With Heat Exchanger For Reaction Chamber Or Reactants Located Therein Patents (Class 422/138)
-
Patent number: 6537506Abstract: A stacked plate chemical reactor in which simple plates, each incorporating no surface features other that an opening, are stacked together. When openings in adjacent plates are properly aligned, a fluid pathway is defined between inlet ports for each chemical reactant and an outlet port for a chemical product. In one embodiment of the invention, sixteen simple plates are stacked to provide a reactor incorporating three heat transfer fluid pathways, two reactant fluid pathways, one product fluid pathway, multiple mixing chambers, multiple reaction chambers, two reactant pretreatment heat exchangers, two reaction chamber heat exchangers, and multiple temperature sensor pathways. Precise dimensional control of the reactant fluid pathway height enables stacked laminar flow paths for the reactants to be achieved, allowing efficient and rapid diffusion mixing to occur. Because the simple plates incorporate no features other than openings, fabrication of such plates is easily achieved.Type: GrantFiled: February 3, 2000Date of Patent: March 25, 2003Assignee: Cellular Process Chemistry, Inc.Inventors: Thomas Schwalbe, Klaus Golbig, Michael Hohmann, Petra Georg, Andreas Oberbeck, Bernd Dittmann, Jiri Stastna, Sebastian Oberbeck
-
Publication number: 20030039594Abstract: A system for the solid phase polymerization of polymers wherein cold amorphous polymer is introduced to one or more crystallizers and heated to crystallize the polymer. The crystallized polymer is discharged to a reactor for polymerization of the polymer, and the hot polymer product of the reactor is discharged to a fluid bed cooler. The fluid bed cooler includes an inlet for the hot polymer and inlets for the gas used for agitating the polymer. Outlets for the polymer and for the off-gas are also provided. At least one spray nozzle is located in the cooler at a position adjacent the upper level of the polymer and water is introduced through the nozzle for contact with the polymer to achieve cooling of the polymer as a result of the vaporization of the water.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 22, 2001Publication date: February 27, 2003Inventor: Ilya Pikus
-
Publication number: 20030035761Abstract: The present invention relates to industrial high relative viscosity (RV) filaments, such as, for use in papermaking machine felts and other staple fiber applications. The invention is further directed to apparatus and processes for solid phase polymerization (SPP) of polyamide flake suitable for use, such as, in remelting and then spinning the industrial high RV filaments. The invention is also directed to processes for melt phase polymerization (MPP) of molten polymer for making the filaments.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 2, 2001Publication date: February 20, 2003Inventors: Glenn A. Schwinn, Gary R. West
-
Patent number: 6514771Abstract: A method and apparatus for the manipulation of colloidal particulates and biomolecules at the interface between an insulating electrode such as silicon oxide and an electrolyte solution. Light-controlled electrokinetic assembly of particles near surfaces relies on the combination of three functional elements: the AC electric field-induced assembly of planar aggregates; the patterning of the electrolyte/silicon oxide/silicon interface to exert spatial control over the assembly process; and the real-time control of the assembly process via external illumination. The present invention provides a set of fundamental operations enabling interactive control over the creation and placement of planar arrays of several types of particles and biomolecules and the manipulation of array shape and size. The present invention enables sample preparation and handling for diagnostic assays and biochemical analysis in an array format, and the functional integration of these operations.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 2000Date of Patent: February 4, 2003Assignee: Bioarray SolutionsInventor: Michael Seul
-
Publication number: 20020182121Abstract: A process/apparatus is disclosed for continuously separating a liquid medium comprising diluent and unreacted monomers from a polymerization effluent comprising diluent, unreacted monomers and polymer solids, comprising a continuous discharge of the polymerization effluent from a slurry reactor through a discharge valve and transfer conduit into a first intermediate pressure flash tank with a conical bottom defined by substantially straight sides inclined at an angle to that of horizontal equal to or greater than the angle of slide of the slurry/polymer solids and an exit seal chamber of such diameter (d) and length (I) as to maintain a desired volume of concentrated polymer solids/slurry in the exit seal chamber such as to form a pressure seal while continuously discharging a plug flow of concentrated polymer solids/slurry bottom product of said first flash tank from the exit seal chamber through a seal chamber exit reducer with inclined sides defined by substantially straight sides inclined at an angle to tType: ApplicationFiled: May 14, 2002Publication date: December 5, 2002Applicant: Exxon Chemical Patents, Inc.Inventor: James Austin Kendrick
-
Patent number: 6488898Abstract: Provided with a process for preparing acrylonitrile-styrene copolymer by a continuous bulk or solution polymerization including the steps of: (a) separately feeding 70 to 90 parts by volume and 10 to 30 parts by volume based on the total input of a raw material monomer into first and second reactors from a raw material monomer storing section via two feeding sections, wherein an output is issued from the second reactor as much as the input at the same time, (b) polymerizing the mixture of the raw material monomers in each reactor for 1.5 to 2.5 hours at a reaction temperature of 130 to 160° C. and under the pressure of 1.5 to 4 kg/cm2 G to have conversion ratio of 80%; and (c) recycling part of the reaction solution from the first reactor to a separate mixer, mixing discharged solution from the second reactor and part of monomers directly supplied from one feeding section, and recycling the mixture to the first reactor.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 2001Date of Patent: December 3, 2002Assignee: LG Chemical Ltd.Inventors: Hyung Sub Lee, Yun Chang Jang
