Tube Shaped Vessel Patents (Class 422/549)
  • Patent number: 12252677
    Abstract: A fluidic device, a fluidic system and a method for developing a cellular starting material into a three-dimensional cellular structure. The fluidic device includes a base body which includes a chamber in which a matrix is received, into which the cellular starting material to be developed can be introduced, and at least two fluid reservoirs. Each fluid reservoir includes a fluid inlet, a fluid outlet and a separating device which is partially permeable to a fluid medium and which separates the associated fluid reservoir from the chamber and forms a common plane interface with the chamber, via which the fluid medium can diffuse into the matrix.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2025
    Assignee: TECHNISCHE UNIVERSITÄT DARMSTADT
    Inventors: Ulrike Nuber, Heinz Koeppl, Steffen Hardt, Katrin Töpfer
  • Patent number: 12222358
    Abstract: The drive device includes a guide element defining a guide track, the guide element being configured to receive and guide a cuvettes strip in translation along the guide track, and a drive belt configured to displace the cuvettes strip in translation along the guide track when the cuvettes strip is received in the guide element. The drive belt is disposed below the guide track and is configured to cooperate with lower portions of the cuvettes of the cuvettes strip when the cuvettes strip is received in the guide element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2025
    Assignee: ARTEION
    Inventor: Alain Rousseau
  • Patent number: 12201994
    Abstract: A magnetic particle manipulating apparatus includes a magnetic force source moving mechanism, an operation controller configured to control operation of the magnetic source moving mechanism, an openable cover for covering the device holder, a pressing mechanism provided on the cover to press the tubular device held by the device holder when the cover is closed so that warpage of the tubular device is corrected, an open/close state detector provided so as to detect an open/close state of the cover. The operation controller is configured to execute the processing operation only in a case where the open/close state detector detects that the cover is closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2025
    Assignee: SHIMADZU CORPORATION
    Inventors: Ayaka Minamimoto, Masamitsu Shikata, Nobuhiro Hanafusa, Akira Muramatsu
  • Patent number: 12099071
    Abstract: The present disclosure is, in one aspect, directed to a locking assembly for securing a sample tube assembly to a sample manifold of a measurement system. The locking assembly includes a ramp block having one or more slots defined therein and configured to at least partially receive a portion of the sample tube assembly. The ramp block also includes a plurality of surface features defined therealong and configured to engage and move the sample tube assembly toward and into engagement with the sample manifold. The ramp block further is movable between a plurality of positions including an open position for allowing the sample tube assembly to be received through the one or more slots or openings, and a closed position substantially sealing the sample tube assembly against or within the sample manifold. Other aspects also are described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2023
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2024
    Assignee: Micromeritics Instrument Corporation
    Inventor: Paul Bracher
  • Patent number: 12029704
    Abstract: A method of preparing liquid medication doses using an automated dosing device may include securing a vial within a vial holder. The vial includes a liquid medicament. An empty syringe is secured within a syringe holder with a plunger of the syringe being secured by a plunger gripper and a luer lock of the syringe within a luer lock gripper. The syringe holder and the vial holder are moved closer together to insert a needle of the syringe through a septum of the vial while longitudinal axes of the syringe and the vial are at a downward angle and while the vial holder is lower than the syringe holder. The syringe holder and the vial holder are rotated to vertically align the longitudinal axes with the vial holder above the syringe holder. The plunger gripper is pulled away from the luer lock gripper to transfer liquid medicament into the syringe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2024
    Assignee: Omnicell, Inc.
    Inventors: Walter Bianco, Charles Marsh, Ryan Kaintz, Alessandro Jurman, Stefano Del Sal, Sameer Udeshi
  • Patent number: 12023467
    Abstract: An extender for filling a syringe cartridge at a filling station having an elevating bar has a connector portion connecting a proximal portion of the extender to a distal portion of the syringe cartridge. A head on a distal portion of the extender is sized and shaped to engage the elevating bar of the filling station. The syringe cartridge having the extender may be provided to a filling station that is configured for filling a long syringe cartridge having a long syringe-cartridge length greater than a length of the syringe cartridge. The syringe cartridge and extender may be supported on a syringe support of the filling station and passed through the filling station to fill the syringe cartridge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2024
    Assignee: West Pharma. Services IL, Ltd.
