Mixing Chamber Conveyed By Support During Agitation Patents (Class 366/218)
  • Patent number: 12138601
    Abstract: A closure mechanism for a wine storage container having two fluid channels provides a compressive structure to apply a compressive force to a delayed valve actuation mechanism having an actuation plate, a support plate, and a valve plate. The actuation plate may be partially rotated before beginning to open or close the fluid openings. The first fluid channel permits wine to flow from the lower portion of the storage container, through an aerator, and through a valve cap assembly. The second fluid channel permits air to flow into the valve cap assembly to the aerator, and to vent the container. The valve cap assembly includes a decorative cap with a liquid outlet port positioned 180 degrees from a vent inlet port. In a fully open orientation, the liquid outlet port is positioned over the first fluid channel, and the vent inlet port is positioned over the second fluid channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2022
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2024
    Inventors: Christopher Joseph Clyde, Shi Li Jun, Wang Xiao Bo
  • Patent number: 9606136
    Abstract: A method and an automated system for testing liquid samples comprising a reaction vessel transferring device are presented. A first analytical unit for running a first diagnostic test comprises a rotatable first vessel holder detachably holding reaction vessels. A second analytical unit for running a second diagnostic test comprises a stationary linear second vessel holder detachably holding reaction vessels. The transferring device comprises a gripper for gripping a reaction vessel and transfers reaction vessels from the first vessel holder to the second vessel holder and/or vice versa. The device is translatable parallel to the second vessel holder and the gripper moves along a curved path between a picking position and a reaction vessel seat of the second vessel holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Marco Bucher, Gottlieb Schacher
  • Patent number: 9016930
    Abstract: An apparatus for swirling wine within a wine glass or a decanter, or for moving a liquid within a container. A driver is mounted to move a driving element with respect to a housing. A base for holding or removably attaching the glass, the decanter or the container, is moveably mounted with respect to the housing. A receiver and a connector are moveably mounted with respect to each other and with respect to the housing. When the driver moves the base, the base and thus the container follow a path defined by movement of the connector with respect to the receiver. When the glass, the decanter or the other container is mounted with respect to the base, the base moves the glass, the decanter or the container to impart a swirling motion of wine or another liquid within the glass, the decanter or the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Assignee: Metal Shapes, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Paul Cayley, Sr., Malcolm E. Keith
  • Publication number: 20140360711
    Abstract: An apparatus and a method to affect the heat transfer of a container is provided for rapidly heating or cooling the contents of a container through convective heat transfer. The apparatus includes a cylindrical sleeve which positively engages a distal end of a container, said sleeve including a can clip or bottle clip. The cylindrical sleeve is connected to a first end of a shaft having two ends, while the second end of the shaft may be connected to a rotating device. The rotating device is operated thus rotating the shaft, the cylindrical sleeve, and the container about the horizontal axis while the container is being exposed to the heating or cooling source. The cylindrical sleeve is capable of holding varying sizes of containers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2014
    Publication date: December 11, 2014
    Inventors: Tyler Scott Parker, Trevor William Abbott
  • Patent number: 8905629
    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: May 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: Red Devil Equipment Company
    Inventors: Benjamin M. Johnson, Thomas J. Midas
  • Patent number: 8889406
    Abstract: An apparatus for cultivating cells utilizing wave motion comprising a container, a retaining member configured to retain the container, a drive assembly for swiveling the container with respect to the substantially horizontal pivot axis and to swivel, such that during swiveling the pivot axis follows a cyclical closed-loop path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignee: Strix Beheer B.V.