-
Publication number: 20020176812Abstract: The present invention provides a method for manufacturing an ethylene-vinyl acetate that includes:Type: ApplicationFiled: March 15, 2002Publication date: November 28, 2002Applicant: KURARAY CO., LTD.Inventors: Masato Takai, Etsuo Nakazato, Kouichi Takahashi, Yoichi Matsumoto, Masahiro Igaki, Takaharu Kawahara, Nobutoshi Wada
-
Publication number: 20020139712Abstract: A method for the isomerization of a hydrocarbonic charge containing a substantial quantity of paraffin base hydrocarbons with 5 or 6 carbon atoms and a benzene content that is greater than or equal to 2% by weight, in which the charge to be treated passes, in the presence of hydrogen, at a total pressure greater than or equal to 10.105 Pa (10 bars) and at an average temperature ranging between 100 and 200° C., through at least one reactor (5) containing a catalyst. An adjunctive fluid is introduced in the upstream section of the reaction zone; a fluid that at 40° C. and under atmospheric pressure (1.0134.105 Pa), is in a gaseous phase and has a density that is less than or equal to that of the normal-pentane taken into account under the same conditions.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 28, 2002Publication date: October 3, 2002Applicant: TOTAL RAFFINAGE DISTRIBUTION S.A.Inventors: Marc Fersing, Pedro Nascimento
-
Patent number: 6458916Abstract: An apparatus for continuously producing polybutylene terephthalate, which comprises a first reactor for reacting an aromatic dicarboxylic acid with a glycol, thereby producing an oligomer, a second reactor for polycondensating the oligomer, thereby preparing a low polymerization product, and a third reactor for further polycondensating the low polymerization product, thereby producing a high molecular weight polyester, where the second reactor is a vertical, cylindrical polymerization vessel having a plurality of concentrical partitioned reaction compartments therein, each of the reaction compartments being provided with stirring blades and a heater, and an outlet for volatile matters being provided at the upper part of the vessel. The second reactor contributes to efficient and continuous production of polybutylene terephthalate having a good quality.Type: GrantFiled: August 29, 2001Date of Patent: October 1, 2002Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.Inventors: Shuji Yamaguchi, Hidekazu Nakamoto, Susumu Harada, Norifumi Maeda
-
Publication number: 20020127152Abstract: A polymerase chain reaction system provides an upper temperature zone and a lower temperature zone in a fluid sample. Channels set up convection cells in the fluid sample and move the fluid sample repeatedly through the upper and lower temperature zone creating thermal cycling.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 9, 2001Publication date: September 12, 2002Applicant: The Regents of the University of CaliforniaInventors: William J. Benett, James B. Richards, Fred P. Milanovich
-
Patent number: 6440374Abstract: A batch polymerization process controller using inferential sensing to determine the integral reaction heat which in turn is used to indicate the degree of polymerization of the reaction mixture batch. The system uses a reaction temperature compared with a desired temperature, and the result is used as a feedback to monitor and control the process. One version of the process controller also uses a feedforward signal which is an integral reaction heat indication from a process model. In another version of the process controller, the integral reaction heat is compared with a desired integral reaction heat, and result is used as another feedback to monitor and control the process. Heat production and reaction temperature profiles may be used, along with the thermokinetic equations to determine the polymerization process and reactor models which are utilized by the process controller to optimize the polymerization process in terms of efficient use of cooling water and desired polymerization of each mixture batch.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 1999Date of Patent: August 27, 2002Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.Inventors: Jan Jelinek, Vladimir Havlena, Josef HorĂ¡k
-
Patent number: 6420143Abstract: The present invention is generally directed to methods and systems for performing chemical and biochemical reactions at superheated temperatures by carrying out the reactions in microscale fluidic channels. Also provided are applications of these methods and systems, as well as ancillary systems for use with these methods and systems in monitoring and controlling the performance of the methods of the invention.Type: GrantFiled: February 13, 1998Date of Patent: July 16, 2002Assignee: Caliper Technologies Corp.Inventor: Anne R. Kopf-Sill
-
Publication number: 20020031451Abstract: A falling film of water is applied around the periphery of a fluid bed olefin polymerization reactor to cool the wall and reduce the temperature in the fluid bed near the inside surface of the wall. Cooling has the effect of reducing static in the reactor, which in turn ameliorates a sheeting problem and can enhance production by facilitating control of the relation of the reactor temperature and the dew point of recycled gas. The process may be used concurrently with a gas cooling and condensing recycle system wherein at least some of the condensed recycle gas is injected in the vicinity of the internal wall surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 4, 2001Publication date: March 14, 2002Inventors: Thomas Edward Spriggs, James Laurence Riley, James Daniel Madden, George William Schwarz, Mark Gregory Goode
