Volumetric Fluid Transfer Means, E.g., Pipette, Pipettor, Etc.) Patents (Class 422/501)
Micro-fluidic device (Class 422/502)
Automated system (Class 422/509)
Including seal penetration means (Class 422/512)
Including filter (Class 422/513)
Mixing of diverse substances within pipette (Class 422/514)
Sequential multidispensing from a single tip (Class 422/515)
Variable volume (Class 422/516)
Interaction of dispensing tip with surface upon which fluid is dispensed (Class 422/519)
Drawing of liquid into pipette by capillary action (Class 422/520)
Dispensing means (Class 422/521)
Tip (Class 422/524)
  • Bubbler apparatus and delivery method
    Patent number: 8518484
    Abstract: This invention relates to vapor phase reagent dispensing apparatus having a bubbler tube and also a metal seal aligned and in contact with the hardened opposing flat surfaces of a top wall member and a protuberance on a side wall member, wherein the hardened opposing flat surfaces of the top wall member and the protuberance have a hardness greater than the hardness of the metal seal. The dispensing apparatus may be used for dispensing of reagents such as precursors for deposition of materials in the manufacture of semiconductor materials and devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Praxair Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald F. Spohn, David Walter Peters
  • Multi-channel pipettor with variably repositionable tips
    Patent number: 8518345
    Abstract: A hand-held, multi-channel pipettor has an electronically controlled motor to reposition pipette tips for different center to center spacing. Each repositionable tip fitting assembly has a cam following pin that is driven by cam tracks in a motor driven roller drum. Stationary ports for the multiple aspiration cylinders are strategically placed to simplify management of flexible tubes leading to the repositionable pipette tip fitting assemblies. The pipettor has a user interface that can be operated conveniently by one hand to reposition pipette tips. It has a pipette tip ejection mechanism with a sinusoidal stripper bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Integra Biosciences Corp.
    Inventors: David E. Butz, Gregory Mathus, Richard Cote, George P. Kalmakis
  • Bubbler apparatus and method for delivering vapor phase reagent to a deposition chamber
    Patent number: 8518482
    Abstract: This invention relates to a vapor phase reagent dispensing apparatus having a bubbler tube and also a metal seal aligned and in contact with the hardened opposing flat surfaces of a top wall member and a protuberance on a side wall member, wherein the hardened opposing flat surfaces of the top wall member and the protuberance have a hardness greater than the hardness of the metal seal. The apparatus further has a temperature sensor and a source chemical level sensor extending through a centrally located portion of the top wall member and generally vertically downwardly to a sump cavity centrally located on a bottom wall member. The dispensing apparatus may be used for dispensing of reagents such as precursors for deposition of materials in the manufacture of semiconductor materials and devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Praxair Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald F. Spohn, David Walter Peters
  • Integrated dissolution processing and sample transfer system
    Patent number: 8518327
    Abstract: The invention provides a system and method for dissolution testing. The system includes multiple dissolution vessels and a dose carrier positioned above the dissolution vessels. The dose carrier holds multiple removable carousels that receive individual doses for dissolution tested. Carousels that receive tablets or sinkers typically have a first configuration, while carousels that receive baskets typically have a second configuration. The two different configurations of carousels are interchangeable on the same dose ring. The system further includes a drive head positioned above the dose carrier, the drive head having a basket arbor and a mixing paddle removably and interchangeably attached. A pipettor integral with the system transfers sample aliquots having volumes in the range of 50 ?l to 1 ml from the dissolution vessels to wells of an external receptacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Sotax Corporation
    Inventors: Colin B. Kennedy, Syed Husain, Dale von Behren, Rick Bernal
  • Carrier enclosing tip, carrier treating apparatus and method of carrier treatment
    Patent number: 8518347
    Abstract: The invention relates to a carrier enclosing tip, a carrier treating apparatus, and a method of carrier treatment. An object is to perform separation/purification more efficiently and rapidly as compared with treatments using conventional liquid chromatography or filters. There is provided a carrier enclosing tip comprising: a tip-like container having a fitting opening which is fittable to a nozzle for use in gas suction and discharge, or a member to be fitted to a nozzle, and a port through which fluid inflow and outflow can be effected by the gas suction and discharge; and a carrier which is enclosed in the tip-like container, and is capable of adsorbing a biosubstance in the fluid or is capable of reacting with or binding to the biosubstance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Universal Bio Research Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hideji Tajima
  • Droplet Operations Platform
    Publication number: 20130217103
