), and at least one quick coupling removable hook (91; 991), configured to be inserted in a seat (100) obtained on an outer wall of each one of said ducts (70, 71), the hydraulic system being characterised in that said at least one quick coupling removable hook (91; 991) is configured to be posteriorly inserted in the seat (100) and it comprises at least one rear arm (95; 995), and in that the housing case (99) is shaped so that a distance separating the seat (100) of each one of said ducts (70, 71) from the rear planar support (98) is such that said at least one removable hook (91; 991) is removable from the seat (100) and said at least one tubular element (105, 106) is extractable from the inlet or outlet duct (70, 71)
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2012
    Publication date: May 8, 2014
    Applicant: SEKO S.P.A.
    Inventors: Gabriele Petrangeu, Stefano Livoti
  • Publication number: 20140071787
    Abstract: A clotting serum production device including a main chamber, an inlet housing, and an outlet port. The main chamber is defined by a first end wall, a second end wall opposite to the first end wall, and a side wall extending between the first end wall and the second end wall. The inlet housing extends from the first end wall. The inlet housing includes a first inlet port, a second inlet port, and a first conduit extending between the first inlet port and a second conduit. The second conduit extends between the second inlet port and the main chamber. The inlet housing is configured to provide one-way fluid flow from the first inlet port to the second inlet port and to provide one-way fluid flow from the second inlet port to the main chamber. An outlet port is in fluid communication with the main chamber and provides fluid communication with an exterior of the clotting serum production device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 15, 2013
    Publication date: March 13, 2014
    Applicant: Biomet Biologics, LLC
    Inventors: Michael D. LEACH, Jennifer E. WOODELL-MAY, Hillary OVERHOLSER, Joel C. HIGGINS, Jason CHAVARRIA, Ned M. HAMMAN
  • Publication number: 20140043932
    Abstract: Method and system for blending biogas with conventional fuel in which the fuel blend is automatically adjusted for lower biogas flows and methane concentrations by introducing higher concentrations of conventional fuels. The system is able to automatically adjust the fuel blend, thereby eliminating the requirement for manual intervention, and producing a variable blended biogas that can be utilized within existing natural-gas fired combustion units such as boilers, furnaces, heaters, etc., as well as enabling automatic adjustment and operation, maximum usage of biogas, and integration with combustion unit controls. Using all available biogas to provide energy also minimizes the need for flaring unused biogas.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 15, 2011
    Publication date: February 13, 2014
    Inventors: Stuart Russell, Thomas Blair, James Buenzow, Robert Adams
  • Patent number: 8622605
    Abstract: A fluid mixing device is productive, maintainable and improved in operability and reliability even without high accuracy pressure control. A fluid mixing device includes a mixing tank, supply tanks, mixing tank flow channels, valves, and branch flow channels. The mixing tank mixes at least two liquids. Each supply tank is provided for each of the liquids and supplies each liquid to the mixing tank. Each mixing tank flow channel connects each supply tank to the mixing tank. Each valve is arranged in each of the mixing tank flow channels. Each branch flow channel is connected to each of the mixing tank flow channels and is connected from the one mixing tank flow channel to the valve in the other mixing tank flow channel. Further, when the valve has pressure applied thereto from the liquid passing through the branch flow channel, the valve closes the mixing tank flow channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Assignee: NEC Corporation
    Inventor: Minoru Asogawa
  • Patent number: 8591098
    Abstract: A material blender and method for blending a plurality of ingredient materials to make a single heterogeneous material. The material blender may comprise a blending apparatus, a control system, and a pneumatic delivery system. The pneumatic delivery system may comprise a plurality of conduits each provided with a pneumatic flow therethrough to pneumatically convey one of the ingredient materials to the blending apparatus. The delivery system may also comprise one or more valves configured to independently vary the pneumatic flow through one of the conduits. The control system may be configured to provide signals to the valves, commanding the valves to oscillate between varying degrees of openness based on a desired percentage or ratio of each of the ingredient materials to be output to the blending apparatus. The control system may calculate signals to send to the valves based on stored calibration information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: E-Loaders Company, LLC
    Inventors: Roger Kemp, Chris Kipp, Paul Kemp, Andrew M. Nelson
  • Patent number: 8591834
