By Sudden Release Of Pressure Patents (Class 422/39)
  • Patent number: 11779666
    Abstract: A continuous differential-pressure steam sterilization system for a powder, and belongs to the field of material sterilization includes: a superheated steam generation system, a steam pressure and flow rate control system, a quantitative feeding system, an instantaneous differential-pressure sterilization system, a dust explosion suppression system, a sterile cooling system, a primary gas-solid separation system, a secondary gas-solid separation system, a sterile storage system, a steam recovery and reheating system, and a condensate recovery system. The continuous differential-pressure steam sterilization system shortens the thermal contact time and mainly accumulates the heat on the surface of the powder, rather than in the center of the powder, which reduces the damage to the nutritional quality of the powder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2023
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2023
    Assignee: INSTITUTE OF FOOD SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, CHINESE ACADEMY OF AGRICULTURAL SCIENCES
    Inventors: Fengzhong Wang, Litao Tong, Zhiying Chen, Bei Fan, Lili Wang, Long Li
  • Patent number: 9060926
    Abstract: Certain embodiments disclosed herein relate to compositions, methods, devices, systems, and products regarding frozen particles. In certain embodiments, the frozen particles include materials at low temperatures. In certain embodiments, the frozen particles provide vehicles for delivery of particular agents. In certain embodiments, the frozen particles are administered to at least one biological tissue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2015
    Assignee: The Invention Science Fund I, LLC
    Inventors: Edward S. Boyden, Roderick A. Hyde, Eric C. Leuthardt, Nathan P. Myhrvold, Elizabeth A. Sweeney, Lowell L. Wood, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8709263
    Abstract: A method of removing contaminants from slurry samples is set forth. The method includes the utilization of repeated pressurizing and depressurizing steps to disrupt solidified particles in solid-containing slurries thereby increasing decontamination efficiency. An expansion fluid is injected into the slurry sample sufficient to create microbubbles when the slurry sample is depressurized. The micro bubbles mechanically disrupt the solidified particles increasing contaminant exposure. The microbubbles also provide for increased interfacial regions where contaminants can accumulate at gas-liquid thin films that are in close proximity to and can be effectively removed using a suitable expansion fluid and optional decontamination agents.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: University of Utah Research Foundation
    Inventor: P. K. Andy Hong
  • Publication number: 20140065187
    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: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicants: TOP INDUSTRIE S.A.S., MERIAL LIMITED
    Inventors: Nicolas Pierre Yves Carboulec, Gildas Merian, Rene Labatut, Lionel Gerentes
  • Patent number: 8663556
    Abstract: [Problem to be solved] To provide a method for sterilizing powder or grain by which the heating time is a minimum required time to reduce thermal degradation of the quality of the powder or grain while securing sufficient sterilization effect, and a sterilizing apparatus employing the method. [Means to solve the problem] The problem is solved by a method for sterilizing powder or grain, and a sterilizing apparatus employing the method, and the method includes applying heat and pressure in which powder or grain is supplied into a heated gas flow pipe kept under heated and pressurized conditions, and the powder or grain is transferred while coming into direct contact with a heated condensable gas in the heated gas flow pipe for 0.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: Fujiwara Techno-Art Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masahiro Kariyama, Toshio Hirata, Fumihiro Sato, Akira Mori, Hidehi Takebe
  • Patent number: 8617467
    Abstract: The present invention provides a process for sterilizing a system, preferably a pharmaceutical preparation such as a dispersion of small particles or droplets of a pharmaceutically active compound using high pressure terminal sterilization techniques and products therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignees: Baxter International Inc., Baxter Healthcare SA
    Inventors: Alfredo Rodriguez, Barrett E. Rabinow, Mark Doty, Jamie Konkel
  • Publication number: 20130302211
    Abstract: A method and device related to a liquid product pressure and (optionally) temperature treatment method reduces the level of microorganisms in the liquid product to a preselected level. Utilizing the method, liquid product is diffused in a chamber with the speed of pressure variation of liquid product in one embodiment of about 109 Pa/sec. The preferred speed of the diffused drops is about 10 m/sec. The liquid product can optionally be heated before or during diffusion, and is preferably heated as a diffused liquid product by mixing it with superheated steam.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Publication date: November 14, 2013
    Inventors: Andrei Alexandrovich Volkov, Nikolay Vladislavovich Arofikin, Alexander Yurievich Kolesnov
  • Patent number: 8465652