    Abstract: The invention relates to a droplet actuator device and methods for integrated sample preparation and analysis of a biological sample. A droplet actuator device is provided for conducting droplet operations. The droplet actuator device may include a bottom substrate and a top substrate separated from each other to form a gap therebetween; an arrangement of droplet operations electrodes arranged on one or both of the bottom and/or top substrates for conducting droplet operations thereon; a reagent storage layer comprising one or more compartments bound to the top substrate; and one or more openings arranged to provide a fluidic path from the one or more compartments into the gap, upon breach of a breachable seal separating the one or more compartments and openings.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2011
    Publication date: August 22, 2013
    Applicant: ADVANCED LIQUID LOGIC INC
    Inventor: William Craig Bauer
  • Impact load protection for mass-based product dispensers
    Patent number: 8511512
    Abstract: A chemical product dispenser that controls dispensation of a chemical product based on a change in weight of the chemical product remaining in the dispenser includes an isolation mechanism. The dispenser includes a weight measurement instrument, such as one or more load cells, that measure the weight of the chemical product remaining the dispenser. The isolation mechanism is configured to lift the chemical product from a lowered position in which the weight of the chemical product is fully supported by the load cell(s) to a raised position in which the weight of the chemical product is fully supported by the isolation mechanism. When in the raised position, the dispenser may be loaded with a supply of chemical product with a reduced risk of damage to the weight measurement instrument.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: Ecolab USA Inc.
    Inventors: Brian P. Carlson, Scott R. Limback, Joshua J. Lanz
  • Support pipette
    Patent number: 8512647
    Abstract: A support pipette including at least one cylinder with an upper end and a lower end, each cylinder having a movable piston, and an elongate handle (1) with an upper part and a lower part, at which handle the pipette can be manually gripped, wherein the lower part (13.1; 13.2; 13.3) of the handle (1) includes a sideways protruding lower support (10.1; 10.2; 10.3; 10.4; 10.5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: Thermo Fisher Scientific Oy
    Inventors: Juha Telimaa, Mikael Lind
  • Apparatus and method for delivering vapor phase reagent to a deposition chamber
    Patent number: 8512635
    Abstract: This invention relates to a vapor or liquid phase reagent dispensing apparatus having a metal seal aligned and in contact with hardened opposing flat surfaces of a top wall member and a protuberance on a side wall member, wherein the hardened opposing flat surfaces of the top wall member and the protuberance have a hardness greater than the hardness of the metal seal. The apparatus also has a temperature sensor and a source chemical level sensor extending through a centrally located portion of the top wall member and generally vertically downwardly to a sump cavity centrally located on a bottom wall member. The dispensing apparatus may be used for dispensing of reagents such as precursors for deposition of materials in the manufacture of semiconductor materials and devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: Praxair Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald F. Spohn, David Walter Peters
  • Method of forming bilayer membrane by contact between amphipathic monolayers and apparatus therefor
    Patent number: 8506905
    Abstract: The present invention provides simple and an accurate apparatuses for forming bilayer membranes by the contact of amphipathic monolayers. In one apparatus, amphipathic monolayers are brought into contact and fused by controlling the pressure of liquids introduced from microchannels forming an intersection containing a chamber. In another apparatus, the chamber includes a number of compartments and at least one construction portion. In this apparatus, a droplet is formed within each compartment and contact of amphipatic monolayers is accomplished by adjusting the size of the droplets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: The University of Tokyo
    Inventors: Shoji Takeuchi, Hiroaki Suzuki, Kei Funakoshi
  • System and method for coding information on a biosensor test strip
    Patent number: 8507289
    Abstract: The present invention provides a test strip for measuring a concentration of an analyte of interest in a biological fluid, wherein the test strip may be encoded with information that can be read by a test meter into which the test strip is inserted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Henning Groll, Michael J. Celentano
  • Low dead volume extraction column device
    Patent number: 8501116
    Abstract: The invention provides extraction columns for the purification of an analyte (e.g., a biological macromolecule, such as a peptide, protein or nucleic acid) from a sample solution, as well as methods for making and using such columns. The invention is characterized by the use of low dead volume columns, which is achieved in part by the use of low pore volume frits (e.g., membrane screens) to contain a bed of extraction media in the column. Low dead volume facilitates the elution of the captured analyte into a very small volume of desorption solution, allowing for the preparation of low volume samples containing relatively high concentrations of analyte.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: PhyNexus, Inc.
