Including Gas Generating Means Patents (Class 422/305)
  • Patent number: 5925316
    Abstract: A system to deliver gas/vapor from solid materials. Specifically, the delivery system for the use of gas or vapor released from a solid material, such as a non-aqueous/solid hydrogen peroxide complex. The system is comprised of a delivery system that is configured to receive a plurality of disks containing the solid material and provide these disks into an injector. The injector heats the disks to produce a gas or vapor that is then provided into a chamber. The sterilization process can be done by gas or vapor alone, or in combination with plasma or ultra violet radiation. In particular, a control system automatically induces the delivery system to provide the injector with a disk and then remove the disk once the injection sequence is complete.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 20, 1999
    Assignee: Johnson & Johnson Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard Jed Kendall, Szu-Min Lin, Robert M. Spencer, Harold R. Williams
  • Patent number: 5919416
    Abstract: An appliance which is entirely, or includes components, formed of a thermoplastics material, e.g., conventional nylon-bristle toothbrushes, may be sterilized by first bringing water contained in a reservoir of an uncovered sterilization tray to, or near, its boiling point by initial exposure to microwave energy. Thereafter, the appliance is placed in the sterilization tray in proximity to the microwave-preheated water. The sterilization tray may then be covered and subjected to an additional (shorter) cycle of microwave energy. During this subsequent microwave cycle, the water in the reservoir boils so that steam fills the covered container and is pressurized to less then about 10 psig (e.g., due to the fluid-tight seal formed by the container's cover). The steam and the microwave energy are sufficient to sterilize the toothbrush bristles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 6, 1999
    Inventor: J. David Auner
  • Patent number: 5919423
    Abstract: This invention provides a wick composition which is comprised of a polymeric strand such as polyethylene, which has a content of particulate polysaccharidic filler ingredient and air freshener ingredient. The wick is adapted for incorporation in a candle body. When the wick is ignited, it combusts with a controlled release of the air freshener ingredient into the atmosphere.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 6, 1999
    Assignee: S. C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
    Inventors: Luz P. Requejo, Judith R. Zaunbrecher
  • Patent number: 5919418
    Abstract: A system to deliver gas/vapor from solid materials. Specifically, the delivery system for the use of gas or vapor released from a solid material, such as a non-aqueous/solid hydrogen peroxide complex. The system is comprised of a delivery system that is configured to receive a plurality of disks containing the solid material and provide these disks into an injector. The injector heats the disks to produce a gas or vapor that is then provided into a chamber. The sterilization process can be done by gas or vapor alone, or in combination with plasma or ultra violet radiation. In particular, a control system automatically induces the delivery system to provide the injector with a disk and then remove the disk once the injecfion sequence is complete.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 6, 1999
    Assignee: Johnson & Johnson Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard Jed Kendall, Michael Hahs, Robert M. Spencer, Harold R. Williams
  • Patent number: 5911955
    Abstract: A device for using candle heat to diffuse aromatic oil, while avoiding overheating of the oil. A ring having an oil holding groove is supported by downwardly projecting tabs, from the candle holder, with the oil holding groove being above and encircling the candle flame, without any portion of the groove being directly over the flame. Radiant heat from the candle flame is conducted to the oil holding groove by means of radiation absorbing fingers projecting upward and inward from the ring. Several design features control the heat flow to the oil groove, including design choices of the width and number of the radiation absorbing fingers, and the number and angular size of a plurality of slots in the ring which block heat transfer at the locations of the slots, and the size of the outer diameter of the ring, from which some heat energy is radiated away from the device. The ring is constructed with compound bends for enhanced strength.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 15, 1999
    Assignee: New Venture Engineering, Inc.
