Abstract: A connector for joining two parts of a medical product, where the parts are sterilized by different forms of sterilization, is disclosed. The connector includes a generally tubular body having a first end adapted for connection to a part of the medical product, another closed, but openable end, and an expansion chamber of one-piece integral construction with the tubular body.

Abstract: An oven insert (110) for a gas generating system of the type that includes heating elements, heat exchanger, a gas generating module (22), an air inlet, and a product gas outlet, includes a furnace enclosure member formed with a plurality of interior chambers. The interior chambers (112) are adapted for holding at least one gas generating module (22). The interior chambers (112) each have an opening (122) formed an exterior face (124) of the furnace enclosure member (110). The openings are spaced along a central axis (126) of the face (124) of the furnace enclosure member (110).

Abstract: A control led odor generator, comprising a central processing unit, at least one micropump unit, a sensor unit and a fan. The micropump unit is housed in a casing containing odorous fluid and has a micropump array for ejecting the odorous fluid in tiny droplets. The central processing unit regulates operation of the micropump unit, allowing to control timing quantity and mixture of spread odor. The sensor unit provides the central processing unit with environmental data, like temperature, air density and humidity, as well as human body states for controlling the micropump unit. Environmental changes are followed by a change of spraying of odor, and varying taste and demand are adapted to.

Abstract: A method of sterilizing at least one article by means of a plasma and in the presence of humidity using a non-biocidal gas containing oxygen and nitrogen, the article being placed outside the discharge in a sealed treatment enclosure that is subjected substantially to atmospheric pressure, the method comprising the following steps: introducing the humidified non-biocidal gas into the treatment enclosure; creating a first plasma discharge A for a determined duration enabling the effectiveness of the sterilizing species created during the following stage to be guaranteed within the entire enclosure; creating a second plasma discharge B during a determined duration enabling said article to be sterilized; and rinsing the treatment enclosure during a determined duration so as to guarantee that it contains a non-polluting atmosphere when the enclosure is subsequently opened.

Abstract: A chemical vapor sterilization process is enhanced by concentrating a germicide via condensation and re-vaporization thereof, exploiting the difference between the vapor pressures of the germicide and its solvent to extract some of the solvent during the condensation process. A heat pump coupled with the condensation surface enhances the speed and efficiency of condensing and revaporizing the germicide.

Abstract: A system and process is provided for removing or treating harmful biologic and organic substances within an enclosure, such as a container, building or vehicle. Air within the enclosure is heated to a predetermined temperature to kill organisms and cause harmful substances in the structure to migrate into the ambient air. Boric acid in combination with the heat may be used to kill mold and similar undesirable organisms. Temperature and pressure levels are monitored. The heated air carrying the harmful substances is passed through a filter to remove the harmful substances, and the heated air is re-circulated to enhance efficiency. The system effectively kills insects, molds, viruses and bacteria and reduces the levels of allergens and volatile organic compounds in the structure.

Abstract: A deodorizing/odor removal and disinfection device designed to function in conjunction with a waste receptacle such as a garbage can. The device is equipped with an ozone/ion generator that generates an ozone/ion laden air stream and introduces the air stream into the interior of the waste receptacle without unduly interfering with the operation or seating of the lid of the receptacle. A securing mechanism such as a hook secures the deodorizing device to the exterior of the waste receptacle by engaging with the upper edge or lip of the receptacle, and preferably uses a tube to transmit the ozone laden air stream into the malodorous environment.

Abstract: A portable decontamination unit includes a portable housing which defines an interior sealable cavity accessible through a door. An inlet and an outlet are provided through the housing for introducing heated air into and removing the heated air from the cavity. A temperature sensor is positioned within the cavity for monitoring the temperature of the cavity and its contents, and an electronic display is provided of the temperature within the cavity over time. An ultraviolet lamp is positioned within the cavity for irradiating objects to be decontaminated with ultraviolet light. An air scrubber is associated with the outlet, and fans are associated with both the inlet and outlet to condition air being forced into and extracted from the cavity.

