With Positive Pressure Or Vacuum Patents (Class 422/33)
  • Patent number: 12220495
    Abstract: A multistage connector assembly for a lumen decontamination system is provided. The assembly includes a main body, a multistage body, a multistage barrier, a connector, and one or more biasing members. The assembly includes a multistage barrier movable in the fluid passageway between a fully closed position in which each stage of the multistage barrier is in a closed position to each independently block flow in the fluid passageway and a fully open position in which each stage is in an open position to allow flow within the fluid passageway. The connector is configured to engage the multistage barrier when coupled to the main body to sequentially open each stage of the multistage barrier to enable flow through the fluid passageway. The biasing member(s) are configured to urge each stage of the multistage barrier towards a closed position that blocks flow in the fluid passageway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2025
    Assignee: Medivators Inc.
    Inventors: Lindani Phungula, Colin Oxford, Gary Spencer
  • Patent number: 12194183
    Abstract: A decontamination system for a lumen device is depicted. The decontamination system, in some embodiments, includes a lumen device container, a pump, and a sealed container with decontamination fluid. The lumen device container defines a lumen device receiving area. The pump is configured to reduce pressure within the lumen device receiving area. The sealed container is configured to release the decontamination fluid into the lumen device receiving area responsive to a pressure drop applied to the sealed container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2025
    Assignee: American Sterilizer Company
    Inventor: Isaac Odim
  • Patent number: 12194180
    Abstract: A disinfection application, particularly, to a device capable of disinfecting a ventilator as well as a face mask and a hose, and more particularly, to an ozone disinfection device, an ozone disinfection system, and an ozone disinfection method. The ozone disinfection device includes: a sealed disinfection space, a gas distribution unit, an ozone generation unit, a suction pump, a filter, and a control module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2023
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2025
    Assignee: DCSTAR INC
    Inventor: Ligui He
  • Patent number: 12194184
    Abstract: A decontamination device devised to accomplish decontamination with a proper amount of decontamination agent by employing a mist control mechanism to concentrate a mist for decontamination on the surface of an article to be conveyed, and to reduce duration of operations such as aeration increase efficiency of decontamination, and a pass box in which the decontamination device is disposed. The device also includes a mist supply means configured to convert a chemical for decontamination into the mist, and to supply the mist to the inside of a working chamber accommodating the article. The mist control mechanism includes vibration boards adjacent to internal wall surfaces of the working chamber, which are ultrasonically vibrated to generate sound flows from board surfaces by an ultrasound in the vertical direction. The mist supplied to the inside of the chamber is pressed by acoustic radiation pressure to be concentrated on external surfaces of the article.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2025
    Assignee: AIREX CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Koji Kawasaki, Daisuke Kakuda, Jun Masudome, Haruka Futamura, Yukihiro Yazaki, Tsukasa Kitano, Zhiqiang Guo, Ayumi Ogawa
  • Patent number: 11833274
    Abstract: A medical device wherein the device has an outer surface coated with an oleophilic lubricous coating or the device is formed from a mixture including a polymer and an oleophilic compound.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2020
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2023
    Assignee: Hollister Incorporated
    Inventors: Shamsedin Rostami, John T. Clarke
  • Patent number: 11730842