    Inventors: Pieter van der Heiden, Marc Buevink, Nicolaas Marius Gerard Oosterhuis
  • Publication number: 20140293733
    Abstract: This document describes an advanced laboratory platform rocker. An electronic circuit controls the rotation of the shaft of a motor. The shaft is coupled to the platform, such that the angular position of the platform is controllable, as a function of time, enabling non-periodic and non-steady motion. The rotation of the platform can be used to perform other functions, such as initiating the dispensing of liquid into a tray on the platform, and dispersing of liquid from a tray on the platform.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2014
    Publication date: October 2, 2014
    Inventors: Brendan Hart, David Grinnell, Ian Glasgow
  • Publication number: 20140269159
    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
    Inventors: David Aaron BUSE, Byron J. KNIGHT
  • Patent number: 8834010
    Abstract: An appliance for rapidly vibrating test tubes containing samples to be ground up, the appliance comprising an electric motor (12) for driving rotation of a disk (16) that is provided with an eccentric pin (17), the appliance being characterized in that the test tubes (23) are perpendicular to the eccentric pin and are held by a clamp (21) mounted on a support (20) that is substantially parallel to the eccentric pin, being connected to a fixed baseplate via a Cardan type hinge (15) having two mutually perpendicular axes of rotation (X and Y), one of which axes (Y) is substantially parallel to the eccentric pin (17) and connects the support (20) to the other axis (X) of the hinge (15) that prevents the support (20) from moving in rotation about a perpendicular axis (Z). The support (20) is connected to the eccentric pin (17) by a link (19).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Bertin Technologies
    Inventor: Jean Boquet
  • Patent number: 8827540
    Abstract: Disclosed is a mixing device for mixing, in particular, contents of laboratory vessels. The mixing device has a receiving device for receiving mixtures, a drive for setting the receiving device in a mixing movement relative to a chassis in which the receiving device moves on a closed path, and a bearing for guiding the receiving device in the mixing movement. The bearing has at least two supports, each with two bearing areas spaced apart from each other and having at least substantially no translatory and at least two rotational degrees of freedom. One bearing area bears the support at the chassis, and the other bearing area bears the receiving device at the support. The bearing has a guidance device, which guides the rotation of the receiving device relative to the chassis during the mixing movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: Eppendorf AG
    Inventors: Arne Schafrinski, Judith Jacobs
  • Publication number: 20140092706
    Abstract: A centrifugal processing device has structures in which a storage container housing a material is supported such as to rotate freely by a revolving body with a rotating shaft therebetween, and that applies revolution force and rotation force of the storage container to the material by rotating the storage container while revolving the storage container. Rotating shafts and are supported by the revolving body such as to intersect a revolving body center line of the revolving body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2012
    Publication date: April 3, 2014
    Inventor: Hiroshige Ishii
  • Publication number: 20140086004
    Abstract: A stirring device according to an aspect is provided with a holder which holds a specimen container accommodating a specimen in an upright position and a rotation mechanism section configured to rotate the specimen container, thereby stirring the specimen therein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2013
    Publication date: March 27, 2014
    Applicant: AOI SEIKI, CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Teruaki ITOH
  • Patent number: 8602636
    Abstract: The invention relates to a reactor driven in an oscillatory-rotary manner about its fixed, preferably vertical, axis, for preferably biotechnological and pharmaceutical applications. By means of its process-intensifying properties for mixing, suspension, gaseous material transport, heat transfer, irradiation and particle retention, the applicability on the industrial scale is ensured. The reactor which succeeds without a shaft seal permits particularly robust production with respect to sterile technique with avoidance of cleaning and cleaning validation required when the reactor is constructed as a single-use reactor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Bayer Intellectual Property GmbH
    Inventors: Jörg Kauling, Helmut Brod, Sebastian Schmidt, Martin Poggel, Björn Frahm, Reinhold Rose
  • Patent number: 8465199
    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: April 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Assignee: Red Devil Equipment Co.
    Inventors: Aaron Curtis, Stephen J. Carlson, Charles Ringhofer, Benjamin M. Johnson, Brent Thomas Harrold, Thomas J. Midas
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20120182829
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for mixing a heterogeneous solution containing at least two different liquids and, optionally, at least one solid entity, so as to obtain a homogeneous solution, the process comprising the following steps: a) all or part of the heterogeneous solution is placed in at least one vessel having a longitudinal axis; b) the vessel is positioned on a support driven about a rotation axis, the longitudinal axis being inclined to the rotation axis; and c) the support is made to undergo a movement so as to subject the solution contained in the vessel to successive accelerations and decelerations of sinusoidal intensity, thereby stirring said heterogeneous solution, which becomes homogeneous. The invention also relates to a device for implementing the above process. A preferential application of said invention is in the field of medical diagnostics.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2010
    Publication date: July 19, 2012
    Applicant: bioMerieux SA
    Inventors: Tom Beumer, Wilco Brusselaars
  • Patent number: 8215821
    Abstract: A test vessel agitator assembly that agitates test vessels and the contents therein within an immunoassay automated analyzer system. The test vessels are transported along an element that is comprised of ridges and troughs such that the test vessel is moved in a directions that is approximately perpendicular to the direction of transportation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Siemens Healthcare Diagnostics Inc.