    Inventor: Philip S. Fullam
  • Patent number: 5911950
    Abstract: A system to deliver gas/vapor from solid materials. Specifically, the delivery system for the use of gas or vapor released from a solid material, such as a non-aqueous/solid hydrogen peroxide complex. The system is comprised of a delivery system that is configured to receive a plurality of disks containing the solid material and provide these disks into an injector. The injector heats the disks to produce a gas or vapor that is then provided into a chamber. The sterilization process can be done by gas or vapor alone, or in combination with plasma or ultra violet radiation. In particular, a control system automatically induces the delivery system to provide the injector with a disk and then remove the disk once the injection sequence is complete.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 15, 1999
    Assignee: Johnson & Johnson Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Xiaolan Chen, Paul Taylor Jacobs, Szu-Min Lin, Robert M. Spencer, Harold R. Williams
  • Patent number: 5906794
    Abstract: The invention provides an optimized method and system for conducting a continuous-operation, closed-loop, flow-through vapor phase decontamination. By the method, a liquid decontaminant is vaporized and delivered into, through and out of a sealable chamber by means of a carrier gas that is recirculated in a closed-loop conduit circuit. After leaving the chamber, the vapor is decomposed and the carrier gas is partially and selectively dried in response to the monitored temperature, relative humidity, and decontaminant vapor concentration in the chamber. The degree of drying is particularly selected in response to these chamber parameters to maintain a predetermined percent saturation of the decontaminant vapor in the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 25, 1999
    Assignee: American Sterilizer Company
    Inventor: Robert W. Childers
  • Patent number: 5904897
    Abstract: A system to deliver gas/vapor from solid materials. Specifically, the delivery system for the use of gas or vapor released from a solid material, such as a non-aqueous/solid hydrogen peroxide complex. The system is comprised of a delivery system that is configured to receive a plurality of disks containing the solid material and provide these disks into an injector. The injector heats the disks to produce a gas or vapor that is then provided into a chamber. The sterilization process can be done by gas or vapor alone, or in combination with plasma or ultra violet radiation. In particular, a control system automatically induces the delivery system to provide the injector with a disk and then remove the disk once the injection sequence is complete.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 18, 1999
    Assignee: Johnson & Johnson Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard Jed Kendall, Xiaolan Chen, Michael Hahs, Paul Taylor Jacobs, Szu-Min Lin
  • Patent number: 5882591
    Abstract: Biological fluids, e.g. bodily fluids such as plasma/serum, semen, milk or blood, can be treated efficiently with ozone to inactivate certain viruses, bacteria, fungi etc. To effect and enhance the contact of such fluids with ozone, or another disinfecting or deactivating gas, the fluids are thoroughly nebulized, or atomized, i.e. dispersed into minute droplets. Nebulization has been found to afford a faster O.sub.3 -fluid reaction rate than other known methods. It is proposed to create a fine "rain" of droplets to fall through a controlled atmosphere of O.sub.3 /O.sub.2 and/or O.sub.3 /inert gas mixture. Electric and magnetic fields are superimposed over the space through which the droplets are passed.Three types of nebulizers/atomizers are described: compressed gas (O.sub.3 /O.sub.2 mixture) atomizer, ultrasonic nebulizer, and rotary nebulizer.The invention was tested on coliphage MS2 which is safe, easy to handle, and more resistant to chemical disinfections than viruses such as HIV. More than 7 log.sub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 16, 1999
    Inventor: Mladen M. Kekez
  • Patent number: 5879648
    Abstract: An apparatus for disinfecting containers comprises a disinfection chamber 12 surrounding a required section of a container transport path, partition means for dividing the interior of the disinfection chamber 12 into a preheating zone 35, an exposure zone 36 and a drying zone 37 as arranged downstream from an upstream side of the transport path, antiseptic supply means for supplying hydrogen peroxide gas or mist to the exposure zone 36, and means for supplying hot air to the preheating zone 35 and the drying zone 37.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 9, 1999
    Assignee: Shikoku Kakoki Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroaki Hada, Tadao Akai, Kazuo Abe, Hiroshi Kitajima, Michio Ueda
  • Patent number: 5876664
    Abstract: The invention provides a method and apparatus for minimizing heat degradation of a vapor decontaminant in a vaporizer by selectively operating a plurality of vaporizer heaters to provide a decreasing heat gradient through the vaporizer. A method and apparatus are also provided for selectively operating a plurality of preheaters, in series, for preheating a carrier gas entering a vaporizer in a flow-through decontamination system, and for maintaining a predetermined carrier gas temperature. A further method and apparatus are provided for fine-tuning chamber pressure in a high flow rate closed-loop flow-through vapor phase decontamination system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 2, 1999
    Assignee: American Sterilizer Company
    Inventors: Robert W. Childers, Stephen G. Geist, Paul A. Steen
  • Patent number: 5871702
    Abstract: An arrangement for sterilizing objects in which a quantity of liquid and one or more objects to be sterilized are introduced into a pouch formed of flexible sheet material at least partially transparent to microwave radiation whereupon the pouch is sealed to form a gas-tight assembly. The gas-tight assembly is situated in an inner rigid cavity of an enclosure which is at least partially formed of material that is substantially transparent to microwave radiation. The enclosure is irradiated with microwave radiation which passes into the cavity and then into the gas-tight pouch assembly situated therein to vaporize the liquid to produce an atmosphere of hot vapor under pressure in the pouch. The pouch expands under pressure until the sheet material of which it is formed presses against the rigid inner surfaces of the enclosure cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 1992
    Date of Patent: February 16, 1999
    Assignee: Flexiclave, Inc.
