Connector Patents (Class 422/544)
  • Patent number: 10172545
    Abstract: Adapter caps for sample collection containers have a monolithic elongate body with an upper neck portion that merges into a larger lower body portion with an open internal cavity. The upper neck portion has an open needle bore that is concentrically aligned with the open internal cavity. The monolithic elongate body has an axially extending centerline. The needle bore has a downwardly extending wall with an inner surface that comprises a plurality of circumferentially spaced apart longitudinally extending flat surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2019
    Assignee: bioMĂ©rieux, Inc.
    Inventors: Stanley M. Philipak, Samuel B. Crandall
  • Patent number: 10093892
    Abstract: An isolator system 1 includes: a main isolator 3 in which an aseptic state is maintained and which is for performing an aseptic operation; an incubator 4 in which the aseptic state is maintained and which is connected to the main isolator 3 and is for culturing cells and the like; decontamination means 35 for decontaminating the inside of the main isolator 3; and a decontamination station 9 that decontaminates the inside of the incubator 4. The isolator system 1 further includes a blocking member 30 for sealing a connection port 13 from the outside, the port being provided in the main isolator 3 and being for connection with the incubator 4. When the inside of the main isolator 3 is decontaminated, the connection port 13 is sealed from the outside with the blocking member 30. The isolator system that can efficiently decontaminate the main isolator and the subisolator connected to this main isolator can be provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2018
    Assignee: SHIBUYA CORPORATION
    Inventors: Tetsuya Nishimura, Katsuki Hashimoto, Kazuhito Tanimoto
  • Patent number: 9410626
    Abstract: A sealing system is provided for preventing leakage of a fluid from a fluid-containing chamber when a sensor probe for measuring fluid conditions within the chamber is inserted into the chamber. The sealing system has at least one port in fluid communication with the fluid-containing chamber. The port has a stem projecting outwardly from the chamber, a tapered flange, and a stem passageway in fluid communication with the chamber interior. A probe seal which is adapted to attach to the stem forms a seal between the port and the sensor probe and prevents fluid in the processing chamber from leaking past the probe seal. The probe seal has spaced-apart inner and outer skirts. The inner skirt forms a seal passageway which is in fluid communication with the chamber, and an inner end disposed to enter the stem passageway when the probe seal is attached to the stem.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2016
    Assignee: Pall Corporation
    Inventor: Nigel David Feltham
  • Patent number: 9168520
    Abstract: The invention relates to a housing (1) that is especially designed to be associated with a device for a tight connection to a second housing (2), said first housing comprising a structure including a wall (3) defining a space (1a), an opening (4) defined by a flange (5) that can be hermetically applied to a second flange (9) of the second housing (2), holding means that can keep the first flange and the second flange (9) applied to each other, a door (6) supported by carrying means (11 a), the door leaf (6v) being mobile in such a way as to be closed or open and having an outer face (6a) that can ensure the hermetic application of a second door (10) of the second housing (2), fixing means for holding the leaves (6v, 1 Ov) against each other, displacement manoeuvring means (11b), and means for controlling the displacement manoeuvring means (11b), and, when the leaf (6v) is open, an inlet/outlet space (13a) in/of the inner space (1a) forming part of a communication space (13) between the two housings (1, 2), wh
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2015
    Assignee: SARTORIUS STEDIM ASEPTICS
    Inventors: Stephanie Armau, Isabelle Gay, Gaelle Nodin
  • Patent number: 9011801
    Abstract: The invention provides for fluidic connections to be established between tubes, ports, fluidic components and fluidic devices. The leak-tight connections are formed through controlled, compressive forces and can be used for both low and high pressure applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: Corsolutions LLC
    Inventors: Thomas N. Corso, Colleen K. Van Pelt
  • Publication number: 20150056693