    Inventors: Oz Cabiri, Ran Hezkiahu, Tal Hammer
  • Patent number: 12025554
    Abstract: A method for quantitative analysis of hydrogen gas generated due to the decomposition of Si—OH (silanol) in porous silica, which is a support of a metallocene catalyst is provided. The analysis enables the measurement of the content of hydrogen present in trace amounts in silica by employing an inert gas fusion-infrared absorption (IGFIA) method under specific pressure and temperature conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2024
    Assignee: LG Chem, Ltd.
    Inventors: Sumin Na, Jieun Kim, Sunah Shin, Min Hwan Jung
  • Patent number: 11964282
    Abstract: A biological false bottom transport tube system includes a top section of a specimen tube body, the top section comprising a top, a semi-spherical interior floor, and a bottom below the interior floor, the top section manufactured from a material transparent to both visible and infrared light, wherein the top section may hold a sample on the interior floor; and a bottom section of the specimen tube body, the bottom section comprises a top of a diameter less than a dimeter defined by a remainder of the bottom section, the top of the bottom section fits into the bottom of the top section below the interior floor such that the top of the bottom section is secured within the bottom of the top section, the bottom section manufactured from a material that is not transparent to either visible or infrared light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2022
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2024
    Inventor: Michelle Nicole Steiner
  • Patent number: 11859202
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a fluid flow device. The device includes an elongate body having a proximal end, a distal end, and a length therebetween, at least one source fluid inflow port, at least one waste fluid outflow port, at least one well inlet port positioned at the distal end of the elongate body, at least one well outlet port positioned at the distal end of the elongate body, at least one conduit connecting the at least one source fluid inflow port to the at least one well inlet port, and at least one conduit connecting the at least one waste fluid outflow port to the at least one well outlet port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2024
    Assignee: University of Maryland, Baltimore
    Inventors: James Lyons, Christopher Ward, Joseph Stains
  • Patent number: 11772100
    Abstract: Disclosed is a reagent container rack used in a specimen analyzer configured to analyze a specimen by use of a reagent. The reagent container rack includes a holder configured to hold a reagent container that contains the reagent; and a lid configured to cover a mouth portion of the reagent container to form an airtight space between the lid and the mouth portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2023
    Assignee: SYSMEX CORPORATION
    Inventor: Takuya Fujii
  • Patent number: 11623215
    Abstract: Filtration apparatus for the assay of biological and biochemical reactants, for example, is provided and includes a substrate such as a plate having one or more wells open at each end, and a porous membrane positioned in each well forming a discrete filtering area. The filtration apparatus includes a seal that is in a compressible relationship with the face of the porous membrane, the surface of the compression element, and the well wall. Each well includes a compression element, such as an internal well insert or sleeve, which compresses the seal so that the seal contacts the membrane face, the surface of the compression element, and the well wall in a liquid-tight manner. The compression element may be configured so that it is fixed in the well such as by an interference fit with the well wall or by bonding to a surface of the substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2023
    Assignee: EMD Millipore Corporation
    Inventors: Phillip Clark, Kurt E. Greenizen, John Doyle
  • Patent number: 11609240
    Abstract: The present disclosure is, in one aspect, directed to a locking assembly for securing a sample tube assembly to a sample manifold of a measurement system. The locking assembly includes a ramp block having one or more slots defined therein and configured to at least partially receive a portion of the sample tube assembly. The ramp block also includes a plurality of surface features defined therealong and configured to engage and move the sample tube assembly toward and into engagement with the sample manifold. The ramp block further is movable between a plurality of positions including an open position for allowing the sample tube assembly to be received through the one or more slots or openings, and a closed position substantially sealing the sample tube assembly against or within the sample manifold. Other aspects also are described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2021
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2023
    Assignee: Micromeritics Instrument Corporation
    Inventor: Paul Bracher
  • Patent number: 11572553
    Abstract: A system for extracting analytes from a biological sample, which includes: an electronic pipette having pipette cones with a tip; a well support; a pipette holder including: a base which can removably house each well support; a pipette support into which the pipette is inserted, and which can move relative to the base between a first position in which the tips of the cones are inserted in a well of the support and at least one second position in which the tips are outside the wells; a housing facing the pipette cones above their tip when the pipette support is in the first position, and facing the tips of the pipette cones when the pipette support is in the second position; and a magnetized part removably inserted in the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2023