    Inventors: Douglas T. Gjerde, Christopher P. Hanna
  • Reliable switch that is triggered by the detection of a specific gas or substance
    Patent number: 8501097
    Abstract: A sensor, having a resonant frequency responsive to presence of an analyze, comprising a DC electrostatic excitation component, to produce a static force pulling a moveable element toward a backplate; an AC electrostatic excitation component, to produce an oscillation in the moveable element with respect to the backplate; and a sensor to detect contact between the moveable and the backplate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: The Research Foundation of State University of New York
    Inventor: Mohammad Younis
  • Portable handheld medical diagnostic devices with color-changing indicatior
    Patent number: 8501093
    Abstract: A portable handheld medical diagnostic device includes a housing forming a protective enclosure. A main circuit board is located in the protective enclosure. The main circuit board includes a controller facilitating a physiologic measurement. A display device is connected to the main circuit board that displays information related to the physiologic measurement. An electronic skin is on the housing. The electronic skin comprises a liquid crystal material and is configured to display a color.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul S. Rutkowski, Robert G. Davies, Mark Mears
  • Forming sample combinations using liquid bridge systems
    Patent number: 8501497
    Abstract: The present invention generally relates to methods of constructing liquid bridges and methods of forming predetermined combinations of samples using liquid bridges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: Stokes Bio Limited
    Inventors: Mark Davies, Tara Dalton
  • Apparatuses, systems, and methods utilizing capillary action
    Patent number: 8501117
    Abstract: Apparatuses, systems, and methods utilizing capillary action and to control the movement or placement of liquids or other materials in micro-devices and nano-devices. In some embodiments, the present invention may be used to control polymer addition to micro-cantilevers and nano-cantilevers for biological sensing, chemical sensing, and other sensing. In other embodiments, the present invention may be used to deliver adhesives, dielectrics, chemo resistor materials, and other materials to micro-devices and nano-devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: Carnegie Mellon University
    Inventors: Sarah S. Bedair, Gary K. Fedder
  • Tissue embedding apparatus, and method for operating a tissue embedding apparatus
    Patent number: 8501121
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a method for automatically embedding at least one tissue sample. A tissue embedding apparatus (1) can be provided having an input unit (2), an image acquisition unit (3), an embedding unit (4), at least one output unit (5, 6), and a control unit (7). A cassette (9) containing at least one tissue sample (8) can be transferred to the input unit (2) of the tissue embedding apparatus (1). At least one image of the tissue sample (8) and/or at least one image of the cassette (9) may be acquired using the image acquisition unit (3). The at least one image acquired of the tissue sample (8) and/or of the cassette (9) may be evaluated. Further processing the tissue sample (8) in the tissue embedding apparatus (1) can be performed as a function of the image evaluation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: Leica Biosystems Nusslock GmbH
    Inventors: Hermann Ulbrich, Karl-Heinz Westerhoff, Stefan Künkel
  • Modular system for performing laboratory protocols and associated methods
    Patent number: 8501115
    Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods for automating laboratory protocols utilizing modular processing components to allow systems to be reconfigured for processing a wide variety of disparate laboratory protocols are provided. In one aspect, a sample processing module is provided, including a housing configured to accommodate a pre-identified sample process, a standardized temperature input capable of interfacing with a temperature controller, a standardized fluid input capable of interfacing with an input fluid controller, and a standardized agitation connector capable of interfacing with an agitator. These standardized components provide interchangeability of the module with a module having a housing configured to accommodate a different pre-identified sample process in a sample processing system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: Statspin, Inc.
    Inventors: Nils Adey, Rob Parry
  • Disposable pipette tip
    Patent number: 8501118
    Abstract: A disposable pipette tip having that is configured to mount on a tip mounting shaft having a locking section and a separate sealing section. The locking section has outwardly extending locking lobes circumferentially spaced around the mounting shaft and located above a stop member that separates the lower sealing section from the upper locking section. The collar flexes out of round when it is mounted over the locking lobes on the mounting shaft. The circumferential shelf on the tip isolates the tip barrel from distortion to enable robust sealing in the barrel below the shelf.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: Integra Biosciences Corp.