    Abstract: A sterile individual set for use in a process of manufacturing a biopharmaceutical product. To make it quicker and easier to grasp and use fluidic type functional members, the sterile individual set includes a sterile flexible bag having a peripheral wall defining a sterile internal space and a fluidic type functional member arranged at least partially inside the sterile internal space. The functional member includes one or more communication duct(s) arranged in the sterile internal space. The sterile individual set also includes structural association elements capable of holding together several portions of the communication duct or ducts that are to be bundled together into a bundle. The structural association elements have an external surface with lower static and dynamic friction coefficients so as to make the functional member easier to handle by slippage of the bundle of communication ducts with respect to the peripheral wall of the flexible bag.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2013
    Publication date: February 26, 2015
    Applicant: SARTORIUS STEDIM FMT SAS
    Inventor: Nicolas Mendyk
  • Publication number: 20150030514
    Abstract: A sealing system is provided for preventing leakage of a fluid from a fluid-containing chamber when a sensor probe for measuring fluid conditions within the chamber is inserted into the chamber. The sealing system has at least one port in fluid communication with the fluid-containing chamber. The port has a stem projecting outwardly from the chamber, a tapered flange, and a stem passageway in fluid communication with the chamber interior. A probe seal which is adapted to attach to the stem forms a seal between the port and the sensor probe and prevents fluid in the processing chamber from leaking past the probe seal. The probe seal has spaced-apart inner and outer skirts. The inner skirt forms a seal passageway which is in fluid communication with the chamber, and an inner end disposed to enter the stem passageway when the probe seal is attached to the stem.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2013
    Publication date: January 29, 2015
    Applicant: Pall Corporation
    Inventor: Nigel David Feltham
  • Publication number: 20150024481
    Abstract: Devices and system for preparing samples are described. Such devices can comprise fluidic chambers, reservoirs, and movable structures for controlling the movement of samples. The device can also comprise functional elements for performing specific operations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2014
    Publication date: January 22, 2015
    Inventors: Imran R. MALIK, Axel SCHERER
  • Patent number: 8932541
    Abstract: Systems and methods for processing and analyzing samples are disclosed. The system may process samples, such as biological fluids, using assay cartridges which can be processed at different processing locations. In some cases, the system can be used for PCR processing. The different processing locations may include a preparation location where samples can be prepared and an analysis location where samples can be analyzed. To assist with the preparation of samples, the system may also include a number of processing stations which may include processing lanes. During the analysis of samples, in some cases, thermal cycler modules and an appropriate optical detection system can be used to detect the presence or absence of certain nucleic acid sequences in the samples. The system can be used to accurately and rapidly process samples.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2015
    Assignee: Beckman Coulter, Inc.
    Inventor: Joshua D. Wiltsie
  • Publication number: 20140377149
    Abstract: The present invention is related to a reagent vessel, comprising: at least one first tube and at least one second tube, wherein second tube has a section area of the opening greater than one of the bottom. A kit for a reagent vessel is also provided herein, comprising: the reagent vessel and a stirrer jacket, wherein the section area ratio value for the bottom of the second tube to the stirrer jacket is 1.1 to 3.5. According to the present invention, an optimum efficiency for the stirrer jacket will be achieved, and a high capacity of the operational volume will be maintained thereby.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2013
    Publication date: December 25, 2014
    Applicant: TAIWAN ADVANCED NANOTECH INC.
    Inventors: CHIEN-HSING CHIEN, YU- SHENG YANG
  • Patent number: 8911688
    Abstract: A microvalve for controlling fluid flows, and a sealing device for sealing cavities in a microfluidic system, particularly in a lab-on-a-chip system, and a method for the production thereof. A sealing surface of a valve body, or a sealing element, respectively, rests on a sealing surface of a substrate and is pressed against the sealing surface of the substrate in a fluid-tight manner by means of a clamping element. The clamping element and/or the valve body, or the sealing element, respectively, are at least partially elastic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2014
    Assignee: Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft zur Förderung der Angewandten Forschung E.V.