Abstract: A system and method for disinfecting and detoxifying an enclosed space includes a generator for producing ClO2 in aqueous solution via reactions of a hydroxy carboxylic acid, a companion acid that substantially does not react with an alkali metal salt of a chlorite ion, and an alkali metal salt of a chlorite ion. Substantially pure gaseous ClO2 is stripped through a packed column, the effluent air flow from the stripper containing pure ClO2. The gaseous ClO2 product is added to the enclosed space at a predetermined concentration for a predetermined period of time sufficient to substantially destroy airborne microbial contamination therein, after which the enclosed space is evacuated. A second aspect of the present invention is a system and method for disinfecting surfaces, including an apparatus for generating aqueous ClO2. The aqueous ClO2 is diluted to a predetermined concentration and applied to a surface desired to be disinfected.

Abstract: Disclosed are apparatus for delivery of a gas, e.g., carbon dioxide and/or chlorine dioxide, and methods of its use and manufacture. The apparatus includes a sachet constructed in part with a hydrophobic material. The sachet contains one or more reactants that generate a gas in the presence of an initiating agent, e.g., water. The apparatus can also include a barrier layer and/or a rigid frame. In another embodiment, the apparatus is combined with a reservoir that can be used to deliver a gas to the reservoir and, optionally, a conduit. In another embodiment, the apparatus is incorporated into a fluid dispersion system that includes a dispersion apparatus, e.g., a humidifier.

Abstract: A single or multiple source decontamination device for containment with a simple mailbox individual receptacle or a larger office environment receptacle. Sources such as a gaseous release, ultraviolet, infrared, microwave, ultrasonic, deionization, etc. are employed to decontaminate delivered packages within the receptacle. The device offers protection against packages potentially contaminated with bacterial or viral microorganism, anthrax being one example.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus are disclosed to reduced or eliminate the occlusion of the device in the container during the cleaning or sterilizing process, preferably with the use of a support and a controllable opening or interface. By changing the configuration of the support, the contact pattern between the device and the support can be modified to reduce occlusion during a cleaning, disinfecting or sterilization procedure.

Abstract: The invention relates to a gas generator for generating gases, comprising a housing which has an interior space and at least one combustion chamber filled with a predetermined quantity of solid propellant. The propellant consists of a plurality of solid propellant parts arranged in the combustion chamber in an irregular manner. The compressed gas is stored in a predetermined quantity in the combustion chamber and the combustion chamber constructed as a pressure chamber sealed hermetically toward outside in a non-activated state of the gas generator.

Abstract: A large amount of treated gas containing odor components is efficiently deodorized by performing ozone deodorization after water molecule deodorization, and thereafter performing ion deodorization. A composite deodorization system is provided with a first chamber for performing the water molecule deodorization connected with a fermentation system by a gas introduction opening supplied with the treated gas containing odor components from the fermentation system, a second chamber for performing ozone deodorization connected with the first chamber by a flow passage tube, a third chamber for performing ion deodorization connected with the second chamber by a connection tube, an ozone filter incorporated at a connection position of the second chamber and the connection tube, and a third chamber having a gas discharge opening for discharging the treated gas.

Abstract: A plasma sterilization apparatus to prevent color change or hardening of materials, e.g., polymers, by generating plasma in a separate plasma generation chamber and supplying it into a sterilization chamber containing an article to be sterilized. A plasma generation chamber includes electrodes installed in close proximity to each other, preferably separated by 0.5-40 cm, to generate plasma with high density even with a small capacity high frequency power source. The electrodes are connected to a high frequency power source to generate the plasma. An injection heater evaporates an aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution used as a microcidal agent, and injects the resulting vapor along with air into the plasma generation chamber. A sterilization chamber communicates with the plasma generation chamber at a remote position through a control valve. A vacuum pump is connected to the sterilization chamber, to form a vacuum state in the sterilization chamber.

Abstract: A dispenser (10) for a volatilizable material has a first member (14) that is substantially cup-shaped with a given diameter (X) and with a given depth (Z) and having a first peripheral flange (16) having a first diameter (D). A second member (18) has a second peripheral flange (20) with a second diameter (D2) greater than the given diameter (X). The first peripheral flange (16) and the second peripheral flange (20) are in intimate contact thereby defining a volatilizable material chamber (22) between the bottom (24) of the second member (18) and the bottom (26) of the first cup-shaped member (14). A volatilizable material (12) such as liquid mercury is placed in the chamber; and a hermetic seal (28) is formed between the first and second flanges. When installed in a fluorescent lamp the volatilizable material is released by heating the dispenser with RF current. The material is released when the vapor pressure within the dispenser reaches about 20 atmospheres.