    Assignee: BIOMÉRIEUX
    Inventors: David Alix, Edgar Minassian, Jean-Claude Raymond, Philippe Wandels
  • Patent number: 11541752
    Abstract: The present application relates to the field of alcohol detection, and particularly to an intelligent identity-authentication alcohol detector. One technical solution comprises an intelligent identity-authentication alcohol detector, comprising a base, a mounting seat, and a connecting arm; the mounting seat is provided on the base, and a face information acquiring module is provided on the mounting seat; the connecting arm is rotatably provided on the base, and a breathing opening for alcohol detection is provided on the connecting arm; and the connecting arm is used for driving the breathing opening for alcohol detection to a position where the face information acquiring module acquires the face information of a subject. According the technical solution of the present application, the face information acquiring module can constantly acquire the face information of a subject when the subject breathes into the breathing opening for alcohol detection, thereby preventing the subject from cheating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2023
    Assignee: Shenzhen Well Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Zhi Chen, Dong Chen, Zebin Chen, Yung Chan
  • Patent number: 11408826
    Abstract: A portable device for detecting an analyte associated with a target organic molecule in a liquid and/or solid substance. The device includes a test chamber, a probe, and a sensor. The test chamber contains a liquid volume of test solution including an analytical reagent selected to react with the analyte. The test chamber is sealed by a pierceable membrane wall. The probe is removably positionable to pierce the membrane wall to deposit a sample in the test chamber to form a test mixture with the test solution. The sensor is positioned to detect one or more characteristics of the test mixture in the test chamber indicative of a reaction between the analyte and the analytical reagent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2022
    Assignee: Aterica Inc.
    Inventors: Heinz Wolter, Alexander Leyn, Michael Fisher, Erik Helge Borg, Christopher Osuch, Gregory John Adams Vilk, Evan Wright, Darian Blanchard
  • Patent number: 11149295
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a housing and an actuator. The housing, which defines a reagent volume that can receive a reagent container, can be removably coupled to a reaction chamber. A delivery portion of the housing defines a delivery path between the reagent volume and the reaction chamber when the housing is coupled to the reaction chamber. The delivery path includes a protrusion such that the delivery path has a discontinuous inner surface. The actuator can be moved to convey a reagent from the reagent container into the reaction chamber via the delivery path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2021
    Assignee: GeneWeave Biosciences, Inc.
    Inventors: Doran Donnelly, Werner Frei, Ryan Griswold, Lance Page, Shaunak Roy
  • Patent number: 11041784
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a dual-arm clamping type holder for transmission electron microscopy grids and preparation method thereof. The preparation method comprises: firstly manufacturing a frame with two adjacent arms located on a same plane and have a clamping structure by a hard material; then putting the frame in a molten adhering liquid so that the frame is dipped with the adhering liquid; and finally, taking out the frame dipped with the adhering liquid, and waiting for the adhering liquid to solidify into adhering layers along the arms. The dual-arm clamping type holder manufactured by the method of the present invention comprises a frame and adhering layers; and the adhering layers adhere to the inner sides of the clamping structure between the two adjacent arms of the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2021
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2021
    Assignee: Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences
    Inventors: Jingnan Liang, Hao Liang, Yiwei Liu, Weina Sun, Chunli Li, Yuanming Luo, Zheng Fan, Tong Zhao, Shutao Sun, Qian Wang, Xiaolan Zhang
  • Patent number: 10966690
    Abstract: A specimen container system and methods of use are described herein for capturing, storing and accessing fluids for lab testing. A cup is removably secured to a cap assembly. The cap assembly is comprised of cover and a lid which are connected by a hinge assembly having a biasing member for maintain the lid in an open position. An aperture in the cap has two sections that in combination with the lid decreases the contamination risk compared to prior art container system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2021
    Inventor: Marc Kopoian
  • Patent number: 10883134
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method capable of detecting, identifying or counting microorganisms, and a system using the same, and provides a method capable of identifying, detecting or counting microorganisms in a more rapid, accurate and convenient manner than a conventional method for identifying, detecting or counting microorganisms. According to the present invention, it was found that identification, detection or counting of microorganisms can be performed in a rapid, accurate and convenient manner, when a fluorescently labeled microorganism sample is centrifuged and attached to the surface of a slide, followed by analysis of fluorescent images. Therefore, the method and system of the present invention can be useful in various fields requiring detection, identification and counting of microorganisms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2021
    Assignee: Aligned Genetics, Inc.