    Inventors: Gregory Mathus, Terrence Kelly, Richard Cote
  • Automated system for handling microfluidic devices
    Patent number: 8496875
    Abstract: The present invention is an automated microfluidic chip processing apparatus that includes a deck for holding at least one microfluidic chip and capable of being accessed by a liquid handling system, a fluid control system, and a detection system, wherein a chip handling device transports the chip from the deck to the fluid control system and the detection system. The present invention also includes a chip for use with an automated microfluidic chip processing apparatus, and a method for processing a microfluidic chip using such an apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2013
    Assignee: Caliper Life Sciences, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Greenstein, Colin B. Kennedy, James C. Mikkelsen, Jr.
  • Microfluidic interface
    Patent number: 8492165
    Abstract: The method for making microfluidic connections includes the steps of providing a system including a base, a movable device in communication with the base, and a sealing component attached to the movable device; delivering a microfluidic device to the base; aligning the sealing component and the microfluidic device, wherein the moveable device is capable of adjustably positioning the sealing component and capable of optical alignment, to bring the sealing component and the microfluidic device into fluid communication; and compressing the sealing component and the microfluidic device into contact thereby forming a microfluidic connection by creating a leak-resistant seal between at the interface of the sealing component and the microfluidic device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: CorSolutions, LLC
    Inventors: Colleen K. Van Pelt, Thomas Corso
  • DEVICE AND METHOD FOR MAKING DISCRETE VOLUMES OF A FIRST FLUID IN CONTACT WITH A SECOND FLUID, WHICH ARE IMMISCIBLE WITH EACH OTHER
    Publication number: 20130183210
    Abstract: Various embodiments described in the application relate to an apparatus, system, and method for generating, within a conduit, discrete volumes of one or more fluids that are immiscible with a second fluid. The discrete volumes can be used for biochemical or molecular biology procedures involving small volumes, for example, microliter-sized volumes, nanoliter-sized volumes, or smaller. The system can comprise an apparatus comprising at least one conduit operatively connected to one or more pumps for providing discrete volumes separated from one another by a fluid that is immiscible with the fluid(s) of the discrete volumes, for example, aqueous immiscible-fluid-discrete volumes separated by an oil.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2012
    Publication date: July 18, 2013
    Applicant: APPLIED BIOSYSTEMS, LLC
    Inventor: APPLIED BIOSYSTEMS, LLC
  • Centrifugal fluid analyzer rotor
    Patent number: 8486333
    Abstract: This invention provides rotors and methods of precisely metering a sample fluid and mixing the sample with a reagent. The rotors have a metering tube of defined volume that fills until sample flow is stopped by surface tension of a meniscus at a capillarity port, while excess sample is stripped from the metering tube inlet by centripetal force of the spinning rotor. By spinning the rotor at a higher speed, a reagent can be forced from a reagent chamber to contact the meniscus, breaking the surface tension and allowing the metered sample to mix with the reagent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignee: MicroPoint Biosciences, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Wang, Nan Zhang
  • Dispensing of a diagnostic liquid onto a diagnostic reagent
    Patent number: 8486715
    Abstract: Biological fluid samples are deposited by methods that produce a uniform layer of the sample over a reagent-containing surface. In one embodiment, a nozzle having multiple openings is used to deposit a sample over the reagent-containing surface simultaneously. In an alternative embodiment, single droplets of the sample are deposited in a pattern on the surface, preferably in a sequence of parallel lines. The reaction between the biological sample and the reagents is read from a spectrographic image of the reagent-containing surface obtained by optical methods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignee: Siemens Healthcare Diagnostics Inc.