Abstract: The system includes an enclosure for providing a closed volume for bactericide vapor. The enclosure has a container access opening formed therein for providing vapor communication between a container and the closed volume. A container interface assembly at the container access opening positions, locks and seals the container to the enclosure. A container door removal system is partially contained within the enclosure and is operably engaged with the enclosure and attachable to a container door of the container for separating the container door from the container. The container door removal system includes an actuator element located external to the enclosure. A vapor injection system is included having an inlet and an outlet for the bactericide vapor.

Abstract: A humidifier which includes a reservoir of water in fluid communication with an evaporation chamber. Some of the water that enters the evaporation chamber vaporizes and enters the ambient environment. A remainder of the water does not evaporate and flows into a collection container in fluid communication with the reservoir. The unevaporated water is then exposed to a source of ultraviolet radiation which helps to inhibit the ability of various organisms contained therein to reproduce in the future. After irradiation, the unevaporated water travels from the collection container to the reservoir.

Abstract: A chemical vapor sterilization process is enhanced by controlling the temperature of a diffusion path between a vaporizer and a sterilization chamber so as to condense and then re-vaporize at least a portion of the vapor.

Abstract: A self-contained, single manual step unit for thermally sterilizing dental and medical instruments is disclosed. The unit, which requires only activation of a single manual switch and which controls an autoclaving cycle by monitoring temperature of matter which changes states between solid and liquid at a predetermined temperature, provides an effective autoclaving instrument. In disclosed embodiments, each unit comprises a protective housing with a pressure containing releasible lid, a heated vessel and a cooling assembly. Thermal regulation and autoclaving timing is determined by mass and thermal characteristics of the matter and by an electrical control circuit comprised primarily of electric heaters and thermally controlled switches. Steam for autoclaving is provided by capsules or other water containers disposed within a well of the vessel at the beginning of an autoclaving cycle.

Abstract: The invention is to provide an anion-generating device, which may generate anion to the air, and which may design the air ionization device as a modular structure. Further, when there is a short circuit occurred in the interior circuit of the anion-generating device, it may automatically switch off the high-voltage power source for protecting the anion-generating device. By the arrangement of a switch device, the anion-generating device is resumed to normal operation after being automatically switched off. The invention controls and generates the necessary high-voltage power source by designing a controlling device, which includes a logic controlling circuit and a high-voltage power-source generating circuit, wherein the logic controlling circuit is then comprised of a switch and an indicating device, which may indicate the operational state, while the high-voltage power-source generating circuit may generate high-voltage power source to ionize the air.

Abstract: A car air cleaning apparatus of the invention includes a power charging plug mounted to a casing. A front side and a rear side of the casing are respectively provided with an air outlet and an air inlet. The casing is further internally provided with an ultraviolet lamp and a fan. Via a rotation of the fan, an external air flows in the casing through the air inlet, is subjected to deodorization and disinfecting actions by means of the ultraviolet lamp, and flows out through the air outlet to provide the interior of the car with a clean air. The casing is further internally provided with a set of power charging batteries to provide power, the batteries being electrically connected to the power charging plug.

Abstract: A device for detecting, isolating and exterminating hazardous microbiological agents contained inside delicate objects such as envelopes and packages commonly used in worldwide mail and transport systems which may be safely used in houses, is very economic and which can be easily produced.

Abstract: A system and method for sterilizing to a desired level a food packaging area or room including the associated atmosphere that can be automated is provided. The method includes introducing the sterilizing agent as an aerosol suspension into the atmosphere of the food packaging area and exposed surfaces in the area, and then distributing the sterilizing agent to contact the surfaces therein that are to be sterilized with the sterilizing agent. The method may also include condensing the aerosol suspension to form a thin liquid film containing the sterilizing agent on exposed and nonexposed surfaces in the area or room to thereby effect sterilization of those surfaces.