    Inventors: Rainer Gransee, Eva Schaeffer, Klaus-Stefan Drese, Silvio Kraus, Tobias Baier, Felix Schmitz
  • Patent number: 8906324
    Abstract: An automatic inoculating system for depositing a sample on a substrate in a predetermined pattern. A turret is rotatable about a vertical axis, and an arm retained by the turret is pivotable about a horizontal axis. A stylus retained at a distal portion of the arm sucks up and dispenses the sample, such as by use of a pumping system in fluidic communication with the stylus. A support rotatably retains the substrate. The arm can be raised and lowered, such as by a cylinder on which the arm rests without a retaining mechanical connection therebetween. The arm can thus freely lift off the cylinder as when the stylus contacts the surface of the substrate. The sample can thus be deposited on the substrate in a predetermined pattern by a dispensing from the stylus in combination with rotation of the turret and the substrate and a pivoting of the arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Inventor: Emmanuel Jalenques
  • Patent number: 8906229
    Abstract: The invention concerns a device comprising: a base (2); a moveable or removable door (20), said device having a closed door position; and in the closed door position, a circuit (8) comprising a bag comprising two flexible films and conveying network connectors, and a press (9) comprising a first shell (16) disposed on said front face (5) of said base (2) and a second shell (17) disposed in said door (20); said bag being clamped between said first shell (16) and said second shell (17) in a state in which conduits of said network for conveying liquid are formed between said films.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: EMD Millipore Corporation
    Inventors: Sebastien Cirou, Rene Reinbigler, Virginie Buisson, Jean-Louis Weissenbach
  • Patent number: 8900875
    Abstract: A method for assessing a corrosion inhibitor in a coolant, comprises providing a test kit comprising a first chamber containing an acid buffer and a solvent immiscible therein and a second chamber containing an indicator, the second chamber being in fluid communication with the first chamber and being configured such that retraction of the second chamber draws fluid into the first chamber and advancement forces fluid into the second chamber; drawing a coolant sample into the first chamber; contacting the coolant sample with the acid buffer and solvent in the first chamber and extracting the corrosion inhibitor into the solvent; allowing the solvent and buffer to separate in the first chamber; forcing a portion of the separated solvent into the second chamber; contacting the separated solvent with the indicator in the second chamber, and obtaining a visual indication of the presence of corrosion inhibitor in the coolant sample.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Assignee: Shell Oil Company
    Inventors: Abraham Robert De Kraker, Liliana Minevski, Tze Lee Phang
  • Patent number: 8900454
    Abstract: The invention concerns a device comprising a base (2) and a door (20), said device having a closed door position in which a circuit (8) of the device comprises a bag comprising two flexible films and connectors of the conveying network, and a press (9) comprising a first shell (16) disposed on a front face (5) of said base (2) and a second shell (17) disposed in said door (20); and a hinge system hinging said door (20) relative to said base (2), and disposed only on one side of said door (20) so as to form lateral clearances between said door (20) and said base (2) over the rest of a perimeter of said door (20).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Assignee: EMD Millipore Corporation
    Inventors: Sebastien Cirou, Rene Reinbigler, Virginie Buisson, Jean-Louis Weissenbach
  • Patent number: 8852535
    Abstract: A device and method for measuring the level of elemental sulfur present in a gas in a gas line. The device may include: an access fitting detachably connectable with the gas line, the access fitting having a first end and a second end; a probe detachably connectable to at least one end of the access fitting and adapted for insertion into a gas flow stream from the gas line to recover condensed components on the probe's outer surface; and a piping partially disposed within the probe for providing a cooling medium to the probe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil Company
    Inventors: Ihsan Al-Taie, Abdulaziz A. Al-Mathami, Helal M. Al-Mutairi
  • Patent number: 8845980
    Abstract: Provided is a sample packing device for packing a sample with respect to a microchip for performing reaction of a micro component contained in the sample, the microchip at least including: a sample reservoir; a reaction reservoir; and a channel connected between the sample reservoir and the reaction reservoir, in which a package including a sample chamber packed in advance with the sample is mounted on the microchip so as to pack the sample in the sample chamber into the sample reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: NEC Corporation
    Inventors: Minoru Asogawa, Hisashi Hagiwara, Tohru Hiramatsu
  • Publication number: 20140286836
    Abstract: A device for sampling and transporting nano-objects for analysis thereof. A cassette portion of the device includes two parts with mutual assembly mechanisms between them including a clipping mechanism configured not to be accessible from outside in assembled position of the parts. Therefore, any inopportune opening of the cassette and thus extraction of the sampling filter accommodated in the cassette somewhere else than the place intended for the analysis are avoided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2012
    Publication date: September 25, 2014
    Applicants: NANOBADGE, Commissariat Ă  l'energie atomique et aux ene alt
    Inventors: Simon Clavaguera, Eric Decolin, Guillaume Hebert, Jean-Loup Rechatin, Francois Tardif
  • Publication number: 20140238438
    Abstract: A system and method are described, for use in cleaning of a vacuum chamber. The method comprising connecting a vacuum chamber to a plasma generating unit via a plasma connection port and connecting the vacuum chamber to a high vacuum pumping unit via a pumping port. A flow conductance through the plasma connection port to the vacuum chamber is controlled to limit passage of charged particles and cleaning substances produced in the plasma generating unit, to thereby maintain a working pressure inside the vacuum chamber while cleaning the vacuum chamber by said cleaning substances.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2013
    Publication date: August 28, 2014
    Applicant: Applied Materials Israel Ltd.