    Abstract: New high density microfluidic devices and methods provide precise metering of fluid volumes and efficient mixing of the metered volumes. A first solution is introduced into a segment of a flow channel in fluidic communication with a reaction chamber. A second solution is flowed through the segment so that the first solution is displaced into the reaction chamber, and a volume of the second solution enters the chamber. The chamber can then be isolated and reactions within the chamber can be initiated and/or detected. High throughput methods of genetic analysis can be carried out with greater accuracy than previously available.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: Fluidigm Corporation
    Inventors: David S. Cohen, Robert C. Jones, Andrew May, Hany Nassef, Jing Wang
  • Publication number: 20130294192
    Abstract: According to the present invention, a gas-air mixing device used in a gas boiler includes: a gas supply tube branched into a first gas flow path and a second gas flow path; an air supply tube branched into a first air flow path and a second air flow path by means of an air-flow-path branching apparatus; a pressure valve which is connected to the inlet side of the gas supply tube in order to adjust the supply rate of gas being supplied to the gas supply tube; and a drive unit in which two valve bodies are connected to a rod that moves vertically up and down due to the magnetic force of an electromagnet; and the air-flow-path branching apparatus is formed to have a slot that connects to either the first air flow path or the second air flow path, and has a joining part which the rod can pass through in a position corresponding to the slot.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2011
    Publication date: November 7, 2013
    Inventor: Seung kil Son
  • Publication number: 20130094908
    Abstract: A device for agitating a material is provided. The device includes a casing that includes an opening at a first end and a valve configured to open and close the opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 2011
    Publication date: April 18, 2013
    Applicant: Empire Technology Development LLC
    Inventor: Takahisa Kusuura
  • Publication number: 20130074732
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an in-line mixer for mixing a plurality of fluids to produce a mixed product. The mixer includes one or more mixing chambers, an impeller in each of the mixing chambers, one or more inlets coupled to injection valves for conveying the fluids into the mixing chamber, and an outlet for conveying the mixed product out of the mixing chamber. The in-line mixer is well suited to components, such as those used in making automotive OEM and refinish paints.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Publication date: March 28, 2013
    Applicant: E I DU PONT DE NEMOURS AND COMPANY
    Inventor: Antonio RETAMAL
  • Patent number: 8382365
    Abstract: An easily cleanable horizontal mixer (10) includes a mixing bowl (18), a roof (22) configured to close an upper opening of the mixing bowl, and a material feed tube (24) provided on the roof and communicated with a material feed port formed in the roof. A rotatable lid (26) is disposed in the material feed tube. The lid has an inner surface (26a) that can be set flush with an inner surface (22a) of the roof. The mixing bowl has a scraper member (32) provided at an upper end (16b) of the mixing bowl defining the upper opening. The scraper member slides on the inner surface of the roof when the mixing bowl is rotated from a mixing operation position to a non-mixing operation position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: Oshikiri Machinery Ltd.
    Inventors: Yuzuru Oki, Masami Umetsu, Takahiro Hasegawa, Shigehisa Sakamoto
  • Patent number: 8348493
    Abstract: The invention relates to an electronic manager for bread dough mixers and to an operating method. The invention consists of an integral module (15) comprising a PLC (2) which, by means of relays (3, 4 and 5), controls a low-speed contact (8), a high-speed contact (9) and an electrovalve (10, 10?) in order to operate a mixer (14). In addition, the PLC (2) controls a temperature sensor (6), a flowmeter (7, 7?) and a visual and audible indicator (13). The corresponding method comprises a parameter definition step, a start confirmation step, an oxygenation step, a liquid metering step, a mixing step and a return-to-rest step.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Inventor: Roberto Brisciani
  • Patent number: 8333499
    Abstract: The cartridge can include a mixing component for mixing different solutions so as to form a product solution. A mixture of different solutions can be transported into the mixing component where they combine to form a product solution. The mixing component includes a plurality of variable volume reservoirs in liquid communication with one another. The product solution can be repeatedly transported from one of the variable volume reservoirs to another of the variable volume reservoirs until the desired degree of mixing is achieved. Once the desired degree of mixing is achieved, the product solution can be transported directly to a product chamber within the cartridge or can be treated further before being transported to the product chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2012
    Assignee: GeneGluidics, Inc.