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to disinfection application, particularly, to a device capable of disinfecting a ventilator as well as a face mask and a hose, and more particularly, to an ozone disinfection device, an ozone disinfection system, and an ozone disinfection method. An ozone disinfection device and an ozone disinfection system are provided. An ozone disinfection device includes: a sealed disinfection space, a gas distribution unit, an ozone generation unit, a suction pump, a filter, and a control module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2021
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2023
    Assignee: DCSTAR INC
    Inventor: Ligui He
  • Patent number: 11679172
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to methods and system for disinfecting surfaces within a volumetric space by forming peracids in a reaction layer in situ directly on the surfaces to be disinfected. Particularly, a peroxide compound and an organic acid are sequentially dispersed into the volumetric space, preventing peracids from being formed until the two reactants contact each other on the surface to be disinfected. In some embodiments, any of the dispersed aqueous compositions can optionally be electrostatically charged. Additionally, a system for sequentially dispersing the peracid reactant compounds by electrostatic spraying is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2020
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2023
    Assignee: Markesbery Blue Pearl LLC
    Inventors: W. Russell Markesbery, Eugene J. Pancheri
  • Patent number: 11191860
    Abstract: A sterilization system comprises a chamber module and an independent pump module that is external to the chamber module in an independent form, is connected to the chamber module, and has a built-in pump, wherein the chamber module comprises a chamber built in the chamber module and storing a target object and a vaporizer built in the chamber module and connected to the chamber to supply a vaporized sterilant, wherein the chamber built in the chamber module is connected to the pump built in the independent pump module and exhausted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2021
    Assignee: PLASMAPP CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Youbong Lim, Seunghun Lee, Jungik Ko, Junyoung Kim
  • Patent number: 11185610
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a method of producing acellular cartilage grafts. The method includes steps of, subjecting a cartilage matrix derived from an animal to alkaline, disinfection and decelluarization treatments. The thus produced cartilage graft is devoid of any cellular matters, while maintaining the porosity and integrity of collagen fibers therein, thus is suitable as a xenograft for host cells to grown thereon. Also disclosed herein is a method for treating osteochondral disease of a subject, in which the present acellular cartilage graft is applied to a lesion site of the subject.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2021
    Assignee: ACRO BIOMEDICAL COMPANY. LTD.
    Inventors: Dar-Jen Hsieh, Ming-Yao Chang
  • Patent number: 10799868
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a reagent cartridge configured for use in an automated multi-module cell processing environment. The reagent cartridges may include an electroporation device, as well as sample receptacles, reagent receptacles, waste receptacles and the like, and a script for controlling a processor to dispense samples and reagents contained in the receptacles, and to porate cells in the electroporation device. Also described are kits including the cartridges, automated multi-module cell processing instruments including the reagent cartridges and methods of using the reagent cartridges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2020
    Assignee: Inscripta, Inc.
    Inventors: Jorge Bernate, Don Masquelier, Phillip Belgrader, Brian Van Hatten, Bruce Chabansky
  • Patent number: 10660988
    Abstract: A method of producing an acellular cornea includes steps of subjecting a cornea of an animal to a decellularization process, and has not the step of treating the cornea with a protease, a chelating agent, a detergent, a glycerol, or a combination thereof. When a native cornea is processed by the method, the native structure and conformation of the native cornea are preserved while immunogenic matters are reduced to a level that the thus produced cornea may serve as a three-dimensional scaffold for host cells to grow thereon after transplantation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2020
    Assignee: ACRO BIOMEDICAL COMPANY. LTD.
