By Movement Of Support For Removable Mixing Chamber Patents (Class 366/208)
  • Patent number: 11898128
    Abstract: A culture apparatus includes a culture vessel including an internal space containing a culture solution in which a culture target is suspended, a gas supply apparatus supplying a single gas or a mixed gas to the internal space of the culture vessel, and an agitation apparatus agitating the culture solution by changing position and posture of the culture vessel. The agitation apparatus changes the position and posture of the culture vessel to circulate the culture solution in the internal space of the culture vessel so that a bottom surface of the internal space of the culture vessel is partially revealed and that the revealed portion transitions in a circulating direction R.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2024
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Akira Higuchi, Hiroyuki Naito, Itsuro Motegi
  • Patent number: 11525113
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a bioreactor assembly comprising a plurality of trays (30) for holding a cell culture bag, a holder (2) on which the trays are mounted side by side to form a first series of trays rocking mechanism (4) for rocking the trays, the rocking mechanism (4) being operatively connected to each of the trays (30). The invention also relates to a bioreactor system (100) comprising at least one bioreactor assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2022
    Assignee: Global Life Sciences Solutions USA LLC
    Inventor: Sankar Ganesh Kolappan
  • Patent number: 11390838
    Abstract: The present invention provides a shake-type culture apparatus which can perform large scale culture without using stirring blades and a culture method using the same. More particularly, there are provided a shake-type culture apparatus comprising: a culture bag made from a soft packaging material; an outer shell container being arranged to house the entirety of the culture bag to be able to perform adjustment of a temperature thereof; and a power source for shaking the outer shell container housing the culture bag, wherein the contents in the culture bag can be stirred and mixed by shaking the outer shell container housing the culture bag; and a culture method using the same.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2022
    Assignee: FUJIMORI KOGYO CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Hiroyuki Matsuda
  • Patent number: 10745738
    Abstract: In a method for measuring luminescence of a biological sample utilizing two different luminescence reagents, the sample is agitated to improve mixing with the second luminescence reagent, allowing for a shorter delay time between injection of the second reagent and measurement of the resulting luminescence activity. The improved mixing may also allow for a shorter measurement time, thereby improving throughput when assaying a large number of samples.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2020
    Assignee: Molecular Devices, LLC
    Inventors: Daniel Stock, Georg Kronberger, Michael Katzlinger
  • Patent number: 10739363
    Abstract: The present invention lies in the field of automated analyzers and relates to a method for mixing liquids in liquid containers. The arrangement for automated mixing comprises a shaking device and a gripper which is connected by way of a flexible connecting element to a transfer arm and which serves for receiving a liquid container. The coupling of gripper and shaking device is realized by way of an eccentrically movable coupling pin and a coupling hole provided for this purpose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2020
    Assignee: Siemens Healthcare Diagnostics Products GmbH
    Inventors: Joachim Bernhard, Christian Verhalen
  • Patent number: 10561996
    Abstract: Agitating a plurality of fluid packages in a tower. The housing tower may include a stationary tower as well as an agitation device. The agitation device may include an agitation chassis assembly and an agitation rack tower. The plurality of fluid packages may be received at the agitation rack tower. Once received, the plurality of fluid packages may be connected to a pump assembly, wherein the pump assembly is located at the agitation chassis assembly. In addition, the agitation rack tower may be agitated relative to the agitation chassis assembly about a pivot point located on the agitation rack tower.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2020
    Assignee: THE COCA-COLA COMPANY
    Inventors: Lawrence Blair Ziesel, Daniel S. Quartarone, David J. Harvey
  • Patent number: 10427120
    Abstract: A method for automatic speed control of an orbital shaker device to determine one of at least two stacked orbital shaker devices operating in an out of balance condition includes the steps of a) Starting the first orbital shaker device, b) Accelerating the first orbital shaker device, and c) Determining a vibration level of the first orbital shaker device, and d) Automatically decreasing a speed of the first orbital shaker device if the vibration level determined in step c) exceeds a predefined first threshold, wherein the steps a) to d) are additionally executed for a second orbital shaker device independently from the first orbital shaker device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2019
    Assignee: EPPENDORF AG
    Inventor: Richard Zannoni
  • Patent number: 10161948
    Abstract: In some aspects, automated rapid antimicrobial susceptibility testing systems for performing a multi-assay testing sequence can include an automated incubation assembly having a nest assembly adapted to house at least one test panel having a plurality of wells for receiving a sample comprising microorganisms originating from a clinical sample, the incubation assembly facilitating incubation of one or more test panels in order to undergo the multi-assay testing sequence; a robotic handling assembly configured to accept one or more incoming test panels and move them to and from the incubation assembly for incubation between each assay of the multi-assay testing sequence; an automated liquid handling assembly configured to exchange one or more fluids in the plurality of wells of the test panels; and an optical assembly for interrogation and readout of each assay of the multi-assay testing sequence being performed in the plurality of wells.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2018
    Assignee: SELUX DIAGNOSTICS, INC.