    Abstract: The invention relates to a technique of disinfecting household and industrial waste water used as the basis of organo-mineral fertilizers. The present method of disinfection is carried out by means of quick vacuum-pulse actions on sewage sludge using a receiver and quick response valves, with a pulse duration of less than 1.0 seconds at a pressure of not more than 20 mmHg to achieve the required degree of disinfection. Technical result of the use of the invention is to accelerate and simplify the process of disinfection method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Assignee: Twin Trading Company
    Inventors: Yakov Kuzmich Abramov, Vladimir Mihailovich Veselov, Viktor Mihailovich Zalevsky, Vitaly Grigorevich Tamurka, Nikolay Dmitrievich Argunov, Ljubov′ Viktorovna Motovilova, Nikolay Vladimirovich Dvoryaninov, Lidija Petrovna Bogdanova
  • Patent number: 8449820
    Abstract: A method and device related to a liquid product pressure and (optionally) temperature treatment method reduces the level of microorganisms in the liquid product to a preselected level. Utilizing the method, liquid product is diffused in a chamber with the speed of pressure variation of liquid product in one embodiment of about 109 Pa/sec. The preferred speed of the diffused drops is about 10 m/sec. The liquid product can optionally be heated before or during diffusion, and is preferably heated as a diffused liquid product by mixing it with superheated steam. The device includes a chamber and a diffuser in communication with the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: Millisecond Technologies Corp.
    Inventors: Andrei Alexandrovich Volkov, Nikolay Vladislavovich Arofikin, Alexander Yurievich Kolesnov
  • Patent number: 8241576
    Abstract: A process and apparatus wherein multiple instantaneous pressure pulsations with a regulated frequency and amplitude are applied to various biological substances in order to eliminate the undesired microorganisms in these substances with minimal negative effect on the quality of these substances, and, further, to use these in mass production of foodstuffs pharmaceuticals for treatment of human blood or plasma, and for research to establish a specific frequency of pressure pulsations at which a particular type of bacteria could be selectively destroyed while other components of the substance remain intact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Inventor: Oleg Rozenberg
  • Patent number: 8088938
    Abstract: Methods of storing a precursor which decreases the precursor decomposition rate. A vessel is provided, where the vessel has an outer surface made of a first material, and an inner surface made of a second material. The first and second materials are different. A tantalum containing precursor is placed inside the vessel, and the vessel is heated to a temperature between 60° C. and 150° C. At least part of the precursor is withdrawn from the vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2012
    Assignees: Air Liquide Electronics U.S. LP, American Air Liquide, Inc.
    Inventors: Nathan Stafford, Christian Dussarrat, Olivier Letessier, Ravi K. Laxman
  • Publication number: 20110104006
    Abstract: [Problem to be solved] To provide a method for sterilizing powder or grain by which the heating time is a minimum required time to reduce thermal degradation of the quality of the powder or grain while securing sufficient sterilization effect, and a sterilizing apparatus employing the method. [Means to solve the problem] The problem is solved by a method for sterilizing powder or grain, and a sterilizing apparatus employing the method, and the method includes applying heat and pressure in which powder or grain is supplied into a heated gas flow pipe kept under heated and pressurized conditions, and the powder or grain is transferred while coming into direct contact with a heated condensable gas in the heated gas flow pipe for 0.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 26, 2009
    Publication date: May 5, 2011
    Applicant: FUJIWARA TECHNO-ART CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Masahiro Kariyama, Toshio Hirata, Fumihiro Sato, Akira Mori, Hidehi Takebe
  • Publication number: 20110064611
    Abstract: Shock waves are applied to clean and sterilize fluids in containers and conveyances. Shock waves destroy pathogens and pollutants in blood, water, food liquids and other fluids.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2010
    Publication date: March 17, 2011
    Inventors: Iulian Cioanta, Yannick Spenninck
  • Publication number: 20100322821
    Abstract: A method and device related to a liquid product pressure and (optionally) temperature treatment method reduces the level of microorganisms in the liquid product to a preselected level. Utilizing the method, liquid product is diffused in a chamber with the speed of pressure variation of liquid product in one embodiment of about 109 Pa/sec. The preferred speed of the diffused drops is about 10 m/sec. The liquid product can optionally be heated before or during diffusion, and is preferably heated as a diffused liquid product by mixing it with superheated steam. The device includes a chamber and a diffuser in communication with the chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2010
    Publication date: December 23, 2010
    Inventors: Andrie Alexandrovich Volkov, Nikolay Vladislavovich Arofikin, Alexander Yurievich Kolesnov
  • Patent number: 7815810