    Inventors: Jen-Jr Gau, Arvin Trung Chang
  • Patent number: 8313231
    Abstract: A droplet mixing apparatus can be applied for use with a variety of liquids, can provide a mixing speed of hundreds of nl/s by adjusting an opening/closing time of a solenoid valve, can effectively mix droplets, and can reduce a reaction time when applied to clinical appliances that utilize expensive liquids. The droplet mixing apparatus includes a plurality of pressure containers storing liquids that are to be dispensed, a plurality of solenoid valves that are respectively connected to the pressure containers to dispense the liquids fed from the pressure containers into a mixing container, and a control unit that controls the solenoid valves such that the solenoid valves are either simultaneously opened or alternately opened and closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2012
    Assignee: Postech Academy-Industry Foundation
    Inventors: Tai-Hun Kwon, Sung-Jae Park
  • Patent number: 8287178
    Abstract: The invention provides a system and method for filling a reservoir through one or a plurality of inlet nozzles to encourage mixing. The inlet nozzles include a specifically designed size reduction between the main line or branch to which the inlet nozzle is attached and the nozzle pipe itself; a specifically designed nozzle pipe length which, combined with the pressure increase provided by the size reduction, will produce the most appropriate jet flow; and a specifically designed location and orientation of the inlet nozzle within the reservoir. These parameters produce a developed turbulent jet flow which, when the inlet nozzle is positioned at the appropriate elevation and oriented in the appropriate direction(s), will direct the developed turbulent jet flow with the appropriate momentum to reach the surface of the water with initial major mixing taking place in this area. A corresponding draining system and method is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Assignee: Landmark Structures I, L.P.
    Inventor: Douglas Lamon
  • Publication number: 20120245590
    Abstract: Among other things, an apparatus for mixing and dispensing a bone cement mixture are provided. In certain embodiments, the apparatus includes a housing having a first chamber for containing an ampoule having a first bone cement component. The housing has a second chamber for containing a second bone cement component and the first and second chambers are in fluid communication. An ampoule breaking device is disposed within the first chamber and is configured to engage and break the ampoule for release of the first bone cement component. Disposed within the second chamber is an impeller that is configured to rotate such that the impeller mixes the first and second bone cement components together to form the bone cement mixture. Adjacent the impeller is a displacer that is configured to advance through the second chamber, receiving the impeller and dispensing the bone cement mixture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2012
    Publication date: September 27, 2012
    Inventors: Jeffry S. Melsheimer, Jonathan Lee Bennett, Jessica L. Burke
  • Patent number: 8262280
    Abstract: A system for providing an adjustable blend of fluids to an application process is disclosed. The system uses a source of a first fluid flowing through at least one tube that is permeable to a second fluid and that is disposed in a source of the second fluid to provide the adjustable blend. The temperature of the second fluid is not regulated, and at least one calibration curve is used to predict the volumetric mixture ratio of the second fluid with the first fluid from the permeable tube. The system typically includes a differential pressure valve and a backpressure control valve to set the flow rate through the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: Babcock & Wilcox Technical Services Y-12, LLC
    Inventors: Russell L. Hallman, Jr., Paul D. Vanatta
  • Patent number: 8201989
    Abstract: A fluid mixing system capable of quickly stabilizing flow rates of a plurality of fluids to be mixed is arranged to mix the fluids and deliver a mixture thereof to a container. The system includes a plurality of on-off valves for the respective fluids and delivering the fluids to the container. The on-off valves are caused to open and close in order according to respective duty ratios each indicating an opening/closing ratio in a cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2012
    Assignee: CKD Corporation
    Inventors: Kazutoshi Itoh, Yasunori Nishimura
  • Patent number: 8157434
    Abstract: New high density microfluidic devices and methods provide precise metering of fluid volumes and efficient mixing of the metered volumes. A first solution is introduced into a segment of a flow channel in fluidic communication with a reaction chamber. A second solution is flowed through the segment so that the first solution is displaced into the reaction chamber, and a volume of the second solution enters the chamber. The chamber can then be isolated and reactions within the chamber can be initiated and/or detected. High throughput methods of genetic analysis can be carried out with greater accuracy than previously available.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Assignee: Fluidigm Corporation
    Inventors: David S. Cohen, Jing Wang, Andrew May, Robert C. Jones, Hany Nassef
  • Patent number: 8113486