-
Patent number: 6334980Abstract: Miniaturized, self-contained apparatus for conducting bio-chemical reactions and analyses is formed in a compact structure comprising a substrate which includes a plurality of reaction chambers and a plurality of analysis chambers which are in fluid communication with the reaction chambers. Independently controllable heaters and coolers are positioned in thermal contact with the reaction chambers to permit parallel processing of biological samples at different temperature cycles. The apparatus is especially useful for performing and analyzing the results of a polymerase chain reaction.Type: GrantFiled: September 25, 1998Date of Patent: January 1, 2002Assignee: Microfab Technologies Inc.Inventors: Donald J. Hayes, David B. Wallace, Christopher J. Frederickson
-
Patent number: 6319999Abstract: For the semi-continuous production polyadducts of alkylene oxide by an addition reaction of alkylene oxide on a chain initiator having at least one active hydrogen, there is provided a reactor (1) constituted by a cylindrical body with two diameters, the upper part being of larger diameter than the lower part, heat-exchange means (2) and recycling ducts (13, 15) for the recycling of the reaction mixture from the bottom to the head of the reactor in order to obtain the final desired product, thereby enabling the production to be carried out with greater flexibility and reduced down times.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 1999Date of Patent: November 20, 2001Assignee: Linde AktiengesellschaftInventor: Pasquale Fanelli
-
Patent number: 6306981Abstract: A process for the manufacture of olefin polymers in a continuous gas phase polymerization reaction wherein monomer, after passage through the fluidized bed, is cooled to a temperature below its dew point to produce a mixture of cold gas and liquid. All or nearly all of the cold gas is introduced into the bottom of the reactor to serve as the fluidizing gas stream for the fluidized bed. Cold liquid, separated from the mixture, is either injected directly into the peripheral region around the fluidized bed or onto the walls of the expanded section of the reactor to form a liquid film flowing down the wall of the reactor or alternatively, the cold liquid is warmed to form a heated fluid by passing in indirect heat exchange relation with the fluidized bed and is then injected directly into the peripheral region of the fluidized bed or onto the wall of the expanded section of the reactor to form a downward flowing stream of cold liquid.Type: GrantFiled: April 2, 1999Date of Patent: October 23, 2001Assignee: Union Carbide Chemicals & Plastics Technology CorporationInventors: Robert Cecil Brown, Norman Louis Balmer, Larry Lee Simpson
-
Patent number: 6290915Abstract: An apparatus and its use for chemical synthesis is disclosed. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a solid support input and a plurality of reagent inputs, wherein each input is connectable to a main fluid pathway via a respective switchable valve. The apparatus further comprises a reaction chamber that is fluidly connectable to the main fluid pathway by a respective switchable valve downstream of the inputs, and that includes an outlet downstream of a barrier that prevents passage of solid support but allows passage of unbound molecules.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 1999Date of Patent: September 18, 2001Assignee: Kalibrant LimitedInventors: Derek Adeyemi Palmer, Martin Thomas French
-
Publication number: 20010019706Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method for polymerizing olefins in a multi-stage polymerization apparatus including a gas-phase polymerization reactor in a subsequent stage. By use of the present method, the composition of gas in the gas-phase reactor is easily adjusted, and moreover, a polymer having an intended composition is produced in a consistent manner. In one aspect, the method for polymerizing olefins is performed in successive, multiple stages by use of a plurality of polymerization reactors disposed in series which include at least one gas-phase polymerization reactor after a first reactor, wherein a multi-component gas is removed from a gas-phase reactor and pressurized and/or cooled to thereby liquefy a portion of the gas; at least a portion of gas is discharged; and the remaining gas and the liquid are returned to the gas-phase reactor.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 28, 2001Publication date: September 6, 2001Applicant: Idemitsu Petrochemical Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hideki Satou, Youichi Matsuo, Itaru Matsuhiro
-
Patent number: 6274091Abstract: Multiple chemical reactions are performed in a plurality of reaction vessels mounted in inlets in a manifold valve block. The manifold valve block is connected to a channel block which is utilized in conjunction with a solvent delivery system as part of the reaction cycle. The solvent fluid is drained from the reaction vessels when valves in the manifold valve block are opened while applying a vacuum thereto. Optionally, a thermal block may be utilized in conjunction with the manifold valve block and the channel block to facilitate the reaction. Upon completion of the reactant cycle, the manifold valve block is disconnected from the channel block and connected to a cleavage block assembly which contains vials for collecting reaction products. The cleavage product is drained from the reaction vessels through the manifold valve block into the vials upon opening the valves in the manifold valve block and applying a vacuum to the channel block.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 1999Date of Patent: August 14, 2001Assignee: Berlex Laboratories, Inc.Inventors: Raju Mohan, Brad O. Buckman, Michael M. Morrissey, Andrew I. Chitty, John T. Martin