    Inventors: Barry S. Kutner, Daniel A. Latowicki
  • Patent number: 5840257
    Abstract: A device for use with an oil lamp to allow the diffusion of the scent of a perfume. The device has a circular vessel and a central tubular element extending longitudinally through the center of the vessel. A wick is inserted through the central tubular element. The vessel is closed at the bottom and open at the top, defining a perfume-holding area. In a first and second embodiment, the device also has an outwardly projecting lip along the circumference of the vessel at the top thereof. In a third embodiment, the vessel has a diameter that is greater than the diameter of the opening of the oil lamp, and is provided with a resilient member at the bottom of the central tubular element. In use, a user pours a given amount of perfume in the perfume-holding area. The device is then placed on the lip of the oil lamp and over the opening and the wick is lit. The heat generated by the flame of the wick heats the device, which in turns heats the perfume, thereby releasing a pleasing smell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 24, 1998
    Assignee: Rayflam Inc.
    Inventors: Jean-Louis Bureau, Jacques Bureau
  • Patent number: 5792422
    Abstract: A tray and process for hydrogen peroxide vapor sterilization of medical articles. The tray includes a bottom surface and side walls defining a space to receive articles to be sterilized. The bottom surface of the tray includes a number of inlet passages and wells with a known volume. In the process of the present invention, articles to be sterilized are placed in the tray, and aqueous solutions of hydrogen peroxide is delivered into the tray. When the excess hydrogen peroxide is drained through the inlet passages, a known volume of peroxide remains in the wells. Such remaining hydrogen peroxide is then vaporized to achieve sterilization.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 11, 1998
    Assignee: Ethicon, Inc.
    Inventors: Szu Min Lin, Paul Taylor Jacobs, Su-Syin Wu
  • Patent number: 5788930
    Abstract: Apparatus for safely deodorizing and purifying an enclosure such as a building structure or vehicle using an ozone generator thereby minimizing the risk of biological exposure and pollutants which trigger environmental illness or allergic reactions. The ozone generator is controlled with an electronic logic circuitry and sensors which automatically regulates ozone exposures to peak at an antiseptic level thereby preventing inadvertent oxidation damage due to over exposure. One embodiment of the apparatus uses an ozone decomposing material to eliminate the harmful residual ozone concentration within the enclosure which is present immediately after an effective ozone treatment. Another embodiment allows for control of the apparatus from outside the enclosure being purified, allowing the operator to alter the outcome of the treatment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 4, 1998
    Inventor: Larry Daniel McMurray
  • Patent number: 5785934
    Abstract: An apparatus and process for hydrogen peroxide vapor sterilization of medical instruments and similar devices make use of hydrogen peroxide vapor released from an inorganic hydrogen peroxide complex. The peroxide vapor can be released at room temperature and atmospheric pressure; however, the pressure used can be less than 50 torr and the temperature greater than 86.degree. C. to facilitate the release of hydrogen peroxide vapor. Preferred hydrogen peroxide complexes for use in the invention include Na.sub.4 P.sub.2 O.sub.7.3 H.sub.2 O.sub.2 and KH.sub.2 PO.sub.4.H.sub.2 O.sub.2. The heating rate can be greater than 5.degree. C. Optionally, a plasma can be used in conjunction with the vapor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 28, 1998
    Assignee: Johnson & Johnson Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul Taylor Jacobs, Szu-Min Lin, Xiaolan Chen
  • Patent number: 5759219
    Abstract: Unitary filters for airbags. The filters may be formed from various combinations of ceramic grit, ceramic fiber, metal grit, metal fiber, and non-metal fibers. Combinations of disparate particle sizes may be used to increase filter diffusion and reduce the size of particles filtered. The disparate size particles may be uniformly mixed, or may be in relatively discrete layers. Fibers may be used to increase the strength of the filter. The fibers may be mixed with an initial slurry, or the slurry may be pressed into a mat of the fibers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 2, 1998
    Assignee: Morton International, Inc.
    Inventors: Linda M. Rink, Alan J. Ward, Harry W. Miller, II
  • Patent number: 5753196
    Abstract: An apparatus for plasma sterilization of articles includes a plasma generator, a sterilizing chamber, and a source of water vapor in fluid communication with the plasma generator, and may optionally include an autoclave. A method for plasma sterilization comprises exposing an article to be sterilized to a neutral active species of a plasma generated from water vapor. The exposure of the article to the plasma is carried out at reduced pressures and a chamber temperature of less than about 82.degree. C. for a time period sufficient to effect sterilization.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 19, 1998
    Assignee: AbTox, Inc.