    Inventors: Arthur L. Babson, Thomas Palmieri
  • 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: 8197118
    Abstract: A salad mixing apparatus includes a first bowl having an inner surface, an interior area, and a plurality of mixing ribs in the first bowl interior area and at least one partition configured for removable attachment to the mixing ribs to form a plurality of compartments. The apparatus includes a lid extending across the partitions whereby the inner surface, the at least one partition, and the lid selectively enclose the plurality of compartments. A second bowl having an interior area is configured for selective attachment to the first bowl whereby the first bowl interior area and the second bowl interior area collectively form a unitary interior area when the at least one partition is separated from the mixing ribs and the second bowl is attached to the first bowl.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Inventors: Candice Hudson, Dale Hudson
  • Patent number: 8197120
    Abstract: The invention is concerned with testing of inhalers used for medicament delivery. Such devices are often intended to be first shaken by a user to prepare them, and then fired by operation of some mechanical mechanism. In order to automate testing, the invention provides a shake device having a carriage 14 for receiving and releasably mounting one or more inhalers. The carriage is mounted upon a guideway for linear movement upon it. A linear motor 26 is operatively coupled to the carriage to reciprocally drive it to shake the mounted inhaler(s). A system embodying the invention may further comprise a fire device having a movable firing member 54, 56 for engaging with an inhaler mounted in the carriage and actuating its firing mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: Astech Projects Limited
    Inventors: David Westmoreland, Sean Scott
  • Patent number: 8197117
    Abstract: A system and method for agitating pouched products traveling along a conveyor belt to facilitate heat transfer, blending, mixing and/or stirring of the contents thereof. An agitation station is located along the conveyor belt, and includes an agitator secured to one end of an arm, the arm being pivotally secured to the frame supporting the conveyor belt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: Tarpaulin.com, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter J. White
  • Patent number: 8177415
    Abstract: A system and method for agitating pouched products traveling along a conveyor belt to facilitate heat transfer, blending, mixing and/or stirring of the contents thereof. An agitation station is located along the conveyor belt, and includes an agitator secured to one end of an arm, the arm being pivotally secured to the frame supporting the conveyor belt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: Tarpaulin.com, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter J. White
  • Publication number: 20120069699
    Abstract: A mixing bowl-tilt system for a horizontal mixer includes a multi-stage gear reduction unit having an input and an output, wherein the input is connected to be rotated by a motor and the output is operatively connected to rotate a mixing bowl. Rotation of the input results in rotation of the mixing bowl. The multi-stage gear reduction unit is non-back driving and self locking and includes a first stage reduction and a second stage reduction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2011
    Publication date: March 22, 2012
    Inventors: Gregory A. Balnoschan, Douglas A. Gaier, Randy L. Jacoby, Ankush B. Mittal
  • 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: 8132960
    Abstract: A shaker is disclosed which is driven by a motor through a swing mechanism so as to swing a wine bottle, for example, drink within the bottle such as wine. The shaker comprises a base, a container, and a bottle seat disposed at a bottom in the container for receiving a bottle body, characterized in that the drink shaker further comprises a swing mechanism disposed in the base and driven by the motor through a conversion mechanism, and the swing mechanism is capable of driving the bottle seat to swing rightward and leftward in a plane or in different planes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2012
    Inventor: Min Zhuang
  • Patent number: 8092075
    Abstract: An agitation/deaeration apparatus is provided which causes a container containing a viscous to-be-kneaded object to be rotated and revolved simultaneously, to agitate and deaerate the to-be-kneaded object, wherein piping (wiring) connecting the container and an external device is prevented from twisting even when the container rotates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Assignee: Thinky Corporation
    Inventor: Hiroshige Ishii
  • 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: 7959345
    Abstract: A holder and system for mixing a volume of material within a closed container in a mixing machine. Holders and systems in accordance with embodiments of the present invention may permit mixing of fluids in containers that are otherwise ill-suited for conventional mixing machines. The holder may include a receptacle or bucket into which a first insert or adapter is placed to receive and hold one end of the closed container. A second insert may also be inserted into the bucket to receive and hold a second end of the closed container. The bucket may include a tapered inner sidewall surface and one or both adapters may include side surfaces that generally conform to the sidewall surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2011
    Assignee: Valspar Sourcing, Inc.