    Inventors: Aleksandar Vacic, Nathan Purmort, Eric Stern, Anna Passernig, Paul Otten, Randy Tragni, Ronan Hayes, Andriy Tsupryk, Bruce Richardson
  • Patent number: 9808777
    Abstract: A mixing and paint-making device and method for making paint are described. Embodiments of the paint-making device include a first and second palette hingedly coupled to a base. The base includes a paint pot shaking component configured to agitate and/or translate a paint pot. The paint pot shaking component includes a series of gears and pistons that interact to produce a shaking motion for a paint pot coupled to the paint pot shaking component. In one embodiment, the paint pot shaking component includes a crank gear adjacent a combination gear that contacts a slide crankshaft. The slide crankshaft is coupled to a slide crank arm that is secured by slide bracket coupled to the base. A paint pot harness holds a paint pot during agitation and moves in an upward and downward motion corresponding to the motion of the slide crank arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Assignee: Crayola, LLC
    Inventors: Robert Henry, Cheryl Krieger, James Allen
  • Patent number: 9371889
    Abstract: A mechanism for switching a sample holder (14, 40) accommodating a fluidic sample (38) between an orbital motion mode for sample mixing, particularly for shaking, and a rotary motion mode for sample separation, particularly for centrifuging, wherein the mechanism comprises a gear element (11) being drivable by a drive unit (42) to move selectively in a first direction (A) or in a second direction (B) being inverse to the first direction (A), an orbital motion generator (2 to 5) configured for generating an orbital motion of the sample holder (14, 40) when being operated in the orbital motion mode, a rotary motion generator (2, 4, 5) configured for generating a rotary motion of the sample holder (14, 40) when being operated in the rotary motion mode, and a one-way clutch arrangement (12, 13) configured for selectively coupling the gear element (11) with the orbital motion generator (2 to 5) to transfer a driving force from the gear element (11) to the orbital motion generator (2 to 5) for generating the orbita
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2016
    Assignee: Quantifoil Instruments GmbH
    Inventor: Andreas Vester
  • Patent number: 9339779
    Abstract: A shaking device for mixing nail polish mixes bottles of nail polish prior to use in order to achieve a uniform mixing of contents in the bottle. The shaking device includes a housing having a top side, a bottom side, and a peripheral wall extending between the top and bottom sides. A frame is mounted in an interior of the housing. A primary shaft is coupled to the frame. A container is coupled to the primary shaft and has an interior space configured for holding an object to be shaken. A motor is coupled to the frame. The motor is mechanically coupled to the primary shaft wherein actuation of the motor causes movement of the primary shaft and vibrates the object held in the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Inventor: Steve C. Olson
  • Patent number: 9068964
    Abstract: A blood cell counter comprises a stirrer which stirs a whole blood sample in a sample container by moving the sample container, an aspirator which aspirates the whole blood sample by penetrating a lid of the sample container with an aspiration tube after stirring by the stirrer, a detector which counts the blood cells in the whole blood sample aspirated by the aspirator, and a force applying member which applies a force to the sample container in an upright state after stirring by the stirrer so as to remove the whole blood sample from the lid of the sample container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2015
    Assignee: SYSMEX CORPORATION
    Inventors: Nobuhiro Kitagawa, Masahiko Oguro, Kozo Fujii
  • Publication number: 20150098300
    Abstract: An apparatus (10) for producing an orbital movement in a plane (20) is disclosed. The apparatus (10) comprises a lower shaft (40) and an upper shaft (30), being parallelly and eccentrically attached to one another, and a platform (50) mounted on the upper shaft (30). A ring gear (60) is attached to the platform (50) and coaxially rotatable about the upper shaft (30). A gear wheel (80) is coaxially rotatably mounted on the lower shaft (40) and engages with the ring gear (60).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2014
    Publication date: April 9, 2015
    Inventor: Niels Annau
  • Patent number: 8967763