    Inventors: Phillip A. Martens, David L. Rainwater
  • Patent number: 5750077
    Abstract: A man-portable light weight emergency oxygen supply system device for providing breathable oxygen for periods exceeding ten minutes. The device can be easily affixed to personnel for mobile use or mounted for stationary applications. A typical on-person system, weighing over three pounds, can supply pure oxygen for short periods of time, extending to the order of an hour for mixtures with ambient air to provide nominal sea-level oxygen concentrations. A catalyzed endothermic reaction is utilized to produce oxygen with no potential for harmful contaminants or danger of accidental initiation or fire/explosion hazard. Potential applications include use for emergency evacuations, such as hotel fires, aviation emergencies including de-pressurization and fires, and medical emergencies requiring oxygen administration prior to arrival of emergency medical equipment or ambulances.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 12, 1998
    Inventor: Neil C. Schoen
  • Patent number: 5733503
    Abstract: A method and device for enhancing the vapor sterilization of the lumen of medical instruments and like articles under reduced pressure. A vessel containing a small amount of a vaporizable liquid antimicrobial solution is attached to the lumen. The antimicrobial vaporizes and flows directly into the lumen of the article as the pressure is reduced for the sterilization cycle. Preferred embodiments illustrate a sealed chamber containing the antimicrobial and an opener for opening the chamber with the device already attached to the article. Preferably, the opener comprises a hollow spike. A ring between the opener and chamber must be removed prior to opening the chamber and removal of the ring destroys the ring so that it can not be replaced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 31, 1998
    Assignee: Johnson & Johnson Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Reinhard Kowatsch, Toby Soto, Charles Howlett
  • Patent number: 5725833
    Abstract: A water buffered essential oil non-open flame incensing system including a level fire plate with a metallic fire ring centrally bonded to the upper surface thereof. A stoneware urn is provided having a body portion with a pronounced belly, a bell lip, a throat defined between the body portion and the bell lip, a curved interior surface with a non-flat bottom portion, and an exterior surface. At least the curved interior surface has high fire glazed finish. Water and essential oils to be diffused are filled in the urn and the urn is placed on top of a burning charcoal briquette on the fire ring. Boiling of the water carries the oil in the form of droplets into the atmosphere. The urn is sized to have a small amount of water left at the time the charcoal burns out. A smokeless system may be beneficial for people with smoke allergies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 10, 1998
    Inventor: Richard Crafton
  • Patent number: 5674450
    Abstract: An apparatus and process for hydrogen peroxide vapor sterilization of medical instruments and similar devices make use of hydrogen peroxide vapor released from a substantially non-aqueous organic hydrogen peroxide complex, such as a urea-peroxide complex. Optionally, a plasma can be used in conjunction with the vapor. A method for preparing substantially non-aqueous hydrogen peroxide complexes is also provided. These complexes are useful as a source of peroxide vapor in hydrogen peroxide vapor sterilizers and as a component of self-sterilizing packaging materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 7, 1997
    Assignee: Johnson & Johnson Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Szu-Min Lin, James Archie Swanzy, Paul Taylor Jacobs
  • Patent number: 5669767
    Abstract: Disclosed is a device for use in an oil lamp to allow the diffusion of the scent of a perfume added to the oil. The oil lamp has an inside and a lip lying in a generally horizontal plane. The device is a ring-shaped element having a plurality of inwardly downwardly protruding tabs that are spaced apart to define gaps therebetween permitting uninterrupted air flow between the inside of the bottle and the ambient air. The tabs have free ends defining an opening and are sized and shaped to receive and hold a wick supporting tube having a longitudinal axis perpendicular to the horizontal plane and an upper end from which a wick projects. The tube is inserted into the opening so that the upper end of the wick supporting tube is held in place at a given longitudinal distance from the lip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 23, 1997
    Assignee: Rayflam Inc.
