Including Pressure Treating Chamber (above Ambient) Patents (Class 422/295)
  • Patent number: 11484916
    Abstract: There is disclosed a system and methods for debriding soft tissue from bone using a high-pressure water debridement system. One embodiment includes a cylindrical sleeve bounded by endcaps and having a drainage port positioned for effluent drainage. A central shaft is configured to receive a bone segment and is disposed along a longitudinal center of the sleeve and rotatively coupled between the endcaps. At least one high-pressure water nozzle is disposed on each side of the sleeve, each of which is positioned to impact the bone segment with a high-pressure water stream. A rotational actuator is configured to rotate the central shaft and the bone segment relative to the sleeve and the water nozzles such that when the high-pressure water nozzles are operational, the high-pressure water streams debride the bone segment. Other embodiments are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2022
    Assignee: Allosource
    Inventors: Denis M. Meade, Shane Graham, Kyle von Kaenel
  • Patent number: 11390545
    Abstract: A wastewater management system includes a series of holding tanks in combination with a membrane bioreactor treatment subsystem connected to one or more autoclaves and/or sonolysis units and thermal evaporators to treat liquid discharge from the system. A condenser connected to the thermal evaporator(s) condenses water vapor created by the thermal evaporator(s) into its liquid state for delivery to, and assimilation by, plants in a dedicated greenhouse or hydroponic system or for reuse in a building. CO2 and water vapor produced by combustion of a thermal evaporator fuel source is sent through the condenser to add to the liquid water recovery. The CO2 is flowed into the greenhouse(s) for carbon fixation by plants. A CO2 monitoring system ensures the concentration of CO2 in the greenhouse is maintained at an acceptable level for humans. Ozonation, UV and/or chloride treatments may be used as optional water purification treatments in the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2022
    Assignee: ZERO DISCHARGE, LLC
    Inventors: David D. Calhoun, Mark D. Lorusso, R. Edward Rose, Jr.
  • Patent number: 11376339
    Abstract: In the autoclave sterilisation process, the primary glass containers are exposed to a sterilisation treatment with steam pulses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2022
    Assignee: NUOVA OMPI S.R.L.
    Inventors: Jimmy De Stefani, Linda Celeghin
  • Patent number: 10869497
    Abstract: A tobacco material having at least about 40% water based on the total weight, and having a storage stability of at least about 25 days is provided herein, wherein the storage stability is defined as an aerobic plate count below about 3,000,000 CFU/g. A method of treating a tobacco material to enhance storage stability is also provided herein, the method including receiving a tobacco material having at least about 40% water based on the total weight and subjecting the tobacco material to a process pressure of at least about 30,000 psi to form a high pressure processed tobacco material, wherein the high pressure processed tobacco material has a storage stability of at least about 25 days, and wherein the storage stability is defined as an aerobic plate count below about 3,000,000 CFU/g.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 22, 2020
    Assignee: R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company
    Inventor: Brian Keith Nordskog
  • Patent number: 10760853
    Abstract: A system for condensing steam from an autoclave sterilizer includes a cooling tank and a condensing coil extending into the cooling tank. Cooling water from a source of water flows into the tank to cool the condensing coil when the temperature of the coolant in the cooling tank exceeds a predetermined value. A waste water drain is in fluid communication with the cooling tank. An air gap is located between the tank and the source of cooling water. The air gap includes an opening to atmospheric air and is configured to avoid back flow from a waste water drain toward the water source. A check valve may be used with or in lieu of an air gap to prevent back flow toward the water source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2020
    Assignee: Crosstex International, Inc.