    Inventors: Michael J. Pugia, James A. Profitt, Lloyd S. Schulman, Chris T. Zimmerle, Hai-Hang Kuo
  • Carrier-enclosed transformable container, carrier-enclosed transformable container processing apparatus, and carrier-enclosed transformable container processing method
    Patent number: 8486347
    Abstract: Provided are a carrier-enclosed transformable container, a carrier-enclosed transformable container processing apparatus, and a carrier-enclosed transformable container processing method about which a carrier to which various substances such as biogenic substances are bonded or bondable is held in a transformable container as the container to be in a substantially stationary state, thereby making it possible to make the handling of the carrier, measurement, and other treatments effective, speedy, and easy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignee: Universal Bio Research Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hideji Tajima
  • Microfluidic flow assay for measuring hemostatic phenotypes
    Patent number: 8486349
    Abstract: A microfluidic-based flow assay and methods of manufacturing the same are provided. Specifically, the microfluidic flow assay includes a micropatterned surface that induces clot formation and an array of microfluidic channels though which blood flows. The micropatterned surface contains two clotting stimuli, one for inducing platelet adhesion and another for inducing the coagulation cascade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignee: Colorado School of Mines
    Inventors: Keith Benjamin Neeves, Ryan R. Hansen
  • Reagent delivery system, dispensing device and container for a biological staining apparatus
    Patent number: 8486714
    Abstract: The invention concerns reagent delivery system for an apparatus for processing of biological samples arranged on microscope slides, comprising a reagent section having one or more reagent containers; a slide section in which at least one microscope slide is arranged; a probe for dispensing a portion of reagent onto a predetermined microscope slide, and means for handling the probe. The probe comprises a continuous prove tubing element extending through a rigid probe member and connecting the probe tip to a pneumatic pressure regulation device. The reagent containers are adapted for cooperation with the probe tip. In this manner a high though-put and a very low carry over of fluid residues is achieved since there is no assembled parts making up the inside volume of the probe in which the fluid may be retained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignee: DAKO Denmark A/S
    Inventors: John A Favuzzi, Merritt M Martin, Jonathan R Sweda, Lauren Bland, Robert L Lathrop, John E Van Bosch, Kristopher S Buchanan
  • Micro-valve structure including polymer actuator and lab-on-a-chip module
    Patent number: 8486352
    Abstract: Provided are a micro-valve structure and a lab-on-a-chip module that include a polymer actuator. The micro-valve structure may include a flexible structure disposed on a substrate, and the polymer actuator inserted into the flexible structure. At this time, the flexible structure has a valve portion defining a microchannel and the polymer actuator is separated from the microchannel by the flexible structure. In addition, the polymer actuator is formed to change a width of the microchannel by controlling a displacement of the valve portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignee: Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute
    Inventors: Kwang Suk Yang, Ji Sun Yun, Nakjin Choi, Hyung-Kun Lee
  • Automatic analyzer using a sample container having an information recording member
    Patent number: 8480977
    Abstract: A sample is contained in a sample container and a physical relationship between the sample and a sample ID thereof is established. However, after the sample ID is read by a bar code reader and the sample is transferred to an analysis-dedicated small sample container, the sample ID and the sample are separated from each other. Following the end of analysis, therefore, the sample ID must be merged with a corresponding analysis result. A read/write-enable ID carrier is provided on an analysis-dedicated sample container into which the sample is pipetted or on a tank for holding the analysis-dedicated sample container. When the sample is pipetted or when the analysis-dedicated sample container is moved, the sample ID and other information are transferred to the read/write-enable ID carrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: Hitachi High-Technologies Corporation
    Inventor: Yoshiro Gunji
  • Shaft for a sampling pipette
    Patent number: 8480972
    Abstract: A shaft for a sampling pipette includes a first cylindrical portion, a first annular shoulder, and a second annular shoulder. A first cross section of the first cylindrical portion has a first diameter. The first annular shoulder includes a first transition end adjacent the first cylindrical portion and a second cylindrical portion. A second cross section of the second cylindrical portion has a second diameter. The second annular shoulder includes a second transition end adjacent the first annular shoulder and a third cylindrical portion. A third cross section of the third cylindrical portion has a third diameter. The third diameter is greater than the second diameter which is greater than the first diameter. The second diameter and the third diameter are selected so that a pipette tip contacts the second cylindrical portion and the third cylindrical portion when the pipette tip is mounted on the shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: Gilson S.A.S.