-
Patent number: 6261771Abstract: A method and apparatus for detection of multiple target nucleic acids and/or antigens such as hormones, antibodies, or nerve agents in a sample, involves presenting the sample to a plurality of reporter binding sites wherein each reporter binding site comprises two partially hybridized molecules. A first of the two hybridized molecules is bound to the binding site and is complementary to a target nucleic acid or antigen, and it will therefore hybridize to the target nucleic acid or antigen and cause the release of the second hybridized molecule into the sample. The second hybridized molecule comprises a reporter nucleic acid sequence, which uniquely identifies the target nucleic acid or antigen. Subsequent PCR amplification of the unique reporter nucleic acid sequence using labeled primers results in multiple labeled copies of the unique nucleic acid sequence.Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 1998Date of Patent: July 17, 2001Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the ArmyInventor: Robert C. Bohannon
-
Publication number: 20010007014Abstract: A process for producing polycarbonate designed to improve the quality of polycarbonate as a polymerization product polymer and reduce the investment and operating costs is provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 23, 2001Publication date: July 5, 2001Inventors: Takatoshi Kinoshita, Kazunori Harada, Seiji Motohiro
-
Patent number: 6252016Abstract: A continuous process for preparing polymers is disclosed. The continuous process includes the steps of continuously feeding a reaction mixture containing a monomer into a non-cylindrical channel, continuously controlling the temperature of the non-cylindrical channel by exposing the surface of the non-cylindrical channel not exposed to the monomer to a temperature control medium, polymerizing the monomer in the non-cylindrical channel, and continuously removing the polymer from the non-cylindrical channel. The continuous process is suitable for the preparation of polymers containing ethylenically unsaturated monomers as polymerized units by emulsion polymerization, solution polymerization, and suspension polymerization.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 1999Date of Patent: June 26, 2001Assignee: Rohm and Haas CompanyInventors: Richard Shu-Hua Wu, Jill Ann Wudarski, James Szkolnick Kempner
-
Patent number: 6251691Abstract: A method and apparatus for the manipulation of colloidal particles and biomolecules at the interface between an insulating electrode such as silicon oxide and an electrolyte solution. Light-controlled electrokinetic assembly of particles near surfaces relies on the combination of three functional elements: the AC electric field-induced assembly of planar aggregates; the patterning of the electrolyte/silicon oxide/silicon interface to exert spatial control over the assembly process; and the real-time control of the assembly process via external illumination. The present invention provides a set of fundamental operations enabling interactive control over the creation and placement of planar arrays of several types of particles and biomolecules and the manipulation of array shape and size. The present invention enables sample preparation and handling for diagnostic assays and biochemical analysis in an array format, and the functional integration of these operations.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 1998Date of Patent: June 26, 2001Assignee: Bioarray Solutions, LLCInventor: Michael Seul
-
Patent number: 6238929Abstract: The invention provides systems and methods for synthesizing various compounds on solid support. According to one exemplary method, a synthesizer is provided having at least one reaction vessel block with a plurality of reaction vessels therein. At least one solid support is introduced into a least some of the reaction vessels, and a reagent is introduced into the reaction vessels having the solid supports. The reaction vessel block is then vibrated while heat is supplied to the reaction vessel block to heat the reaction vessels. Optionally, the synthesized compounds may be cleaved from the solid supports following synthesis while they remain within the reaction vessels.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 1998Date of Patent: May 29, 2001Assignee: Glaxo Group LimitedInventors: Valery V. Antonenko, Nicolay Kulikov
-
Patent number: 6238627Abstract: A cover assembly of the type disposed over a reaction block for preparing reaction mixtures and, in particular, for enabling reflux condensation of the mixtures is provided. The cover assembly includes a cover assembly having a cover housing with a gas inlet adapted to receive a cooling gas from an external source and an internal cavity through which the reaction vials extend. The cover assembly also includes at least one gas port in communication with the internal cavity and through which the cooling gas from the gas inlet flows to cool portions of the reaction vials which are distal their lower ends.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 1998Date of Patent: May 29, 2001Assignee: ArQule, Inc.Inventors: David Craig McGowan, Erik T. Mankarios, Edward M. Manley, Christopher C. Werner
-