    Inventors: Lior Segev, Irit Ruach Nir, Guy Eitan
  • Publication number: 20140219887
    Abstract: Pipette tips of different sizes may be coupled to a pipettor without needing to modify the pipettor. The same pipettor may thus be utilized to exchange different pipette tips, which may be done in an automated manner. Pipette tips may be coupled to adaptors that include proximal ends for interfacing with the pipettor and distal ends for interfacing with pipette tips. The proximal ends may all have the same geometry, matched with the same pipettor. The distal ends may have different geometries matched with different pipette tips. A pipettor may be part of a liquid handling apparatus and movable in an automated manner to different deck positions. The pipettor may include a locking mechanism for locking adaptors to the pipettor or locking pipette tips directly to the pipettors, and an ejection mechanism for ejecting pipette tips from corresponding adaptors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2013
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: AGILENT TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventor: BRIAN M. SHELDON
  • Publication number: 20140206060
    Abstract: A system and method for sonication of multiple samples and continuous sonication of an input fluid stream in flow-through arrangements useful for economical breakdown of particulates and organisms present in large volumes with relatively low-power sonication devices such as production of oil from algae. The system includes an electrical wave generator oscillating in the ultrasound range, a vibrating element electrically connected to the electrical wave generator, and a sonication plate that vibrates in certain modes. The sonication plate contains features for mating with sample tubes, and the sample tubes also possess complimentary mating features to those on the sonication plate. A method for sonication of multiple samples includes utilizing mating features to attach tubes to the sonication plate and energizing the sonicator to vibrate the sonication plate. The invention also relates to arrangements for continuous flow-through useful for sonicating large sample volumes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2013
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Inventor: Folim G. Halaka
  • Patent number: 8784751
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a thermowell blocking apparatus for a high-pressure reactor used in a desulfurization process, which can rapidly prevent noxious high-temperature and high-pressure gases from leaking out of a high-pressure reactor when the noxious high-temperature and high-pressure gases leak from the high-pressure reactor due to unexpected damage occurring to a thermowell used for measuring a reaction temperature of a catalyst. The thermowell blocking apparatus can prevent the economic losses caused by the stoppage of the desulfurization process, and can reduce consequential damages to human life, the environment, and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignees: SK Innovation Co., Inc., SK Energy Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hyung No Yoon, Sang Mo Lee, Jin Gyu Kim, Mock Huh, Choo Jei Kim
  • Patent number: 8734736
    Abstract: An article of laboratory glassware for directing the flow of chemical materials is described. The article includes a glass manifold having a plurality of input ports and at least one output port, and a plurality of stopcocks. Each stopcock has an inlet port and an outlet port connected by a passageway through the plug. Each of the stopcock output ports is connected to one of the manifold input ports, and each of the stopcock input ports is connected with one end of a hollow glass tube, and the other end of the hollow glass tube is connected to a female ground glass joint. The output ports of the manifold are terminated to a male ground glass joint. Each plug is rotated by an electrical motor or a servo, and sensed by a sensor. The rotation of each rotating plug is controlled by a computer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Inventor: Lester F. Ludwig
  • Publication number: 20140065661
    Abstract: Disclosed in an embodiment herein is a well plate system including a well plate device, including three plates disposed above one another. The two top plates include wells disposed therein which are in fluid communication with one another, and which when the device is in a resting position, the second plate rests on top of the third plate to create a fluid sealed well. The third plate includes fluid drainage openings, such that when the system is in an activated position, the plates are moved such that the fluid within the wells exits through these openings. The system can be fully automated, and can include one or more motors to control movement of the plates. The system can also operate manually with a hinge connected to the plates.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Inventors: Michael Baumgartner, Michael Nawrocki
  • Publication number: 20140045275