    Inventors: Yves May, Bernard Roussel
  • Control scheme for enhanced filtered water systems
    Patent number: 8480979
    Abstract: An enhancement water system to produce a serving of enhanced filtered water is described. The present system describes a faucet mount water enhancement system that includes a housing with an inlet and an outlet, a source of water at the inlet, and a filter component within the housing. Source water is converted into treated water as it flows through the filter component under the influence of pressure. The housing further includes an outlet for outflow of treated water. A first enhancement module is disposed outside the housing adjacent the outlet and the first enhancement module is effective to dispense a desired amount of a first enhancement for use in combining with treated water dispensed from the outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: The Clorox Company
    Inventors: Edward B. Rinker, Janet Elizabeth Lane, Simon S. Litvin, Ilya Ilyin, Alexander Chaliyan, Dmitry Logatchev, Michael Gershman, Valery Pavlov, Semyon Kogan
  • Thin film bio valve device and its controlling apparatus
    Patent number: 8480980
    Abstract: A thin film bio valve device and an apparatus for controlling the thin film bio valve device are effectively applied in a valve structure of a thin film device, such as a lab-on-a-chip, a protein chip, or a DNA chip, for diagnosing and/or detecting a small amount of material in a fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Jae Chern Yoo
  • Solution bag for apparatus for chemically analyzing blood
    Patent number: 8475744
    Abstract: The present invention provides a solution bag that is used for medical treatment and stores solution used for an apparatus for analyzing blood chemistry that measures and analyzes the concentrations of electrolytes, the partial pressures of gases, and the concentrations of metabolites or the volume ratio of red blood cells contained in blood. The solution bag for an apparatus for analyzing blood chemistry of the present invention includes: a receptacle that contains a solution; a valve body that is attached to the receptacle and has a through-hole longitudinally formed therein; a valve spool that is disposed in the through-hole of the valve body; and a solution leakage preventing unit that is disposed in the valve spool, in which the valve body has a flow channel and a solution discharging pipe spaced at a predetermined distance from each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: I-SENS, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeonghan Ha, Heejun Lee, Tae Young Kang, Jungwon Shin, Hakhyun Nam, Geun Sig Cha
  • Systems and methods for fluid handling
    Patent number: 8475739
    Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for sample processing. A device may be provided, capable of receiving the sample, and performing one or more of a sample preparation, sample assay, and detection step. The device may be capable of performing multiple assays. The device may comprise one or more modules that may be capable of performing one or more of a sample preparation, sample assay, and detection step. The device may be capable of performing the steps using a small volume of sample.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Theranos, Inc.
    Inventors: Elizabeth Holmes, Joy Roy, John Kent Frankovich
  • Droplet discharging device
    Patent number: 8475741
    Abstract: Provided is a droplet discharging device that can precisely dispense large flow rate of droplets and small flow rate of droplets selectively. The droplet discharging device according to the present invention includes a pneumatic discharger for discharging a droplet having a first flow rate, and an electronic pipette for discharging or sucking a droplet having a second flow rate equal to or smaller than the first flow rate. The pneumatic discharger includes, i) a storage chamber for storing a liquid, ii) an air tank connected to the storage chamber through a first air pipe and supplying compressed air to the storage chamber to push the liquid of the storage chamber outside, and iii) a first nozzle connected to the storage chamber through the liquid pipe and receiving the liquid pushed out of the storage chamber to discharge droplets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Postech Academy-Industry Foundation
    Inventors: Seongjin Cho, Geunbae Lim, Intae Kim
  • Anti-static pipette tip trays
    Patent number: 8470265
    Abstract: Provided herein are anti-static pipette trays that reduce the amount of static charge accumulated on or in pipette tips and allow for discharge of any accumulated static charge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Biotix, Inc.
    Inventors: Arta Motadel, Scott Edward Curry
  • Light beam guided liquid delivery device
    Patent number: 8470260
    Abstract: A light beam guided liquid delivery device for tracking the placement of a sample by a liquid delivery device into a receptacle like a milliliter or microliter scale tube, or a microtiter plate, includes a liquid delivery device and a light beam generator. The light beam generator may be positioned on the outside or inside of the liquid delivery device. The light beam generator may be adapted to shoot a light beam below the tip of the liquid delivery device, whereby, a user may track the placement of the tip of the liquid delivery device via the light beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: University of North Carolina at Charlotte
    Inventors: David Andrew Carr, Jennifer W. Weller
  • Receiving and transferring station for coverslipped specimen slides
    Patent number: 8470244
    Abstract: A receiving and transferring station (1) for coverslipped specimen slides (2, 2?, 2?) comprises at least one vertically upright magazine frame (5), open toward the receiving side, for at least one specimen slide magazine (4) having horizontally oriented compartments (6), and a rotation apparatus, connected to the magazine frame (5) and having a vertically upright rotation axis, for conveying the magazine frame (5) from a receiving position (3) into a transferring position (8).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Leica Biosystems Nussloch GmbH
    Inventor: Rolf Metzner
  • DEVICE AND METHOD FOR MANIPULATING OR ANALYSING A LIQUID SAMPLE
    Publication number: 20130156643
    Abstract: A device and a method for manipulating or analysing a liquid sample in a microfluidic channel are proposed. In order to implement an immunoassay, a movable substrate having a binding region is inserted in the channel. The substrate is embodied as a plate-like plastic part and is microstructured in the binding region. It is magnetically movable in the channel and for optical detection can be moved into a gas space.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2011
    Publication date: June 20, 2013
    Applicant: BOEHRINGER INGELHEIM INTERNATIONAL GMBH
    Inventors: Tobias Rodenfels, Gert Blankenstein, Dirk Osterloh
  • Composite liquid cells
    Patent number: 8465707
    Abstract: A sample handling method may include drawing an encapsulating liquid from an encapsulating-liquid input; discharging the drawn encapsulating liquid (a) onto a free surface of a carrier liquid in a carrier-liquid conduit comprising a stabilisation feature and (b) proximate to the stabilisation feature, the encapsulating liquid being immiscible with the carrier liquid, so that the discharged encapsulating liquid does not mix with the carrier liquid, floats on top of the carrier liquid, and is immobilised by the stabilisation feature; drawing a sample liquid from a sample-liquid input; and discharging the drawn sample liquid, the sample liquid being immiscible with the encapsulating liquid and with the carrier liquid, so that the sample liquid does not mix with the encapsulating liquid or with the carrier liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Assignee: GenCell Biosystems Ltd.
