Abstract: A contact lens for application to a human eyeball capable of emitting ultrasonic pressure waves from a plurality of piezoelectric transducers to mitigate the effects of airborne eye irritants and infectious microorganisms. The piezoelectric transducers converts mechanical energy applied upon the contact lens from the eyelid as the eyelid blinks and/or winks into electrical energy to be used for emitting ultrasonic pressure waves from the piezoelectric transducers. The ultrasonic pressure waves destroy airborne microorganisms near the contact lens. A photodiode onboard the contact lens indicates when the eyelid is not closed in order to limit or prevent emission of ultrasonic pressure waves from the piezoelectric transducers while the eyelid is closed. An antenna onboard the contact lens receives information from augmented reality glasses or other computing devices.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for transforming organic and inorganic solid urban waste into aggregates, comprising an extruding machine connected to a reactor. The extruding machine is formed by an extrusion cylinder through which a piston circulates inside an extrusion cavity, which comprises three sections and is fed with a parget obtained after pre-processing the waste. The end of the third section is connected to the reactor through an opening. The reactors longitudinal shaft is formed by a rotatory steel shaft in which some steel blades are arranged, whose ends play the roles of cutting, hammering, punching and hydraulic helix as they rotate. Between the end of the blades and the wall of the reactor, there is a clearance of more than 0.1 mm of thickness. The reactor has a discharge valve to discharge the parget present in the boundary area through some openings, once it has been processed by a series of pressure, vibration energy and decompression cycles.

Abstract: A credit card with an obscurable account identifier. The credit card further comprises a substrate defining a first surface with a chromogenic feature wherein the chromogenic feature is capable of changing from a first state and a second state based on an activating trigger. In the first state, the chromogenic feature appears with a first optical property that obscures the account identifier, and in the second state, the chromogenic feature appears with a second optical property that reveals the account identifier.

Abstract: A machine for treating a medical apparatus, such as an endoscope washer-disinfector, can be integrated into a wall at an opening of the wall. The wall can separate a first enclosure with a controlled/non-controlled atmosphere from a second enclosure with a non-controlled/controlled atmosphere. The machine may include first and second openings configured to allow the medical apparatus to be loaded into/unloaded from the machine. The machine may also include first and second doors sealingly closing the openings. The machine may include a partitioning interface attached to the wall that closes the opening in the wall and a movable part that can be removed from the partitioning interface. The movable part can at least partially carry a pump and solenoid valve of the treatment system. The movable part can be positioned immediately adjacent to the partitioning interface when the treatment machine is in an operating position.

Abstract: Sample carrier includes a thermal-control block having an active surface and an outer surface that face in opposite directions. The active surface has a series of mounting areas that are distributed along a length of the thermal-control block. The sample carrier also includes chamber cells that are configured to be disposed over respective mounting areas of the series of mounting areas. The sample carrier also includes a removable cover body that is configured to be coupled to the thermal-control block with the chamber cells therebetween. The thermal-control block and the chamber cells are shaped to form corresponding reaction chambers therebetween. The cover body and the thermal-control block are in fixed positions with respect to each other to form a unitary structure. The reaction chambers have corresponding inlets that open in a common direction to an exterior of the sample carrier.

Abstract: A fluid sample collection card assembly in one embodiment includes a case including a tray assembly receiving cavity accessible through a mouth portion of the case, and a tray assembly, the tray assembly including an absorbent layer supported by a base portion, the base portion including (i) a tray portion configured to be removably received within the tray assembly receiving cavity and (ii) a faceplate portion configured to at least substantially close the mouth when the tray portion is received within the tray assembly receiving cavity.

Abstract: A disposable cartridge may have a fluid analysis chip for receiving a fluid to be analyzed. The fluid analysis chip may be attached to a fluid preparation unit of the disposable cartridge and may include a base layer. The fluid analysis chip may also include a spacer layer disposed over the base layer, the spacer layer including a microchannel formed therein, the microchannel being configured to guide a flow of the fluid to be analyzed within the fluid analysis chip. The fluid analysis chip may also include a cap layer disposed over the spacer layer, the cap layer including an inlet and an outlet for establishing fluid communication with the microchannel included in the spacer layer, and an interface layer disposed over the cap layer, the interface layer being configured to attach the fluid analysis chip to the fluid preparation unit of the disposable cartridge.

Abstract: A grossing station for use with performing autopsy, necropsy or pathology procedures comprises a table and an overhead hood connected to a top surface of the table. The grossing station further comprises a blower and ventilation system arranged in the table to move air across the table from a front to rear direction. The grossing station also comprises a trough arranged in an upper surface of the table, wherein the trough receives a plurality of interchangeable grid plates or sinks therein. The grossing station also comprises a first and second panel arranged at the side of the hood in order to create a fume hood for use by the user of the grossing station.