    Abstract: An apparatus for hermetically sealed storage of liquids for a microfluidic system includes at least one cavity and at least one sealing cone through which a connection to the microfluidic system is configured to be established and which closes the cavity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2011
    Publication date: February 13, 2014
    Applicant: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Peter Rothacher, Christian Dorrer
  • Patent number: 8636964
    Abstract: An end-face sealing fluidic connector for fluidic connection and/or interconnection of glass, glass-ceramic and/or ceramic fluidic modules in a microreactor includes a connector body having a circular first end face with a recess for retaining one or more O-rings and a first end section having a circular cylindrical outeT surface and a diameter In the range of from 3 to 25 mm. The outer surface has a circumferential recess dividing the first end section into a proximal portion adjacent the first end face and a distal portion. A retaining ring is seated in the circumferential recess and a protecting ring coinpming a high-compression-strength polymer surrounds the proximal portion of the first end section. A circular cylindrical sleeve surrounds the first end section and the reinforcing and/or protecting ring, the sleeve including a circumferentially extending inside bearing surface for engaging the retaining ring on the distal side thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Assignee: Corning Incorporated
    Inventors: Pierre Brunello, Paul Louis Florent Delautre, Sylvain Maxime F Gremetz, Olivier Lobet
  • Publication number: 20140023568
    Abstract: A bio cartridge includes a reaction chamber disposed within a housing and containing a reagent, a specimen transfer channel providing a transfer path through which a specimen supplied to the housing is transferred into the reaction chamber, a mixing unit mixing the specimen with the reagent, and an air pressure unit providing air pressure to the specimen.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2013
    Publication date: January 23, 2014
    Inventors: Jongcheol HONG, Wan Joong KIM, Gun Yong SUNG, Seunghwan KIM
  • Patent number: 8632738
    Abstract: A syringe, defined by a cylinder and by a piston slidingly engaged in the cylinder itself, is actuated after having inserted the cylinder within a gripper and having axially fed the syringe through the gripper so as to move an outer flange of the cylinder into contact with the gripper and/or the piston in a stop position within the cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: Health Robotics S.r.l
    Inventors: Paolo Giribona, Walter Bianco, Michele Minisini, Garcia Gaspar de Viedma Santoro
  • Patent number: 8597598
    Abstract: A sample presentation device for radiation-based analytical equipment comprising a mounting base, a carrier carried by, and adjustable in position, relative to the mounting base, and an arm extending from the carrier and having at its opposite end a terminal member; Each of the carrier and terminal member has a coaxial connector for receiving two opposite end regions of a capillary tube that forms, in use, a reaction cell; A radiant heater, typically an infrared heater, is radially offset from the axis of the coaxial connectors for heating, in use, a capillary tube mounted by way of the coaxial connectors; The carrier and terminal member preferably have heaters associated therewith for heating the flow passages through them; The terminal member preferably has a passage generally coaxial with the connector for receiving a communications conductor carrying a temperature sensor at its end that is operatively located generally centrally within a capillary.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: University of Cape Town
    Inventors: Michael Christian Maximilian Claeys, Nico Frederik Fischer
  • Patent number: 8585986
    Abstract: An interconnecting device for connecting a plurality of first fluid-bearing conduits to a corresponding plurality of second fluid-bearing conduits thereby providing fluid communication between the first fluid-bearing conduits and the second fluid-bearing conduits. The device includes a manifold and one or two ferrule plates that are held by compressive axial forces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: Sandia Corporation
    Inventor: Ronald F. Renzi
  • Patent number: 8569070
    Abstract: A fitting assembly having a nut, a ferrule, and a ferrule tip that may be assembled by an operator. The fitting assembly includes a nut with first and second ends, with the second end adapted to receive the first end of a ferrule, and a ferrule tip with a first end having an externally tapered portion adapted to abut the second end of the ferrule and a second end adapted to be received in a component or fitting of a liquid chromatography system. The nut, ferrule and ferrule tip of the fitting assembly have passageways therethrough for receiving and removably holding tubing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: IDEX Health & Science LLC