    Abstract: A component-feed nozzle for a reaction-mixing head of a reaction injection device includes a housing having a component inlet and a component outlet. Received in the housing is a closing and flow restriction member which is movable by a linear drive between at least two positions. In a first position, the closing and flow restriction member closes the component outlet, and in a second position clears the component outlet, thereby establishing a flow communication between the component inlet and the component outlet. The closing and flow restriction member has at least a first area and a second area, which generate forces in opposite directions, when the component pressure is applied, wherein the areas are sized in such a way that the opposing forces substantially offset one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Krauss Maffei Technologies GmbH
    Inventors: Wolfgang Söchtig, Elisabeth Karolina Söchtig, legal representative, Melanie Söchtig, legal representative, Stephanie Söchtig, legal representative, Ernst Berchtenbreiter
  • Patent number: 8087817
    Abstract: Disclosed is an auto-diluting and rinsing apparatus, comprising: a concentrated detergent container for holding concentrated detergent to be diluted; a diluter container for holding diluter, which is used to dilute the concentrated detergent; and a diluted detergent container for holding diluted detergent for rinsing, which are formed by mixing the concentrated detergent and the diluter; wherein the concentrated detergent container and the diluter container are communicated with a high pressure gas source, respectively, and the apparatus further comprising: a gas path controller, configured to control the diluted detergent container to be communicated with a low pressure gas source via a first gas path during a dilution process; and to be communicated with a high pressure gas source during a rinsing process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2012
    Assignee: Shenzhen Mindray Bio-Medical Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Xueping Jiang, Zhigang Zhong, Bo Liu, Chao Zeng
  • Patent number: 8070353
    Abstract: An easily cleanable horizontal mixer. This horizontal mixer (10) includes a mixing bowl (18) having an upper opening, a material feed port (20), a roof (22) configured so as to close the upper opening, a material feed tube (24) attached to the roof and extending upwardly from a periphery of the material feed port to define a material feed passage extending through the material feed port, and the lid (26) disposed in the material feed tube. The mixing bowl has a bottom wall (14), a peripheral wall (16) extending from the periphery of the bottom wall to the upper opening, and a scraper plate (32) at an upper end (16b) of the peripheral wall. The lid has an inner surface (26a) that is, at a position to close the material feed port, brought into a position where the inner surface is flush with an inner surface (22a) of the roof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Assignee: Oshikiri Machinery Ltd.
    Inventors: Yuzuru Oki, Masami Umetsu, Takahiro Hasegawa
  • Patent number: 8047702
    Abstract: A high shear mixer in a holding tank is used in a continuous flow process. Flow rate of material into and out of the holding tank establishes residence time in contact with shearing elements. A batch shear mixer is used in a tank that has continuous flow into the bottom and out of the top. A level controller controls a valve or a positive displacement pump at the inlet. The mixing chamber is sized for the maximum needed residence time, slowing the flow increases the residence time. In an open tank lower inlet pump and upper outlet pump are coordinated. Incoming flow rate matches outgoing flow for continuous processing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Inventor: William J. LoPresti
  • Patent number: 8002457
    Abstract: Disclosed are methods and systems for forming multi-component refrigerant compositions comprising: (a) introducing a first refrigerant component into a vessel at a first flow rate; (b) introducing at least a second refrigerant component into said vessel at a second flow rate, which may be the same as or different than the first flow rate, during at least a portion of said first refrigerant introducing step; and (c) controlling at least one of said first and second flow rates to obtain the desired relative proportions of said first and second refrigerants in the refrigerant composition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen Cottrell, Stephen Delo, Clifford Riegel, Jarrad Garrison
  • Patent number: 7934865
    Abstract: Micromixer for mixing at least two fluids that react to form precipitations or suspensions, comprising a first channel for supplying a first partial flow and a second channel for supplying a second partial flow, which flows enter into a mixing and reaction area via narrow entrance gaps and leave via an outlet channel with reverse flow prevention being placed between the mixing and reaction zone and at least one channel that supplies a partial flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2011
    Assignee: Ehrfeld Mikrotechnik BTS GmbH
    Inventors: Wolfgang Ehrfeld, Frank Herbstritt, Till Merkel
  • Patent number: 7914199