    Abstract: A liquid containing chamber that supplies liquid to a liquid ejecting apparatus includes a first liquid container that is capable of containing the liquid and has a vertically long shape in a mounted position when mounted in the liquid ejecting apparatus, a first projection provided in the first liquid container and a first stirring member supported by the first projection, wherein when the first liquid container in the mounted position is divided into an upper container which is located above the first projection and a lower container which is located below the upper container, the lower container contains the liquid and the upper container contains the liquid and a predetermined amount of air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventor: Hiroyuki Kawate
  • Patent number: 8905624
    Abstract: A system and method for controlling a mixing system at a peak energy efficiency point, maximum response point or reduced sound generation point based on displacement, velocity, acceleration or jerk operating conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Inventors: Harold W. Howe, Peter A. Lucon, Jeffrey D. Thornton, Brian Jay Seaholm
  • Patent number: 8876362
    Abstract: A nail polish display system includes a case, which may take the form of a shelving system or platform, sized to hold and display multiple bottles of nail polish. The bottles are attached to coupling devices, such as clamps, sleeves, magnetic couplers, etc. to an agitator, which preferably takes the form of a rotatable rod. A motor operates the agitator to move, rotate or otherwise agitate the bottles and therefore sufficiently and continuously mix the nail polish within the bottles. The system may include one or more sensors configured to detect the presence of a patron, configured to detect a position of the motor or agitator, and/or configured to detect when a door to the case is being opened. Further, the motor may be programmable and receive instructions from either a controller or control logic using input from one or more of the sensors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Inventor: Cuong Nguyen
  • Patent number: 8876367
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for use in the biopharmaceutical and chemical industries to facilitate the temporary attachment of standard laboratory glassware to vibratory mixers and other types of aggressive shaking equipment. The container holder couples the entire flask or container to the mixing equipment in a secure fashion. The technology may be used with conventional glass flasks, or with plastic flasks that can be configured for either single-use or multiple-use. The invention allows for single handed, low force insertion of the flaskware as well as the incorporation of sensors into the container holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Inventors: Harold W. Howe, Todd A. McAdams
  • Publication number: 20140263163
    Abstract: An apparatus configured for mixing the contents of one or more fluid containers includes a fluid container support platform configured to hold one or more fluid containers. The fluid container support platform is configured to index the container to one or more specified locations and to be moved in an orbital path about an orbital center independently of the rotation about the central axis of rotation. The apparatus further includes an indexing drive system configured to effect indexing movement of the container support platform and a vortex drive system configured to effect powered orbital movement of the container support platform about the orbital center. An evaporation limiting insert placed within containers reduces exposure of the fluid contents of the container to atmospheric air, thereby reducing susceptibility of the fluid contents to evaporation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: GEN-PROBE INCORPORATED
    Inventor: Byron J. KNIGHT
  • Publication number: 20130265844
    Abstract: A three-door structure suitable for rotation type coating mixer may include an upper lid cover, symmetrically arranged front doors, a door movement support frame, and linear straight guide rails. The upper lid cover may be located at the top of the machine casing and fixedly arranged on the door movement support frame. The front doors may be symmetrically arranged on the front side of the machine casing. The linear straight guide rails may be installed on the housing of the machine casing through a guide rail fixing base. The door movement support frame may be symmetrically connected on two sides to sliding blocks arranged on the guide rails. The front doors may be connected to two sides of the door movement support frame. The lower ends front doors may be engaged with a fixing base at the bottom of the machine casing through a joining part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2011