    Inventors: Scott J. Ellis, Eric Beemer, Nathaniel Nienhuis, Craig W. Graham, Troy N. Sanders
  • Patent number: 8545774
    Abstract: An electrical connection system for an analysis system and a method for analysis of a liquid sample on an analytical test element using the described analysis system are disclosed. The analysis system provides an evaluation appliance for evaluation of electrical signals, a test element holder for holding and positioning of an analytical test element in a measurement position, and an electrical contact element which makes electrical contact with an electrical contact surface of an analytical test element to produce an electrical connection between the contact surface and the evaluation appliance. The contact element is moved by means such that contact with the electrical contact surface of the test element is made when the test element holder is in the measurement position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Assignee: Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Stefan Riebel, Bruno Robert Thoes, Manfred Augstein, Herbert Wieder, Gregor Bainczyk
  • Patent number: 8545698
    Abstract: Disclosed are hemodialysis and similar dialysis systems including fluid flow circuits. Hemodialysis systems may include a blood flow path, and a dialysate flow path including balancing, mixing, and/or a directing circuits. Preparation of dialysate may be decoupled from patient dialysis. Circuits may be defined within one or more cassettes. The fluid circuit and/or the various fluid flow paths may be isolated from electrical components. A gas supply may be provided that, when activated, is able to urge dialysate through the dialyzer and blood back to the patient. Such a system may be useful during a power failure. The hemodialysis system may also include fluid handling devices, such as pumps, valves, mixers, etc., actuated using a control fluid, The control fluid may be delivered to the fluid handling devices using a detachable external pump. The fluid handling devices may have a spheroid shape with a diaphragm dividing it into two compartments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Assignee: DEKA Products Limited Partnership
    Inventors: Michael J. Wilt, Jason A. Demers, Kevin L. Grant, Brian D. Tracey, James D. Dale
  • Publication number: 20130251603
    Abstract: Provided is a sample packing device for packing a sample with respect to a microchip for performing reaction of a micro component contained in the sample, the microchip at least including: a sample reservoir; a reaction reservoir; and a channel connected between the sample reservoir and the reaction reservoir, in which a package including a sample chamber packed in advance with the sample is mounted on the microchip so as to pack the sample in the sample chamber into the sample reservoir.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2013
    Publication date: September 26, 2013
    Applicant: NEC Corporation
    Inventors: Minoru ASOGAWA, Hisashi HAGIWARA, Tohru HIRAMATSU
  • Publication number: 20130243651
    Abstract: An analytical device for automated determining of a measured variable of a liquid sample, includes: a base module; a replaceable cassette connectable with the base module and having at least one liquid container connectable via a fluid line with a measuring cell and containing a reagent to be added to the liquid sample for forming a measured liquid; and a measuring transducer for registering measured values correlated with the measured variable for the measured liquid accommodated in the measuring cell. The cassette has, associated with the at least one liquid container, a fluid coupling apparatus having a primary component and a secondary component and serving for producing a connection of the fluid line with the liquid container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2013
    Publication date: September 19, 2013
    Applicant: Endress + Hauser Conducta Gesellschaft fĂĽr Mess-un d Regeltechnik mbH + Co. KG
    Inventor: Endress + Hauser Conducta Gesellschaft fĂĽr Mess-und Regeltechnik mbH + Co. KG.
  • Patent number: 8535623
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing a concave connector substrate includes: a step of preparing a guide substrate having a guide/holding region that guides a plate-shaped connector to a connection position and a cut portion; a step of arranging and aligning two wiring substrates, each having wiring lines and through hole connection portions that are electrically connected to the wiring lines, with both surfaces of the guide substrate, and applying an adhesive to a predetermined region of the guide substrate to bond the wiring substrates to the guide substrate; a step of bending a portion of the wiring substrate toward the inside of the cut portion of the guide substrate and bringing the wiring lines disposed in the bent portion into pressure contact with the inside of the cut portion; and a step of removing a section inside the cut portion to form the guide/holding region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: Hitachi Chemical Company, Ltd.
