Including Means For Adsorbing Or Absorbing Gas Into Or Onto Liquid Or Solid Media Patents (Class 422/88)
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Patent number: 7850918Abstract: Embodiments of the invention contemplate an apparatus that determines gas sorption properties of a large number of material samples simultaneously, by sequentially measuring the pressure in a plurality of sample chambers until all chambers have reached equilibrium pressure. In most applications, it is most useful to quantify the sorption capacity of a material under specific conditions, i.e., at a certain temperature and pressure. Because sorption capacity is determined by bringing a material sample to an equilibrium state with a dosing gas, detailed kinetic data related to the sorption properties of a material are not absolutely necessary. Therefore, complete pressure-time curves are not typically necessary, and only the equilibrium pressure of a material sample for a given quantity of dosing gas is required.Type: GrantFiled: April 1, 2008Date of Patent: December 14, 2010Assignee: Hy-Energy, LLCInventor: Karl J. Gross
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Patent number: 7846742Abstract: The invention relates to a method and apparatus for detecting substance to be detected. The apparatus comprises at least one sampling member for sampling air contained in a closed space, the sampling member comprising at least one filter presenting pore or mesh size adapted to filtering solid particles of the substance to be detected that might be dispersed in the air contained in the closed space; the apparatus further comprising a pump (not shown) enabling the air contained in the closed space to be sucked in. The invention can be used for detecting a substance to be detected comprising, for example, an explosive or a narcotic.Type: GrantFiled: October 3, 2003Date of Patent: December 7, 2010Assignee: ICTS Europe Holdings B.V.Inventors: Oren Sapir, Zamir Eldar, Abraham Bar Yoseph
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Patent number: 7833481Abstract: A fully integrated portable screening system includes a main housing and a contact pad. The contact pad is removably positioned in the main housing and covered by at least one sample sheet. The contact pad is preferably constituted by a cylindrical baton which carries a roll of sample collection sheets. A test subject interacts with the contact pad, leaving a trace sample on the sample collection sheet. The contact pad is then placed within the main housing and the trace sample is exposed to a test medium designed to interact with a specific analyte of interest potentially present in the trace sample. After exposure to the test medium, the sample sheet is subjected to a testing mechanism which exposes any interaction between the test medium and the analyte of interest to produce a test result.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 2006Date of Patent: November 16, 2010Assignee: RedXDefense, LLCInventors: Khaled F. Eltomi, Jack Kotowicz, Pratheev Sabaratnam Sreetharan, Regina Elvira Dugan
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Patent number: 7824618Abstract: Provided is a sensor structure comprising a heater and a temperature sensor at the center of a membrane having a well structure, allowing a temperature to be rapidly controlled with low power, and the object is analyzed using a conductivity change measured at two or more substrate temperatures with a pair of detecting electrode and a detecting layer implemented on the heater, wherein the sensing layer can include a conductive particle and a non-conductive organic composite.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 2004Date of Patent: November 2, 2010Assignee: Electronics and Telecommunications Research InstituteInventors: Yong Shin Kim, Yun Tae Kim, Hae Sik Yang, Young Jun Kim, Seung Chul Ha, Yoon Seok Yang
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Patent number: 7824619Abstract: The present invention relates to a molecular sensor for detecting the presence of a target analyte comprising a nitro-containing explosive molecule, the sensor comprising: a support substrate; a pair of electrodes comprising (i) a first electrode and (ii) a second electrode, wherein at least one of (i) and (ii) is at the substrate; an electron donor (ED) molecule capable of forming an electron donor-acceptor (EDA) complex with the nitro-containing explosive molecule; and wherein the ED molecule is disposed between the electrodes and is attached to each electrode by an alligator clip comprising a pendant group, thereby forming a nanojunction between the electrodes; a detection means operably connected to the pair of electrodes, the detection means capable of detecting a change in the electrical resistance or in the capacitance of the sensor when the ED molecule forms an EDA complex with the explosive molecule, the sensor thereby detecting the presence of the explosive molecule.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 2005Date of Patent: November 2, 2010Inventor: Ari Aviram
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Publication number: 20100272981Abstract: An optically transparent and electrically conductive single walled carbon nanotube (SWNT) film comprises a plurality of interpenetrated single walled carbon nanotubes, wherein for a 100 nm film the film has sufficient interpenetration to provide a 25° C. sheet resistance of less than 200 ohm/sq. The film also provides at least 20% optical transmission throughout a wavelength range from 0.4 ?m to 5 ?m.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 7, 2010Publication date: October 28, 2010Inventors: ANDREW G. RINZLER, ZHIHONG CHEN