    Publication date: October 10, 2013
    Inventors: Fuming Yuan, Yaobin Xue
  • Patent number: 8534905
    Abstract: An orbital shaker apparatus is provided, including a first shaft connected to a first bearing assembly at a first end and a mounting portion at the other. The first shaft is rotatable about a first shaft axis, and is connected to a motor. The second shaft has a bearing assembly on the mounting portion at one end and a platform at the other, and is aligned parallel to and offset from the first shaft by a distance. A counterweight rotor assembly is coupled to the mounting portion, and rotated by a belt driven by a pulley connected to the rotating shaft of a counterweight motor. The counterweight assembly includes two counterweight bearings, each having a counterweight wedge. The platform also includes supports for objects to be secured thereto. In use, as the counterweight rotor rotates, the second shaft, second bearing assembly, and platform describes a circular orbit with diameter 2R.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: New Brunswick Scientific Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Erik Zamirowski, Ashvin Joshi, Heinz G. Koehn, Joel Johnson, Jeffrey A. Douglas
  • Publication number: 20130217010
    Abstract: The present invention relates to containers for holding liquid samples. The containers may be useful for mixing a liquid sample or lysing cells in a liquid sample. The invention also relates to methods of using the containers of the invention.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2012
    Publication date: August 22, 2013
    Applicant: T2 Boisystems, Inc.
    Inventor: T2 Biosystems, Inc.
  • Patent number: 8454823
    Abstract: A sample stirring device of the present invention includes a driving roller and two follower rollers for coming into contact with a sample container including a cylindrical portion for containing a sample to be stirred. The driving roller is driven for rotation to stir the sample contained in the sample container. The two follower rollers have rotation axes inclined with respect to an axial direction of the cylindrical portion. This arrangement allows the sample container such as a blood collection tube to be rotated stably.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: Arkray, Inc.
    Inventors: Shin-ichi Oota, Hidenari Yamagata, Takeshi Takagi, Koji Egawa
  • Patent number: 8322913
    Abstract: A plastic container used to hold a dispersion-based paint colorant and capable of dispensing the colorant into paint dispensing machines, comprising an open top capable of holding and securing a cap, and having a wide mouth with a diameter of at least 50 mm. The plastic container has a cylindrical body extending below the open top, and a plurality of vertical ribs spaced around the body to strengthen the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: BASF Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph Galowina, Dennis Futo, Dale Panascewicz
  • Patent number: 8317389
    Abstract: A microtiter plate (1), which can be used in a device G, comprises a plurality of receptacles (2) disposed next to one another for a substance or fluid to be stirred and analyzed, wherein stirring rods (3) are provided for stirring. So as to drive these stirring rods, it is provided that the bottoms (4) of the individual receptacles (2) are displaceable and deflectable and that a stirring rod (3) penetrates each of them centrally, the rod being seized by a drive on an outer section (3b) protruding downward beyond the bottom (4) such that it can be set into a back and forth motion or a gyrating or rotary motion and thus continues the desired stirring motion on the inside of the receptacle (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: IKA-Werke GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Peter Jägle
  • Patent number: 8226291
    Abstract: An orbital shaker apparatus is provided, including a first shaft connected to a first bearing assembly at a first end and a mounting portion at the other. The first shaft is rotatable about a first shaft axis, and is connected to a motor. The second shaft has a bearing assembly on the mounting portion at one end and a platform at the other, and is aligned parallel to and offset from the first shaft by a distance. A counterweight rotor assembly is coupled to the mounting portion, and rotated by a belt driven by a pulley connected to the rotating shaft of a counterweight motor. The counterweight assembly includes two counterweight bearings, each having a counterweight wedge. The platform also includes supports for objects to be secured thereto. In use, as the counterweight rotor rotates, the second shaft, second bearing assembly, and platform describes a circular orbit with diameter 2R.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Assignee: New Brunswick Scientific Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Erik Zamirowski, Ashvin Joshi, Heinz G. Koehn, Joel Johnson