    Inventors: Neoncheol Jung, Keunchang Cho
  • Patent number: 10882047
    Abstract: A sample vessel rack (1), which comprises a frame (2) with a plurality of openings (3) in the upper surface of the frame for sample vessels (9), and a locking plate member (5) movable in a plane parallel to the upper surface of the frame (2) of the rack from a releasing position to a locking position and back, wherein the removal of the sample vessels (9) from the rack is prevented when the locking plate member is in the locking position, the openings (3) of the upper surface of the frame (2) comprises slots (12) formed on their side, and in the locking position a part of the locking plate member (5) sets itself in the area of the slots. The invention also relates to such a method and a sample vessel rack system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2021
    Assignee: Thermo Fisher Scientific OY
    Inventor: Lauri Peltosaari
  • Patent number: 10722891
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a storage container for liquids, comprising a liquid-tight tank with an upwardly directed opening, wherein the opening is closed in a leaktight fashion by a protective film comprising an outer layer and an inner layer, wherein the outer layer is an aluminium foil and the inner layer is a plastic film, wherein the outer layer can be removed from the storage container separately from the inner layer, and wherein the inner layer can be pierced by a hollow needle; an assembly comprising at least two storage containers according to the invention; and a method for producing the assembly according to the invention, comprising the steps of providing at least two storage containers according to the invention, and applying a continuous layer of an adhesive film on the outer layers of the protective films of the at least two storage containers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2020
    Assignee: EUROIMMUN MEDIZINISCHE LABORDIAGNOSTIKA AG
    Inventor: Lars Koschinat
  • Patent number: 10525470
    Abstract: A liquid handling device having an axis of rotation about which the device can be rotated to drive liquid flow. The device includes a vented upstream chamber having an outlet port and an unvented chamber including an inlet port to receive liquid from the outlet port of the upstream chamber and an outlet port radially outward the inlet port. The device further includes a vented downstream chamber having an inlet port to receive liquid from the outlet port of the unvented chamber. A downstream conduit connects the outlet port of the unvented chamber to the inlet port of the downstream chamber and includes a bend radially inward of the outlet port of the unvented chamber. An upstream conduit connects the outlet port of the upstream chamber to the inlet port of the unvented chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2020
    Assignee: Biosurfit, S.A.
    Inventors: Nuno Alexandre Esteves Reis, Tania Moura Pires De Andrade Tenreiro, Miguel Joao Marques Barreiros
  • Patent number: 10335121
    Abstract: A receiver for urine whether for taking sample or disposing thereof, includes an open-topped of saddle shape which approximates the configuration of thighs, labia or other convenient zone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2019
    Inventor: Akhil Rajendra Desai
  • Patent number: 10058470
    Abstract: Methods and devices for holding liquid or solid materials including a cylindrical container, a holder, and a detachable handle, the handle capable of being adjusted to variable angles when coupled to the holder. Method of collecting material including the step of holding a graduated cylindrical container by a detachable variable angle handle. A kit for a female urinary cup for holding liquid or solid materials comprising a cylindrical container including exterior threads on which a cap may be screwed, a holder attached to a sidewall of the container, a detachable handle optionally coupled to the holder, the handle capable of being adjusted to variable angles when coupled to the holder, and instructions for use of the female urinary cup.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2018
    Inventor: Jerry P. Phillips
  • Patent number: 10039867
    Abstract: A method for recovering blood from a blood-laden surgical sponge for autologous reinfusion, the method comprising the steps of: conveying negative pressure to a housing with the blood-laden surgical sponge; applying a predetermined force to draw the blood from the surgical sponge; and collecting the recovered blood.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2018
    Assignee: PROCELL SURGICAL INC.