Patent number: 6218484Abstract: A continuous process for the manufacture of olefin polymers in a continuous gas phase polymerization reaction wherein monomer, after passage through the fluidized bed, is cooled to a temperature below its dew point to produce a mixture of cold gas and liquid. All or part of the cold gas is introduced into the bottom of the reactor to serve as the fluidizing gas stream for the fluidized bed. Cold liquid separated from the mixture is warmed to form a heated fluid by passing in indirect heat exchange relation with the fluidized bed and the heated fluid is then injected directly into the bed; combined with the fluidizing gas stream; sprayed on top of the bed or combined with gaseous monomer removed from the fluidized bed for cooling.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 1999Date of Patent: April 17, 2001Assignee: Union Carbide Chemicals & Plastics Technology CorporationInventors: Robert Cecil Brown, Norman Louis Balmer
-
Patent number: 6180846Abstract: A process and apparatus for indirectly heating an endothermic reaction by combustion of reactants or products from the endothermic reaction using a plate heat exchange arrangement in a highly efficient manner. This invention is particularly suited for processes such as the production of styrene or synthesis gas. When producing synthesis gas, oxidizing reactants in a secondary reforming step generates heat for a primary reforming step and the process improves selectivity and yield with a highly efficient heat exchange step that uses narrow channel for indirect heat exchange. The narrow channels are preferably defined by corrugated plates. The primary reaction channels will contain a catalyst for the promotion of the primary reaction such as steam reforming or ethylbenzene dehydrogenation.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 1998Date of Patent: January 30, 2001Assignee: UOP LLCInventors: Hemant W. Dandekar, Robert C. Mulvaney, III
-
Patent number: 6174978Abstract: The invention provides a production process of a water-absorbent resin, by which process the polymerization temperature can be controlled in static aqueous solution polymerization. The production process of a water-absorbent resin comprises the step of polymerizing statically an aqueous solution with a thickness of 10˜50 mm including a hydrophilic monomer, and is characterized in that the polymerization heat is removed using both cooling due to heat conduction transfer and cooling due to the latent heat of vaporization, thereby controlling the maximum attained temperature of the polymerization system in the range of 60˜95°C. or controlling the increase in solid content in the range of 0.2 to 10 weight %.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 1998Date of Patent: January 16, 2001Assignee: Nippon Shokubai Co., Ltd.Inventors: Takumi Hatsuda, Takashi Namba, Yoshihiro Motono
-
Patent number: 6165418Abstract: A system for controlling temperature of a polymerization process includes a primary reactor system having a polymerization reactor and a recycle gas line which includes a heat exchanger, a primary temperature controller which continuously measures temperature within the reactor and provides a coolant adjust signal, a secondary cooling system which circulates a mixture of fresh and recirculated coolant through the heat exchanger and a secondary temperature controller which continuously measures the temperature of the mixed coolant and adjusts the proportion of mixed coolant to fresh coolant based on the coolant adjust signal and the temperature of the mixed coolant.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 1998Date of Patent: December 26, 2000Assignee: Mobil Oil CorporationInventors: David H. Anderson, Kirk D. Carver, Richard M. Coon, David J. Sandell
-
Patent number: 6162879Abstract: The present invention relates to a continuous process for polymerizing a vinyl monomer wherein a liquid reaction mixture flows through a tubular reactor equipped with a primary heat exchanger connected to a primary cooling loop where a primary coolant liquid circulates, optionally cooled by contact with a secondary heat exchanger fitted in the said primary loop and placed in a heat exchange zone of a secondary cooling device containing a secondary coolant liquid. The primary coolant liquid employed in the absence of a secondary cooling device or the secondary coolant liquid consists essentially of superheated water under pressure which produces low-pressure steam which preferably is recovered at least partly thermally or energetically.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 1998Date of Patent: December 19, 2000Assignee: BP Chemicals LimitedInventor: Jean-Marc Galewski
-
Patent number: 6150102Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method for providing oligonucleotides or oligonucleotide analogs having known subunit sequences in which the desired oligomers are released from selected storage sites in one, two, or three dimensions, on a substrate by locally denaturing double-stranded complexes at the storage sites containing the desired oligomers. The released oligomers are useful in schemes for determining solutions to mathematical problems, in methods wherein hybridizing oligomers are used to encrypt and transmit data, in diagnostic and screening assay methodologies, and as primers or building blocks for synthesizing larger polynucleotides.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 1998Date of Patent: November 21, 2000Assignee: Lucent Technologies Inc.Inventors: Allen P. Mills, Jr., Bernard Yurke
-
Patent number: 6126904Abstract: The present invention provides apparatus and methods for the synthesis of combinatorial chemical libraries. The apparatus comprises a plurality of reaction vessels having an inner surface, an outer surface, a first opening, and a second opening. An agitator is contained within each of the reaction vessels for stimulating liquid circulation within the vessels. The apparatus has a common gas line having a plurality of gas outlet ports, where each of the reaction vessels has at least one gas outlet port positioned to feed into the vessel. The apparatus also has a common liquid line having a plurality of liquid outlet ports, where each of the reaction vessels has at least one liquid outlet port positioned to feed into the vessel. Each reaction vessel also has at least one valve coupled to the second opening on the vessel.Type: GrantFiled: September 5, 1997Date of Patent: October 3, 2000Assignee: Argonaut Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Marc Zuellig, Terry Long, James Wasson, Michael J. O'Neill, Hung Ly, Bill Williams, Gary S. Kath, Gregory W. King, Brian G. Uhrig, Steven Hutchins