  • Patent number: 8215826
    Abstract: A method according to Claim 25, wherein essentially homogeneous material mixtures are achieved or maintained in these liquid containers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Tecan Trading AG
    Inventors: Adi Zuppiger, Roland Fuchs, Urs Knecht
  • Patent number: 8201987
    Abstract: A kitchen shaking apparatus includes a housing, a controllable oscillating actuator contained in the housing, a platform mechanically coupled to the controllable oscillating actuator, and a plurality of adjustable coacting restraining arms operably coupled to the housing. Each of the restraining arms including a vertical segment and a horizontal segment and is positioned and configured to allow the vertical segment to contact an object on the platform. A speed control is configured to control frequency of oscillation of the actuator. A timer control is configured to control duration of operation of the actuator. A locking mechanism releasably locks at least one adjustable restraining arm at a user-selectable position. A removable pad is attached to the top surface of the platform. After shaking mixed ingredients using the apparatus, the ingredients are devoid of substantial air pockets and the consistency is improved for an enhanced processed food product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2012
    Inventor: Stephen Carroll
  • Patent number: 8192133
    Abstract: A climate-controlled cabinet that includes a climate-controlled chamber for receiving a storage system, a carrier arranged in said chamber, and at least one storage tower arranged in said chamber and mounted to the carrier. The storage tower includes a plurality of locations for objects to be stored. A transport device is included for automatically transporting objects between the storage tower and an external system, and a shaker for automatically shaking the carrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Assignee: Liconic AG
    Inventor: Cosmas G. Malin
  • Patent number: 8182136
    Abstract: A paint mixer support and tray apparatus providing a pounding station for reclosing a paint container having friction fit lid. The support allows for vertically supporting up to two paint mixers, each supported on a separate horizontal plate. The tray is movable between a horizontal operating position wherein the paint container may be placed on the tray and the lid pounded down against the container, and a vertical storage position wherein the tray is pivoted up out of the way, where it may rest against a paint mixer, retained there by magnets. In the absence of an upper paint mixer, the tray may be further pivoted to rest against the upper plate resulting in a shipping position for the tray and stand. The tray may have a pair of arms in contact with the stand to support the tray in the operating position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: Red Devil Equipment Company
    Inventors: Brent Thomas Harrold, Thomas J. Midas
  • Patent number: 8177416
    Abstract: The invention relates to a dental device, in particular a dental mixing device, with a housing, and with a frame that supports at least one motor and a mixing arm and is mounted on at least two bearings, preferably at least three bearings, in particular four bearings, inside a housing, each of these bearings being clamped between upper and lower elastic, pretensioned damping elements (32, 34). The damping elements are supported respectively on a first, upwardly directed abutment surface (58) and on a second, downwardly directed abutment surface (50) of the housing, in particular on a stand foot (52).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: Ivoclar Vivadent AG
    Inventor: Wolfgang Müller
  • Patent number: 8157436
    Abstract: A gyroscopic paint mixer having a rotatable frame with a clamp lock providing automatic transfer from an unclamping to a clamping condition, providing silent operation through the use of one way clutches, the mixer also having a vertical stop apparatus coupled to an access door for stopping and holding the rotatable frame in an upright position, the mixer also having a bail retainer supported by a carriage assembly mounted for rotation on a clamp plate with a cam urging the bail retainer to the side of the frame when the bail retainer is released from the paint container with the paint container in an upright position in the rotatable frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Assignee: Red Devil Equipment Company