    Inventors: Robert Krensky, David G. Matsuura, Philip J. Simpson
  • Patent number: 9962700
    Abstract: An analyzing device includes: an operation cavity that is adjacent to a first reserving cavity retaining a sample liquid, in a circumferential direction of rotational driving; a connecting section provided on a side wall of the first reserving cavity to suck the sample liquid by a capillary force and transfer the sample liquid to the operation cavity; and second reserving cavities that are disposed outside the operation cavity in the circumferential direction of the rotational driving and communicate with the outermost position of the operation cavity through a connecting passage. The connecting section is circumferentially extended farther than the liquid level of the sample liquid retained in the first reserving cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2018
    Assignee: PANASONIC HEALTHCARE HOLDINGS CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Hiroshi Saiki
  • Patent number: 9618526
    Abstract: An automated analyzer that can effectively reduce contamination of a diluted low-concentration specimen resulting from a high-concentration specimen not being diluted. The automated analyzer includes a specimen nozzle that performs both the function of pipetting a specimen from a specimen container accommodating the specimen and the function of pipetting a specimen diluted by the analyzer, and means for washing the specimen nozzle with a predetermined detergent. When a pipetting process of a high-concentration specimen not being diluted and a pipetting process of a low-concentration specimen diluted by the analyzer are consecutively performed for the same specimen by the specimen nozzle, between the pipetting process of a high-concentration specimen and the pipetting process of a low-concentration specimen, the analyzer performs a washing processing in which the specimen nozzle is washed with the predetermined detergent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2017
    Assignee: Hitachi High-Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Yoshiaki Saito, Yoichi Aruga, Toshihide Orihashi
  • Patent number: 9283704
    Abstract: A multilayer evacuated blood collection tube is provided having a first tube layer, and a second tube layer formed on the first tube layer and a closure, the second tube layer being a nanocomposite barrier layer. Such containers include but are not limited to blood collection tubes, evacuated blood collection tubes, centrifuge tubes, culture bottles, and syringe barrels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2016
    Assignee: Becton, Dickinson and Company
    Inventors: Brian F. Ahern, Donald J. Carano, Nicholas A. Grippi, Paul R. Soskey, Gregory L. Lusardi
  • Patent number: 9040000
    Abstract: Devices and methods are described herein that are configured for use in laboratory testing, such as, for example, during a procedure including the monitoring and detection of chemical reactions. For example, the systems and devices described herein can be used during a procedure to monitor and detect polymerase chain reactions (PCR). In some embodiments, a sample container includes a container body that defines an interior volume and has an open end in fluid communication with the interior volume. A cap is sealingly engageable with the open end of the container body. The cap defines a receptacle that is configured to extend within a portion of the interior volume of the container body when the cap is sealingly engaged thereto. The receptacle can receive therein a sensor, such as, a temperature sensor that can monitor the temperature of a sample material disposed within the container body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2015
    Assignee: Heatflow Technologies Inc.
    Inventor: Warren L. Dinges
  • Publication number: 20150132185
    Abstract: A multi vessel ring (suitable for use with thermal cycler and PCR apparatus) comprises a ring body and a plurality of elongate tubes. Each tube has a proximal open end and a distal closed end, each elongate tube being integrally formed with the ring body, and being pivotally connected to the ring body between an initial position in which a longitudinal axis of each tube is generally parallel with an axis of rotation of the ring body, and a final position in which the longitudinal axis of each tube is inclined relative to the axis of rotation of the ring body. The multi vessel ring preferably further comprises a plurality of caps integrally formed with the ring body, and adapted to seal the proximal open end of respective tubes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2011
    Publication date: May 14, 2015
    Applicant: CHROMOPLAS PTY LTD
    Inventor: Anania Albert Khamu
  • Patent number: 9028756
    Abstract: A specimen analyzing method and a specimen analyzing apparatus capable of measuring interference substances before analyzing a specimen. The method comprises a step for sucking the specimen stored in a specimen container (150) and sampling it in a first container (153), a step for optically measuring the specimen in the first container, a step for sampling the specimen in a second container (154) and preparing a specimen for measurement by mixing the specimen with a reagent in the second container, and a step for analyzing the specimen for measurement according to the results of the optical measurement of the specimen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Assignee: Sysmex Corporation
    Inventors: Norimasa Yamamoto, Takashi Yamato, Naohiko Matsuo, Satoshi Iguchi
  • Patent number: 9012206
    Abstract: The invention provides methods of performing a sizing analysis. In the methods, a sizing ladder used in performing the sizing analysis is corrected. In one method, the sizing ladder is corrected for batch-to-batch variations in a sieving gel. In another method, the sizing ladder is corrected for a sample concentration that is different from the archival sizing ladder concentration. Methods are also provided in which the sizing ladder is corrected using a standard marker in a sample and/or using a real-time standard sizing ladder. The methods may be used individually or in combination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: Caliper Life Sciences, Inc.