Abstract: A lidded plastic container has a plunger in the lid which pushes clear trays (that usually float) down into a cleaning solution. The container may include vent holes in its lid to allow gas evolving cleaning agents to vent without building up pressure inside the container.

Abstract: A device arranged to apply a linear tension to an intramedullary reamer for ultrasonic cleaning, and a corresponding method thereof.

Abstract: The invention monitors the neutralization process involving hydrogen peroxide solution and a hydrogen peroxide neutralization catalyst and compares measured values with theoretical values. The system monitors the chemical reaction and notifies the user of the neutralization status. In an exemplary embodiment, the initial hydrogen peroxide solution concentration is neutralized with a palladium catalyst after a period of time. A microcontroller analyzes the measurements and displays the neutralization process results using colored LED lights and/or text or images on a LCD display. In one embodiment, an apparatus adapted for use with a cleaning solution used to clean a medical device may include a trigger, a processing device in communication with the trigger, and a display device. The processing device provides a trigger count and the display device communicates with the processing device and displays a message based on the count.

Abstract: The presently disclosed debris collection system includes an elongate body having a first end, a second end, and a bore extending therethrough. The first end of the elongate body is hermetically closed while the second end has an opening. The elongated body is made of an impermeable material. A cap fixed to the elongated body and has a bore extending therethrough. A port, which is attached to the cap, is designed for introducing fluid into the elongated body. A watertight seal, such as a gasket, is attached to the cap. The seal is also made of an impermeable material. In operation, a liquid is introduced into the debris collection system. A surgical tool must then be introduced into the system. Thereafter, a vortex is created within the system to debride debris from the surgical tool.

Abstract: The device is suitable in particular for treating medical endoscopes. At least one treatment fluid is fed through a conduit system (3) to a channel attachment (4), to which a channel of the instrument to be treated can be attached. The conduit system has a fluid attachment (39), which can be connected to a source of treatment fluid. With the aid of a measuring device, the flow of the treatment fluid in the conduit system, and thus the permeability of the attached channel, can be measured. The measurement is effected with the aid of a measurement section (6) in which a flow sensor (7, 7?) is arranged. All the treatment steps are carried out via the conduit system and in particular also via the measurement section. In this way, the conduit system is subjected to the same process as the instrument to be treated, and a flow measurement can be carried out in each individual treatment step.

Abstract: Sensors, such as optical sensors and other sensors used in an aqueous environment are protected from biological contamination by applying a biocide behind a shutter. The shutter is capable of covering a subject portion of the sensor or surrounding mounting surface adjacent the sensor in at least a semi-sealing manner. A well or reservoir forms a chamber in the shutter that is capable of holding a biocide having a limited water solubility and a low environmental toxicity in the aqueous environment, for example, anhydrous iodine crystals. The reservoir is in communication with the portion of the sensor while positioned against the portion of the sensor or surrounding mounting surface adjacent the sensor.

Abstract: Solutions for limiting the undesirable spread of pathogens by indirect contact are provided. The solutions involve event-controlled self-sterilization of contact surfaces on articles or fixtures. A self-sterilizing contact surface structure allows chemical sterilizing agents to controllably flow in response to a contact event, from within the article to exude upon a portion of the contact surface.

Abstract: A method which enhances a disinfection process by obtaining an additive effect from energy and byproducts of the decomposition process. Also disclosed are contact lens disinfecting systems, wherein the systems are configured to create the desirable elevated pressure, oxygen saturation and sustained peroxide concentration conditions within a contact lens holding and reaction chamber, in order to enhance disinfection by additive effect. The systems are configured to provide that an elevated pressure is maintained in the reaction chamber before venting occurs.

Abstract: A method which enhances a disinfection process by obtaining an additive effect from energy and byproducts of the decomposition process. Also disclosed are contact lens disinfecting systems, wherein the systems are configured to create the desirable elevated pressure, oxygen saturation and sustained peroxide concentration conditions within a contact lens holding and reaction chamber, in order to enhance disinfection by additive effect. The systems are configured to provide that an elevated pressure is maintained in the reaction chamber before venting occurs.

Abstract: A method which enhances a disinfection process by obtaining an additive effect from energy and byproducts of the decomposition process. Also disclosed are contact lens disinfecting systems, wherein the systems are configured to create the desirable elevated pressure, oxygen saturation and sustained peroxide concentration conditions within a contact lens holding and reaction chamber, in order to enhance disinfection by additive effect. The systems are configured to provide that an elevated pressure is maintained in the reaction chamber before venting occurs.