    Inventor: James W. Chandler
  • Patent number: 10646601
    Abstract: A device for transferring a sterile product from one container to another under aseptic conditions. The first container to initially contain the sterile product and equipped with an outlet. The outlet has a first pipe and two independently operable valves mounted in series thereon. The second container is equipped with an inlet having a second pipe and two independently operable valves mounted in series thereon. A removable hose to provide a sealed connection of the free end of the first pipe and the free end of the second pipe. A connector to connect the removable hose to a system for sterilizing the internal volume thereof. The system is operable when the removable hose connects the free end of the first pipe with the free end of the second pipe in a sealed manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2020
    Assignee: PIERRE FABRE DERMO-COSMETIQUE
    Inventors: Jean-Claude Delaunay, Laurent Serra
  • Patent number: 10433372
    Abstract: A portable device heats a fluid within a reservoir. The device includes a housing, a cavity, and an energizing element. The housing includes a first longitudinal end, a second longitudinal end, and outer surfaces of the device. The outer surfaces extend from an outer portion of the first longitudinal end to an outer portion of the second longitudinal end. The cavity extends from a cavity port that is positioned on an inner portion of the first longitudinal end to a cavity terminal positioned intermediate the first and second longitudinal ends. Inner lateral surfaces are adjacent the cavity and extend from the inner portion of the first longitudinal end to an outer portion of the cavity terminal. The energizing element is around the cavity. The cavity is positioned intermediate a first energizing element portion and a second energizing element portion. The energizing element provides energy to the cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2019
    Assignee: Toaster Labs, Inc.
    Inventors: Amy Carol Buckalter, David Oscar Iverson, Garet Glenn Nenninger, Roland David Horth
  • Patent number: 9039990
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a ventilator autoclave comprising a chamber (1) with a space (5) for receiving goods (18) to be sterilized, at least one fan arrangement (2) for circulating steam and/or air in said chamber, and at least one first heat exchanger arrangement (11) for cooling and/or heating said steam and/or air, wherein said fan arrangement is arranged and configured to circulate said steam and/or air in said chamber (1), wherein said chamber (1) is configured such that said steam and/or air that is circulated in said chamber (1) follows a flow path passing at least a part of said first heat exchanger arrangement (11) before reaching said goods (18) to be sterilized, wherein said autoclave further comprises at least one second heat exchanger arrangement (19) that is provided upstream of said first heat exchanger arrangement (11) in said flow path, and wherein said second heat exchanger arrangement (19) is provided at such a distance from the periphery of said fan arrangement (2) that said flow
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2015
    Assignee: GETINGE STERILIZATION AB
    Inventor: Bengt Storberg
  • Patent number: 9028750
    Abstract: Fumigation systems and processes that are especially applicable for the fumigation of perishable (or otherwise sensitive to temperature) agricultural products as the temperature conditions under which the product is being treated are closely controlled to advantageously prevent the product from being exposed to temperature drops and/or spikes during the fumigation cycle. In addition, the present invention incorporates an air filtration system as a part of the fumigation system to substantially remove the toxic fumigant residuals from the air before it is exhausted into the open atmosphere, which typically occurs at the completion of a fumigation cycle. As such, the harmful effect of the fumigant on the products and the surrounding environment and work areas is greatly minimized. In summary, the systems and processes of the present invention provide the ability to conduct fumigations in a well-controlled environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Assignee: Florida East Coast Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Manuel A. Fernandez
  • Patent number: 9017619
    Abstract: Device and method for disinfecting, sterilizing, and/or looking after medical, in particular dental, instruments, comprising a rinsing chamber in which there are holders for receiving the instruments, wherein at least parts of the walls of the rinsing chamber or elements located in the rinsing chamber can be cooled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Assignee: Kaltenbach & Voigt GmbH
    Inventors: Hans-Dieter Wiek, Johann Stempfle, Herbert Lott, Frank Saur
  • Patent number: 8993644
    Abstract: Methods of reclaiming plastic from plastic medical waste containers containing medical waste and manufacturing recycled medical devices are described. Recycled medical devices made from plastic medical waste containers containing medical waste are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Becton, Dickinson and Company
    Inventor: Richard Ji
  • Patent number: 8986623
    Abstract: The invention relates mainly to an apparatus comprising a chamber for physically and/or chemically treating one or more samples or products, said apparatus comprising a door for introducing samples inside the apparatus chamber or bringing samples outside the apparatus, said apparatus comprising a membrane or film defining a chamber wall inside said apparatus when the door is closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: Pall Life Sciences Belgium BVBA
    Inventor: Jean-Pascal Zambaux
  • Patent number: 8980197
    Abstract: A cold sterilizer, for deterging/decontaminating, sterilizing, drying and storing until the time of use medical devices, optionally the thermo-labile ones, in particular flexible and rigid endoscopes for surgical and diagnostic use, suitable for operating with sterilizing agents effective in the range 20-35° C.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: IMS S.R.L.