    Inventors: Kieran Curran, Paul Fleming, Séamus Gillhooley, Micheál Keane, Inga Rosca, Patrick Tuohy
  • Microfluidic apparatus and method for preparing cytological specimens
    Patent number: 8460619
    Abstract: An apparatus for processing a specimen from a fluid sample includes a first set of one or more microfluidic channels configured to deliver the sample fluid to a filter disposed on an inflatable bladder configured to transfer the specimen from the filter to a slide. The apparatus is configured to collect an approximate monolayer of particles and includes a second set of one or more microfluidic channels configured to remove fluid flowing through the filter disposed on the inflatable bladder. The apparatus also includes a pressure source, a sample container connected to the pressure source and the first set of one or more microfluidic channels, a fluid flow gauge configured to measure a fluid flow rate through the filter, and a stain source connected to the first set of one or more microfluidic channels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: CYTYC Corporation
    Inventors: Howard B. Kaufman, Tuan Ha
  • Device for evaluating biochemical samples
    Patent number: 8454894
    Abstract: Described is a device for evaluating biochemical samples (1), with a sample carrier (2), with an image recording means having a light-sensitive layer (3) connected to an evaluation circuit (10), and with a means for illuminating the samples (1). In order to provide simple design conditions, it is proposed that the light-sensitive layer (3), provided on the sample carrier (2), of the image recording means comprise a photoactive layer (4) based on organic semiconductors between two electrode layers (5, 6), of which the electrode layer (6) between the photoactive layer (4) and the samples (1) is translucent at least in certain regions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: ASMAG-Holding GmbH
    Inventors: Franz Padinger, Klaus G. Schröter
  • Automated systems and methods for preparing biological specimens for examination
    Patent number: 8454908
    Abstract: The systems and methods disclosed herein permit automated preparation of biological specimens for examination. The disclosed systems and methods provide fast, efficient, and highly uniform specimen processing using minimal quantities of fluids. The methods include at least a fixing phase for fixing a biological specimen to a substrate such as a microscope slide, a staining phase for staining the specimen, and a rinsing phase for rinsing the specimen. One or more of the fixing, staining, and rinsing phases include one or more agitation cycles for distributing reagents evenly and uniformly across the specimen. The systems can be implemented as a standalone device or as a component in a larger system for preparing and examining biological specimens.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: Constitution Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel Lapen, David Zahniser, Mark Licari, Brian J. McKeen, Eric D. Yeaton, Dennis Poole
  • Growth factor extractor
    Patent number: 8454907
    Abstract: A reservoir is supported by a base in a vertical position. A reciprocating member is positioned in the reservoir forming an internal chamber. The chamber receives growth factor starting material through an inlet in the reciprocating member. After the inlet is sealed, the reciprocating member increases the volume of the chamber to apply negative pressure to the growth factor starting material within to produce activated growth factors. The activated growth factors are extracted from the chamber through an outlet in the reciprocating member. Optionally, the growth factor starting material is held in the chamber to separate into fractions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: Orogen Holdings, LLC
    Inventors: James B. Gandy, Ryan N. Brandt
  • Microfabricated droplet generator for single molecule/cell genetic analysis in engineered monodispersed emulsions
    Patent number: 8454906
    Abstract: Provided are microfluidic designs and methods for rapid generation of monodisperse nanoliter volume droplets of reagent/target (e.g., molecule or cell) mix in emulsion oil. The designs and methods enable high-throughput encapsulation of a single target (e.g., DNA/RNA molecules or cells) in controlled size droplets of reagent mix. According to various embodiments, a microfabricated, 3-valve pump is used to precisely meter the volume of reagent/target mix in each droplet and also to effectively route microparticles such as beads and cells into the device, which are encapsulated within droplets at the intersection of the reagent channel and an oil channel. The pulsatile flow profile of the microfabricated pumps provides active control over droplet generation, thereby enabling droplet formation with oils that are compatible with biological reactions but are otherwise difficult to form emulsions with.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: The Regents of the University of California