Abstract: Methods, devices, and remediation compositions for the microwave remediation of medical wastes are provided. The remediation compositions include a microwave active fluid including a microwave active liquid, a microwave enhancer, and a viscosity modifying agent. Methods include immersing medical waste in the remediation composition and then irradiating the medical waste and the remediation composition to remediate the medical waste. The devices include a container for the medical waste and the remediation composition, a microwave radiation source and a temperature monitoring device.

Abstract: An apparatus for treating objects with a treatment gas comprises a treatment chamber, a chamber input through which objects enter the treatment chamber, and a chamber output (which may be the same as the chamber input) through which the objects leave the treatment chamber. The treatment chamber encloses the treatment gas, which can be steam. The chamber output and/or the chamber input include an intermediate medium, such as a liquid, through which the objects pass. The intermediate medium prevents escape of the treatment gas from the treatment chamber and the ingress of external gases into the treatment chamber, while facilitating input of the objects to the chamber, and output of the objects from the chamber.

Abstract: The invention provides contact lens packages in which removal of the lens is facilitated by providing a means for elevating the lens when the package is opened.

Abstract: A material intended for personal protective equipment, such as a suit for escaping chemicals or a flash fire is disclosed, wherein the material includes at least four different layers, the layers being: an outer first layer of a material comprising at least one polymer, which material is self-extinguishing; a second layer of a fiber material, which fiber material is self-extinguishing; a third layer being adhesive; and an inner fourth layer being a barrier laminate. All of the at least four different layers individually are attached to layers located next to them.

Abstract: A method which enhances a disinfection process by obtaining an additive effect from energy and byproducts of the decomposition process. Also disclosed are contact lens disinfecting systems, wherein the systems are configured to create the desirable elevated pressure, oxygen saturation and sustained peroxide concentration conditions within a contact lens holding and reaction chamber, in order to enhance disinfection by additive effect. The systems are configured to provide that an elevated pressure is maintained in the reaction chamber before venting occurs.

Abstract: The Furniture Pad Folding Machine is a dry cleaning machine that is multi-faceted; it can clean and disinfect furniture pads and the machine has the ability to fold furniture pads. The machine is portable and can function on the moving truck and at the warehouse.

Abstract: A contact lens disinfection system that includes a peroxide disinfection solution in combination with a lens closure. The disinfection solution comprises 0.5 wt. % to 6 wt. % hydrogen peroxide or a chemical precursor of hydrogen peroxide, and an amino buffer component. The closure includes securing elements to position and maintain a pair of contact lenses in the disinfection solution, and a peroxide neutralization catalyst comprising platinum. In combination with the closure, the disinfection solution exhibits a pseudo first-order, half-life of hydrogen peroxide over an initial sixty minutes of neutralization from 12 minutes to 30 minutes in the lens closure.

Abstract: A cleaning assembly for containers, particularly for bottles, having a conveying device on which the containers are arranged by means of a receptacle means. To economically and ecologically improve the cleaning assembly, the receptacle means contains a liquid-tight tubular for an individual cleaning of the containers.

Abstract: The present invention provides fabrics that have unique mechanical, chemical, electrical, and thermal properties. The fabrics comprise layers of woven, knit or felted fibers, yarns or tow. Interstitially synthesized nanotubes, such as single-walled or multi-walled carbon nanotubes, enhance the fabric's antiballistic properties. These nanotubes may also insulate, semi-conduct or super-conduct electrical charges, or provide enhanced thermal properties of these fabrics which can be layered to form unique garments or structures.

Abstract: The present invention provides a lens care kit for disinfecting and cleaning contact lenses. The lens care kit of the invention allows customers to visually identify when their lenses are disinfected, clean, and ready to wear. The invention is relied on color change to indicate the readiness of disinfection and cleaning of contact lenses.

Abstract: Solutions for limiting the undesirable spread of pathogens by indirect contact are provided. The solutions involve event-controlled self-sterilization of contact surfaces on articles or fixtures. A self-sterilizing contact surface structure allows chemical sterilizing agents to controllably flow in response to a contact event, from within the article to exude upon a portion of the contact surface.

Abstract: Solutions for limiting the undesirable spread of pathogens by indirect contact are provided. The solutions involve event-controlled self-sterilization of contact surfaces on articles or fixtures. A self-sterilizing contact surface structure allows chemical sterilizing agents to controllably flow in response to a contact event, from within the article to exude upon a portion of the contact surface.