Abstract: An air freshener embodying a fragrance impregnated elongated leg and a laterally projecting resilient wedge to wedge between a pair of louvers.

Abstract: Apparatus is provided for the sterilization of Prion infected surgical tools and the method for such sterilization includes disposing Prion infected surgical tools in the chamber, evacuating the chamber and introducing ozone into the chamber for a period of time sufficient to oxidize Prion amino acids. During this exposure the tools are agitated in order to insure all surface areas are exposed to the ozone. Following sterilization the ozone and sterilized tools are removed from the chamber.

Abstract: In a sterilizing apparatus, a first electrode is provided in a chamber, and a target to be sterilized is supported by the first electrode. The first AC power supply is connected to the first electrode to supply AC power to the first electrode such that a plasma is generated around the first electrode. The DC pulse power supply is connected to the first electrode to supply DC pulse power to the first electrode such that ions or electrons are accelerated toward the target.

Abstract: A solar-power battery air freshener includes a housing (100) with an oscillating fan (61) for emitting a fragrance to the surrounding environment. A solar-power battery (20) utilizes energy derived from natural sunlight or light emitted from a regular light fixture in order to provide power to an oscillating device wherein a fan (61) is connected. The oscillating device includes a circuit (44), a coil (45), and magnets (46) connected to vertical iron plates (41, 42). A bracket (60) is attached to the iron plate (41) in such a manner that a fan (61) can be attached to the bracket. A fragrance container (81) is located directly below the fan (61). The oscillating movement of the fan (61) disperses the fragrance emitted from the fragrance container (81) out of the housing through air vents (105) and into the room or vehicle being freshened.

Abstract: A liner for placement in a container holding perishable food products to inhibit decay. The liner is a generally flat mat having a plurality of compartments containing two substances which generate antimicrobial gases. The liner has holes in the mat to facilitate drainage of liquid water past the liner for removal from the container.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for decontaminating chemical and biological agents using the reactive properties of both the single atomic oxygen and the hydroxyl radical for the decontamination of chemical and biological agents. The apparatus is self contained and portable and allows for the application of gas reactants directly at the required decontamination point. The system provides for the use of ultraviolet light of a specific spectral range to photolytically break down ozone into molecular oxygen and hydroxyl radicals where some of the molecular oxygen is in the first excited state. The excited molecular oxygen will combine with water vapor to produce two hydroxyl radicals.

Abstract: Methods, devices, and articles for controlling the release of volatile materials are disclosed, including, but not limited to scented materials. The method can be applied to a wide variety of different types of emitting devices.

Abstract: A unitary container housing having a plurality of sealed compartments each containing a dry composition which will gradually release an antimicrobially active gas upon exposure to moist air, and each compartment being separately openable to expose its contents to the environment, and a method of using the same.

Abstract: Dual functional dispensers, wherein the dispensers comprise dispensing units independently capable of dispensing an actively dispersed spray or an evaporative long term dispersible material, comprise active dispensers in combination with passive dispensers of volatile materials. The passive dispenser may comprise the external shell of said dual function dispenser, and may be fashioned of a porous ceramic, plastic, or paper material impregnated with an evaporative passively dispersible material selected from the group consisting of fragrances, air fresheners, deodorizers, odor eliminators, malodor counteractants, insecticides, insect repellants, medicinal substances, disinfectants, sanitizers, mood enhancers, and aroma therapy compositions. The actively dispersed material may be the same or different. Refill units for such dispensers may comprise a spray can and associated control means, and an evaporative dispenser of dispersible material, provided either separately or as an integral unit.

Abstract: Disclosed are apparatus for delivery of a gas, e.g., carbon dioxide and/or chlorine dioxide, and methods of its use and manufacture. The apparatus includes an envelope, and a sachet within the envelope that contains reactant, which generates a gas in the presence of an initiating agent, e.g., water. The envelope allows release of the gas from the envelope. In another embodiment, the apparatus includes an envelope and a partition that separates two reactants within the envelope. The envelope allows an initiating agent into the envelope and release of the gas generated by the reactants in the presence of the initiating agent.