    Inventors: Dan Camporese, Advit Bhatt, Josh Molho, Hui Xu, Ken Summers
  • Publication number: 20150105300
    Abstract: A method of processing a sample may include introducing a sample into a vessel, the vessel having proximal and distal ends, the sample being introduced into the proximal end of the vessel; incubating the sample in the vessel with a substance capable of specific binding to a preselected component of the sample; propelling components of the incubated sample, other than the preselected component, toward the proximal end of the vessel by clamping the vessel distal to the incubated sample and compressing the vessel where the incubated sample is contained; propelling the preselected component toward a distal segment of the vessel by clamping the vessel proximal to the preselected component and compressing the vessel where the preselected component is contained; and mixing the preselected component with a reagent in the distal segment of the vessel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2014
    Publication date: April 16, 2015
    Inventors: Shuqi Chen, Lingjun Chen
  • Patent number: 9005551
    Abstract: A sample vessel may include a segmented tubule and an interface receiving the tubule. The segmented tubule may include an opening for receiving a sample material and at least one compressible section, the at least one compressible section having a wall constructed at least partially from a material having sufficient flexibility to permit compression of opposed sections of the wall into contact with one another, and at least two segments of the tubule being fluidically isolated from one another by a bonding of a fluid-tight seal between opposed sections of the tubule wall, wherein said fluid-tight seal irreversibly opens upon application of fluid pressure greater than a threshold value to permit selective fluid communication between the opposed sections. The interface may facilitate delivery of a sample material to the tubule through the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Roche Molecular Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Shuqi Chen, Lingjun Chen
  • Patent number: 8999729
    Abstract: A device for conducting an agglutination assay comprising several reaction vessels, each reaction vessel comprising an upper chamber having an opening for accepting reactants and/or a sample; and a lower chamber comprising an end in communication with the upper chamber for receiving fluids from the upper chamber, a closed end opposite to the end, and a matrix for separating agglutinates from non-agglutinates; wherein the device further comprises a rotating support able to rotate around an axis and holding pivotally the reaction vessels in a way to allow the reaction vessels to pivot about an axis essentially perpendicular to the rotation axis of the support when the latter is rotated, such that the fluids remain in the upper chamber when the support is not rotated, and can flow from the upper chamber to the lower chamber and into the matrix when the support is rotated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Assignee: Symbion Medical Systems Sarl
    Inventors: Isabelle Delafosse, Fabrice Ummel, Antonio Yanez
  • Patent number: 8999273
    Abstract: A system for preparing and holding specimens for microscopic analysis including a capsule having an open end, an opposite end including at least one aperture and a reservoir. The system also includes an insert with a base including at least one aperture. The insert fits within and engages an inner wall of the reservoir to secure the insert within the reservoir. The system also includes an insertion tool configured to engage the insert. The insertion tool is sized to position the insert within the reservoir at a variety of positions within the reservoir. The insertion tool will disengage the insert once the insert is positioned within the reservoir. A method of positioning a specimen within a capsule for processing the specimen in preparation for microscopic analysis. A tray for holding a plurality of pipette tips in such a way that a lower end of each pipette tip is sealed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Assignee: Microscopy Innovations, LLC
    Inventors: Steven L. Goodman, Mark T. Nelson, Jack C. LaSee
  • Patent number: 8992862
    Abstract: A separation device including a first buoy, a second buoy, a first valve, and a second valve. The first buoy is mounted to a buoy guide post and slidably mounted within a separation chamber. The second buoy is slidably mounted to the guide post and movable between a first position and a second position. The second buoy closes the first valve and opens the second valve when in the first position. The second buoy opens the first valve and closes the second valve when in the second position. The second buoy has a density such that after spinning the device for a suitable period of time a first component of the composition is isolated between the first buoy and the second buoy and a second component of the composition is isolated between the second buoy and the end of the separation chamber that is opposite to a port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Biomet Biologics, LLC
    Inventors: Michael D. Leach, Jason Chavarria