    Inventors: Shing-Jye Chen, Fan-Wei Tseng, Kai-Chi Ku, Dar-Jen Hsieh
  • Patent number: 10517309
    Abstract: A method for processing vegetables to reduce unpleasant odor and/or taste, and/or to minimize discoloration, deterioration, degradation, or rot over a period of storage time is described. The method includes: i) subjecting the vegetable to mechanical size reduction; ii) heating or freezing the vegetable for a pre-determined period; and iii) bringing the softened vegetable product into contact with one or more reactive oxygen species selected from: peroxides; superoxides; and ozone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2019
    Assignee: FULLGREEN LTD
    Inventors: Nigel Parker, Joanna Misa-Harris
  • Patent number: 10350317
    Abstract: A seal arrangement for sealing a space between a sterilization unit and adjacent walls in order to separate first and second rooms has a double seal gasket arrangement with a seal chamber there within. The seal chamber may be pressurized with a fluid and then the pressure within the seal chamber monitored by a pressure sensor. The double seal assembly provides an arrangement which can give an indication of the quality of the seal in order to detect any leakage and a more secure seal around the sterilization unit and as a result secure separation between a sterile or contaminated room and a general hospital area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2019
    Assignee: GETINGE STERILIZATION AB
    Inventor: Tim Swales
  • Patent number: 10194671
    Abstract: A method for processing vegetables to reduce unpleasant odor and/or taste, and/or to minimize discoloration, deterioration, degradation, or rot over a period of storage time is described. The method includes: subjecting the vegetable to mechanical size reduction; heating or freezing the vegetable for a pre-determined period; and bringing the softened vegetable product into contact with one or more reactive oxygen species selected from: peroxides; superoxides; and ozone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: Cauli-Rice LTD
    Inventors: Nigel Parker, Joanna Misa-Harris
  • Patent number: 10080791
    Abstract: The invention relates to hyperbaric devices for inactivating microorganisms and viruses while retaining their immunogenicity and for making and producing the soluble, disaggregated, refolded or active immunogenic or therapeutic proteins from inclusion bodies produced from prokaryotes or eukaryotes. The invention encompasses hyperbaric methods for inactivating pathogenic organisms, and methods for producing vaccine compositions using the inactivated pathogens. The hyperbarically inactivated microorganisms are safer and more immunogenic than chemically inactivated microorganisms. Similarly, the solubilized proteins have superior properties compared to more heavily aggregated proteins, including reduced non-specific immune reactions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2018
    Assignee: MERIAL INC.
    Inventors: Nicolas Pierre Yves Carboulec, Rene Labatut, Lionel Gerentes
  • Patent number: 9707082
    Abstract: Bifunctional and assembled implants are provided for osteochondral implantation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2017
    Assignee: RTI Surgical, Inc.
    Inventors: Predrag Bursac, Lauren M. Brown, Eric J. Schmitt, Guy B. Grover
  • Patent number: 9610383
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for producing a bone transplant material using an extracted tooth, and to a bone transplant material produced by same, and particularly, to a method for producing a bone transplant material which enables the production of bone transplant material in a short amount of time using an extracted tooth of a patient or a similar tooth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2017
    Assignee: COSMOBIOMEDICARE CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Chang Soo Park, Yun Jin Lee
  • Patent number: 9585862
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a rivastigmine-containing patch having improved storage stability and proper release property.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: SK CHEMICALS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yong-youn Hwang, Won-Jae Choi, Jae-Sun Kim, Won-No Youn, Yeo-Jin Park, Joon-gyo Oh, JongSeob Im
  • Patent number: 9511162
    Abstract: A method for disinfecting a room includes generating a fog from an enclosure having first and second air inlets and an air dispersion outlet including a fan configured to draw air into the enclosure through first and second air inlets and to force air out of the enclosure. A filter assembly is disposed relative to the second air inlet such that air that flows between the exterior and interior of the enclosure through the second air inlet passes through the filter assembly. The method further includes actuating an air intake assembly, activating the fan, actuating the air intake control assembly, and deactivating the fan.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2016
    Assignee: MAR COR PURIFICATION, INC.
    Inventors: Mason Schwartz, Thomas M. Gentle, Jr., Michael P. Petersen
  • Patent number: 9486561
    Abstract: A suction apparatus for aspirating a fluid from a human or animal body by negative pressure comprises a drainage connection for a drainage line in order to remove the fluid from the body. A vacuum source generates a negative pressure at the drainage connection. A fluid connection container collects the sucked-up fluid. The drainage line can be flushed with air by an auxiliary connection and an auxiliary line connected to the latter. In order to reduce the entraining of pathogens, a sterilizing cell is provided. The supplied air is treated in the latter in such a manner that pathogens contained in the air are modified and thereby rendered harmless.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2016
    Assignee: Medela Holding AG
    Inventors: Martin Walti, Hilmar Ehlert
  • Patent number: 9480764
    Abstract: A method of metering of hydrogen peroxide gas into an evacuated sterilization chamber is disclosed. The method includes the steps of continuously monitoring a pressure in the sterilization chamber; connecting a passage of known volume to the evacuated chamber for evacuating the passage; sealing the passage; connecting the evacuated passage to a supply of hydrogen peroxide solution for a time sufficient to draw the hydrogen peroxide solution into and fill the passage; sealing the passage; and repeating those steps until a preselected pressure increase in the sterilization chamber is detected. The pressure increase is preferably 19 Torr. The known volume of the metering passage is preferably between 75 ?L and 15 ?L to control unwanted condensation of hydrogen peroxide in the sterilization chamber. Expensive peroxide concentration measurement systems are replaced with an economical low cost pressure sensor for control of the hydrogen peroxide concentration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2016
    Assignee: TSO3 INC.