    Inventors: Pietro Affaitati, Andrea Fabbri
  • Patent number: 8961874
    Abstract: According to the present invention a method for heat recovery in a device for the sterilization of biological material is provided. The present method eliminates the risk of contaminating the sterilized effluent with unsterilized biological material via the heat recovery system. In a device according to the invention, a heat recovery circuit is provided for transferring heat from the sterilized effluent stream to the biologically hazardous feed stream. Protection against contamination through leaks is obtained by maintaining at all times a pressure difference preventing biologically hazardous material from bypassing the heat treatment and flowing in the direction of the sterilized material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignee: Steris Europe, Inc. Suomen sivuliike
    Inventor: Juha Mattila
  • Publication number: 20140363339
    Abstract: Provided is a steam sterilizer capable of performing water vapor sterilization without using a vacuum pump as a mechanism for bringing the inside of a pressure vessel into vacuum. The steam sterilizer includes a pressure vessel (32) which stores an object to be sterilized and in which sterilization is performed with water vapor supplied from a steam piping, and vacuum-generating means (34) which is connected to the pressure vessel (32) and brings the inside of the pressure vessel (32) into a vacuum state. The vacuum-generating means (34) includes a water ejector (48), a tank (50) for storing supply water supplied from an outside, and a pump (52) for supplying the supply water inside the tank (50) to the water ejector (48).
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2012
    Publication date: December 11, 2014
    Applicant: SAKURA SEIKI CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Chihiro Kinebuchi, Eiichi Minemura, Satoshi Tanaka, Haruo Machida, Akihiro Miyamoto, Kouji Tanaka, Hiroshi Karasawa
  • Publication number: 20140348723
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for sterilization of infectious waste including animals, infected animal herds, infected human corpses and other infected material and proper disposal of resultant waste. The method and apparatus specifically relates to methods of safely sterilizing and disposing of infectious and non-infectious bio-waste in a cost effective manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2014
    Publication date: November 27, 2014
    Applicant: Progressive Recovery, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel B. Marks, Donald G. Fluchel, Arda Kara
  • Patent number: 8883076
    Abstract: An apparatus for treating used absorbent sanitary products, comprising, a rotary cylindrical autoclave having an inner surface and two ends, at least one of which terminates in a hatch that can be opened to enable access to said autoclave and sealably closed to enable pressurization of said autoclave; and a circuit for heating and pressurizing the autoclave for heating the absorbent sanitary products to a sterilization temperature, wherein said autoclave comprises a sealing layer on said inner surface, designed to prevent adhesion on said inner surface of material coming from destructuring of said absorbent sanitary products.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2014
    Assignee: FATER S.p.A.
    Inventors: Marcello Somma, Giorgio Vaccaro, Jan K. Michalek, Theodore Thomas
  • Patent number: 8865608
    Abstract: Systems and processes for regenerating catalyst are provided herein that include a catalyst regeneration tower having a cooling zone that receives a catalyst cooling stream generated by a cooling gas loop. The systems and processes include a first thermocompressor that utilizes a first motive vapor and a second thermocompressor that utilizes a second motive vapor in order to provide the catalyst cooling stream to the regeneration tower. The second thermocompressor operates in parallel with the first thermocompressor. The first thermocompressor can utilize combustion air as the motive vapor. The second thermocompressor can utilize nitrogen as the motive vapor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: UOP LLC
    Inventors: Brian Nabozny, William D. Schlueter, Kate Tuson
  • Publication number: 20140294670
    Abstract: The disclosed invention relates to a portable, vacuum assisted decontamination unit. The invention also relates to a vacuum assisted decontamination process. The decontamination unit may be ruggedized for use in hostile environments such as those that may be anticipated for military applications.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2014
    Publication date: October 2, 2014
    Applicant: STERIS Inc.