    Abstract: An apparatus for a frozen food product, such as an ice cream or frozen-yoghurt product, produces an aerated and flavored base mix. The base mix is provided in a liquid form to the apparatus and is mixed with a gas in the apparatus to aerate the base mix. Flavor is added to the aerated base mix in a turbulence tube of the apparatus, and the aerated and flavored base mix is then deposited out of the turbulence tube onto a cold plate of the apparatus as a thin layer material. The cold plate may be disposed such that it is in open view of a customer. One or more solid-food mix-in additives can be added to the aerated and flavored base mix on the cold plate. The aerated and flavored base mix is allowed to at least partially freeze on the cold plate with the additive(s) dispersed therein to produce a frozen food product, which is then manually scraped from the cold plate and served to a customer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: MooBella, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul R. Kateman, Richard Rosenberger
  • Publication number: 20110051546
    Abstract: A process for blending a plurality of fluids utilizes an apparatus including a blending tank having at least one inlet and an outlet; a first supply line and a second supply line in fluid communication with the at least one inlet; the first supply line being in fluid communication with a first fluid source and having a first timing valve disposed between the first fluid source and the at least one inlet; the second supply line being in fluid communication with a second fluid source and having a second timing valve disposed between the second fluid source and the at least one inlet; a controller operatively connected to the first and second timing valves for controlling frequency and duration of actuation of the first and second timing valves.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2009
    Publication date: March 3, 2011
    Inventors: Steven FINLEY, Mario Lopez
  • Patent number: 7883264
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for personal product delivery have been disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2011
    Inventor: Valentino L. Liva
  • Publication number: 20100220549
    Abstract: Apparatus for conveying a water-soluble or water swellable particulate material to a make up unit used in the hydration or dissolution of said material comprising: a scroll conveying line (6) comprising a duct (6A) defined by a wall and a scroll conveyor (6B) within said duct, wherein the scroll conveying line has an inlet (6D) through which material enters and an outlet (6C) through which the material leaves the scroll conveying line, and an air conveying line (3) comprising a duct through which an air stream conveys the material to a make up unit (18) in which the material is hydrated or dissolved to form an aqueous dilution or aqueous solution, in which the scroll conveying line (6) is provided with a means for ensuring the material substantially fills the space between the scroll conveyor and the wall of the duct at least at the outlet end of the conveying line, wherein the means is selected from, (a) the scroll conveying line (6) or outlet (6C) is in communication with an element that restricts the flow
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2008
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Inventor: Peter Holdsworth
  • Patent number: 7740400
    Abstract: A control drip mixer attachment is in combination with a hub type food mixer. The control drip mixer attachment includes a container with a side wall and a bottom wall forming an interior of the container. A shaft is connected to the container, with the shaft being adapted and arranged to be removably inserted into a hub section of the mixer. An outlet opening is in fluid communication with the interior of the container near the bottom wall and is located vertically above the bowl of the mixer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Inventor: Agustin J. Membreno
  • Patent number: 7731412
    Abstract: Fluid processing apparatus comprises a fluid-handling manifold comprising a manifold body having at least a first fluid duct and a second fluid duct. The first and second fluid ducts are in fluid communication with each other at a microfluidic junction of the fluid-handling manifold. The manifold body further comprises a transducer operative to generate ultrasonic acoustic traveling wave radiation into fluid in the microfluidic junction from an active surface toward a non-reflective boundary of the microfluidic junction. The microfluidic junction is operative to pass fluid received from the first and second duct, with micro-mixing effected by the traveling wave radiated into the junction during the fluid flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2010
    Assignee: Protasis Corporation
    Inventors: Graham Sparey-Taylor, David Strand, David Barrow
  • Patent number: 7607819
    Abstract: A disposable liner for use in a vessel used for blending chemicals is described. The liner has a body with an inside and an outside surface and at least one orifice for receiving and discharging a product contained in the body. The body has at least one layer of a flexible thermoplastic material that can be incinerated to dispose of liner. The liner is adapted to conform generally to at least a portion of the inner surface of the vessel when chemicals are present in the liner. The liner is insertable into the vessel and removable therefrom to dispose of the liner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2009
    Inventors: Mark Gaeta, Clifford Broderick
  • Publication number: 20090245016