    Inventors: Richard A. Mathies, Palani Kumaresan, Chaoyang Yang, Robert G. Blazej
  • Dispensing device
    Patent number: 8449840
    Abstract: Provided is a dispensing device capable of removing bubbles reliably. In this dispensing device, deaerated water is fed by a water feed pump to the inside of a pipeline up to the vicinity of the leading end of a dispensing nozzle. A water feed valve disposed near a dispensing pump is closed to establish a deaerated water space opened on the leading end side of the dispensing nozzle. The dispensing pump is activated on the space, thereby causing the dispensing nozzle to perform suction and exhaust actions. The dispensing device comprises a vacuum means connected to the space through the water feed valve thereby maintaining a vacuum state. In case the deaerated water space is cleared of the bubbles, the cleared water space is brought, by opening a change-over valve, into communication with a pipeline having a vacuum means connected thereto, thereby bringing the space into the vacuum state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: Beckman Coulter, Inc.
    Inventor: Isao Saegusa
  • Molecular reader
    Patent number: 8449842
    Abstract: Systems and methods disclosed include: a support apparatus configured to detachably receive a chip; movable pins extendible from a first position to a second position, where, in the first position, the movable pins do not contact a chip positioned on the support apparatus, and in the second position, the movable pins contact electrical terminals of a heating element within a chip positioned on the support apparatus; a radiation source configured to direct radiation to be incident on a chip positioned on the support apparatus; a detector; and an electronic processor, the electronic processor being configured to detect molecules in a sample positioned within the chip, and to determine a temperature of the chip by measuring an electrical resistance between two of the multiple pins connected to the electrical terminals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: Thermo Scientific Portable Analytical Instruments Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin J. Knopp, Daryoosh Vakhshoori, Peidong Wang, Masud Azimi, Scott E. Miller, Jason Goldstein, Stephen McLaughlin
  • Fixtures for use in parallel processing bio-chips
    Patent number: 8449836
    Abstract: A holder (10) housing defines a plurality of individual wells (14) sized to retain a substrates such as a bio-chip (20) or microscope slide in a vertical orientation, and to retain a volume of liquid (22) sufficient to immerse the bio-chip. The wells are spaced-apart with an approximately 9 mm pitch and the holder has a form factor approximating an SBS Standard 96-well microplate. The holder configuration is such that it can be manipulated with standard robotic equipment (30), and can be fabricated using injection molding processes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: GE Healthcare Bio-Sciences AB
    Inventors: Clifford L. Anderson, Richard E. Maldonado, Richard D. Belval, Jr.
  • Frustrated total internal reflection biosensor cartridge
    Patent number: 8449833
    Abstract: The present invention provides a biosensor cartridge (11) comprising a bottom portion (1) with a well (2) adapted to accommodate a liquid sample and a cover portion (3) for closing said well (2). The well (2) has a sensor surface (4). The bottom portion (1) is adapted for allowing light to enter along a first optical path (5), to be reflected at the sensor surface (4) and to exit along a second optical path (6). The invention further relates to a method of manufacturing such a cartridge (11).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.
    Inventor: Jeroen Hans Nieuwenhuis
  • Microfluidic extraction and reaction device
    Patent number: 8449830
    Abstract: A microfluidic arrangement for extracting and optionally processing an extract from a sample and for transferring the extract in flowable form to a microfluidic chip using an extractor with a compressible extraction chamber and at least one opening thereof, a reactor that has a reaction chamber, an inlet opening that communicates with the at least one opening of the extractor, wherein the two openings define a flow path between the chambers, an outlet opening for fluidically connecting to the microfluidic chip and a ventilation opening of the reaction chamber, and having a filter arrangement installed in the flow path between the extractor and the reactor. A lab-on-a-chip system with such a microfluidic arrangement and a microfluidic chip that is rigidly connected to the reactor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: Institut fur Mikrotechnik Mainz GmbH
    Inventors: Jan Claussen, Stephan Wittayer, Susanne Selzer, Frithjof Von Germar