    Inventors: Bruno Tremblay, Jean-Martin Vallieres
  • Patent number: 9446078
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are compositions and methods for treating or preventing a cardiac arrhythmia in a subject.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2016
    Assignee: CorMatrix Cardiovascular, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert G Matheny
  • Patent number: 9381265
    Abstract: This apparatus and method improves the way metal and other objects will be sterilized, disinfected and preserved by utilizing both electromagnetic radiation (UV light in particular) to kill anaerobic pathogens and oxygen depletion to kill aerobic pathogens. The removal of the presence of oxygen further increases the useful lifespan of the treated object by preventing corrosion in general and oxidation in particular.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2016
    Inventor: Timothy F. Hamilton
  • Patent number: 9364571
    Abstract: In a hydrogen peroxide gas plasma sterilizer, the concentration of the hydrogen peroxide sterilant is an important factor in determining sterilization efficacy. The present application describes sterilizers, and sterilization methods, which use a novel injector-concentrator arrangement. This arrangement provides accurate control of concentration of the liquid-phase hydrogen peroxide, prior to vaporization of the liquid sterilant into the sterilization chamber. This increases the reliability and efficacy of the sterilization cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2016
    Assignee: GOA TEKNOLOJI DANISMANLIK ELEKTRONIK, IMALAT TICARET ITHALAT IHRACAT A.S.
    Inventor: Fatih Ahiska
  • Patent number: 9358315
    Abstract: A method of sterilizing an object comprising the steps of i) placing an article to be sterilized in a sterilization chamber; ii) providing a sterilizing mist (for example hydrogen peroxide solution) to the sterilization chamber, thereby to contact said article for a first duration; iii) providing a gas flow to said chamber for a second duration, thereby to displace, where present, said sterilizing mist and to remove, where present, condensed mist from said article; wherein the total reduction in micro organisms over a time period encompassing the first duration and the second duration is less than log 6; and wherein steps ii) and iii) are repeated at least once to achieve a predetermined sterilization parameter such as a predetermined sum total of contact time between the sterilizing mist and the article, a predetermined sum total of sterilizing mist provided to the sterilization chamber or a predetermined level of sterilization.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2016
    Assignee: SABAN VENTURES PTY LIMITED
    Inventors: Vladimir Berentsveig, Ron Weinberger, Michael Potas
  • Patent number: 9333275
    Abstract: A manifold which introduces sterilant aerosol to a sterilization chamber for the disinfection of an article. The manifold defines the terminal portion of a fluid pathway from an aerosol generator to the sterilization chamber and comprises at least one chamber inlet port for introducing aerosol into the sterilizing chamber. The manifold is configured to provide directional aerosol flow tangential to the surface of the article, which is preferably of a known configuration and maintained in a predetermined position with respect to the manifold, such that it does not receive a direct flow of aerosol from the manifold. Preferably, the manifold is U-shaped, or bifurcate and defines a plane and with a chamber inlet ports are directed away from that plane. The chamber inlet ports are preferably paired so they create a circular motion of aerosol that moves around the article. Also sterilization apparatus including the manifold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2016
    Assignee: SABAN VENTURES PTY LIMITED
    Inventor: Vladimir Berentsveig
  • Patent number: 9039968
    Abstract: A smart home system having a controller which controls an ozone generator, gas supply outlets connected to gas supply outlets of the ozone generator via a pipe, and solenoid valves which control opening and closing of the gas supply outlets. The controller is connected with each of the solenoid valves and controls opening and closing of each of the solenoid valves. An operation method for the system discloses driving the ozone generator by the controller to generate ozone, controlling opening of the solenoid valves by the central processor when the central processor receives an external signal for opening the solenoid valves, reducing opening level of the solenoid valves when a gas flow sensor detects that the ozone flow rate passing through the gas inlet is greater than the flow rate threshold, and controlling closing of the solenoid valves by the central processor when the central processor receives a signal for closing the solenoid valves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2015