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Patent number: 7815722Abstract: This invention provides a pre-concentrator device including an electrostatically operated valve and an electrically heated desorber, the electrostatically operated valve comprising a movable flap or membrane carrying a chemically adsorbing coating, suspended by an elastic element above an orifice in an insulated substrate. The device is constructed by planer processing. The flap or membrane can be deflected towards the substrate to block the flow of gas through the orifice by applying a voltage between the substrate and the membrane. The coating provides an adsorbing surface for a volatile organic compound. The coating may be heated electrically, by applying an alternating voltage between the substrate and the flap, thermally desorbing any adsorbed chemical species. When combined with other similar valves in a stacked assembly, the device may be used in a chemical pre-concentrator with very low dead volume.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2007Date of Patent: October 19, 2010Assignee: Microsaic Systems, Ltd.Inventors: Eric Yeatman, Richard Syms
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Patent number: 7816837Abstract: A surface acoustic wave sensor for detecting a target substance by measuring the change in frequency due to the mass applied to a reaction membrane placed on a surface acoustic wave element having high sensitivity due to the improvement of the surface acoustic wave element structure. The surface acoustic wave sensor includes an SH-type surface acoustic wave and a rotated Y-cut LiTaO3 substrate having Euler angles (0°, 120° to 140°, 0°±5°); electrodes principally containing Au, for exciting a surface acoustic wave, the electrodes being arranged on the LiTaO3 substrate; and a reaction membrane bound to a target substance or a binding substance bound to the target substance covering the electrodes arranged on the LiTaO3 substrate. The interdigital transducers have a normalized thickness of about 3.0% to about 5.0%, the normalized thickness being determined by normalizing the thickness of the interdigital transducers by the wavelength of the surface acoustic wave.Type: GrantFiled: April 8, 2004Date of Patent: October 19, 2010Assignee: Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd.Inventors: Koji Fujimoto, Michio Kadota, Yoshiharu Yoshii
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Patent number: 7799606Abstract: An ion-sensitive sensor arrangement includes: a semiconductor chip having a first surface, which has a media-sensitive region and at least one, first, electrical contact surface; and a support having a second surface, which faces the first surface of the semiconductor chip. An opening is provided, which aligns with the sensitive region, and at least one, second, electrical contact surface, which overlaps, or aligns with, the at least one, first, electrical contact surface. Between the support and the semiconductor chip, a preferably elastic, anisotropic conductor is arranged, which produces a conducting connection between the at least one, first, contact surface and the at least one, second, contact surface, and which has a traversing opening, which aligns with the opening, so that the sensitive region of the semiconductor chip can be contacted through the opening by an analyte. The preferably elastic, anisotropic conductor seals the region outside of the opening against contamination with the analyte.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2003Date of Patent: September 21, 2010Assignee: Endress + Hauser Conducta Gesellschaft fur Mess- u. Regeltechnik mbH + Co. KGInventors: Torsten Pechstein, Robert Scholz
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Publication number: 20100215547Abstract: A chemical vapor sensor includes an polymer layer and a first stratum of electrically conductive particles partially embedded in the polymer layer. A second stratum of electrically conductive particles adheres to the first stratum of particles primarily through particle-to-particle attractive forces.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 18, 2010Publication date: August 26, 2010Inventor: Patrick Dolan
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Publication number: 20100215546Abstract: A mesoporous, transition metal oxide material having an average pore diameter ranging from 2 to 20 nm, a basic surface character defined by an isoelectric point>pH 7, and a specific surface area greater than 50 m2/g can be incorporated into a NOx sensing device as a NOx film. The mesoporous, transition metal oxide material includes an oxide of yttrium, lanthanum and/or cerium, and can be formed using a surfactant-templated self-assembly process.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 26, 2009Publication date: August 26, 2010Inventors: Steven Bruce Dawes, Zhiqiang Shi
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Patent number: 7780918Abstract: Sensor platforms and methods of making them are described, and include platforms having horizontally oriented sensor elements comprising nanotubes or other nanostructures, such as nanowires. Under certain embodiments, a sensor element has an affinity for an analyte. Under certain embodiments, such a sensor element comprises one or more pristine nanotubes, and, under certain embodiments, it comprises derivatized or functionalized nanotubes. Under certain embodiments, a sensor is made by providing a support structure; providing a collection of nanotubes on the structure; defining a pattern within the nanotube collection; removing part of the collection so that a patterned collection remains to form a sensor element; and providing circuitry to electrically sense the sensor's electrical characterization. Under certain embodiments, the sensor element comprises pre-derivatized or pre-functionalized nanotubes.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 2004Date of Patent: August 24, 2010Assignee: Nantero, Inc.Inventors: Brent M. Segal, Thomas Rueckes, Bernhard Vogeli, Darren Brock, Venkatachalam C. Jaiprakash, Claude L. Bertin