-
Patent number: 6114478Abstract: A process for the homo- or copolymerization of C.sub.2 -C.sub.8 -alk-1-enes by means of a Ziegler-Natta or a metallocene catalyst system in a stirred bed of finely divided polymer from the gas phase, the transition metal-containing catalyst solid of the Ziegler-Natta or metallocene catalyst system being fed to the reactor by C.sub.2 -C.sub.8 -alk-1-ene metered into the reactor, wherein the transition metal-containing catalyst solid, together with at least some of the C.sub.2 -C.sub.8 -alk-1-ene, is fed to the reactor through one or more pipes which project perpendicularly or virtually perpendicularly from above into the gas space and end above the pulverulent stirred reactor bed.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 1997Date of Patent: September 5, 2000Assignee: BASF AktiengesellschaftInventors: Meinolf Kersting, Rainer Alexander Werner, Franz Langhauser, Gerald Lutz
-
Patent number: 6086831Abstract: An array of reaction assemblies for heating and cooling a plurality of reaction vessels. Each reaction vessel assembly including a heat conductive reaction block having an exterior wall and a reaction vessel receiving cavity formed in the block inwardly of the exterior wall. A thermoelectric module is mounted in heat transfer engagement with the exterior wall of the heat conductive reaction block. A fluid heat exchange element is mounted in heat transfer engagement with the thermoelectric module. The thermoelectric module has its junctions to selectively remove heat from the exterior wall of the reaction block or to supply heat to this exterior wall. Each thermoelectric module has thermoelectric junctions cascaded for increased heating and cooling range and a plurality of these junctions to increase capacity.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 1998Date of Patent: July 11, 2000Assignee: Mettler-Toledo Bohdan, Inc.Inventors: James R. Harness, Larry W. Markus, Andrew J. Grzybowski, Rudy H. Haidle, Marek Turewicz
-
Patent number: 6060266Abstract: A self-contained incubator for growth of microorganism kit and methods for use of such a kit are provided. The kit and methods may detect the presence of microorganisms and may utilie a microorganism growth and indicator medium provided in a sample container along with a heat source, preferably generating heat through chemical means, and optionally heat shields, allowing for on-site testing of a microorganism present in a sample. The sample container may also include a removable vessel cap that includes a barrier separating the sample from a material capable of disinfecting the sample, thereby preventing contact of the sample and the material for a desired time period. The vessel cap may also be used independently in other applications.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 1998Date of Patent: May 9, 2000Assignee: Idexx Laboratories, Inc.Inventors: Ali Naqui, Erwin F. Workman, Jr., Haoyi Gu, Mark W. Pierson
-
Patent number: 6017696Abstract: A self-addressable, self-assembling microelectronic device is designed and fabricated to actively carry out and control multi-step and multiplex molecular biological reactions in microscopic formats. These reactions include nucleic acid hybridizations, antibody/antigen reactions, diagnostics, and biopolymer synthesis. The device can be fabricated using both microlithographic and micro-machining techniques. The device can electronically control the transport and attachment of specific binding entities to specific micro-locations. The specific binding entities include molecular biological molecules such as nucleic acids and polypeptides. The device can subsequently control the transport and reaction of analytes or reactants at the addressed specific micro-locations. The device is able to concentrate analytes and reactants, remove non-specifically bound molecules, provide stringency control for DNA hybridization reactions, and improve the detection of analytes. The device can be electronically replicated.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 1994Date of Patent: January 25, 2000Assignee: Nanogen, Inc.Inventor: Michael J. Heller
-
Patent number: 5989500Abstract: In a reactor of the type having a vessel, an agitator for agitating the contents of the vessel, and a heat exchange system within the vessel, the improvement wherein the heat exchange system comprises: a first substantially annular header which comprises pipe; a second substantially annular header comprising pipe and being spaced from the first header; a third substantially annular header comprising pipe and being spaced from the first header and adjacent to the second header; a first set of tubes extending between and connecting the first header and the second header; and a second set of tubes extending between and connecting the first header and the third header.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 1997Date of Patent: November 23, 1999Assignee: Phillips Petroleum CompanyInventor: Richard Peacock
-
Patent number: 5955029Abstract: Disclosed are devices for amplifying a preselected polynucleotide in a sample by conducting a polynucleotide polymerization reaction. The devices comprise a substrate microfabricated to define a sample inlet port and a mesoscale flow system, which extends from the inlet port. The mesoscale flow system includes a polynucleotide polymerization reaction chamber in fluid communication with the inlet port which is provided with reagents required for polymerization and amplification of a preselected polynucleotide. In one embodiment the devices may be utilized to implement a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in the reaction chamber (PCR chamber).Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 1996Date of Patent: September 21, 1999Assignee: Trustees of the University of PennsylvaniaInventors: Peter Wilding, Larry J. Kricka