    Inventors: Jean-Louis Bureau, Jacques Bureau
  • Patent number: 5667753
    Abstract: An apparatus and process for hydrogen peroxide vapor sterilization of medical instruments and similar devices make use of hydrogen peroxide vapor released from an inorganic hydrogen peroxide complex. The peroxide vapor can be released at room temperature and atmospheric pressure; however, the pressure used can be less than 50 torr and the temperature greater than 86.degree. C. to facilitate the release of hydrogen peroxide vapor. The heating rate can be greater than 5.degree. C. Optionally, a plasma can be used in conjunction with the vapor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 16, 1997
    Assignee: Advanced Sterilization Products
    Inventors: Paul Taylor Jacobs, Szu-Min Lin, Xiaolan Chen
  • Patent number: 5662865
    Abstract: The invention relates to a chamber for use in a fumigation method to produce a fumigant gas mixture and supply it to a circulatory loop gas flow system gas. The chamber is adapted to receive fumigant gas generation device and includes:an inlet port controlled by an inlet valve,an outlet port controlled by an outlet valve,a flushing gas inlet controlled by a flushing gas inlet valve for connection to a source of inert gas,a vent valve, andaccess means openable for access to its interior from a position outside of the fumigation space.The chamber forms part of the loop gas flow system when connected to ends of a gas duct. The invention further relates to a method of fumigating a bulk commodity in an enclosed fumigation space wherein the fumigant gas mixture is generated in the chamber as well as to use of the chamber in such a fumigation method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 2, 1997
    Assignee: Degesch GmbH
    Inventor: Bevin Henry Shenton Blatchford
  • Patent number: 5660803
    Abstract: A liquified gas-containing generator has a casing in which a reaction container containing liquified gas is accommodated. So as to trigger combustion of the liquified gas a puncture element with an overflow channel is driven into the reaction container. The kinetic energy for the puncture element is generated pyrotechnically by initiation of an ignition element. The ignition gases of the ignition element pass via the overflow channel into the interior of the reaction container where these gases induce combustion of the liquified gas. The combustion gases arising thereby pass via the overflow channel out of the reaction container into a hollow space in which the puncture element is arranged. The hollow space is sealed in relation to a discharge passage by a bursting membrane. This bursting membrane bursts open when a minimum pressure of the combustion gases is reached and thereby opens the way for discharge of the combustion gases out of the casing via the discharge passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 26, 1997
    Assignee: Dynamit Nobel Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Uwe Brede, Alfred Horr, Josef Kraft, Heinz Riess
  • Patent number: 5651942
    Abstract: A device for supplying aromatic fragrances to the atmosphere employs a heating element in a container to heat a fragrance base material contained in a receptacle to supply a pleasant aroma to the atmosphere, primarily to eliminate bathroom and kitchen odors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 29, 1997
    Inventor: Arthur E. Christensen
  • Patent number: 5648052
    Abstract: A continuous flow-rate gas generator fueled by liquid mono-propellant includes a propellant storage tank, a motor-driven pump (or other pressurization technique) to force the propellant into a combustion chamber having an enclosed volume, an injector to effectively break up the incoming liquid propellant into droplets that facilitate ignition and sustain combustion, an igniter to initiate the combustion process, a nozzle to expand the exhaust gases in order to optimize the pressure and temperature of the working fluid, and exhaust ducting to direct the flow and handle the further heat transfer requirements. If desired, the output may be varied through two mechanisms: either by including an exit gas valve used to vary the exit gas flow to match delivery needs; or by having a plurality of continuous gas generators connected in parallel to a manifold assembly and relying on the combination of mixed flow-rates to match a required gas output.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 15, 1997
    Assignee: Martin Marietta Corporation
    Inventors: Keith James Schaefer, John Mandzy, Andrew Anthony Carlson, Crestus Lee Adams, Steven Joseph Brown, John Joseph Paul Johnson
  • Patent number: 5609830
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus for the sterilization of refuse, in particular hospital refuse, is described, according to which plastic containers filled with the refuse are first introduced into a lock chamber in which a preparatory conveyor belt is arranged and thereafter the entire charge of the lock chamber is transferred to a sterilization chamber in which a main conveyor belt is arranged. The sterilization chamber is then hermetically sealed and injection needles are stuck into the respective containers to inject water and/or disinfectant into the interior of the respective plastic containers. The refuse is then treated with microwave energy and subsequently the charge in the sterilization chamber discharged via the discharge opening. With the method and the apparatus according to the invention it is always ensured that the refuse in the interior of the plastic containers is impregnated in adequate manner with water or a disinfectant, this being done before or during the microwave irradiation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 11, 1997
    Assignee: Nordpunkt AG
    Inventor: Willi Maihofer
  • Patent number: 5593649
    Abstract: A canister is provided that is adapted for use in a plasma induced sterilization process. The canister contains a gas mixture that is pressurized to between about 2200 psig to about 2500 psig. The gas mixture has about 2.0 to 2.4 (v/v) percent hydrogen and about 2.6 to 3.0 (v/v) percent oxygen, and the rest of the gas mixture is noble gas or a mixture of noble gases.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 14, 1997
    Assignee: Abtox, Inc.