    Inventor: Hidehiro Nakamura
  • Patent number: 8524173
    Abstract: A microchannel structure including a dispersed-phase introduction channel which communicates with a dispersed-phase introduction inlet; a continuous-phase introduction channel which communicates with a continuous-phase introduction inlet; a discharge channel which communicates with a discharge outlet; a fine-particle formation channel; and a plurality of branch channels for dispersed-phase introduction which are microchannels; wherein one end of the fine-particle formation channel in a fluid traveling direction communicates with the continuous-phase introduction channel whereas the other end thereof communicates with the discharge channel; and wherein a side part of the dispersed-phase introduction channel and side part of the fine-particle formation channel communicate via the plurality of branch channel for dispersed-phase introduction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Tosoh Corporation
    Inventors: Maho Yamanaka, Akira Kawai, Koji Katayama, Hiroki Takamiya
  • Patent number: 8501000
    Abstract: The present invention includes a container and a method of separating one or more components of interest bound to magnetic particles using centrifugal forces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: Roche Molecular Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Heinz-Michael Hein, Emad Sarofim, Lotar Schenk, Hans-Peter Wahl
  • Publication number: 20130183213
    Abstract: A reaction vessel for an automatic chemical or biological analysis appliance includes a connection part (22) for connection to another vessel (10) of the same type, the connection part is resiliently snap-fastened on the top end of the vessel (10) and is also resiliently snap-fastened to the connection part (22) of another vessel so as to form a string of vessels that are hinged to one another about transverse axes (xx)?.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2010
    Publication date: July 18, 2013
    Applicant: DIAGNOSTICA STAGO
    Inventors: Philippe Croisard, Olivier Valverde
  • Patent number: 8486348
    Abstract: A device is made by forming sacrificial fibers on a substrate mold. The fibers and mold are covered with a first material. The substrate mold is removed, and the covered fibers are then removed to form channels in the first material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignee: Cornell University
    Inventors: Leon M. Bellan, Harold G. Craighead, Elizabeth A. Strychalski
  • Publication number: 20130095508
    Abstract: A pipette component for use in performing an experimental procedure with a fluid sample and a pipette, the pipette component including: a pipette interface configured to engage sealingly and separably with a body of the pipette; a tip interface configured to engage sealingly and separably with a replaceable tip; and an experiment region configured to receive at least part of the fluid sample by operation of the pipette, and configured to perform at least part of the experimental procedure in the experiment region using the at least part of the fluid sample.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2010
    Publication date: April 18, 2013
    Applicant: MINIFAB (AUSTRALIA) PTY LTD
    Inventors: Andrew Paul Campitelli, Erol Craig Harvey, John Edward McCormack, Matthew Daniel Solomon, Edward Francis Wilkinson, Michael William Wilkinson, Grit Diessner
  • Patent number: 8377396
    Abstract: Gripping tool for automatic laboratory machines, with gripping appliances for gripping vessels, an appliance for converting and/or transferring of movements, the power take-off of which is coupled with the gripping appliances in order to drive them, a coupling appliance for detachable connection with a drive appliance of a tool support of an automatic laboratory machine, which is coupled with the drive of the appliance for converting and/or transferring in order to drive it, and a mounting appliance for detachable mounting of the gripping tool on the tool support of the automatic laboratory machine, while the coupling appliance is connected with the drive appliance of the tool support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Eppendorf AG
    Inventors: Matthias Meinicke, Jens Wilmer
  • Patent number: 8372358
    Abstract: In a microfluidic system, a magnetic clamp for sealing a flexible microchannel chip includes a base formed from a magnetically-attractable material. The base supports a window for viewing the face of the microfluidic chip. A ring with magnets uniformly distributed around it is disposed over the base. A transparent disk attached to the top of the ring has an inlet and an outlet for introducing and removing a fluid medium into a cavity defined the disk, the window, the center opening of the ring and the base. An elastomer cushion is attached to the inner surface of the disk. The magnetic force between the base and the magnets on the ring compresses the cushion against the microfluidic chip so that the microchannels are sealed against the window with a uniform and reproducible pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Assignee: The Regents of the University of California
    Inventors: Alexander Groisman, Edgar Gutierrez, Eugene Tkachenko, Mark H. Ginsberg
  • Publication number: 20130034475
    Abstract: An end-face sealing fluidic connector [20] for fluidic connection and/or interconnection of glass, glass-ceramic and/or ceramic fluidic modules [12] in a microreactor [10] and includes a connector body [22] having a circular first end face [26] with a recess [28] for retaining one or more O-rings [30]. The connector body [22] has a first end section [32] having a circular cylindrical outer surface [34] having a diameter [36] in the range of from 3 to 25 mm extending along the connector body [22] from the first end face [26]. The outer surface [34] of the first end section [32] is having a circumferential recess [38] dividing the first end section [32] into a proximal portion [40] adjacent the first end face [26] and a distal portion [42] separated from the proximal portion [40] by the circumferential recess [38].