Abstract: A highly stabilized hydrogen peroxide useful for chemical sterilization of packaging materials in high-speed aseptic packaging plants.

Abstract: An examination assistant device (3) is used for examination in which a process solution containing an etching solution is held in contact with an examination objective portion of a quartz pole member (21) of a semiconductor processing apparatus, and then the process solution is analyzed to identify a metal impurity contained in the examination objective portion. The pole member (21) includes a pair of concave portions (22) disposed one on either side of the examination objective portion. The examination assistant device (3) includes a pair of end plates (32) configured to engage with the pair of concave portions, a frame (30) connecting the pair of end plates, and a solution receiver (31) disposed between the pair of end plates. The solution receiver (31) has dimensions to store the process solution and hold the process solution in contact with the examination objective portion.

Abstract: A system for chemically disposing energetic material enclosed in assembled devices includes a porous basket. The porous basket forms an enclosed chamber for receiving the assembled devices. Further, the basket is supported by a rotatable basket arm that is, in turn, connected to a lifting arm. In addition to these structures, the system includes a tank that holds a hydrolysis solution. The tank is positioned to allow the lifting arm to submerge the basket into the solution. After submersion, the basket arm rotates the basket in the solution to flow the hydrolysis solution into contact with the assembled devices therein. As a result, the assembled devices react with the solution so that the solution penetrates the assembled devices, allowing the solution to contact and react with the energetic material to render the energetic material non-energetic.

Abstract: An at-home integrated cleaning and disinfection system for dental hardware, for consumer use includes a compact and portable base unit sized for at-home use by a consumer, the base unit including a holding frame and an ultraviolet lamp. The system also includes a cleaning chamber within which dental hardware and a cleaning solution that includes hydrogen peroxide are receivable. The cleaning chamber fits within the holding frame in a manner such that contents of the cleaning chamber are exposed to light emitted by the ultraviolet lamp. A vibration mechanism is positioned so as to cause the cleaning chamber to vibrate while the cleaning chamber is fitted within the holding frame. To clean and disinfect dental hardware, the consumer places dental hardware in the cleaning chamber, fills the cleaning chamber with the cleaning solution, and inserts the cleaning chamber into the holding frame.

Abstract: The invention provides contact lens packages in which removal of the lens is facilitated by elevating the lens when the package is opened.

Abstract: A method and apparatus provide for automatically cleaning and decontaminating medical instruments. The method comprising the steps of: a) placing the medical instruments into a container after their use in a medical procedure; b) closing the container to seal the instruments inside whereby to prevent personnel contact with the instruments and any contaminants which might be thereon; c) inserting the sealed container into a washer/decontaminator and sealing the washer/decontaminator; d) the washer/decontaminator automatically opening the container and applying a washing fluid thereto to wash the instruments within the container; and e) the washer/decontaminator automatically applying a disinfectant to the container to disinfect the instruments whereby to allow safe handling thereof by personnel.

Abstract: An apparatus for sanitizing or dampening objects comprising a container having corner pockets that support springs is provided. Springs are extended upwardly from the corner pockets. A platform is positioned above container, wherein pocket covers on the platform are aligned with the springs and substantially cover them. The platform is adapted to support the object to be sanitized or dampened. When a pressure is applied to the platform, the platform can move downward into a solution contained in the container, dampening or sanitizing the object supported by the platform. A cover is sized to cover an opening on the platform. Alternatively, the cover can be housed underneath the container.

Abstract: A system for dyeing an artificial rattan includes: a feed spool for supplying the artificial rattan; a product spool for storing the artificial rattan; a dyeing unit including a dyeing bath for dyeing the artificial rattan with a dye material; a rubbing member disposed downstream of the dyeing unit for rubbing uniformly the dye material on the artificial rattan; a drying unit disposed downstream of the rubbing member for drying the dye material on the artificial rattan; and a conveying unit for drawing the artificial rattan from the feed spool, transporting the artificial rattan to pass through the dyeing unit, the rubbing member, and the drying unit, and delivering the dyed artificial rattan to the product spool.

Abstract: A system for microbially deactivating items. The system includes a circulation system for circulating a microbial decontamination fluid through a deactivation chamber that forms a part of the circulation system. A container for holding items to be deactivated is provided. The container has a sealable cavity in which the items to be deactivated may be placed, and at least one valve element that is movable between an open and a closed position to regulate fluid flow into the cavity. An actuator in the deactivation chamber is operable to move the valve element to an open position when the container is disposed within the deactivation chamber, wherein the cavity within the container is in fluid communication with the circulation system when the valve element is in the open position.