  • Publication number: 20150087555
    Abstract: The invention provides a method for immobilization of biological molecules such as nucleic acids, peptides and proteins onto the surface of a glass or plastic solid support.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2014
    Publication date: March 26, 2015
    Inventor: Marcella CHIARI
  • Patent number: 8986611
    Abstract: A sample analysis apparatus configured to automatically press a start button upon installation of a sample tube is provided. The sample analysis apparatus includes: a body of the sample analysis apparatus; a door housing which may be provided in an opened state or a closed state, and configured to be coupled to the body of the sample analysis apparatus by a hinge; a tube accommodating unit included in the door housing and configured to accommodate the sample tube; a start button included in the body of the sample analysis apparatus and configured to start analysis of the sample; and an operating member positioned at a first position which is distant from the start button the sample tube is not installed in the tube accommodating unit, and a second position which is configured to operate the start button when a sample tube is installed and the door housing is closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yong Koo Lee, Tae Soo Kim, In Duk Hwang, Seock Woo Jang, Chul Ho Yun
  • Patent number: 8961907
    Abstract: The invention relates to apparatus for the detection of particles and for particle analysis. The apparatus comprises a sample holder comprising a base and a projection extending from the base. The base includes a contact region where, in use, the surface of a fluid sample may contact the projection. The surface of at least the contact region of the projection exhibits properties that allow the surface of the contact region to be substantially wetted by a fluid sample when the apparatus is in use so that the fluid sample forms a meniscus having its apex in contact with the contact region of the projection. The invention also relates to methods for using the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignee: Menixis Limited
    Inventor: Stephen John Sowerby
  • Kit
    Patent number: 8940248
    Abstract: A kit comprising a carrier and vessels arranged on the carrier, wherein different reagents are contained in different vessels, the vessels are arranged with an openable closing device on top of the carrier, the carrier has a footprint on the bottom side for being placed on a base, and the carrier has bottom positioning means for being positioned on at least one workplace of an automated laboratory system for microtiter plates according to the SBS standard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Assignee: Eppendorf AG
    Inventors: Judith Lucke, Jens-Peter Kroog, Helmut Knofe
  • Publication number: 20150017078
    Abstract: Sample handling system for handling samples contained in tubes (4), each tube (4) having a hollow body, a closed bottom and an open top for accessing the sample contained in the tube (4). The system comprises a micro-plate (1) comprising at least one grid insert (2) having a plurality of compartments. Each compartment comprises one or more side walls laterally confining a through-hole for receiving a said tube (4). The through-hole has a top opening and a bottom opening and extends between the top opening and the bottom opening. A frame (3) to which the at least one separate grid insert (2) is to be attached to form the micro-plate (1). The frame (3) laterally confines a through-opening which is dimensioned to allow for accessing each compartment (21) of the attached at least one grid insert (2) from above and from below. This allows for moving such tube (4) into and out of each compartment (21) through each of the top opening (202) and the bottom opening (203) of the through-hole (201).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2013
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Applicant: F. HOFFMANN-LA ROCHE AG
    Inventors: Christof Fattinger, Tom Kissling, Thomas Zumstein
  • Patent number: 8925734
    Abstract: A filter vial and piston are provided where the vial has a cylindrical wall with a closed bottom and open top and with the hollow, tubular piston therein. The piston has a distal end covered by a cup having a proximal cup seal extending outward to engage the walls of the vial to form a fluid tight seal with the vial during use. The distal end of the piston has a piston flange extending outwardly and located adjacent a recess in the piston so the cup forms a snap fit over the piston flange and extends into the recess. The piston flange causes the cup to bulge sufficiently outward to form a fluid tight seal with the vial during use. A filter is placed in the bottom of the cup and abuts an inwardly extending lip on the cup. The filter is held against the lip by a piston support at the distal end of the piston. A cup support at a distal end of the cup also helps support the filter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Assignee: Scientific Plastic Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Samuel A. Ellis, Kishan G. Hingorani
  • Patent number: 8911689