    Inventor: Wilken Benjamin, II
  • Publication number: 20110116971
    Abstract: An agitating device for agitating a blood sample in a sample container is disclosed. The agitating device includes a base comprising a horizontally-supported shaft, a container holder including a first hand and a second hand, the first hand having a first hole at one end and a first hold portion at other end, the second hand having a second hole at one end and a second hold portion at other end, the first and second holes through which the shaft is inserted, the first and second hands being rotatable relative to the shaft and the first and second hold portions faced each other, and an agitation drive unit including a contact member for contacting the container holder and a drive source for reciprocating the contact member contacting the container holder between a lower position and an upper position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2010
    Publication date: May 19, 2011
    Inventors: Takaaki Nagai, Mitsuo Yamasaki
  • Patent number: 7874167
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for producing saline slush for surgical applications. Producing surgical saline slush in a slush bottle that is a rigid or semi-rigid, high integrity, sturdy container that resists punctures and leaks to better maintain a sterile barrier and does not rely on having an external object placed in the fluid to mix the slush. Slush is agitated by rotating the slush bottle within a slush bottle carriage around an axis of rotation. Agitation of the slush may be increased by including an agitation feature such as at least one fin in one or more sidewalls of the slush bottle. The rotating slush bottle is chilled. One variation is to keep the sterile saline in a flexible container and tumble the flexible container in a rotating slush bottle. Other variations are suggested.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Assignee: C Change Surgical LLC
    Inventors: Patrick Kammer, Kevin Joseph Rackers
  • Publication number: 20100311108
    Abstract: A system is disclosed for agitating multiple specimen containers each containing a sample and a growth medium. The system includes a plurality of racks. The racks have a plurality of receptacles, each of which is adapted for holding a specimen container. The racks include a first rack oriented in a first direction and a second rack oriented in a second direction different from the first direction. The system also includes a rotating turret having a frame holding the racks. The frame is rotatable about an axis, wherein the rotating turret operates to rotate the racks about the axis to an access position, e.g., where a user may access the specimen containers. The system also includes an agitation assembly coupled to the racks. The agitation assembly rocks the racks back and forth thereby agitating specimen containers held by the racks. In one configuration, the system is incorporated into an automated instrument detecting whether a microbiological agent is present in the specimen container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2010
    Publication date: December 9, 2010
    Applicant: bioMerieux, Inc.