    Inventor: Hong Jiang
  • Patent number: 9028750
    Abstract: Fumigation systems and processes that are especially applicable for the fumigation of perishable (or otherwise sensitive to temperature) agricultural products as the temperature conditions under which the product is being treated are closely controlled to advantageously prevent the product from being exposed to temperature drops and/or spikes during the fumigation cycle. In addition, the present invention incorporates an air filtration system as a part of the fumigation system to substantially remove the toxic fumigant residuals from the air before it is exhausted into the open atmosphere, which typically occurs at the completion of a fumigation cycle. As such, the harmful effect of the fumigant on the products and the surrounding environment and work areas is greatly minimized. In summary, the systems and processes of the present invention provide the ability to conduct fumigations in a well-controlled environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Assignee: Florida East Coast Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Manuel A. Fernandez
  • Patent number: 9023277
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for liquid, gas, and gas plasma sterilization of items. The apparatus includes two chambers and a holder to connectorlessly secure a lumened instrument such that a first portion of the lumened instrument lies in the first chamber and a second portion of the instrument lies in the second chamber, a liquid medium contained within the two chambers, and pumping means for simultaneously increasing fluid pressure within the first chamber of said container while decreasing fluid pressure within the second chamber of the container in a reciprocating fashion. The pumping means displaces at least a total internal volume of the liquid medium through the lumen for a given highest volume of a lumened instrument during a stroke.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Assignee: Langford IC Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Terrence R. Langford
  • Patent number: 9017607
    Abstract: A system for decontaminating a medical device includes a decontamination chamber configured to retain the medical device and a chemical dispersion assembly configured to deliver a decontaminating fluid to the decontamination chamber. A pressure control assembly is connected to the decontamination chamber and configured to control the pressure in the decontamination chamber. The system also includes a system controller configured to control the decontamination chamber, chemical dispersion assembly, and pressure control assembly. A pressure in the decontamination chamber is reduced to within a sub-atmospheric pressure range in a first evacuation step and add a decontaminating fluid into the decontamination chamber at a first rate while increasing the pressure in the decontamination chamber. Adding the decontaminating fluid increases a relative humidity in the decontamination chamber to a level that improves the efficacy of the decontaminating fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Assignee: Medivators Inc.
    Inventors: Jonathan K. Olson, Mason Schwartz
  • Patent number: 9011767
    Abstract: The disclosed invention relates to a portable, vacuum assisted decontamination unit. The invention also relates to a vacuum assisted decontamination process. The decontamination unit may be ruggedized for use in hostile environments such as those that may be anticipated for military applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: STERIS Inc.
    Inventor: Paul A. Wiget
  • Patent number: 8974730
    Abstract: A process for creating acellular donor soft tissue by removing contaminants such as cells by extraction using a fluid at supercritical temperature and pressures while preserving the integrity of the soft tissue. The soft tissue is maintained in contact with the fluid in a pressure vessel at supercritical temperature and pressures for a period of time and then the pressure vessel is rapidly depressurized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Assignee: Novasterilis, Inc.