    Abstract: The invention disclosed provides an apparatus and method for disinfection of ship's ballast water, such as sea water, based on hydrodynamic cavitation. The apparatus comprises a cavitating chamber of cross section such as circular or non circular shape housing a single or multiple cavitating element(s) in the form of plates of metallic, ceramic, plastic materials of varying thicknesses placed perpendicular to the direction of flow of liquid and positioned at uniform or non-uniform spacing. The cavitating elements are provided with single or multiple orifices of different cross sections, circular or non-circular, with or without sharp edges and with a fraction of cross-sectional open area of the passage. The disinfected water may be re-circulated through the system for additional disinfection or released from the tank into the surrounding waterways.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Assignees: Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, Mumbai University Institute of Chemical Technology
    Inventors: Pandit A. Bhalchandra, Ranade V. Vinayak, Anil A. Chandrashekar, Sawant S. Shivram, Ilangovan Dandayudapani, Madhan Rajachandran, Pilarisetty V. Krishnamurthy
  • Publication number: 20100221147
    Abstract: An aqueous solution of electrolytes, a sugar osmotic agent and a physiologically safe salt of a reductive sulfur oxy-acid. Alternatively, the dialysate comprises an aqueous solution of electrolytes, a salt of a reductive sulfur oxy-acid, and osmotic agents which contain an oncotic agent other than a sugar osmotic agent.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 11, 2010
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Inventors: Asahi Sakai, Masaaki Nakayama
  • Patent number: 7718119
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for generating a desired smell by processing smell information through a combination of a computer system and a perfume generating means. In order to generate a desired smell under control of a computer, preset perfume information concerning a smell classification table, kinds of preset perfume corresponding to the items of smell in the smell classification table, the amount of smell to be generated and the variation with time of the amount is registered, the item of a specific smell is selected from the smell classification table, and relevant pieces of the preset perfume information corresponding to the item of the specific smell is extracted. A deodorant may be combined or various smells may be combined with an image.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Inventors: Yukinobu Tajima, Hideki Tanemura, Naoki Urushihata
  • Patent number: 7708941
    Abstract: A method and device related to a liquid product pressure and (optionally) temperature treatment method reduces the level of microorganisms in the liquid product to a preselected level. Utilizing the method, liquid product is diffused in a chamber with the speed of pressure variation of liquid product in one embodiment of about 109 Pa/sec. The preferred speed of the diffused drops is about 10 m/sec. The liquid product can optionally be heated before or during diffusion, and is preferably heated as a diffused liquid product by mixing it with superheated steam. The device includes a chamber and a diffuser in communication with the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2010
    Assignee: Millisecond Technologies Corp.
    Inventor: Nikolay Vladislavovich Arofikin
  • Publication number: 20080292494
    Abstract: A method for reducing biological and/or chemical contaminants within a feed fluid stream includes in one embodiment the following steps: a) introducing the fluid stream into a cold pass of at least one recuperator; b) optionally heating the feed fluid stream using a heater; and c) introducing the feed fluid stream into a compressor, and compressing the fluid stream to an elevated pressure, resulting in heating of the fluid stream to an elevated temperature, thereby producing a decontaminated fluid stream.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2008
    Publication date: November 27, 2008
    Inventors: James F. Garvey, John A. Lordi, James Wulf
  • Publication number: 20080014114
    Abstract: The invention provides a reagent reservoir system and disposable reaction cassettes using the same. In one aspect, such system comprises a chamber in which dried reagent, particularly lyophilized reagent, is constrained to remain in a defined region of the chamber by a retaining member that obstructs passage of such reagents to other regions of the chamber where they may escape hydration or activation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2006
    Publication date: January 17, 2008
    Inventors: Reuel Van Atta, Dias Lourenco Francisco
  • Patent number: 7189350
    Abstract: A pressure cleaning vessel is connected to a vacuum chamber by way of a connecting pipe in the sterilizing and cleaning equipment that utilizes a supercritical fluid. The objects to be treated are impregnated, for a given period, in the supercritical fluid with which the pressure cleaning vessel has been filled. Thereafter, the connection between the pressure vessel and the vacuum chamber is opened so as to generate sudden bubbling within the vessel as a result of a large pressure difference. Thorough sterilization is achieved at the time when the supercritical fluid having penetrated into bacteria and viruses suddenly explodes and destroys these organisms instantly by vaporization and expansion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2007
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha SR Kaihatsu
    Inventor: Masayuki Kanno
  • Patent number: 6939444