Abstract: A self-cleaning handle, in particular a door handle, door knob or similar, includes a handle surface which can be rotated by a drive in relation to a cleaning unit, to perform a self-cleaning process. To achieve simple construction and operation, the handle surface is configured from a large number of surface segments, which are arranged around the periphery of a cleaning unit, and these surface segments can be rotated about their longitudinal axes.

Abstract: The invention concerns a device mounted on a framework comprising an upper compartment (2) feeding waste (1), equipped with a hopper (6), an intermediate shredding compartment (3), including cutting tools (5), and a lower compartment (4) for disinfecting and evacuating residues.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus utilizing supplemental ozone treatment for ensuring sterility of instrument cleaning systems. By flushing ozonated water through the components of a cleaning system, the persistent problem of contamination of cleaner chambers, pipes or lines, and filters or banks of filters is effectively prevented. Thus, the integrity of sterilized instruments, such as lumened medical instruments, is more reliably achieved and maintained.

Abstract: The vessel for high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization is a vessel for accommodating at least an endoscope and performing high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization, including: an accommodating recess section for accommodating an elongated and thin insertion part of the endoscope having a flexible section; and pressing force preventing schemes for preventing local pressing forces from being applied to the outer surface of the flexible section when accommodated in the accommodating recess section.

Abstract: A self-cleaning handle for a self-closing door. The door is movable by a user between a normally closed position and an open position, and is automatically moved from the open position back to the closed position. The handle having a housing secured to said door and a handle rotatably mounted in the housing. An unexposed portion of the handle is disposed within the housing and an exposed portion of the handle is exposed for grasping by a user to open the door. A cleaning wipe is disposed within the housing and is slidably engaged with the unexposed portion of said handle. The self-cleaning handle also includes a means for preventing rotation of the handle when the door is moved from the closed position to the open position, and for automatically causing rotation of the handle relative to the cleaning wipe when the door is automatically moved from the open position back to the closed position.

Abstract: Sanitizing sponge disinfectant container bowls are disclosed, which are deep enough to hold cleaning sponges completely submerged in a disinfectant fluid. These containers are equipped with lids having downward projecting shafts or rotatable screw bolts which fit into the container bowl and press down on a sponge being sanitized. The lids are of sufficient weight to hold the sponges submerged in the disinfectant fluid. The container bowls are also provided with open ribbed rates against which or between which the sponges are held to facilitate the greater exposure of the surfaces of the sponges to the disinfectant fluid for improved cleansing.

Abstract: A contact lens container (1) includes a container (2) for receiving a cleaning and/or disinfecting liquid, as well as a cap (3), which can be screwed onto the container (2) by a thread (20,30). In the cap (3) a sealing washer (4) made of a water-tight and gas-tight material is provided, which is arranged on the inside of the cap (3) on the bottom (33) of the cap and extends to the side wall (32) of the cap (3), so that when the cap (3) is screwed on to the container (2), the sealing washer (4) is enclosed between the container edge (23) and the bottom (33) of the cap and the inside of the container has a water-tight seal.

Abstract: A fabric for use in safety apparel comprising a first set of yarns comprising modacrylic fibers, and a second set of yarns comprising anti-static fibers. The fabric meets the Federal Test Method Standard 191A, Method 5931 for electrostatic decay, and the Electrostatic Discharge Association Advisory ADV11.2-1995 voltage potential.

Abstract: A thermal heat shield is formed of a plurality of layers that are sandwiched together and which is adapted for a plurality of uses, including use on an automobile seat to shield a driver from heat generated behind the driver or beneath the automobile.

Abstract: An apparatus for treating objects, in particular cytological or histological specimens, having multiple processing stations (2) and a transport device (4) for delivering the objects into and out of the processing stations (2), is characterized in that the transport device (4) comprises a robot arm (5) that is movable in three dimensions and provides for arbitrary positioning of the objects.

Abstract: A sanitizing sponge container is disclosed, comprising a container bowl deep enough to hold various shaped and sized sponges and sufficient disinfectant fluid to completely submerge a sponge. This container further comprises an essentially flat lid, with a downward projecting shaft, which fits into the container bowl and rests on top of a sponge being sanitized. This lid is of sufficient weight to hold a sponge down, completely submerged in the disinfectant fluid. The bottom interior surface of the container bowl and the downward facing surface of the container lid further comprise open ribbed grates, which hold the sponge away from the bottom of the bowl and the downward projecting surface of the lid shaft, to facilitate the greater exposure of the surface of the sponge to the disinfectant fluid while the sponge is being sanitized in the container.