    Inventors: David C. Burns, Anthony R. Eisenhut, Renee Christopher
  • Publication number: 20150064067
    Abstract: A method of sterilizing articles, using a low-vapor-pressure sterilant in a compact sterilizer, including a pre-pulse injection of sterilant to condition a sterilization chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2014
    Publication date: March 5, 2015
    Applicant: American Sterilizer Company
    Inventor: Kenneth J. Klobusnik
  • Patent number: 8956566
    Abstract: Methods and systems for virus inactivation in the production or processing of biological or other sensitive substances are provided. The disclosed methods and systems for virus inactivation involve the key steps of dissolving carbon dioxide into biological or other sensitive substances; and treating the substance with the dissolved carbon dioxide at conditions which are less than critical pressure and temperature for a prescribed treatment time to inactivate at least 80% of the target virus or viruses contained within the biological or other sensitive substances. The disclosed carbon dioxide treatments for virus inactivation may optionally include concurrently or sequentially subjecting the substances with an acid treatment to lower the pH of the substance and inactivate viruses contained within the biological or other sensitive substance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2015
    Assignee: Pure Biosolutions, LLC
    Inventors: Peter W. Latham, Nigel Grinter, Robert Sever
  • Publication number: 20150037204
    Abstract: Methods and devices for gas sterilization are described, in which products are sterilized using a sterilization gas. Process gases are mixed in a mixer without movable parts before being introduced into the sterilization chamber in order to obtain a homogenous gas mixture. A device for the gas sterilization of products comprises a mixer without movable parts and a sterilization chamber. The sterilization chamber has at least one inlet opening and at least one outlet opening. The mixer is arranged such that it is connected via a first line, which leads into a first opening in the mixer without movable parts, with the at least one outlet opening of the sterilization chamber and is connected via a second line, which leads into a second opening in the mixer without movable parts, with the at least one inlet opening of the sterilization chamber. A third gas supplying line leads into a third opening in the mixer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2013
    Publication date: February 5, 2015
    Inventors: Ralph Geiger, Franz Fischer
  • Publication number: 20150010432
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for achieving low temperature vapor sterilization of objects which may involve objects having a lumen. Following evacuation of the sterilization chamber and the introduction of a vaporous or gaseous sterilant, the volume of the chamber is changed by actuation of a movable boundary in the chamber to increase and decrease the pressure in the chamber thus driving the sterilant into and out of such lumens.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2014
    Publication date: January 8, 2015
    Inventor: Steven J. Olson
  • Publication number: 20140369887
    Abstract: A method for decontaminating a medical device includes enclosing the medical device in an enclosure including a fog-permeable layer and an exterior port member coupled to the fog-permeable layer. The exterior port member of the enclosure is coupled to a chemical dispersing interface in a decontamination chamber. A pressure in the decontamination chamber is reduced to a sub-atmospheric pressure in a first evacuation step. A room temperature decontaminating fluid is introduced as a fog into the decontamination chamber. The fog is held in the decontamination chamber for a decontaminating time. The pressure in the decontamination chamber is reduced to a sub-atmospheric pressure in a second evacuation step. The decontamination chamber is vented to atmospheric pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2014
    Publication date: December 18, 2014
    Inventors: Mason Schwartz, Jonathan K. Olson, Thomas M. Gentle, John E. Marxer, Michael P. Petersen
  • Patent number: 8883076
    Abstract: An apparatus for treating used absorbent sanitary products, comprising, a rotary cylindrical autoclave having an inner surface and two ends, at least one of which terminates in a hatch that can be opened to enable access to said autoclave and sealably closed to enable pressurization of said autoclave; and a circuit for heating and pressurizing the autoclave for heating the absorbent sanitary products to a sterilization temperature, wherein said autoclave comprises a sealing layer on said inner surface, designed to prevent adhesion on said inner surface of material coming from destructuring of said absorbent sanitary products.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2014
    Assignee: FATER S.p.A.