    Inventor: Paul A. WIGET
  • Patent number: 8834809
    Abstract: The invention includes an apparatus, system, waste treatment facility and method of autoclave loading and treatment that involves (a) receiving solid waste at a solid waste treatment facility; (b) compressing the waste into a plurality of compressed bales, the compressed bales bound by a binding material adapted to melt at a temperature at which an autoclave operates or otherwise break upon the operation of the autoclave; (c) loading the compressed bales into an autoclave; and (d) operating the autoclave so as to melt or break the binding material to allow the compressed bales of solid waste to be decompressed and treated in the autoclave.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Inventors: Jan K. Michalek, Theodore J. Thomas
  • Patent number: 8834808
    Abstract: An apparatus for sterilizing cap-like container closures includes a transport system for moving closures through treatment zones. The first zone preheats the closures, the second exposes them to a sterilizing agent, and the third activates or dries them. The first and third zones each have a rotor that circulates about a rotor axis thereof, and closure holders formed on a periphery thereof for moving closures through the first zone from a closure pickup disposed therein to a first closure delivery position, and through the third zone from a second closure delivery position disposed therein to a closure discharge. The second treatment zone is between the first and second closure delivery positions such that closures delivered to the first position, after passing the second zone and after exposure to the sterilizing agent, are passed on to a closure holder ready at the second position of the rotor in the third zone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: KHS GmbH
    Inventor: Alfred Drenguis
  • Patent number: 8828318
    Abstract: A high pressure extraction apparatus and extracting method therefor are adapted to maintain a medium at the supercritical state to extract substance-to-be-extracted. The apparatus includes an extraction tank, a piston and a control unit. The control unit controls the piston to reciprocate in the extraction tank as well as controls the pressure of the extract space of the tank, feeding of the substance, discharge of extract, and discharge of leftover. Accordingly, the apparatus performs a continuous supercritical extraction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: Industrial Technology Research Institute
    Inventors: Tz-Bang Du, Chyuan Juang, Long-Shuenn Jean, Chen-Hsi Cheng, Hom-Ti Lee, Hsien-Chueh Pi
  • Patent number: 8808638
    Abstract: A retort sterilization device includes a water steam generation device for generating water steam and a heating pot, connected to the water steam generation device, for accommodating retort food. The water steam generation device includes a heat exchanger for performing heat exchange between liquid flowing in a liquid path and heating vapor flowing in the vapor path. A top end of the liquid path of the heat exchanger is connected via a water steam supply pipe to a water steam ejection section located in an internal area of the heating pot. The heat exchanger is connected to a liquid container. A bottom end of the liquid path of the heat exchanger is connected to the liquid container via a communicating tube. The liquid container is coupled to the heating pot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignees: Tomoda Selling & Sailing Co., Ltd., Tomoda Fisheries Co., Ltd., Houshou Co., Ltd, Wakisangyou Yugenkaisha
    Inventors: Hiroshi Tomoda, Norio Kadowaki, Hironobu Tomoda, Manabu Moriwaki, Satoru Kadowaki
  • Patent number: 8802023
    Abstract: A steam autoclave (steam sterilization system) has a door for opening and closing an opening that defines the entrance to and exit from a steam sterilization chamber. The door may be latched and locked and pneumatically sealed when in a closed position. Preferably, the door has a convex portion that projects into the sterilization chamber when the door is in a closed position for aiding in providing an even distribution of steam throughout the sterilization chamber during operation of the steam autoclave.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2014
    Assignee: OnSite Sterilization LLC
    Inventors: Robert W. Lewis, Timothy A. Barrett
  • Publication number: 20140219876
    Abstract: Provided is an autoclave for sterilizing medical and/or dental instruments, including a sterilization chamber, a door for access to the sterilization chamber, the autoclave has at least one light source for lightening the sterilization chamber and/or an area in front of the autoclave.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2014
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: MOCOM S.R.L.
    Inventor: Angelo BELLOSI
  • Patent number: 8795603
    Abstract: A cassette for steam sterilizing of instruments comprises a lid and a tray, the tray having an inlet and an outlet for the cassette for communication with a sterilization apparatus, and the lid having a seal configured to interface with the tray to maintain either pressure or vacuum conditions for an interior of the cassette. The seal is configured to allow the lid to move between a vacuum position and a pressurized position without exposing the cassette interior to an outside environment. The inlet and outlets have two sets of valves and seals that ensure that the cassette interior remains sterile after the sterilization process is complete and during cassette storage. One set of valves also allows access to the cassette interior for the steam sterilization cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Assignee: SciCan, a division of Lux and Zwingenberger Ltd.