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Publication number: 20100210029Abstract: Provided are methods, devices and systems that utilize free-surface fluidics and SERS for analyte detection with high sensitivity and specificity. The molecules can be airborne agents, including but not limited to explosives, narcotics, hazardous chemicals, or other chemical species. The free-surface fluidic architecture is created using an open microchannel, and exhibits a large surface to volume ratio. The free-surface fluidic interface can filter interferent molecules, while concentrating airborne analyte molecules. The microchannel flow enables controlled aggregation of SERS-active probe particles in the flow, thereby enhancing the detector's sensitivity.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 25, 2008Publication date: August 19, 2010Applicant: THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIAInventors: Carl D. Meinhart, Brian Piorek, Seung Joon Lee, Martin Moskovits, Sanjoy Banerjee, Juan G. Santiago
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Publication number: 20100209302Abstract: An apparatus is provided for fluidly coupling a furnace to a gas chromatograph or other device for separating gaseous components. The apparatus includes a first capillary, which forms a reactor tube positioned within the furnace, connected to a second capillary. The capillaries are joined by bonding, adhesion, soldering or pressing in a manner that established a durable, gastight connection.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 7, 2008Publication date: August 19, 2010Inventors: Michael Krummen, Hans-Juergen Schlueter
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Publication number: 20100203652Abstract: A process and sensor device are disclosed that employ metal ?-diketonate polymers to selectively capture gas-phase explosives and weaponized chemical agents in a sampling area or volume. The metal ?-diketonate polymers can be applied to surfaces in various analytical formats for detection of: improvised explosive devices, unexploded ordinance, munitions hidden in cargo holds, explosives, and chemical weapons in public areas.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 25, 2009Publication date: August 12, 2010Applicant: BATTELLE MEMORIAL INSTITUTEInventor: Scott D. Harvey
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Publication number: 20100190269Abstract: The present invention provides a biochemical detection system that comprises an exchangeable cartridge unit with light guiding tubes pre-coated with capture agent(s) and an optical detection unit. Upon flowing the liquid or gaseous sample containing the target(s) through the cartridge unit, the target(s) bind(s) to the capture agent(s) and is (are) detected by the amount of light or the variation of its properties while guided through the tubes. The optical detection unit is comprised of a light emitting element(s), a light connecting element(s) and a light detecting element(s) that delivers the amount of target(s) in the sample under investigation.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 10, 2009Publication date: July 29, 2010Inventors: Stephane Andre Follonier, Pierre Francois Indermuhle
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Patent number: 7763208Abstract: Disclosed herein is a device and method for converting the resistances of an array of metal oxide sensors into digital signals, wherein the sensors respond to the concentration of gases surrounding the sensor array. The device includes an electronic excitation device that provides an excitation voltage to the sensors; analog-to-digital signal conversion devices that convert the resistances of the sensors to digital signals; and means for calculating gas concentrations from the digital signals.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2004Date of Patent: July 27, 2010Assignee: E.I. du Pont de Nemours and CompanyInventors: John Carl Steichen, Harry Edwards Betsill
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Patent number: 7759123Abstract: A method and apparatus for removing concentrated spots of collected particulates from an impact collection surface, and transferring those particulates into a container suitable for preparing a liquid sample. A jet of fluid can be utilized to remove and transfer the particulates. If a liquid jet is employed, care is taken to minimize the quantity of liquid to avoid unnecessarily diluting the sample. A mechanical scraper can alternatively be employed to remove and transfer the particulates into the container. The scraper can be rinsed with liquid or vibrated to remove the particulates. Alternatively, the portion of the surface containing a specific spot of particulates can be removed and placed into a container.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2006Date of Patent: July 20, 2010Assignee: MesoSystems Technology, Inc.Inventors: Charles J. Call, Patrick T. Call, Vanessa M. Kenning, Eric Hanczyc, Andrew Kamholz
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Patent number: 7752887Abstract: A method of measuring the level of an impurity in a gas comprises providing a gas detection tube having a internal volume containing a reagent which can react with said impurity to produce a compound capable of producing a color change in said tube such that the extent of the color change is proportional to the concentration of the impurity in said gas. A volume of the gas at least 1×103 times the test volume of the gas detection tube is passed through the tube and the extent of the color change of the detector element is measured.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 2008Date of Patent: July 13, 2010Assignee: Stone & Webster, Inc.Inventors: Maruti Bhandakar, Joseph Peters
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Patent number: 7744818Abstract: Selecting a stationary phase for a fluid analyzer using certain criteria to determine an appropriate material for use in, for instance, a micro fluid analyzer. High absorption of an analyte or sample, low water sorbency and high porosity or permeability of the material may be sought. A selected material may incorporate a toughening agent using a neutral leaving group. A selected material may have a capping agent to promote hydrophobicity. A selected material may be a hydrophobic polymer. The selection of a stationary phase may involve molecular modeling.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2006Date of Patent: June 29, 2010Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.Inventors: Nancy E. Iwamoto, Teresa A. Ramos, Robert R. Roth, Ulrich Bonne