    Inventors: James C. Bishop, Lawrence Guerra, Ronnie J. Robinson, Mark J. Fanning, David M. Robbins, Tomasz Taubert, Christopher D. Justice
  • Publication number: 20100265790
    Abstract: A salad mixing apparatus includes a first bowl having an inner surface, an interior area, and a plurality of mixing ribs in the first bowl interior area and at least one partition configured for removable attachment to the mixing ribs to form a plurality of compartments. The apparatus includes a lid extending across the partitions whereby the inner surface, the at least one partition, and the lid selectively enclose the plurality of compartments. A second bowl having an interior area is configured for selective attachment to the first bowl whereby the first bowl interior area and the second bowl interior area collectively form a unitary interior area when the at least one partition is separated from the mixing ribs and the second bowl is attached to the first bowl.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2009
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Inventors: Candice Hudson, Dale Hudson
  • Publication number: 20100177592
    Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for mixing paint disposed in either a conventional one gallon paint container or a square paint container having a body with a handle passage extending therethrough. The apparatus includes a square bucket for holding the container. A rocker is pivotably mounted to a side wall of the bucket and includes a pair of heads aligned over a pair of openings in the side wall. A floor of the bucket has a plurality of support structures extending upwardly therefrom. When the conventional one gallon paint container is disposed in the bucket, the container rests on the floor, the vertical axis of the container is offset from the central axis of the bucket, and both heads of the rocker are disposed against the container inside the bucket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2010
    Publication date: July 15, 2010
    Applicant: THE SHERWIN-WILLIAMS COMPANY
    Inventor: Dwight R. Huckby
  • Patent number: 7666602
    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, performing 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: October 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Assignee: Gen-Probe Incorporated
    Inventors: Kelly G. Ammann, Ernest V. Hansberry
  • Patent number: 7553064
    Abstract: The agitation machine is installed either independently or in a conveyor line to shake, vibrate, oscillate, and/or agitate a container or containers in order to compact and settle the contents thereof. The machine includes at least one (and preferably two) elongate rotating bar or rod of non-circular cross section, or of eccentric circular cross section. The bars extend beneath the containers in the direction of their travel across or through the machine, with rotation of the bars resulting in the shaking or oscillating of the containers and resulting settling and compaction of the contents of the containers. The rotating oscillator bars may be adjusted so that their high edges are either in phase or out of phase with one another, respectively producing an alternating lifting and lowering action or a rocking action of the container resting thereon. The rotational speed of the bars may be adjusted as desired, as well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2009
    Inventors: Matthew J. Johnson, John R. Zweigle
  • Publication number: 20090067281
    Abstract: A cocktail shaker uses a motor to cause a container to be shaken. The shaker includes a following member coupled to a following device that is engaged in a directional mechanism, such as a slot or rod. The directional mechanism defines the path and angle of the motion imparted to the container. The throw is defined by the mechanism that transforms rotational motion of a motor to a shaking motion of the container. A mechanism for transforming rotational motion to a shaking motion may include a rotational member and an attachment member pivotally coupled to the rotational member on one end and coupled to the device holding the container on the other end. A combination of throw, path, and motor speed are capable of providing a mechanism for shaking the container that is similar to shaking the container by hand. For example, the motor speed and duration of shaking may be continuously variable or discretely selectable, which may be selected by the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2007
    Publication date: March 12, 2009
    Inventor: Anthony A. Little
  • Publication number: 20090035825
    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: May 30, 2008
    Publication date: February 5, 2009
    Applicant: Applera Corporation
    Inventors: Lev Kotler, John Andrew Sheridan, Gina Costa, Joseph Podhasky
  • 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: 7311435
    Abstract: The invention relates to a shaking incubator with at least one specimen storage device comprising several superposed specimen storage spaces. A shaking unit comprising a specimen storage position, a shaking platform and a base unit is arranged in at least one specimen storage space. The invention makes it possible to shake different specimens, located in the same specimen storage device, individually and independently of each other under incubator conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2007
    Assignee: Thermo Electron Led GmbH
    Inventors: Hubert Heeg, Stefan Betz, Achim Melching
  • Patent number: 7296924
    Abstract: A vortexer that includes a base, a plurality of electromagnets mounted in the base, a holder having a body formed, at least in part, of magnetic material pivotably supported on the base and spaced above the electromagnets, a power source and a device in communication with the electromagnets and the power source for selectively activating and deactivating each electromagnet with power from the power source, whereupon the holder pivotably moves toward at least one of the electromagnets when activated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2007
    Assignee: Advanced Analytical Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert Czarnek
  • Patent number: 7188994
    Abstract: A orbital shaker for cell extraction includes a digestion chamber and structure for translating the digestion chamber. Structure is also provided for rotating the digestion chamber. A method of performing cell extraction is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2007
    Assignees: Biorep Technologies, Inc., University of Miami
    Inventors: Ramon E. Poo, Camillo Ricordi
  • Patent number: 7182505
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for mixing a fluid dispersion disposed in a container having either a cylindrical or a square shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2007
    Assignee: The Sherwin-Williams Company
    Inventor: Dwight R. Huckby
  • Patent number: 7175334
    Abstract: A test vessel agitator assembly that agitates test vessels and the contents therein within an immunoassay automated analyzer system. The test vessels are transported along an element that is comprised of ridges and troughs such that the test vessel is moved in a directions that is approximately perpendicular to the direction of transportation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Assignee: DPC Cirrus, Inc.