    Abstract: A sulfur-bearing residue treatment system is provided for the recovery of valuable organic components and the reduction of capital costs and operating costs. The treatment system involves the use of a stripping vessel in conjunction with a heating apparatus. All elements of the treatment system may be coupled together to form one integral piece of equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2005
    Assignee: Rohm and Haas Company
    Inventors: Curtis Instad Carlson, Jr., Michael Stanley DeCourcy, Jamie Jerrick John Juliette, Thomas Albert Kaminski, Nicole Rendon Koegel, Nelson Ivan Quiros, Paul Benjamin Schladenhauffen, Peter John Schmeidler, Robert R. Maven, William Harry Engle, Jr., Arthur Meisch
  • Patent number: 6939510
    Abstract: The present invention provides a sustained-releasing anti-protista preparation, including using a water-insoluble or difficulty water soluble and water-wettable polymer compound which is solid at room temperature as a sustained-releasing substrate material, a method for a preparation of the sustained-releasing anti-protista preparation, including kneading a water-insoluble or difficulty water soluble and water-wettable polymer compound which is solid at room temperature with an anti-protista substrate, and a sustained-releasing anti-protista preparation for a waterway, including using a water insoluble or difficulty water soluble and water-wettable polymer compound which is solid at room temperature as a sustained-releasing substrate material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2005
    Assignee: Wako Pure Chemical Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroyuki Kato, Tadayoshi Yazaki, Tokihiko Maruyama
  • Patent number: 6824751
    Abstract: A device for cleaning and sterilizing the inside of a chamber, including a supply of sterilizing liquid for said chamber and a device for inducing variations in the pressure, amplitude, frequency and the gradient of said variations in the sterilizing liquid, whereby said device is adapted in such a way that cavitation occurs inside the liquid, the device inducing said pressure variations include a liquid column between the chamber and a switching organ, whereby the chamber can be cyclically connected to a depression, whereby the value thereof is related to the amplitude or respectively to the atmospheric pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2004
    Assignee: Meditecnic Inc.
    Inventor: Jordi Rossell
  • Publication number: 20040234437
    Abstract: Apparatus for the treatment of material comprises a confined volume for receiving the material, and a source of gas at elevated pressure communicable with the interior of the volume. A suitable source of gas is an airgun, or other apparatus capable of releasing a volume of gas at elevated pressure such as at least 1000 psi. It is preferred that the source of gas is located within the confined volume. It is also preferred that the confined volume is a pressure vessel. Inlet an outlet valves will assist in loading and unloading material for treatment. Gate valves will further assist by closing when the volume is full. The invention is thus particularly useful in the destruction of chemical and biological agents, for the purification of contaminated water, and for the destruction of tropical and other larvae previously leading to diseases such as Nile Disease, malaria and the like.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2003
    Publication date: November 25, 2004
    Applicant: Flute Developments Limited
    Inventor: Alan Colin McGowan
  • Publication number: 20040151620
    Abstract: The invention is based on the discovery that biological and non-biological materials can be sterilized, decontaminated, or disinfected by repeatedly cycling between relatively high and low pressures. Pressure cycling can be carried out at low, ambient, or elevated temperatures (e.g., from about −40° C. to about 95° C., or intermediate ranges). New methods based on this discovery can have applications in, for example, the preparation of vaccines, the sterilization of blood plasma or serum, plant, animal, and human tissue, sputum, urine, feces, water, and ascites, the decontamination of military devices, food and beverage production, and the disinfection of medical equipment. The new methods can also be incorporated into production processes or research procedures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 2, 2004
    Publication date: August 5, 2004
    Applicant: BBI BioSeq, Inc., a Massachusetts corporation
    Inventors: James A. Laugharn, David W. Bradley, Robert A. Hess
  • Patent number: 6767568
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for processing meat is provided. According to the method, a meat product is positioned within an interior volume of a decompression chamber. A pressure differential is created across a gas output in communication with the interior volume of the decompression chamber. The decompression chamber is then rapidly decompressed by transferring gas from the interior volume of the decompression chamber through the gas output. The pressure differential and the rate of the rapid decompression are selected to be suitable for processing the meat product positioned within the interior volume of the decompression chamber. Typically, the pressure differential and the rate of rapid decompression are selected to be suitable for tenderizing the meat product, killing microorganisms in the meat product, or both.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2004
    Assignee: Spectra Research, Inc.