    Inventors: Jim Fisher, Bryant A. Campbell, deceased, Kern A. Moulton
  • Patent number: 5589141
    Abstract: Particulate-free non-toxic gases are generated in a hybrid generator device by conducting the ignition of the propellant with an effective oxidizer, using a mixture of a molecular oxygen-containing gas and argon by varying the ratio of said gas to argon to provide only non-toxic reaction products in the exhaust gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 31, 1996
    Assignee: Atlantic Research Corporation
    Inventors: James R. Sides, James D. Martin, Robert S. Scheffee
  • Patent number: 5582806
    Abstract: A gas generator for generating gas under pressure. The gas generator comprises a device for providing a first gas including a pressure vessel containing the first gas, the first gas being an oxidizing gas; a device for providing a second gas adapted to be oxidized by the first gas and including a pyrotechnic charge for generating the second gas when ignited. An oxidation zone of the gas generator includes an outlet, the first gas and the second gas being adapted to undergo an oxidation reaction in the oxidation zone for generating the gas under pressure. The first gas and the second gas are directed to the oxidation zone such that the oxidation zone contains a mixture of the first gas and the second gas for the oxidation reaction thereof, the second gas being of a sufficiently elevated temperature to initiate the oxidation reaction in the oxidation zone. A back-up catalytic device ensures initiation of the oxidation reaction of the mixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 10, 1996
    Assignee: Autoliv Development AB
    Inventors: Torbjorn Skanberg, Yngve Haland
  • Patent number: 5580530
    Abstract: A method and device for enhancing the vapor sterilization of the lumen of medical instruments and like articles under reduced pressure. A vessel containing a small amount of a vaporizable liquid antimicrobial solution is attached to the lumen. The antimicrobial vaporizes and flows directly into the lumen of the article as the pressure is reduced for the sterilization cycle. Preferred embodiments illustrate a sealed chamber containing the antimicrobial and an opener for opening the chamber with the device already attached to the article. Preferably, the opener comprises a hollow spike. A ring between the opener and chamber must be removed prior to opening the chamber and removal of the ring destroys the ring so that it can not be replaced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 3, 1996
    Assignee: Johnson & Johnson Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Reinhard Kowatsch, Toby Soto, Charles Howlett
  • Patent number: 5573740
    Abstract: Phosphine is generated by the reaction of water with a metal phosphide formulation. In one embodiment, the formulation is within a housing closed by a membrane which is permeable to water and phosphine. A water-containing gas flows across the membrane and water from the gas permeates into the housing to react with the phosphide, producing phosphine which also permeates through the membrane to enter the gas flow. Two membranes may be used to close the housing, one permeable to water, the other permeable to phosphine. A blanking plate and phosphine absorber may be included to control the phosphine production. In a second embodiment, pellets of a phosphide formulation are transferred, periodically, from a hopper to a chamber containing water. The transfer is effected by a disc member mounted below the hopper and above the chamber. The disc member has at least one aperture in it, within which pellets are transported from the hopper outlet to an inlet port of the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 12, 1996
    Assignee: Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization
    Inventors: Henry J. Banks, Colin J. Waterford
  • Patent number: 5534229
    Abstract: A volatilization suppressing agent comprising at least one thermosensitive polymer as an effective component is disclosed. Also disclosed is a volatile composition comprising a volatile effective component or an effective component carried by a volatile solvent and at least one thermosensitive polymer are disclosed. The use of the volatilization suppressing agent can suppress volatilization of volatile components when temperature rises and, as a result, volatilization of the volatile components is less affected by the temperature change. It is therefore possible to volatilize volatile components from air fresheners, deodorants, insecticides, moth proofers, repellents, attractants, antimicrobial agents, antifungal agents, antioxidants, and ozone decomposition agents more economically and to prevent troubles due to excessive volatilization.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 9, 1996
    Assignee: Nomura & Shibatani
    Inventors: Ryuji Nomura, Haruo Shibatani
  • Patent number: 5525306
    Abstract: Gas generator system of lightweight design, especially of an impact protection system for occupants of vehicles, containing a central area with an igniter for a combustion chamber enclosing the igniter for solid propellant, which combustion chamber in turn is enclosed by a filter chamber with discharge openings for inflating a downstream receiver, containing, in combination: a housing, consisting of an upper part and a lower part, which are screwed together, and which accommodate and hold between them the igniter, the propellant, and the filter, so that they are sealed tightly and in a pressure-proof manner from the outside, and that one of the two housing parts that can be connected to one another has an approximately mushroom-shaped cross section, as well as special filter designs and brackets for holding same during screwing together, and the selected ducting for the flow of the gas generated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 11, 1996
    Assignee: TEMIC Bayern-Chemie Airbag GmbH
    Inventors: Robert Schmucker, Josef V. Simon, Ruth Fendt-Edelberg, Ernst Hogenauer
  • Patent number: 5520893
    Abstract: Medical instruments, including stainless steel, plastic tubing, and the like, are sterilized in a portable apparatus that provides a low volume, high pressure flow of continuously circulating water containing about 2 to 6 ppm of ozone. The portable apparatus includes a housing having an open chamber for containing medical instruments. Within the housing are a high voltage transformer, an ozone generator, and a high pressure, low volume pump for circulating ozonated water. A lid for the chamber is provided with carbon substantially to preclude ozone from escaping from the chamber into the atmosphere outside the housing. The lid includes a safety switch so that the apparatus will not operate unless the lid is in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 28, 1996