    Abstract: An interfacing cap for a reagent storage vessel is provided. The interfacing cap comprises a partitioning element having a structure corresponding to an opening of the reagent storage vessel, a projection fitting disposed on the partitioning element, a holder element, and a puncturing element coupled to the projection fitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2014
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Victor Donald Samper, Christian Rensch, Christoph Boeld, Xavier Franci
  • Patent number: 8900514
    Abstract: The invention discloses a blood analyzing device (100) comprising a holder (110) arranged for carrying a container (10) having a cuvette (20) containing a blood sample (30). The container (10) is positioned in the holder (110) so that a longitudinal axis (60) of the cuvette (20) is angled relative a horizontal axis (70). A light source (120) provides light (40) into the sample (30) and a detector (130) detects the output light (50) from a sub-portion of the blood sample (30). Kinetic information indicative of the change in hemoglobin concentration in a measuring volume (32, 34) is determined by a Hb processor (145) from the detected output light (50). An ESR processor (140) determines the erythrocyte sedimentation rate of the sample (30) based on the kinetic information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Inventor: Tommy Forsell
  • 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: 8889086
    Abstract: An improved tube including a closure portion, a strap integrally connected to the closure portion and being configured for defining a living hinge, a body portion having a longitudinal axis and an outer wall generally circumscribing the longitudinal axis, and being integrally and hingedly connected with the closure portion by way of the strap. The body portion including a sample portion being generally elongated along the longitudinal axis and being configured for elastic deformation along a portion of its length, including in a direction that is generally transverse to the longitudinal axis so that at least a portion of the wall structure compressively and resiliently deforms and engages a wall defining an opening in a sample block of a polymerase chain reaction amplification device, and the first outer wall dimension of the sample portion reduces to a smaller second outer wall dimension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignee: Streck, Inc.
    Inventors: Hendrik J. Viljoen, Scott E. Whitney, Joel R. TerMaat, Matthew R. Kreifels
  • Patent number: 8871524
    Abstract: The invention provides methods of performing a sizing analysis. In the methods, a sizing ladder used in performing the sizing analysis is corrected. In one method, the sizing ladder is corrected for batch-to-batch variations in a sieving gel. In another method, the sizing ladder is corrected for a sample concentration that is different from the archival sizing ladder concentration. Methods are also provided in which the sizing ladder is corrected using a standard marker in a sample and/or using a real-time standard sizing ladder. The methods may be used individually or in combination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: Caliper Life Sciences, Inc.
    Inventors: Dan Camporese, Advit Bhatt, Josh Molho, Hui Xu, Ken Summers
  • Patent number: 8871160
    Abstract: Provided is a biomaterial detecting device for confirming or detecting a biomaterial reaction, and more particularly to a biomaterial detecting device, which is formed in a stick type to thereby be immersed in a tube containing a biomaterial solution to be tested; has an upper portion with a cap structure to thereby induce reaction with a biomaterial, and thus facilitate confirmation and detection of the biomaterial; and is formed in a cap structure to thereby prevent evaporation of a sample and infiltration of an external material at the time of a biomaterial reaction in the tube, and thus improve reliability in analysis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: K-MAC
    Inventors: Sung-Min Seo, Jae-Hyung Park, Oleksandrov Sergiy, Joong Hwan Lee, Mun-Cheol Paek, Su-Jin Ku
  • Publication number: 20140301914
    Abstract: A blood storage container suitable for quick and efficient production of a large amount of serum while ensuring high safety, a method of separating blood and a regenerative medical process using the same, and a serum preparation apparatus are provided. A blood component separator is provided, which separates collected blood into a plurality of blood components and preserves them, and includes a blood reservoir and a component storage part aseptically connected in an air-tight manner. The blood reservoir has a serum producing function to remove coagulation factors from the blood. The component storage part stores each blood component in the blood reservoir. The serum preparation apparatus includes an indwelling needle, a catheter having one end connected to a base end side of the indwelling needle, a syringe capable of storing blood connected to another end of the catheter, and a blood coagulation accelerating substance stored in the syringe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2014
    Publication date: October 9, 2014
    Inventors: Koji SUZUKI, Junya FUJII, Mari TAKABATAKE, Seishin TANAKA, Ken KONDO