    Inventors: Marcello Somma, Giorgio Vaccaro, Jan K. Michalek, Theodore Thomas
  • Patent number: 8865065
    Abstract: A device for sanitizing objects using ozone is disclosed having a container defining an enclosed space and a selectively closeable opening for enclosing the space, an ozone generator, an ozone converter, a controller, and a timer working together to generate a predetermined concentration of ozone within the enclosed space and maintain approximately the same concentration for a predetermined period of time. Also disclosed are assemblies and methods detecting and warning of entrapment within the enclosure and halting ozone production when it occurs. Further disclosed are devices and methods for coupling a maintenance device to the sanitizing system to perform various maintenance operations such as adjusting operational control parameters, and observing conditions within the enclosed chamber in real-time such as temperature, humidity, and ozone concentration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: Global Ozone Innovations, LLC
    Inventors: Rikki F. Kain, Michael A. Engle, Donald Ray Fraser
  • Publication number: 20140294670
    Abstract: The disclosed invention relates to a portable, vacuum assisted decontamination unit. The invention also relates to a vacuum assisted decontamination process. The decontamination unit may be ruggedized for use in hostile environments such as those that may be anticipated for military applications.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2014
    Publication date: October 2, 2014
    Applicant: STERIS Inc.
    Inventor: Paul A. WIGET
  • Patent number: 8840836
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for achieving low temperature vapor sterilization of objects which may involve objects having a lumen. Following evacuation of the sterilization chamber and the introduction of a vaporous or gaseous sterilant, the volume of the chamber is changed by actuation of a movable boundary in the chamber to increase and decrease the pressure in the chamber thus driving the sterilant into and out of such lumens.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Assignee: Sterilucent, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven J. Olson
  • Publication number: 20140271355
    Abstract: The invention provides methods of oxidizing, sanitizing, disinfecting, and/or sterilizing a target. The method includes: ejecting a gas stream of a gaseous mixture comprising 50 to 30,000 ppmv chlorine dioxide from a gas source at a velocity of 25 to 900 ft/sec; and contacting the gas stream with the target. A device for oxidizing, sanitizing, disinfecting, and/or sterilizing a target is also provided. The device includes: a chlorine dioxide inlet configured for intake of a gaseous mixture comprising 50 to 30,000 ppmv chlorine dioxide; and a gas source configured to eject a gas stream of the gaseous mixture at a velocity of 50 to 900 ft/sec.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: SABRE INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY HOLDINGS LLC
    Inventor: John Y. MASON
  • Publication number: 20140205502
    Abstract: An electrostatic spraying system for decontamination of a vehicle is described. The system includes a wheeled platform sized to fit inside the vehicle, at least one tank operable to contain one or more decontaminant agents, the tanks supported by said wheeled platform, a plurality of nozzles affixed to the wheeled platform, wherein each nozzle is positioned for distribution of the decontaminant agents in at least one pre-determined direction, an electrostatic charging system connected to each of the nozzles for applying an electrostatic charge to the decontaminant agents as the agents are dispersed, and at least one compressor in communication with the tanks for pressurizing the decontaminant agents. The one or more compressors are capable of providing a pressure sufficient to provide a constant distribution of the decontaminant agents through the electrostatic nozzles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2014
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Inventors: Shawn Hyunsoo Park, James J. Sheahan, JR., Charles E. Morris
  • Patent number: 8784732
    Abstract: A steam autoclave for treating Regulated Medical Waste that uses a condensate drainage system that provides for condensate drainage while the steam autoclave chamber remains pressurized during the steam treatment cycle to create pressure variations in the autoclave which are used to initiate the introduction of repeated bursts of steam into the waste during the steam treatment cycle. The repeated bursts of steam into the autoclave during the steam treatment cycle agitates the steam and waste contained in the autoclave, thereby enhancing steam penetration into the waste being treated and thereby enhancing biological kill efficacy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: OnSite Sterilization LLC
    Inventors: Robert W. Lewis, Timothy A. Barrett
  • Patent number: 8765054