-
Patent number: 5866342Abstract: The invention provides systems and methods for synthesizing various compounds on solid support. According to one exemplary method, a synthesizer is provided having at least one reaction vessel block with a plurality of reaction vessels therein. At least one solid support is introduced into a least some of the reaction vessels, and a reagent is introduced into the reaction vessels having the solid supports. The reaction vessel block is then vibrated while heat is supplied to the reaction vessel block to heat the reaction vessels. Optionally, the synthesized compounds may be cleaved from the solid supports following synthesis while they remain within the reaction vessels.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 1996Date of Patent: February 2, 1999Assignee: Glaxo Group LimitedInventors: Valery V. Antonenko, Nicolay Kulikov
-
Patent number: 5861129Abstract: An apparatus for making polymer fiber optical cable is described. In addition, the present invention provides dyes that can be added to conventional polymers and are capable of shifting the wavelength of light transmitted through the polymer. The polymer can be any shape including, but not limited to sheets, films or cable.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 1996Date of Patent: January 19, 1999Inventor: Mohammad W. Katoot
-
Patent number: 5860894Abstract: An aerobic and anaerobic treadmill exercise system including a treadmill apparatus, independent upper body exercise apparatus and independent lower body exercise apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 1996Date of Patent: January 19, 1999Assignee: Icon Health & Fitness, Inc.Inventors: William T. Dalebout, Scott R. Watterson
-
Patent number: 5851494Abstract: A solid phase synthesis reaction vessel includes a vessel with a first inlet, a second inlet, and an outlet. A first stopcock is disposed within the first inlet and a second stopcock is disposed within the outlet. Solid phase material is prevented from escaping the reaction vessel via the outlet while allowing fluid to flow through the outlet by a frit. In one embodiment, the reaction vessel includes an outer hollow shell surrounding the vessel to allow cooling or heating fluid to flow therein for controlling the temperature in the interior reaction volume. The solid phase synthesis reaction vessel provides for the independent opening and closing of each of the inlets and outlet to provide for various ways of draining the vessel, varying the conditions within the vessel, and/or adding additional materials into the vessel.Type: GrantFiled: September 4, 1997Date of Patent: December 22, 1998Assignee: Pharmacopeia, Inc.Inventors: Lawrence W. Dillard, Ian Henderson, Michael H. J. Ohlmeyer, John C. Reader
-
Patent number: 5798035Abstract: A high throughput chemical synthesis system utilizing cylindrical reaction vessels is disclosed. Reaction vessels are utilized which include a tubular member adapted for placement of electronically readable identifying indicia thereon. The identifying indicia are representative of reaction conditions within the tubular member and of one or more reagents utilized in a reaction within the tubular members. A method of performing chemical synthesis on solid phase reactive material within a plurality of reaction vessels using a plurality of reaction stages resulting in final products and employing identifying indicia representing the reaction stages is also disclosed. The method includes reading the identifying indicia located on the reaction vessels, reacting one or more reagents within the reaction vessels under particular reaction conditions which may be determined by reading the identifying indicia, thereby synthesizing chemical compounds within the reaction vessels.Type: GrantFiled: October 3, 1996Date of Patent: August 25, 1998Assignee: Pharmacopeia, Inc.Inventors: Gregory L. Kirk, Robert H. Grubbs
-
Patent number: 5792430Abstract: A solid phase organic synthesis device comprising a manifold and an optional heating block mounted to an upper surface of the manifold. The manifold includes an internal cavity and a first array of holes coupled to the internal cavity. The heating block includes a second array of holes vertically aligned with the corresponding holes of the first array. The first and second arrays of holes are adapted to accommodate flow-through reaction vessels. Each reaction vessel is secured in one of the holes of the first array and a vertically-aligned one of the holes of the second array. The interiors of the reaction vessels are in communication with the internal cavity of the manifold. The flow-through reaction vessels, which contain solid phase resins for solid phase organic synthesis, are controlled by regulating the pressure within the manifold.Type: GrantFiled: July 25, 1997Date of Patent: August 11, 1998Assignee: Monsanto CompanyInventor: Bruce C. Hamper
-
Patent number: 5779977Abstract: Apparatus and method for performing a nucleic acid amplification reaction and preferably a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in a reaction mixture in at least one capillary tube. Several different embodiments are disclosed. One embodiment cycles a sample through a capillary tube loop passing through two thermostatted fluid baths. Another embodiment has the capillary tube routed alternatingly between two heat exchangers to that the sample makes only one pass through the tube. Other embodiments maintain the heat exchangers stationary and translate the samples between them. Still further embodiments maintain the samples stationary and either automatically translate or rotate the heat exchangers past the samples contained within the capillary tubes to perform the thermal cycles necessary for the amplification reaction.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 1997Date of Patent: July 14, 1998Assignee: The Perkin-Elmer CorporationInventors: Lawrence A. Haff, Enrico Picozza, Will Bloch, Timothy M. Woudenberg