    Abstract: An easily cleanable horizontal mixer. This horizontal mixer (10) includes a mixing bowl (18) having an upper opening, a material feed port (20), a roof (22) configured so as to close the upper opening, a material feed tube (24) attached to the roof and extending upwardly from a periphery of the material feed port to define a material feed passage extending through the material feed port, and the lid (26) disposed in the material feed tube. The mixing bowl has a bottom wall (14), a peripheral wall (16) extending from the periphery of the bottom wall to the upper opening, and a scraper plate (32) at an upper end (16b) of the peripheral wall. The lid has an inner surface (26a) that is, at a position to close the material feed port, brought into a position where the inner surface is flush with an inner surface (22a) of the roof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2009
    Publication date: October 1, 2009
    Inventors: Yuzuru OKI, Masami UMETSU, Takahiro HASEGAWA
  • Patent number: 7566165
    Abstract: A manifold comprises a conduit for conveying a fluid stream, a plurality of nozzles, and a plurality of valves. Each nozzle is connected to a corresponding port in the conduit, and each valve is connected to a corresponding nozzle. The ports can be disposed at discrete locations on two or more transverse planes of the conduit and such that no longitudinal, diametrical plane of the conduit passing through the center point of any one of the ports is coplanar with a longitudinal, diametrical plane of the conduit passing through the center point of a longitudinally adjacent port. Alternatively, the ports can be disposed at discrete locations on the conduit such that no longitudinal, diametrical plane of the conduit passing through the center point of any one of the ports is coplanar with a longitudinal, diametrical plane of the conduit passing through the center point of any other port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2009
    Assignee: Milliken & Company
    Inventors: Philip T. Radford, Jack L. Rolen
  • Publication number: 20090175123
    Abstract: A control drip mixer attachment is in combination with a hub type food mixer. The control drip mixer attachment includes a container with a side wall and a bottom wall forming an interior of the container. A shaft is connected to the container, with the shaft being adapted and arranged to be removably inserted into a hub section of the mixer. An outlet opening is in fluid communication with the interior of the container near the bottom wall and is located vertically above the bowl of the mixer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2008
    Publication date: July 9, 2009
    Inventor: Agustin J. Membreno
  • Publication number: 20090075151
    Abstract: A fuel cell is provided comprising a cell module and a mixing module. The mixing module is connected to the cell module. A vapor current enters the mixing module from the cell module. The mixing module comprises a condensing unit, a mixing sink, and a check valve. The vapor current enters the condensing unit to be condensed into a first liquid. The mixing sink comprises a sink body and a spacer, wherein the sink body receives a second liquid, the spacer spaces the sink body and the condensing unit, the spacer comprises a through hole, and the first liquid enters the mixing sink through the through hole. The check valve is disposed in the through hole, wherein the check valve comprises a valve body and a valve cover, the valve is disposed in the through hole, and the valve cover restricts the valve body in the through hole.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2008
    Publication date: March 19, 2009
    Applicant: CORETRONIC CORPORATION
    Inventors: Shou-Chih Chen, Sea-Huang Lee
  • Patent number: 7500778
    Abstract: Polymer mixing apparatus strips oil from polymers in an oil phase continuous emulsion and at least partially hydrates the polymers by injecting the emulsion and a pressured aqueous solution into a mixing zone. The emulsion and solution are passed through a confined space, where the oil is stripped from the polymer molecules and at least partially hydrated. The resulting solution is removed from the confined space without recirculation through the confined space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2009
    Inventor: Carl Brazelton
  • Patent number: 7478944
    Abstract: A soil mixing apparatus for mixing soil and a media. The apparatus comprises a housing having a rotatable auger mounted longitudinally within the housing. The housing is provided with a first lower end, an intermediate section and a second raised end, the second raised end raised relative to said first lower end. A hopper is coupled to the first lower end of the housing so that the rotatable auger extends into the hopper for moving the soil toward the second raised end. A valve apparatus is coupled to the housing at the intermediate section of the housing for introducing the media to the soil as the soil is moved from the hopper to the second raised end. The rotatable auger is provided with a series of spaced flites so that the soil can be moved from the first lower end through the intermediate section and to the second raised end. An inlet water supply allows water to be introduced at the intermediate section. A treatment inlet supply allows an additive to be added to the soil at the intermediate section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2009
    Inventor: Chuck Hull