    Assignee: OxiDyn, Incorporated
    Inventors: John R. Kasting, Jr., Ronald G. Potter
  • Patent number: 5498397
    Abstract: An air freshener is provided. The air freshener includes a base, a battery power supply and a fan motor mounted on the base and is covered by a motor cover. The fan motor has a fan blade extending above the motor cover. A shell covers the motor cover and the fan blade. The shell has a perforated open chamber in an upper portion thereof to hold spices. A transparent shade with air vents covers the open chamber. A power switch is provided and mounted on the shell. The power switch is connected in series between the battery power supply and the fan motor for controlling the operation of the fan motor, the fan motor producing currents of air for carrying the smell of the spices out of the transparent shade into the air through the air vents of the transparent shade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 12, 1996
    Inventor: Chin-Fu Horng
  • Patent number: 5487873
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for treating waste with radio frequency include a wall defining a radio frequency treatment chamber through which waste may be passed. A source of radio frequency energy energizes the radio frequency treatment chamber to heat the waste and drive off vapors therefrom leaving solid residue to be disposed of. A guard heater and/or insulation maintains the wall at substantially the same temperature as the waste being heated by the radio frequency to prevent vapors from condensing on the waste.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 30, 1996
    Assignee: IIT Research Institute
    Inventors: Jack E. Bridges, Guggliam C. Sresty, Allen Taflove
  • Patent number: 5458858
    Abstract: The present invention uses a new approach to generating chlorine dioxide. This approach is the use of two vessel system in which the first vessel is of a structure which enables operation to create substantially isothermal incomplete reaction conditions and in which the second vessel is of a structure to enable operation to generate a continuous decreasing temperature gradient from bottom to top thereof for substantially-completing that reaction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 17, 1995
    Assignee: Vulcan Chemicals
    Inventor: John L. Dawkins
  • Patent number: 5455014
    Abstract: A liquid deposition source delivery system (22) includes a reactant source (50) of a liquid chemical reactant, a first heater (54) positioned adjacent to the reactant source (50) , and a vapor collection system (56) in communication with the reactant source (50) to collect vapor evolved from the reactant source (50). A flow controller (64) has an upstream side (66) in communication with the vapor collection system (56). A line (70) of a vapor distribution system is in communication with the downstream side (68) of the flow controller (64). A second heater (76) is positioned adjacent to the flow controller (64), at least a portion of the vapor collection system (56), and at least a portion of the vapor distribution system, to prevent the vapor from condensing in the lines (70) of the delivery system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 3, 1995
    Assignee: Hughes Aircraft Company
    Inventors: Michael A. Costantino, William C. Yorke
  • Patent number: 5451381
    Abstract: In a gas generating agent pack for an air bag inflation gas generator of this invention, a plurality of gas generating agents with a through hole formed at the center is accommodated in the axial direction in the stacked state within a longitudinal cylindrical pack whose both ends are tightly closed, and an energizing means for energizing the gas generating agents toward the end of the cylindrical pack is disposed within the cylindrical pack, so that the plurality of gas generating agents accommodated into the cylindrical pack can be tightly contacted securely to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 19, 1995
    Assignee: Nippon Koki Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Junichi Kishimoto, Takashi Minamizawa
  • Patent number: 5447700
    Abstract: An autoclave system which uses the exhaust gas of a turbine to heat an autoclave. The exhaust gas of the turbine is approximately 1200.degree. F., low enough to be coupled to the heater coils of the autoclave. The output shaft of the turbine may be coupled to a generator that drives the autoclave motor and other subsystems. The output shaft of the turbine may also be coupled, either directly or through the generator, to the compressors of a nitrogen processing plant. The processed nitrogen can be introduced to the autoclave to reduce the risk of fires.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 5, 1995
    Assignee: Thermal Equipment Corporation
    Inventor: Todd Taricco
  • Patent number: 5443798
    Abstract: A separator plate for a chemical oxygen generator candle includes an elongate rigid thermal insulating section; and at least a first conduit section on one side of the rigid section having a multiplicity of gas flow paths for conducting released oxygen from a burning candle longitudinally along the plate for increasing the burning action of the burning portion of the candle and pre-heating the unburned portion of the candle, and for retaining gas to act as a thermal insulator when the candle is not burning. A plurality of such plates are combined to form a separator assembly for surrounding a candle and a number of such separator assemblies are combined to form a multi-candle oxygen generator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 22, 1995
    Assignee: The Charles Stark Draper Laboratories
    Inventor: Peter Kerrebrock
  • Patent number: 5424049
    Abstract: A device for reducing odors in the interior of a motor vehicle comprises a hollow body of polymer material adapted to contain the extractable cigarette-lighter. The heating of the latter results in the emission of active anti-odor substances contained in the body of polymer material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 13, 1995
    Assignee: Fiat Auto S.p.A.