    Inventors: Eduardo C. Ghelman, Neil McPhail, Adam Szczurowski, Xiang Dong Yin, Edward Kitaura
  • Publication number: 20140161666
    Abstract: Provided is an autoclave for medical-dental instruments and the like, including a sterilization chamber, an accumulator, a main channel connecting the sterilization chamber and the accumulator in circuit and bringing them into communication for fluid passage, a pump adapted to move the fluid inside the main channel, in which the accumulator includes a volume of a material having hygroscopic properties resulting from an exothermic reaction and vice versa.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2012
    Publication date: June 12, 2014
    Applicant: ABSOLUTE UP S.R.L.
    Inventors: Daniele Ongaro, Mariapia Ghilardi
  • Patent number: 8747771
    Abstract: A pressure vessel and a drum rotatably arranged inside which has an inner space for material that is introduced into the pressure vessel. In various embodiments, a drive mechanism rotates the drum in relation to the pressure vessel. The drive mechanism can include a motor that can be located inside the pressure vessel in an interspace between the drum and the pressure vessel. Some embodiments include a door to close an opening of the pressure vessel and a part of the door can extend into an open end of the drum when the door is closed to keep the material in the drum and out of the interspace. In particular embodiments, a steam supply conduit extends into the drum at the closed end of the pressure vessel. In some embodiments, a helical agitation blade in the drum moves the material away from or toward the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Assignee: Sanciflex AB
    Inventors: Per-Arne Froderberg, Melvin R. Madeley, Anna-Lena Seedhill
  • Patent number: 8747772
    Abstract: The invention relates to the batch treatment of goods with gas, steam or vapor, for example sterilization and drying. The distribution of the medium surrounding the load (8) during all stages of such a process is important. According to the invention, movement of fluids within a batch treatment apparatus is achieved using a fluid ejector device (9), An apparatus for the gas, steam or vapor treatment of objects is provided, said apparatus having inside a closable chamber (1) at least one ejector device (9) of the type having a straight flow path for the secondary stream. Any particular fluid or mixture of different fluids entering the chamber during a treatment process may be introduced via an ejector device (9) in order to distribute the fluid around the load (8), or remove material deposited on the load (8). The invention eliminates the need for shaft seal arrangements involved with fans.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Assignee: Steris Europe, Inc. Suomen Sivuliike
    Inventors: Teppo Nurminen, Ilkka Laitinen
  • Patent number: 8721987
    Abstract: A system for disinfecting regulated refuse using steam disinfection used a refuse container where the regulated refuse is deposited. Temperature sensors are positioned below and above the refuse to detect the temperature of the disinfecting process, while a recording device operationally connected to the temperature sensors creates an identifying chart, which provides for identification of the time and temperature of processing, origin of the regulated refuse, as well as date and location of the processing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Inventor: Robert DeFraites
  • Patent number: 8721984
    Abstract: A system for gas sterilization includes a sterilization chamber, a source of sterilant gas, and a sterilant gas remediation mechanism. Embodiments relate to systems and methods for delivering humidified air to a sterilization chamber, systems and methods for removing gaseous NO2 from an exhaust gas stream of a sterilization chamber, systems and methods for removing and replacing a source of sterilant gas, an exhaust gas scrubber and/or supplies for a humidification system. Some embodiments relate to hardware and software for user interface in a sterilizing device and hardware and software for control of a sterilization cycle. Some embodiments relate to chamber, chassis and door configurations of a sterilizer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: Noxilizer, Inc.