Abstract: The present specification discloses a hydrogen generator for generating a hydrogen gas, comprising at least a fuel supply part for supplying a hydrocarbon type fuel, a fuel combustion part, a water supply part, a gas, mixing part for mixing the fuel and a water, and a reforming part filled with the reforming catalyst, wherein at least one of the gas mixing part and the reforming part is heated by an exhaust gas generated in the combustion part. The hydrogen generator according to the present invention aims to improve the heat efficiency, reducing the heat loss from the apparatus with a simple constitution and collecting the waste heat for an effective use thereof.

Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus and method for the sanitation of biologically contaminated dry goods using a combined gaseous chemical and thermal treatment. The invention consists of three primary items: (1) an chemical dispenser, (2) a sanitizing chamber, and (3) a method of decontamination employing the previous two items. The dispenser is designed to eliminate the need for direct operator handling of the sanitizing chemicals, while providing for the release of an appropriate volume of chemical into the gas phase for the treatment process at the desired treatment temperature. The treatment chamber provides for containment of the chemical treatment gases at the desired concentration for the duration of the treatment. The method involves the use of a mixture of the chemicals used in combination with the dispenser and chamber. The chemical mixture is selected for chemical stability during storage in the dispenser and efficiency during treatment.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for precisely monitoring and collecting data relating to the light treatment of a product in a treatment system. In one implementation, a method for use with a treatment system using light comprises the steps of: illuminating a product with a light treatment comprising light having a spectrum of wavelengths within a range of 170 to 2600 nm, the light treatment for treating the product; and measuring a fluence of a portion of the light treatment for each of a plurality of wavelengths of the spectrum of wavelengths simultaneously. In preferred implementations, the light treatment is a pulsed light treatment and the product is a biological fluid product flowed through a treatment chamber. Furthermore, in preferred implementations, the light treatment is for the deactivation of microorganisms, such as viruses, bacteria, fungus, and other pathogenic and non-pathogenic microorganisms.

Abstract: A Waste Material Sterilizing and Size Reduction Apparatus A waste treatment apparatus and a method of treating waste using such an apparatus is described. The apparatus comprises a sealable vessel with an auger mounted therein. The vessel is adapted to receive the waste, and is then sealed. The application of steam to the waste which is rotated within the vessel using the auger effects a sterilizing of the waste material.

Abstract: Disclosed are apparatus for delivery of a gas, e.g., carbon dioxide and/or chlorine dioxide, and methods of its use and manufacture. The apparatus includes an envelope, and a sachet within the envelope that contains reactant, which generates a gas in the presence of an initiating agent, e.g., water. In another embodiment, the apparatus includes a barrier layer, a sachet layer disposed adjacent to the barrier layer, a reactant disposed between the barrier layer and the sachet layer that generates a gas in the presence of an initiating agent, and an envelope layer disposed adjacent to the sachet layer.

Abstract: A fluid product sample is provided in the form of a substantially flat dispenser. A preferred embodiment includes (1) at least one thermoformed shell forming part of a reservoir and defining a deformable actuation wall; (2) an additional element, such as a capsule-forming substrate or film or a thermoformed shell for finishing off the reservoir, with the reservoir formed in this way containing at least a gas; (3) a spray orifice through which the fluid is sprayed; (4) a porous material piece which is capable of retaining a quantity of fluid and which is disposed upstream from the spray orifice; and (5) a support member fixed to the thermoformed shell to hold the porous material piece in place. The spray orifice is formed by the support member.

Abstract: A sterilization system employs an attachable/detachable container to which is connected a source of sterilant for sterilizing items within the container. When disconnected from the source of sterilant the container is sealed from microbial ingress.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus are disclosed to effectively flow the fluid through the lumen device during the cleaning, disinfecting or sterilizing process, preferably with the use of two interfaces and two sources of fluid. By flowing the fluid into two adjacent compartments, the loss of the fluid due to the gap can be reduced or eliminated.

Abstract: A unitary container housing having a plurality of sealed compartments each containing a dry composition which will gradually release an antimicrobially active gas upon exposure to moist air, and each compartment being separately openable to expose its contents to the environment, and a method of using the same.