    Inventors: Stanley Eugene Tate, John William Sellers, Jr., Morse Bartt Solomon, Bradford William Berry
  • Publication number: 20040120852
    Abstract: A pressure cleaning vessel 1 is connected to a vacuum chamber P by way of a connecting pipe in the sterilizing and cleaning equipment which utilizes a supercritical fluid. The objects to be treated is impregnated, for a given period, in the supercritical fluid with which the pressure cleaning vessel 1 has been filled. Thereafter, the connection between the pressure vessel 1 and the vacuum chamber P is opened so as to generate sudden bubbling within the vessel 1 as a result of a large pressure difference. Thorough sterilization is achieved at the time when the supercritical fluid having penetrated into bacteria and viruses suddenly explodes and destroys these organisms instantly by its power of vaporization and expansion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 3, 2003
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Applicant: KABUSHIKI KAISHA SR KAIHATSU
    Inventor: Masayuki Kanno
  • Patent number: 6749809
    Abstract: A clustered creature exterminating method efficiently exterminates clustered creature such as cyanobacteria in large quantity with use of a pressure which is substantially lower than that of the conventional method. The exterminating method includes the steps of: pressurizing a fluid containing a clustered creature such as cyanobacteria through a pump; suddenly lowering the pressure applied to the fluid by injecting the fluid from nozzle groups; and destroying a bonding in the clustered creature by a cavitation caused by the pressure drop. The nozzle groups may be arranged to oppose to one another to collide the injected fluids with each other, which divides the cyanobacteria into many small pieces. As a result, the cyanobacteria lose the ability to rise, and sink at the bottom of water, therefore, die because they cannot photosynthesize.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2004
    Assignee: Karasawa Fine, Ltd.
    Inventor: Yukihiko Karasawa
  • Patent number: 6696019
    Abstract: The invention is based on the discovery that biological and non-biological materials can be sterilized, decontaminated, or disinfected by repeatedly cycling between relatively high and low pressures. Pressure cycling can be carried out at low, ambient, or elevated temperatures (e.g., from about −40° C. to about 95° C., or intermediate ranges). New methods based on this discovery can have applications in, for example, the preparation of vaccines, the sterilization of blood plasma or serum, plant, animal, and human tissue, sputum, urine, feces, water, and ascites, the decontamination of military devices, food and beverage production, and the disinfection of medical equipment. The new methods can also be incorporated into production processes or research procedures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Assignee: BBI BioSeq, Inc.
    Inventors: James A. Laugharn, Jr., David W. Bradley, Robert A. Hess
  • Patent number: 6673311
    Abstract: A method for continuous heat sterilization of liquid includes a continuous pre-heating step of preheating the liquid, a final heating step of heating the preheated liquid to reach a predetermined sterilizing temperature, a holding step of holding the liquid which has reached the predetermined sterilizing temperature for a predetermined period of time, and a cooling step of cooling the held liquid. The final heating step comprises the following steps (a) and (b): (a) a step of continuously pressurizing the liquid by a high pressure pump; and (b) a step of releasing the liquid continuously to a normal pressure within a time period of less than 10 seconds after the pressurizing step to thereby make the liquid reach the predetermined sterilizing temperature. An apparatus for automatically carrying out the method is provided. According to the continuous heat sterilization method and apparatus, scorch during the final heating step is dispensed with and accordingly, a long period of continuous operation is feasible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Morinaga Milk Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kazuyoshi Sotoyama, Keiji Iwatsuki, Teruhiko Mizota, Yuzo Asano, Yasutatsu Mizota, Hiroaki Matsui, Tetsushi Mori
  • Publication number: 20030228239
    Abstract: A method for inactivating prions comprises subjecting a substrate containing prions to one or more pulses of ultra high pressures for a predetermined period of time. The pressures is preferably at least 480 MPa for at least one second. The substrate and the prions are adiabatically heated to elevated temperatures at which the prions are inactivated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2002
    Publication date: December 11, 2003
    Applicant: Prion Inactivation Partners
    Inventors: Richard S. Meyer, Paul Brown
  • Patent number: 6635223