    Inventors: Aaron Curtis, Stephen J. Carlson, Charles Ringhofer, Benjamin M. Johnson, Brent Thomas Harrold, Thomas J. Midas
  • Patent number: 8152360
    Abstract: The invention provides a storage device with storage racks and a shaker where the undesired horizontal oscillations of the upper ends of the storage racks are small. The storage device for laboratory samples includes a shaker drive, a rack carrier being driven by said shaker drive for performing a shaking motion with horizontal component, at least one storage rack arranged on the rack carrier, which storage rack comprises vertical side walls, each side wall having a plurality of ledges arranged vertically above each other and forming storage locations for a plurality of laboratory samples on top of each other, and a counterweight assembly connected to an upper end section of the storage rack and being driven to exert a force opposite to the shaking motion in order to counteract an oscillation of the upper end section of the storage rack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: Liconic AG
    Inventor: Cosmas Malin
  • Patent number: 8137622
    Abstract: A device for biochip hybridization or washing is provided, which comprises a carousel (12), a translational movement controller, a revolving movement controller, and optionally a heating chamber (13). The revolving movement controller controls the revolving movement of the carousel and allows it to move in a wobbling fashion, allowing liquid movement of the hybridization or washing boxes (11) during hybridization and/or washing of biochips on the carousel. The translational movement controller brings the carousel back to horizontal position once the revolving movement controller stops, thereby ensures that the liquid do not spill out. The heating chamber circulates hot air within the device, thereby ensures that the hybridization and washing in a thermostatic condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Assignees: CapitalBio Corporation, Tsinghua University
    Inventors: Hang Li, Jianxin Ye, Xingling Al, Xianhua Wang, Liang Zhang, Jing Cheng
  • Patent number: 8017094
    Abstract: A rack for holding containers containing liquids used in clinical chemistry analyzers. The rack comprises (a) a frame having two or more sections, each section being adapted for receiving a liquid containing component, at least one of the sections of the frame being adapted for receiving a first liquid containing component which is adapted for being removably but tightly mechanically connected to said frame, (b) at least one movable part adapted to be removably coupled to a shaker device, the movable part being adapted for receiving and holding a second liquid containing component, at least one of the sections of the frame being adapted for receiving the movable part and allowing motion of the movable part within predetermined limits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Assignee: Roche Molecular Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas Meyer, Reto Schorno, Thomas Schlaubitz
  • Patent number: 8017091
    Abstract: A device consisting of a low-RPM motor wherein the motor spins a flat disk, a peg is attached to the disk, a stationary spring armature wherein the peg can activate the stationary spring armature as the disk rotates, and a tube containing beads in a fluid positioned in a top plate wherein the spring armature can contact the tube. This device can further include a soft closed-cell foam top mounted on the top plate wherein the tube is inserted and maintained by the foam in such a way as to allow for slight motion of the tube induced by the contact by the spring armature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Turan A. Kayagil, Julie A. Richardson
  • Patent number: 8016478
    Abstract: The invention relates to a multistation mixing device for mixing the contents of laboratory vessels. The device comprises at least two adapter plates having a holder for receiving laboratory vessels and a drive mechanism capable of driving the adapter plates in a mixing motion with the same angular speed such that, in horizontal planes, each point of the adapter plates performs a circular motion with the same radius, the same angle speed and the same angular position around a respective center. The starting positions of the adapter plates, from which the adapter plates are driven by the drive mechanism, are rotated relative to one another by an angle in the direction of the mixing motion in their respective angular position, such that imbalances occurring during the mixing motion are at least partially compensated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Assignee: Eppendorf AG