    Inventors: Arthur L. Babson, Thomas Palmieri
  • Patent number: 6945690
    Abstract: A holder for mixing a container of paint is disclosed. The system comprising a body having a cover and a base. The system also comprises an aperture in the cover of the body. The system also comprises a cavity in the body and accessible through the aperture and configured to receive the container. The density of the body corresponds to the density of the container of paint. A system for holding and mixing a container of paint having a lid secured to a first body is also disclosed. A system for holding and mixing a first container of paint having a first volume and a second container of paint having a second volume less than the first volume is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2005
    Assignee: Masterchem Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Adam Armendariz, David Armendariz, John A. Heiser, Christopher E. Jones
  • Patent number: 6850020
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for automatically determining which of at least two forces to apply to a paint container in a mixing apparatus that is capable of clamping various sized paint containers. A clamp motor drives a clamping apparatus toward a paint container and a current rise signals engagement of the clamp with the container, whereupon a selection is made from a predetermined set of forces to apply to the container based on the time of energization and voltage applied to the clamp motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2005
    Assignee: Red Devil Equipment Company
    Inventors: Thomas J. Midas, Daniel Schulz
  • Patent number: 6837843
    Abstract: Apparatus for automatically extracting biological components from multiple distinct samples including a rotor supporting pendulous tubes and means for modifying the angular position of the tubes in a radial plane of the rotor independently of centrifugal force to cause a rocking movement of the tubes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2005
    Assignee: Genomic S.A.
    Inventors: Michel Gazeau, Philippe Lare
  • Patent number: 6830935
    Abstract: a method for separating particulate matter from a fluid, using apparatus which includes a container and cover, a filter assembly positioned in a housing atop the cover and suitable for collecting particulate matter in the fluid on a collection surface, and a dispersing element fixed relative to the cover. The cover has a portion that is fixed in a first position and freely rotatable in a second position. The specimen is placed in the container, and a mixer apparatus rotates the container in relation to the cover to disperse the particulate matter throughout the fluid. Upon deactivation of the mixer apparatus, a fluid sample including dispersed particulate matter is drawn through the filter assembly to capture a substantially uniform layer of particulate matter on the collection surface. The housing is then opened to expose the layer of particulate matter, which is then transferred to a microscope slide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: LaMina, Inc.
    Inventors: Marianna El-Amin, Raouf A. Guirguis, Nashed Samaan
  • Publication number: 20040240314
    Abstract: An insert for a container includes an outer wall, a upstanding spout, and a bottom wall. The outer wall is configured to fit within an opening of the container and defines the periphery of the insert. The outer wall has a lower edge and an upper edge that is disposed at a first elevation. The upstanding spout is located within the outer wall and includes at least one substantially straight portion. The straight portion has a lower edge as well as a substantially straight upper edge that is disposed at a second elevation less than the first elevation. The bottom wall connects the lower edge of the outer wall and the lower edge of the spout to form a channel between the outer wall and the spout.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2003
    Publication date: December 2, 2004
    Applicant: Masterchem Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Adam Armendariz, David Armendariz, John A. Heiser, Christopher E. Jones
  • Publication number: 20040170082
    Abstract: The invention relates to a shaking incubator with at least one specimen storage device comprising several superposed specimen storage spaces. A shaking unit comprising a specimen storage position, a shaking platform and a base unit is arranged in at least one specimen storage space. The invention makes it possible to shake different specimens, located in the same specimen storage device, individually and independently of each other under incubator conditions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventors: Hubert Heeg, Stefan Betz, Achim Melching
  • Publication number: 20030235108
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for detecting on-line the homogeneity and constituent concentration of pharmaceutical compositions comprising a rotatable mixer, a plurality of spectroscopic detection means disposed on the mixer, and at least one control means for controlling the plurality of spectroscopic detection means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2003
    Publication date: December 25, 2003
    Inventor: Dwight Sherod Walker