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2011
    Publication date: February 7, 2013
    Inventors: Pierre Brunello, Paul Louis Florent Delautre, Sylvain Maxime F. Gremetz, Olivier Lobet
  • Patent number: 8361416
    Abstract: The invention relates to a sample container (10, 100, 500, 700) for biological sample material (23, 230), comprising an upper opening (11) that can be closed by a lid (14, 140, 540), a lateral wall region (12) and a base (13) and a hygroscopic substance (19, 190, 590, 790) contained in the interior of the sample container for drying sample material (23, 230) in the sample container, wherein the sample container is partitioned into at least two compartments, of which one is a sample compartment (16, 160, 560), and the other is a drying compartment (18, 180, 580) containing the hygroscopic substance, wherein the hygroscopic substance is connected to the interior of the sample container in a steam exchange connection, and wherein the sample compartment extends from an upper end, particularly equipped with an opening (40, 400), in the longitudinal direction to the opening in a flush manner to the base (13) of the sample container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: Prionics AG
    Inventors: Alexander Berner, Bernhard Hostettler
  • Publication number: 20130020232
    Abstract: Reactors for carrying out a chemical reaction, as well as related components, systems and methods are provided. In accordance with one embodiment, a reactor is provided that includes a furnace and a crucible positioned for heating by the furnace. The crucible may contain a molten salt bath. A downtube is disposed at least partially within the interior crucible along an axis. The downtube includes a conduit having a first end in communication with a carbon source and an outlet at a second end of the conduit for introducing the carbon material into the crucible. At least one opening is formed in the conduit between the first end and the second end to enable circulation of reaction components contained within the crucible through the conduit. An oxidizing material may be introduced through a bottom portion of the crucible in the form of gas bubbles to react with the other materials.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2011
    Publication date: January 24, 2013
    Applicant: BATTELLE ENERGY ALLIANCE, LLC
    Inventors: Terry D. Turner, Bradley C. Benefiel, Dennis N. Bingham, Kerry M. Klingler, Bruce M. Wilding
  • Publication number: 20130017131
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a single use, controlled environment manufacturing module in the form of a sterile sealed bag formed of a substantially flexible material, such that the bag can be inflated and deflated for transport and/or disposal. The flexible bag has one or more access ports and connectors to accommodate a variety of biochemical or pharmaceutical manufacturing processes to be carried out within the flexible bag. The interiors of one or more disclosed modules can be connected, forming a module train.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2012
    Publication date: January 17, 2013
    Applicant: XCELLEREX, INC.
    Inventor: XCELLEREX, INC.
  • Patent number: 8337782
    Abstract: A magnetic coupling system may be used in a fluid displacement apparatus to magnetically couple a drive shaft to a piston. The magnetic coupling system may include first and second magnetic couplers at the ends of the drive shaft and piston, respectively. The first magnetic coupler and second magnetic coupler may be configured to exert an attractive force. A bearing between the magnetic couplers reduces friction and side loading.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: Ivek Corporation
    Inventor: Douglas S. Bensley
  • Patent number: 8337778
    Abstract: A microfluidic method and device for focusing and/or forming discontinuous sections of similar or dissimilar size in a fluid is provided. The device can be fabricated simply from readily-available, inexpensive material using simple techniques.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignees: President and Fellows of Harvard College, The Governing Council of the Univ. of Toronto
    Inventors: Howard A. Stone, Shelley L. Anna, Nathalie Bontoux, Darren Roy Link, David A. Weitz, Irina Gitlin, Eugenia Kumacheva, Piotr Garstecki, Willow R. Diluzio, George M. Whitesides
  • Patent number: 8313697
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a cartridge 1 including a plurality of analyzing tools 3 arranged lined in a plane direction and a case 2 for accommodating the plurality of analyzing tools 3, and being configured to take out the analyzing tool 3 one at a time from the case 2. The plurality of analyzing tools 3 further include engagement means 32, 33 for restricting the analyzing tools 3 adjacent to each other in the plane direction and allowing removable attachment in a thickness direction D1, D2 of the analyzing tool 3. The present invention further relates to an analyzer and an analyzing system for analyzing a sample using the cartridge 1.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2012
    Assignee: Arkray, Inc.
    Inventor: Yoshiharu Sato