    Inventors: Manfred Ebers, Bernd Petersen
  • Patent number: 7942569
    Abstract: The invention relates to a dosing arrangement which is used to mix a dispersion paint. The dosing arrangement comprises a mixing vessel and one container for the aqueous paint components. Each container is connected to a dosing valve, which is arranged in the supply area of the mixing vessel, by way of a supply line. The containers for the aqueous paint components are formed by waterproof bags.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Assignee: Schulz GmbH Farben-und Lackfabrik
    Inventors: Rainer Orben, Joerg Rueger
  • Publication number: 20110096620
    Abstract: A vortex mixer and method for forming an emulsion wherein the mixer is adapted to form an emulsion with a desired droplet size and having a desired volume. The vortex mixer provides improved uniformity in emulsion preparation and may be used to create multiple emulsions simultaneously.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2010
    Publication date: April 28, 2011
    Applicant: APPLIED BIOSYSTEMS, LLC
    Inventors: Lev KOTLER, John Andrew Sheridan, Gina Costa, Joseph Podhasky
  • Patent number: 7891860
    Abstract: The present invention uses one or more bags that are capable of being selectively pressurized and deflated in conjunction with a disposable bio bag such as a fermenter, mixing bag, storage bag and the like. The pressure bag(s) may surround a selected outer portion of the bag or may be contained within an inner portion of such a bag. By selectively pressurizing and deflating the pressure bag(s), one is able to achieve fluid motion in the bag thereby ensuring cell suspension, mixing and gas transfer within the bag without damaging shear forces or foam generation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Millipore Corporation
    Inventor: John Dana Hubbard
  • Patent number: 7883265
    Abstract: A vortex mixer and method for forming an emulsion wherein the mixer is adapted to form an emulsion with a desired droplet size and having a desired volume. The vortex mixer provides improved uniformity in emulsion preparation and may be used to create multiple emulsions simultaneously.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2011
    Assignee: Applied Biosystems, LLC
    Inventors: Lev Kotler, John Andrew Sheridan, Gina Costa, Joseph Podhasky
  • Publication number: 20100313635
    Abstract: A mixer for analytical application mixes a container of fluid without a magnetic stir bar. A device for testing a liquid for particles can use the mixer. The mixing can occur in a sealed container, and liquid can be transmitted to the device from the sealed container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2010
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Applicant: Hach Company
    Inventors: Kenneth L. GIRVIN, Gerald A. Szpak, Keith A. Bender, Shawn A. Hogan, Robert A. Moss
  • Patent number: 7832921
    Abstract: The invention provides a storage device with storage racks and a shaker where the undesired horizontal oscillations of the upper ends of the storage racks are small. For this purpose, rotating bodies with non-horizontal end faces are provided, each of which is contacted by a follower member, with the follower member carrying out an up and down movement when the respective rotating body rotates. In a second embodiment, a moving counterweight assembly is provided that counteracts the oscillations. The counterweight assembly is connected to the upper end section of the storage racks and includes a vertically displaceable counterweight. The counterweight is mounted eccentrically on rotating tables.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Liconic AG
    Inventor: Cosmas Malin
  • Publication number: 20100135108
    Abstract: A system and method for custom coloring sealant is generally provided with one or more dispensing cartridges, containing a quantity of low viscosity sealant base solution, which in some embodiments is as fluid, or more-so, as common latex paint. One or more such dispensing cartridges are secured within a cartridge case. A coloring agent is added to the dispensing cartridge. The system may then be agitated by hand or in a mechanical agitator, such as a commercial paint shaker, until a desired color is attained. The sealant thickener may then be added and mixed by similar agitation of the system to obtain a non-sag, high viscosity sealant. Embodiments of the cartridge case are provided for use with various mechanical agitators and dispensing cartridges.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 3, 2010
    Publication date: June 3, 2010
    Applicant: Sashco, Inc.