    Abstract: This invention is related to methods for inactivating micro-organisms using high pressure processing. A method is described for inactivating micro-organisms in a product using high pressure processing including the steps of packing said product in a flexible container, heating said product to a pre-pressurized temperature, subjecting said product to a pressure at a pressurized temperature for a time period; and reducing the pressure after said time period. The method of the present invention could further comprise an additional step of subjecting said product to a predetermined amount of oxygen for a time interval. The methods of the present invention may be applied preferably to food, cosmetic or pharmaceutical products.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2003
    Inventor: Andreas Maerz
  • Patent number: 6613278
    Abstract: This invention includes a novel method for safely, effectively and efficiently pooling of tissues for treatment prior to implantation into a recipient in need thereof. In one embodiment, the method includes perfusion of a porous implant which achieves efficient interpenetration of desired factors into and removal of undesirable factors from the pores of the implant, cleaning of the implant, efficient passivation of the implant (inactivation of pathogens, microorganisms, cells, viruses and the like and reduction in antigenicity thereof), and the novel implant produced by such treatment. The process presents a system wherein the rate of pressure cycling, the fact of pressure cycling, and the amplitude of pressure cycling, results in highly cleaned tissues and other implants for implantation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2003
    Assignee: Regeneration Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: C. Randal Mills, John F. Wironen, Sean Hanstke, Russell S. Donda, Jamie M. Grooms, John Bianchi
  • Patent number: 6610251
    Abstract: A pressure cleaning vessel 1 is connected to a vacuum chamber P by way of a connecting pipe in the sterilizing and cleaning equipment which utilizes a supercritical fluid. The objects to be treated is impregnated, for a given period, in the supercritical fluid with which the pressure cleaning vessel 1 has been filled. Thereafter, the connection between the pressure vessel 1 and the vacuum chamber P is opened so as to generate sudden bubbling within the vessel 1 as a result of a large pressure difference. Thorough sterilization is achieved at the time when the supercritical fluid having penetrated into bacteria and viruses suddenly explodes and destroys these organisms instantly by its power of vaporization and expansion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2003
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha SR Kaihatsu
    Inventor: Masayuki Kanno
  • Publication number: 20030103863
    Abstract: The invention concerns a method for sterilising at least a sensitive active principle, characterised in that said at least active principle is treated at pressure levels ranging between 3000 and 6000 bars and at temperatures ranging between −30° C. and +25° C. The method consists in treating directly the active principle in the pulverulent medium wherein it is contained.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2002
    Publication date: June 5, 2003
    Inventors: Luc Grislain, Bruno Vallayer, Gerard Demazeau, Alain Largeteau, Gilles Lemagnen, Yohan Rigaldie
  • Publication number: 20020182107
    Abstract: The invention is based on the discovery that biological and non-biological materials can be sterilized, decontaminated, or disinfected by repeatedly cycling between relatively high and low pressures. Pressure cycling can be carried out at low, ambient, or elevated temperatures (e.g., from about −40° C. to about 95° C., or intermediate ranges). New methods based on this discovery can have applications in, for example, the preparation of vaccines, the sterilization of blood plasma or serum, plant, animal, and human tissue, sputum, urine, feces, water, and ascites, the decontamination of military devices, food and beverage production, and the disinfection of medical equipment. The new methods can also be incorporated into production processes or research procedures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2001
    Publication date: December 5, 2002
    Inventors: James A. Laugharn, David W. Bradley, Robert A. Hess
  • Patent number: 6471914
    Abstract: A process for sterilization of a liquid in a continuous system comprising a series of steps. First the liquid is continuously pumped into a pressurized system. Second, the pressure on the liquid is increased in a first pressurization stage. Next, the liquid is increased in pressure in a second pressurization stage. Fourth, the liquid is held at an elevated pressure for a predetermined period of time to kill off microorganisms within the liquid. The liquid is then rapidly depressurized to fracture microorganisms with the liquid. The apparatus for producing this process includes a continuous liquid treatment system with a pump, a first stage intensifier, a surge drum, a second stage intensifier, a pressure receiver and a pressure reducer. A particulate treatment system may also be included which comprises a pressure receiver, an intensifier, and a recoverer for blending a particulate component with the liquid component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2002