    Inventors: Phil Carbone, Karen Benedek, Michael O. Ruffo, Wade Luongo
  • Patent number: 8715570
    Abstract: A device for sterilization of packages and a method of sterilizing packages are provided. The device comprises a gassing zone for exposing the packages to a gaseous sterilization agent, inlet mechanisms for introducing the gaseous sterilization agent into the gassing zone and a conveyor for transporting the packages through the gassing zone in a transport direction. The device also includes a separation mechanism arranged inside the gassing zone to divide at least an upper part of the gassing zone into sub gassing zones, each of said separation mechanisms having an opening for passage of the packages, each of at least a number of the inlet mechanisms being arranged to provide a flow of the gaseous sterilization agent at the opening of a respective one of the separation mechanisms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: Tetra Laval Holdings & Finance S.A.
    Inventors: Ulf Lindblad, Jenny Olsson
  • Patent number: 8703066
    Abstract: A system, device and method for sterilizing or decontaminating an object that includes a sealable sterilizing chamber (12) and a sterilant gas-generating composition (24) that preferably generates NO or a mixture of NO and NO2. The preferred sterilant gas-generating composition (24) includes a carbon-based diazeniumdiolate compound and a powdered acid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: Noxilizer, Inc.
    Inventors: Ernst Vaughn, Blaine Galen Doletski, Thomas Mason Dunn, Robert Emil Raulli
  • Patent number: 8697001
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for liquid, gas, and gas plasma sterilization of items. The apparatus includes two chambers and a holder to connectorlessly secure a lumened instrument such that a first portion of the lumened instrument lies in the first chamber and a second portion of the instrument lies in the second chamber, a liquid medium contained within the two chambers, and pumping means for simultaneously increasing fluid pressure within the first chamber of said container while decreasing fluid pressure within the second chamber of the container in a reciprocating fashion. The pumping means displaces at least a total internal volume of the liquid medium through the lumen for a given highest volume of a lumened instrument during a stroke.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Langford IC Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Terrence R. Langford
  • Patent number: 8685336
    Abstract: A system for recovery and reutilization of sterilant gas mixture from a sterilizer chamber includes a storage tank in gaseous communication with a sterilizer chamber via a gas recovery assembly, wherein after sterilization the gas recovery assembly evacuates the sterilant gas mixture to the storage recovery tank. The system also includes an inert purge gas supply adapted to supply a purge gas to the sterilizer chamber after the sterilant gas mixture is withdrawn to the storage recovery tank, wherein the gas recovery assembly evacuates an additional portion of the purge gas from the sterilizer chamber to the storage tank to enrich the gas mixture for later reutilization in subsequent sterilization cycles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventor: Douglas E. Bondar
  • Patent number: 8668881
    Abstract: A decontamination enclosure, comprised of a plurality of preformed panels joined together to form a structure defining a totally enclosed chamber. A door is formed in at least one of the panels, the door being movable between an opened position and a closed position to allow access to the chamber. A circulation system is attached to the structure for circulating vaporized hydrogen peroxide through the chamber. A controller is provided for controlling the amount of vaporized hydrogen peroxide introduced into the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2014
    Assignee: American Sterilizer Company
    Inventors: Aaron Leif Hill, Thaddeus Joseph Mielnik
  • Patent number: 8668882
    Abstract: A manifold which introduces sterilant aerosol to a sterilization chamber for the disinfection of an article. The manifold defines the terminal portion of a fluid pathway from an aerosol generator to the sterilization chamber and comprises at least one chamber inlet port for introducing aerosol into the sterilizing chamber. The manifold is configured to provide directional aerosol flow tangential to the surface of the article, which is preferably of a known configuration and maintained in a predetermined position with respect to the manifold, such that it does not receive a direct flow of aerosol from the manifold. Preferably, the manifold is U-shaped, or bifurcate and defines a plane and with a chamber inlet ports are directed away from that plane. The chamber inlet ports are preferably paired so they create a circular motion of aerosol that moves around the article. Also sterilization apparatus including the manifold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2014
    Assignee: Saban Ventures Pty Limited
    Inventor: Vladimir Berentsveig
  • Publication number: 20140056759