-
Patent number: 5779986Abstract: The reactor device comprises a horizontally-disposed housing (1), at one end of which there is disposed an inlet (4) for supply of the medium, and at the other end of which there is an outlet (5) for the reaction products. Within the housing (1) of the reactor device a rotor (1) is rotatably mounted. The rotor (8) has a hollow cylinder (9), which is provided with openings (10) and annular members (12, 13) for moving and transporting the medium. The hollow cylinder (9) is partly immersed in the free-flowing medium, the openings (10) in the hollow cylinder (9) ensuring additional admixture of the medium.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 1995Date of Patent: July 14, 1998Assignee: Karl Fischer Industrieanlagen GmbHInventors: Eike Schulz van Endert, Klaus Schroder, Hans-Peter Hoffmann
-
Patent number: 5762881Abstract: An apparatus for multiple, simultaneous synthesis of compounds. The apparatus includes a reaction block having a heating layer, a cooling layer, each of which may perform both functions, and a collection sump. A plurality of reaction tubes are supported in the reaction block in a matrix. Each reaction tube has a top outlet, a bottom outlet and a filter above the bottom outlet. Spool valves are located to control the bottom outlets of the reaction tubes. Obturators are provided to close the top outlets of the reaction tubes and to provide venting for the reaction tubes. The collection sump alternately may be equipped with individual collection tubes for each reaction tube. Each reaction tube is formed with a restrictive waist and protrusions arranged in a pattern between the waist and its bottom outlet to improve the mixing of the resinous solid supports by creating turbulence. The restrictive waist limits the height of the vortex of solution during mixing and reaction to facilitate heating and refluxing.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 1996Date of Patent: June 9, 1998Assignee: Bohdan Automation, Inc.Inventors: James R. Harness, Larry W. Markus, Tadeusz J. Wozny, Albert T. Grzybowski, Andrew J. Grzybowski, Richard D. Kanowske, Thomas Drehobl, Rudy H. Haidle, Kenneth R. Kaufhold
-
Patent number: 5750079Abstract: A polymerization apparatus used, particularly, in suspension polymerization of vinyl chloride, comprising a polymerization vessel (1) having a substantially cylindrical inner space, said inner space of said polymerization vessel being provided with a plurality of baffles (5) comprising vertically extending pipes, and serpentine pipelines (6) each of which is placed between two adjacent baffles and is extended in a serpentine fashion along the polymerization vessel inner wall from the lower part to the upper part of the polymerization vessel, and a refrigerant being passed through said baffles and said serpentine pipelines. High-cooling performance can be obtained, a high-speed reaction in a large-sized polymerization vessel becomes possible, and a stable polymerization reaction can be carried out. A high-quality and uniform polymer that has few fish eyes and has a high bulk specific gravity can be obtained.Type: GrantFiled: November 27, 1996Date of Patent: May 12, 1998Assignee: Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd.Inventors: Takuya Ueda, Kikuo Nakajima, Yoichi Tanifuji, Tadashi Amano, Shuji Ohnishi
-
Patent number: RE37194Abstract: A high throughput chemical synthesis system utilizing cylindrical reaction vessels is disclosed. Reaction vessels are utilized which include a tubular member adapted for placement of electronically readable identifying indicia thereon. The identifying indicia are representative of reaction conditions within the tubular member and of one or more reagents utilized in a reaction within the tubular members. A method of performing chemical synthesis on solid phase reactive material within a plurality of reaction vessels using a plurality of reaction stages resulting in final products and employing identifying indicia representing the reaction stages is also disclosed. The method includes reading the identifying indicia located on the reaction vessels, reacting one or more reagents within the reaction vessels under particular reaction conditions which may be determined by reading the identifying indicia, thereby synthesizing chemical compounds within the reaction vessels.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2000Date of Patent: May 29, 2001Assignee: Pharmacopeia, Inc.Inventors: Gregory L. Kirk, Robert H. Grubbs
-
Patent number: RE37932Abstract: A supermicrocellular foamed material and a method for producing such material, the material to be foamed such as a polymerplastic material, having a supercritical fluid, such as carbon dioxide in its supercritical state, introduced into the material to form a foamed fluid/material system having a plurality of cells distributed substantially throughout the material. Cell densities lying in a range from about 109 to about 1015 per cubic centimeter of the material can be achieved with the average cell sizes being at least less than 2.0 microns and preferably in a range from about 0.1 micron to about 1.0 micron.Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 1996Date of Patent: December 10, 2002Assignee: Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyInventors: Daniel F. Baldwin, Nam P. Suh, Chul B. Park, Sung W. Cha