    Assignee: The Coca-Cola Company
    Inventors: Gerald M. Platz, N. Wayne Walkup, Howard L. Grimmett
  • Patent number: 6426103
    Abstract: The invention relates to a process for eliminating pathogenic organisms and other bacteria from raw food products, such as raw shellfish, whereby the molluscan shellfish is exposed to hydrostatic pressure of relatively high value, for example between 20,000 p.s.i. to 150,000 p.s.i. for 1-15 minutes. The process is conducted at minimal elevated temperatures, in the range of above ambient temperature to 150° F., leaving the raw shellfish substantially unaffected, in its desired raw state, such that the pathogenic organisms are destroyed, while sensory characteristics of the raw shellfish remain high. The same process can be used for shucking bivalve mollusks without any mechanical force, with the pressure ranging from 10,000 p.s.i. to 100,000 p.s.i. Taste of raw seafood is enhanced by adding flavor enhancing agents to the pressure vessel before application of pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2002
    Assignee: Innovatit Seafood Systems LLC
    Inventor: Ernest A. Voisin
  • Publication number: 20020076347
    Abstract: This invention is related to methods for inactivating micro-organisms using high pressure processing. A method is described for inactivating micro-organisms in a product using high pressure processing comprising the steps of packing said product in a flexible container, heating said product to a pre-pressurized temperature, subjecting said product to a pressure at a pressurized temperature for a time period; and reducing the pressure after said time period. The method of the present invention could further comprise an additional step of subjecting said product to a predetermined amount of oxygen for a time interval. The methods of the present invention may be applied preferably to food, cosmetic or pharmaceutical products.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2001
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventor: Andreas Maerz
  • Publication number: 20020054826
    Abstract: In a process for sterilizing objects, the surfaces of the objects are dampened by condensating a steam compound of water and hydrogen peroxide. The steam compound reaches hereby the objects to be sterilized without any additional transport gas flow. Subsequent drying occurs by means of evacuation at a pressure below the boiling points of water and hydrogen peroxide.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2001
    Publication date: May 9, 2002
    Inventors: Robert Frost, Peter Awakowicz
  • Publication number: 20010038806
    Abstract: A process for sterilization of a liquid in a continuous system comprising a series of steps. First the liquid is continuously pumped into a pressurized system. Second, the pressure on the liquid is increased in a first pressurization stage. Next, the liquid is increased in pressure in a second pressurization stage. Fourth, the liquid is held at an elevated pressure for a predetermined period of time to kill off microorganisms within the liquid. The liquid is then rapidly depressurized to fracture microorganisms within the liquid. The apparatus for producing this process includes a continuous liquid treatment system with a pump, a first stage intensifier, a surge drum, a second stage intensifier, a pressure receiver and a pressure reducer. A particulate treatment system may also be included which comprises a pressure receiver, an intensifier, and a recoverer for blending a particulate component with the liquid component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2000
    Publication date: November 8, 2001
    Inventors: Gerald M. Platz, N. Wayne Walkup, Howard L. Grimmett
  • Patent number: 6270723
    Abstract: The invention is based on the discovery that biological and non-biological materials can be sterilized, decontaminated, or disinfected by repeatedly cycling between relatively high and low pressures. Pressure cycling can be carried out at low, ambient, or elevated temperatures (e.g., from about −20° C. to about 95° C.). New methods based on this discovery can have applications in, for example, the preparation of vaccines, the sterilization of blood plasma or serum, the decontamination of military devices, and the disinfection of medical equipment. The new methods can also be incorporated into production processes or research procedures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2001
    Assignee: BBI Bioseq, Inc.