    Inventors: Loredana Giolitti, Salvatore Di Carlo
  • Patent number: 5419875
    Abstract: A gas generator for air bags is provided which includes a first outer shell and a second outer shell, each having a circular part and an outer wall formed along the outer periphery of the circular part. A gas generating device is installed in the hollow portion formed within the outer shells. Openings for communicating the hollow portion with an air bag are provided. A plurality of concentric wall members axially extending from the circular part of the first outer shell and a plurality of concentric wall members axially extending from the circular part of the second outer shell, located at positions corresponding to the outer wall members of the first outer shell define circumferential chambers within the gas generator. Gaps are formed between terminal end surfaces of opposing outer wall members whereby gases produced by the gas generating device on receiving impacts flow through the generator and are introduced into the air bag to protect a passenger from impacts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 30, 1995
    Assignee: Daicel Chemical Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Hans Joachim Decker, Hans U. Freund, Karl-Heinz Grunthaler, Helmut Heide, Klaus Hollenberg, Hubert Preis, Karl J. Rowold, Ralf G. Tschulena
  • Patent number: 5419879
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a perfumed stable gel comprised of a unique combination of a chemical components. The stable gel can be maintained at temperatures of from about 125.degree. F. to about 150.degree. F. and has a perfume content of from about 70.0% to about 85.0% by weight of the composition. The perfumed stable gel also comprises a surfactant, a soap, an odorless glycol, water, a preservative and optional components, such as dyes, inert filler materials, and ethanol or odorless mineral spirits. The perfumed stable gel may be retained in a disposable deodorant container which is adapted for use with various deodorant dispensers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 30, 1995
    Assignee: Eftichios Van Vlahakis
    Inventors: Eftichios V. Vlahakis, John A. Manolas, Michael J. Marrese
  • Patent number: 5415845
    Abstract: Gas generator for an inflatable impact cushion for protecting an occupant of a motor-vehicle from injury, has a housing, in which is formed a storage chamber for liquid gas. The storage chamber is separated by a partition wall from a combustion chamber also formed in the housing. An ignition device is positioned in a precombustion chamber, and has an ignition charge to generate combustion gases during ignition. In the precombustion chamber there is guided, in a displaceable manner, a piston which, because of the combustion gases of the ignition charge, moves into and through the combustion chamber in a direction of the partition wall, in order to penetrate the partition wall. When the partition wall is penetrated there is a connection between the storage chamber and the combustion chamber by way of a liquid gas channel system so that liquid gas can flow into the combustion chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 16, 1995
    Assignee: Dynamit Nobel Aktiengsellschaft
    Inventors: Uwe Brede, Josef Kraft, Wolfram Seebeck
  • Patent number: 5411704
    Abstract: Process and generator for generating a pesticidal gas mixture of phosphine gas and air for fumigating an enclosed environment, e.g. a grain silo with phosphine. Air, moisture content adjusted by drying or humidifying, is passed through a porous bed of aluminum phosphide or magnesium phosphide, preferably in a throw-a-way cartridge. The resulting mixture of air and phosphine gas is passed into the space. Typical humidities (which determines the phosphine concentration) are 4 g/m.sup.3 for "flow through" conditions or 12 g/m.sup.3 for "one shot" conditions of fumigation. The cartridge is fitted directly in sealing relationship between inlet and outlet adaptors to serve as the gas generator vessel of the apparatus. The cartridge, completely filled with metal phosphide in powder or granulate form, has cylindrical gas-tight side walls, flexible and stretchable to allow for expansion of the metal phosphide during hydrolysis, and porous end walls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 2, 1995
    Assignee: Detia Freyberg GmbH
    Inventors: Rainer Schellhaas, Martin Muenzel
  • Patent number: 5399314
    Abstract: A steriliser apparatus includes a chamber in which an article or material to be sterilised is placed and a sterilising gas or vapour is then introduced into the chamber to contact and sterilise the article or material. The free sterilant gas or vapour in the chamber is removed and the article or material subjected to a desorbing step during which the concentration of sterilising gas or vapour in the chamber is measured by a sampling device in which a sample of chamber atmosphere is exposed to microwave radiation and the absorption spectrum monitored to determine the concentration of sterilising gas or vapour present in the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 21, 1995
    Assignee: The University of Wales College of Medicine
    Inventors: Alan H. Samuel, Ian P. Matthews