Abstract: Methods to reduce the volitation and for neutralization of biological agents contained and emanating from objects such as mail pieces include the steps of providing an electrical charge to the biological agents, rendering the electrically charged airborne biological agents stationary, and neutralizing the stationary biological agents and the less volitant biological agents. The systems to reduce the volitation and for neutralization of biological agents include components capable of effecting the method described above.

Abstract: An air sanitizing device for vehicles includes a casing attached to an air vent of the vehicle and having a passage defined therethrough. An ultraviolet LCD is located in the passage and powered by a power supply device connected to the casing. The power supply device can be powered by batteries, AC or DC electric current.

Abstract: An apparatus for sterilizing an article of mail includes a chamber defining an airtight space and having an entrance for receiving the article of mail. A vacuum pump is coupled to the chamber for withdrawing air therefrom and, specifically, from the article of mail, this air withdrawal reducing the chamber air pressure. An ozone generator is coupled to the chamber for introducing ozone at atmospheric pressure therein following air withdrawal. This causes efficient diffusing of the ozone into the article of mail for sterilizing it against anthrax. The ozone is then withdrawn into an ozone filter that includes a non-consumable manganese dioxide catalyst for converting the ozone back into oxygen. The article of mail may be initially perforated to enhance air withdrawal and ozone diffusion. The article of mail may be embossed following ozone withdrawal to indicate completion of sterilization. The apparatus may be implemented using multiple chambers.

Abstract: Various forms of apparatus and methods for pretreating and sterilizing a lumen with a peroxide solution prior to sterilization of the interior of the lumen by exposing the lumen to reduced pressure and, optionally, plasma in a sterilization chamber. The pretreatment is preferably done before placing the lumen in the sterilization chamber. The method also includes exposure of the exterior of the lumen to peroxide vapor to sterilize the exterior of the lumen. Pretreatment of the interior of the lumen with liquid peroxide greatly improves the efficiency of sterilization of the interior. Exposure of the lumen to plasma reduces the time required for sterilization.

Abstract: As shown in FIG. 1 there is one embodiment of a fumigation apparatus in the form of a module (8) including a panel (10) which can be positioned in or at an opening of an enclosed space in use to define a fumigation chamber. Fumigant inlet means in the form of an orifice (12) are arranged in the panel (10) to allow a flow of a fumigant directly into the fumigation chamber. A nominal number of mixing fans, in this case two fans (16) and (18), thoroughly circulate gases within the fumigation chamber when operating. The module (8) includes a system control box (14) linked to the fumigant delivery orifice (12) and valve system which functions to control the flow of toxic gas into the fumigation chamber. The panel (10), when positioned in use, is secure against the passage of fumigant and gases by means of an inflatable rubber seal (22) which is located around a lip edge perimeter of the panel (10).

Abstract: A deodorization apparatus comprises: a case body 2a formed therein with an air-flow passage 2i through which air flows; first and second lamp units 8, 10 disposed in an air-flow passage in the case body and adapted to generate ozone; first, second and third photo-catalyst filters 7, 9, 11 disposed in the air-flow passage in the case body and provided with photo-catalyst filters; and an impregnated carbon disposed on the downstream side of at least one of the first and second lamp units 8, 10 and the photo-catalyst filters and formed by impregnating an activated carbon adsorbing an odor component with at least one component of iron oxide, potassium hydroxide, nickel nitrate. According to this structure, the deodorization effect at the one passing of the contaminated air, in the air-flow passage, containing odor component is improved, the usable life time can be elongated, and the maintenance of the impregnated carbon, can be simplified.

Abstract: An inner-burn aroma lamp mainly includes a perfume essence cup overlapped on the upper part of a lamp pot, whereas at the center thereof the perfume essence cup having a center tube while on the top end of the center tube perforated through by a lamp wick frame which is traversed by a lamp wick extended perpendicularly to the bottom of the lamp pot. Accordingly, the lamp oil is filled into the lamp pot, and perfume essence is filled into perfume essence cup so that the lamp wick could siphon the burning oil and heat the perfume essence cup. Therefore the air near the perfume cup is warmed so as to vaporize the perfume essence in the perfume essence cup.