    Abstract: A flash sterilization container includes a hermetically sealed rigid and impermeable metal bellow valve. Upon pressurization of the external environment with steam the height of the bellow valve is reduced and this opens the valve thereby allowing steam to enter the sterilization container. Reducing the pressure outside of the sterilization container to atmospheric pressure increases the height of the bellow valve and closes the valve, thereby isolating the sterilized objects within the sterilization container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2013
    Publication date: February 27, 2014
    Applicant: SYMMETRY MEDICAL NEW BEDFORD, INC
    Inventors: MICHAEL JACENE, JERRY R. GRIFFITHS, CHRISTOPHER M. JOHNSON, ALI KIAPOUR
  • Patent number: 8658090
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for liquid, gas, and gas plasma sterilization of items. The apparatus includes two chambers and a holder to connectorlessly secure a lumened instrument such that a first portion of the lumened instrument lies in the first chamber and a second portion of the instrument lies in the second chamber, a liquid medium contained within the two chambers, and pumping means for simultaneously increasing fluid pressure within the first chamber of said container while decreasing fluid pressure within the second chamber of the container in a reciprocating fashion. The pumping means displaces at least a total internal volume of the liquid medium through the lumen for a given highest volume of a lumened instrument during each stroke.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Assignee: Langford IC Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Terrence R. Langford
  • Patent number: 8641985
    Abstract: A control system for multiple sterilization chambers for the sterilization of medical and other instruments interact with a common vacuum pump, steam generator and ozone generator via a common controller. Instead of placing all instruments of one type in one large chamber and running one generic sterilization program followed by another such program, instruments may be grouped by the type of sterilization program needed and the sterilization programs may be run using a single pump and a single ozone generator fed into multiple sterilization chambers controlled by the controller. One smaller and less expensive vacuum pump and ozone generator may be sufficient to sterilize large amounts of medical equipment present in the total assembly of chambers. The controller may run sterilization programs in parallel fully or overlapping partially in time. Control valves governing flow passage of air, steam and ozone in and out of the chambers are also controlled by the controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: Tuttnauer Ltd.
    Inventors: Yuval Shilderman, Meni Perets, Uri Peiper, Yekutiel Alper, Meir Markovich
  • Patent number: 8641981
    Abstract: A device for the disinfection, sterilization and/or maintenance of medical, in particular dental instruments. The device is optimized in various areas, facilitating the fully automatic, reliable and reproducible preparation of dental instruments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: Kaltenbach & Voigt GmbH
    Inventors: Hans Heckenberger, Hans-Dieter Wiek, Herbert Lott, Frank Saur, Johann Stempfle
  • Publication number: 20130315785
    Abstract: An apparatus for sterilizing a fluid fitting includes a microwave source disposed in a shielded chamber, a pressure chamber inside the shielded chamber for receiving the luer lock and a sterilizing medium. The pressure chamber is in microwave communication with the microwave source. The apparatus also includes mechanical fluid clamps at each end of the pressure chamber for enabling pressurization of the pressure chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2013
    Publication date: November 28, 2013
    Applicant: Maguffin Microwave LLC
    Inventor: Richard Michalik
  • Patent number: 8585982
    Abstract: A field colorimetric test device includes a housing having at least one interior compartment. A sampling device is configured to be associated with a distal end of the housing. A selection device is attached to a proximal end of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Roxanne L. Quintana, Martin W. Krauss, Alvin L. Quintana
  • Publication number: 20130302211
    Abstract: A method and device related to a liquid product pressure and (optionally) temperature treatment method reduces the level of microorganisms in the liquid product to a preselected level. Utilizing the method, liquid product is diffused in a chamber with the speed of pressure variation of liquid product in one embodiment of about 109 Pa/sec. The preferred speed of the diffused drops is about 10 m/sec. The liquid product can optionally be heated before or during diffusion, and is preferably heated as a diffused liquid product by mixing it with superheated steam.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Publication date: November 14, 2013
    Inventors: Andrei Alexandrovich Volkov, Nikolay Vladislavovich Arofikin, Alexander Yurievich Kolesnov
  • Patent number: 8568666
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for liquid, gas, and gas plasma sterilization of items. The apparatus includes two chambers and a holder to connectorlessly secure a lumened instrument such that a first portion of the lumened instrument lies in the first chamber and a second portion of the instrument lies in the second chamber, a liquid medium contained within the two chambers, and pumping means for simultaneously increasing fluid pressure within the first chamber of said container while decreasing fluid pressure within the second chamber of the container in a reciprocating fashion. The pumping means displaces at least a total internal volume of the liquid medium through the lumen for a given highest volume of a lumened instrument during a stroke.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: Langford IC Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Terrence R. Langford