    Inventors: James A. Laugharn, Jr., David W. Bradley, Robert A. Hess
  • Patent number: 6162392
    Abstract: A process for sterilization of a liquid in a continuous system comprising a series of steps. First the liquid is continuously pumped into a pressurized system. A process for sterilization of a liquid in a continuous system where, in the first step, the liquid is continuously pumped into a pressurized system. Second, the pressure on the liquid is increased in a first pressurization stage. Next, the liquid is increased in pressure in a second pressurization stage. Fourth, the liquid is held at an elevated pressure for a predetermined period of time to kill off microorganisms within the liquid. The liquid is then rapidly depressurized to fracture microorganisms within the liquid. The apparatus for producing this process includes a continuous liquid treatment system with a pump, a first stage intensifier, a surge drum, a second stage intensifier, a pressure receiver and a pressure reducer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2000
    Assignee: The Coca-Cola Company
    Inventors: Gerald M. Platz, N. Wayne Walkup, Howard L. Grimmett
  • Patent number: 6136609
    Abstract: An apparatus for processing a high-pressure liquid material has a high-pressure vessel, a pressurizing assembly for supplying a liquid material to the high-pressure vessel in order to allow the high-pressure vessel to process the liquid material under a high pressure therein, a depressurizing assembly for receiving and depressurizing the processed liquid material supplied under a high pressure from the high-pressure vessel, and a working fluid control system for controlling the depressurizing assembly. The depressurizing assembly has a plurality of cylinder device comprising respective pairs of interlinked pistons which define, in the cylinder devices, respective processing pressure chambers for selectively receiving the liquid material from the high-pressure vessel, and respective working pressure chambers for selectively receiving a working fluid from the working fluid control system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2000
    Assignee: Kagome Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Tetsu Sato, Takahiro Inakuma, Yukio Ishiguro, Naoji Komeya, Masami Shibamoto, Yukio Matsuda
  • Patent number: 6120732
    Abstract: Processes and apparati for inactivating microorganisms in flowing or pulsed liquids are provided. The processes consist of pressurizing the liquid and then depressurizing the liquid by directing it through one or more constrictions into an area of reduced pressure. The apparati comprise two fluid containing vessels, one of which is capable of being pressurized, the two vessels being in fluid communication through one or more constrictions, one or more of which may be adjustable, and a means for increasing pressure in one vessel. Specific embodiments include the use of a pressure intensifer to pressurize the liquid and an adjustable orifice, such as a micrometering valve, to form the constriction(s).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2000
    Assignee: University of Georgia Research Foundation, Inc.
    Inventors: Romeo T. Toledo, Joe Edgar Moorman, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6086723
    Abstract: A process for deodorizing and subsequently cooling dispersions or liquids comprisinga) passing steam through the dispersion or liquid to be cooled and held in a vessel (1), said dispersion or liquid being caused to foam up as a result,b) discharging the foam from the top section of the vessel via a nozzle (5) into an evacuated separation vessel (4), the foam being broken in the process,c) condensing the water vapor formed from the foam in a heat exchanger (8) and removing volatile organic components at the same time, andd) returning the broken foam to the vessel (1),in which the steps a) to d) are performed until the dispersion or liquid has been deodorized to the desired extent, wherein, after completion of the deodorization (in accordance with steps a) to d)), the hot dispersion or liquid is discharged from the bottom section of the vessel (1) through the nozzle (5) into the evacuated separation vessel (4), so that the dispersion or the liquid is cooled, the nozzle (5) and the evacuated separation vessel (4
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2000
    Assignee: BASF Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Wolfgang Hubinger, Rainer Wunder, Gerhard Bauer, Johannes Dobbelaar, Sven Lawrenz, Franz-Josef Mueseler, Jurgen Nahstoll, Robert Rupaner, Christian-Ulrich Schmidt
  • Patent number: 6004508
    Abstract: A process for sterilization of a liquid in a continuous system including a series of steps. First the liquid is continuously pumped into a pressurized system. Second, the pressure on the liquid is increased in a first pressurization stage. Next, the liquid is increased in pressure in a second pressurization stage. Fourth, the liquid is held at an elevated pressure for a predetermined period of time to kill off microorganisms within the liquid. The liquid is then rapidly depressurized to fracture microorganisms within the liquid. The apparatus for producing this process includes a continuous liquid treatment system with a pump, a first stage intensifier, a surge drum, a second stage intensifier, a pressure receiver and a pressure reducer. A particulate treatment system may also be included which includes a pressure receiver, an intensifier, and a recoverer for blending a particulate component with the liquid component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 21, 1999
    Assignee: The Coca-Cola Company
    Inventors: Gerald M. Platz, N. Wayne Walkup, Howard L. Grimmett
  • Patent number: 5996478
    Abstract: An improved method and apparatus for pressure processing a pumpable substance are shown and described. In a preferred embodiment, a valve is coupled to a source of a pumpable food substance and a pressure vessel, the valve being movable to a first, second and third position. When the valve is in a first position, an inlet port in the valve is aligned with a passageway that is open to the pressure vessel. When the valve is in the second position, the valve body seals the passageway, and when the valve is in the third position, an outlet port provided in the valve is aligned with the passageway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1999
    Assignee: Flow International Corporation
    Inventors: Bruce M. Schuman, Edmund Y. Ting
  • Patent number: 5948356
    Abstract: A semi-continuous process for high-pressure sterilization of a liquid or solid product, in which the sterilization of successive volumes of the product is performed by compressing the product at high pressure in a variable treatment chamber of generally tubular shape and of circular cross-section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1999
    Assignee: Framatome
    Inventors: Bernard Lhenry, Plantadis Remy