    Abstract: Process for treatment of residual nucleic acids present on the surface of laboratory consumables. The process combines two treatment phases: (1) treatment with ethylene oxide in gaseous phase; then (2) treating the surface with hydrogen peroxide in liquid phase or in gaseous phase. The effect of this treatment is the avoidance of the amplification of residual nucleic acids, in particular during PCR or TMA reactions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: EMD Millipore Corporation
    Inventors: Marie Pressel, Didier Metz
  • Patent number: 8747739
    Abstract: A method is provided for maintaining the disinfection of medical equipment, in particular medical endoscopes (10), following processing. The method comprises placing the disinfected equipment (10) in a sealed chamber (12), and subsequently reducing the pressure within the sealed chamber (12) to cause evaporation of residual moisture. Gas scavenger sachets (21) are also provided within the sealed chamber (12) to remove atmospheric oxygen, thus causing a further reduction in the chamber pressure. The method may optionally include a further step of charging the sealed chamber (12) with a disinfectant gas or vapor. The processed medical equipment (10) is then maintained at the desired level of disinfection within the controlled biostatic environment in the sealed chamber (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Assignee: Medicart International Limited
    Inventors: George Christopher Parker, Barry Luke
  • Publication number: 20140154135
    Abstract: A nebulant suitable for sterilization comprising finely divided liquid droplets suspended in a gas, said droplets including a solute, which is advantageously hydrogen peroxide and a solvent, for example water, wherein the droplets have a concentration of greater than 60 wt % of solute and an average diameter of less than 1.0 micron, preferably less than 0.8 microns.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2013
    Publication date: June 5, 2014
    Applicant: SABAN VENTURES PTY LIMITED
    Inventors: Vladimir Berentsveig, Gary Erickson, Ron Weinberger
  • Patent number: 8721963
    Abstract: Methods for sterilizing a biocompatible hydrogel polymer are provided via treating the biocompatible hydrogel polymer with a supercritical CO2 treatment composition at a treatment pressure of about 4 MPa to about 30 MPa and a treatment temperature of about 5° C. to about 75° C. The supercritical CO2 treatment composition can be substantially pure CO2 or may further include hydrogen peroxide (e.g., in an amount of about 10 ppm to about 1,000 ppm). In certain embodiments, the biocompatible hydrogel polymer can be treated with the supercritical CO2 treatment composition for about 30 minutes to about 5 hours. According to these methods, treating the biocompatible hydrogel polymer can kill about 90% or more of any S. aureus and E. coli present in the biocompatible hydrogel polymer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: University of South Carolina
    Inventors: Michael A. Matthews, Jian Zhang, Aidaris Jimenez
  • Patent number: 8715570
    Abstract: A device for sterilization of packages and a method of sterilizing packages are provided. The device comprises a gassing zone for exposing the packages to a gaseous sterilization agent, inlet mechanisms for introducing the gaseous sterilization agent into the gassing zone and a conveyor for transporting the packages through the gassing zone in a transport direction. The device also includes a separation mechanism arranged inside the gassing zone to divide at least an upper part of the gassing zone into sub gassing zones, each of said separation mechanisms having an opening for passage of the packages, each of at least a number of the inlet mechanisms being arranged to provide a flow of the gaseous sterilization agent at the opening of a respective one of the separation mechanisms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: Tetra Laval Holdings & Finance S.A.
    Inventors: Ulf Lindblad, Jenny Olsson
  • Patent number: 8715586
    Abstract: An electrostatic spraying system for decontamination of a vehicle is described. The system includes a wheeled platform sized to fit inside the vehicle, at least one tank operable to contain one or more decontaminant agents, the tanks supported by said wheeled platform, a plurality of nozzles affixed to the wheeled platform, wherein each nozzle is positioned for distribution of the decontaminant agents in at least one pre-determined direction, an electrostatic charging system connected to each of the nozzles for applying an electrostatic charge to the decontaminant agents as the agents are dispersed, and at least one compressor in communication with the tanks for pressurizing the decontaminant agents. The one or more compressors are capable of providing a pressure sufficient to provide a constant distribution of the decontaminant agents through the electrostatic nozzles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Shawn Hyunsoo Park, James J. Sheahan, Jr., Charles E. Morris