    Inventors: Wayne Summons, Elliot Summons, Kenneth W. Atkinson, Daniel Lewis, Scott G. Bohm, Mark Niro, Jeremy Yunge
  • Patent number: 7670042
    Abstract: A marinating device includes a supporting base having a blocking sidewall, a food marinating container having a guiding rib and a container sidewall physically contacted with the blocking sidewall to block a sideward movement of said food marinating container at a first sideward direction, and an electric driving arrangement. The electric driving arrangement includes a driving unit and a plurality of driving rotors adapted to be driven by the driving unit to rotate. At least two corresponding driving rotors are frictionally and alignedly engaged with the guiding rib to block the sideward movement of the food marinating container at an opposed second sideward direction such that when the food marinating container is driven to rotate via the driving rotors, the food marinating container is securely retained on the supporting base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Inventor: George Cheung
  • Patent number: 7666681
    Abstract: An automated analyzer for performing multiple diagnostic assays simultaneously includes multiple stations, or modules, in which discrete aspects of the assay are performed on fluid samples contained in reaction receptacles. The analyzer includes stations for automatically preparing a specimen sample, incubating the sample at prescribed temperatures for prescribed periods, preforming an analyte isolation procedure, and ascertaining the presence of a target analyte. An automated receptacle transporting system moves the reaction receptacles from one station to the next.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Assignee: Gen-Probe Incorporated
    Inventors: Kelly G. Ammann, Ernest V. Hansberry
  • Patent number: 7654729
    Abstract: A powered test-tube agitation device includes a small plate having a rest for a test tube to be agitated and operated in agitation by a powered mechanism. The powered mechanism is started by optical detection of the entry of an object into a predetermined zone above the small plate. Advantageously the detector is a photoelectric infrared reflection detector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2010
    Inventor: Giovanni Passoni
  • Patent number: 7524104
    Abstract: An undulating mixing device for precise, controlled agitation of sensitive biological and chemical solutions provides a base and a platform connected by four flexible connectors, a spring loaded motor mount assembly pivotally attaching a motor to the base, a turntable rotatably attached to the base, a tilt assembly pivotally and rotationally attached to the turntable and rigidly affixed to the platform, and a motor shaft that engages a groove on the turntable for causing rotation thereof. The tilt assembly includes an adjustable collar which controls the tilt or yaw movement of the platform as the motor effects rotation of the turntable. A selectively adjustable speed control switch sets the desired rotational speed of the motor via a microprocessor. The device functions without modification on a plurality of selected voltages and frequencies for achieving the desired rotational speed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2009
    Assignee: Stovall Life Science, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph J. Malasky, IV, Edward L. Peart, Cedric S. Reynolds, Edward C. Prather
  • Patent number: 7438462
    Abstract: Methods and mechanisms for shaking containers are disclosed. The shaking motion can be made to vary in a dynamic fashion so that the different components within the container are not made to separate, as if subjected to the processing of a centrifuge. Such dynamic motion can appear to be random. A cantilevered base plate or other type of based place can be coupled to a base. A motor can be coupled to the base plate and configured to rotate a generally vertical shaft. A cam or other type of wheel can be coupled to the shaft and configured to eccentrically rotate about the shaft, wherein the wheel is configured to rotate within a bearing. A container base is coupled to the bearing such that the container base is configured to translate or otherwise move is general accordance with the eccentric rotation of the cam. The container base can be configured to tilt based at least in part on the translation of the container base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2008
    Inventors: Christine J. Bodie, Daniel Jay Fields
  • Patent number: 7377686
    Abstract: The present invention uses one or more bags that are capable of being selectively pressurized and deflated in conjunction with a disposable bio bag such as a fermenter, mixing bag, storage bag and the like. The pressure bag(s) may surround a selected outer portion of the bag or may be contained within an inner portion of such a bag. By selectively pressurizing and deflating the pressure bag(s), one is able to achieve fluid motion in the bag thereby ensuring cell suspension, mixing and gas transfer within the bag without damaging shear forces or foam generation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2008
    Assignee: Millipore Corporation
    Inventor: John Dana Hubbard
  • Patent number: 7338199
    Abstract: An apparatus for mixing of liquid substances or distribution of solid substances in liquid substances in a plurality of sample containers arranged in a microplate (7) is supported on a horizontally displaceable support plate (2). A motor (3) that is provided with an unbalance is held via its stator (3A) above a base (1) directly on the underside of the support plate (2), the rotational axis (D) of the rotor (3B) being disposed perpendicular to the support plate (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2008
    Assignee: Berthold Technologies GmbH & Co KG
    Inventor: Klaus Hafner