  • Patent number: 8557365
    Abstract: A sterilization system for sterilizing a surgical instrument includes a generally planar sterilization surface and a sterilization accessory disposed on the sterilization surface. The sterilization accessory is adapted to receive the surgical instrument thereon or therein, and the sterilization accessory is formed at least in part from an open cellular material. The open cellular material includes a generally planar base surface, a plurality of cells extending from the base surface, each of the plurality of cells including a side wall, which extends from the base surface, and an end wall. Each of the plurality of cells is open, such that gases surrounding the open cellular material are free to pass into and out of each of the plurality of cells.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: Cygnus Medical, LLC
    Inventors: Walter L. Maguire, Jr., Shaun Sweeney
  • Publication number: 20130243662
    Abstract: A pressure vessel and a drum rotatably arranged inside which has an inner space for material that is introduced into the pressure vessel. In various embodiments, a drive mechanism rotates the drum in relation to the pressure vessel. The drive mechanism can include a motor that can be located inside the pressure vessel in an interspace between the drum and the pressure vessel. Some embodiments include a door to close an opening of the pressure vessel and a part of the door can extend into an open end of the drum when the door is closed to keep the material in the drum and out of the interspace. In particular embodiments, a steam supply conduit extends into the drum at the closed end of the pressure vessel. In some embodiments, a helical agitation blade in the drum moves the material away from or toward the opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2013
    Publication date: September 19, 2013
    Applicant: Sanciflex AB
    Inventors: Per-Arne Froderberg, Melvin R. Madeley, Anna-Lena Seedhill
  • Publication number: 20130236354
    Abstract: A valve apparatus and methods associated thereof are provided. The valve apparatus includes a valve housing structure. A first valve portion is connected to the valve housing structure, wherein the first valve portion has a sealing edge. A second valve portion is positioned at least partially within the valve housing structure. A constrictable membrane has a pressurizable interior compartment, wherein the constrictable membrane supported by the second valve portion and positioned proximate to the first valve portion, wherein at least a portion of the constrictable membrane is movable to engageable with the sealing edge of the first valve portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2012
    Publication date: September 12, 2013
    Applicant: SYMMETRY MEDICAL MANUFACTURING, INC.
    Inventors: Jon B. Taylor, James J. Kennedy, III, Paul LaRue, George P. Hannafin
  • Patent number: 8518340
    Abstract: A steam autoclave has a main drain line and an auxiliary drain line through which condensate in the autoclave chamber is drained, the auxiliary drain line having a conduit extending therethrough defining a path for condensate to move through the auxiliary drain line, and at least a portion of the conduit having a cross-section sized to permit effective draining of condensate through the conduit while the autoclave chamber is pressurized without substantial loss of steam pressure in the autoclave chamber. A sensor may be positioned in the autoclave chamber for sensing a pressure drop during condensate draining while the autoclave chamber is pressurized and for initializing insertion of additional pressurized steam into the autoclave chamber as needed to maintain adequate steam pressure in the autoclave chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Inventors: Robert W. Lewis, Timothy A. Barrett
  • Patent number: 8517709
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are methods and pressure vessels for solid-state microcellular processing of thermoplastic rolls and sheets. In one embodiment, the present invention is directed to a method for making a gas impregnated interleaved roll, which method comprises: providing a pressure vessel having an internal pressure chamber and a rotatable shaft horizontally positioned within the pressure chamber; placing an interleaved roll about the rotatable shaft and within the pressure chamber, wherein the interleaved roll is made from a thermoplastic material sheet interleaved together with a gas-channeling material sheet; pressurizing the pressure chamber to a selected pressure; rotating the rotatable shaft having the interleaved roll thereabouts (thereby rotating the interleaved roll) while under pressure for a selected period of time; and depressurizing the internal chamber to yield the gas impregnated interleaved roll.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: MicroGREEN Polymers, Inc.
    Inventors: Krishna V Nadella, Steven Powers, Thomas Malone