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Patent number: 7744815Abstract: A device and a method are provided for determining chlorine dioxide, especially in the presence of chlorine as a foreign gas. In the device the gas sample is exposed at first to a reagent for removing chlorine and subsequently to an indicator or to an electrochemical cell for the qualitative and/or quantitative determination of chlorine dioxide. The reagent for removing chlorine is or contains cyclohexylsulfamic acid and/or salts thereof. The device, through which flow can take place may be a test tube.Type: GrantFiled: September 25, 2007Date of Patent: June 29, 2010Assignee: Dräger Safety AG & Co., KGaAInventors: Holger Bohm, Andreas Mohrmann, Bettina Runge, Armin Schulten
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Publication number: 20100144059Abstract: There is provided an analysis device comprising a gas phase and a liquid phase and at least one sensor, said sensor having at least one point where an analyte is detected, said at least point being in contact with the liquid phase, characterised in that the device comprises a membrane with a first and a second side, which membrane is in contact with the gas phase on at least a part of one side of the membrane and which membrane is in contact with the liquid phase on at least a part of the other side of the membrane, wherein the membrane comprises openings, and wherein the largest possible distance between any two openings in the membrane is larger than the distance between the membrane and the point where an analyte is detected, moreover there is provided a method for analysing an analyte in a gas phase.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 18, 2008Publication date: June 10, 2010Applicant: Aerocrine ABInventors: Thomas Frisk, Wouter Van Der Wijngaart, Göran Stemme, Per Månsson
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Patent number: 7727314Abstract: The present invention relates generally to chemical analysis (e.g. by gas chromatography), and in particular to a compact chemical preconcentrator formed on a substrate with a heatable sorptive membrane that can be used to accumulate and concentrate one or more chemical species of interest over time and then rapidly release the concentrated chemical species upon demand for chemical analysis.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2007Date of Patent: June 1, 2010Assignee: Sandia CorporationInventors: Ronald P. Manginell, Patrick R. Lewis, Murat Okandan
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Publication number: 20100130796Abstract: Improved micro machined (MEMs scale) heaters, which are particularly suitable for use in MEMs scale preconcentrators. Preferably the heater possess a trapping medium, in particular a polymer of intrinsic microporosity (PIMs). There is further provided devices comprising the preconcentrator, and methods of preparation and use. There is particular benefit directed to the use of a MEMs scale heater coated with the PIMs for use in hand-held or field portable chemical detection devices. The heater comprises a number of electrically conducting paths which have been engineered so that the electrical resistance of all the electrically conducting paths are substantially equal, to provide a more uniform heat distribution.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 25, 2008Publication date: May 27, 2010Inventors: David J. Combes, Tomothy I. Cox, Ian C. Sage
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Patent number: 7709264Abstract: A method and system for detecting tobacco-specific nitrosamines. The method includes exposing at least one microcantilever beam to a medium, which may contain tobacco-specific nitrosamines, and measuring a deflection of the microcantilever beam, wherein the deflection indicates a presence of tobacco-specific nitrosamines in the medium. The at least one microcantilever beam can include a silicon base layer and a gold-coated receptor layer with a plurality of thiol molecules having a sulfur head and carboxyl-terminated group. The at least one microcantilever beam can include a silicon base layer and a metal or metal oxide coated receptor layer. Alternatively, the microcantilever beam can be formed by co-absorbing tobacco-specific nitrosamines and silane molecules on a silicon microcantilever surface, wherein the template molecules of tobacco-specific nitrosamines physically co-adsorb between the silane molecules.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 2007Date of Patent: May 4, 2010Assignee: Philip Morris USA Inc.Inventors: Seetharama C. Deevi, Fang Tian
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Patent number: 7709267Abstract: A system and method for extracting headspace vapor is generally disclosed comprising pressurizing a vessel containing headspace vapor with a carrier gas and subsequently venting the sample mixture through an adsorbent trap and out a vent. A flow controller is employed to gradually increase the flow therethrough as the pressure drops as a result of the gradual depletion of headspace vapor in the vessel and, in certain embodiments, the flow controller maintains a constant flow rate. Due to the time saved, in some embodiments, multiple pressurization-venting cycles are implemented to maximize the amount of vapor extracted from the vial. Due to the constant flow rate, in certain embodiments, the pressure decay is monitored and compared to reference values in order to determine whether the sample vessel has a leak or other defect.Type: GrantFiled: October 14, 2005Date of Patent: May 4, 2010Assignee: PerkinElmer LAS, Inc.Inventors: Andrew Tipler, Christopher Mazza
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Publication number: 20100104473Abstract: A chemical detection system includes detectors connected to a pump via a filter and hosing. The filter prevents the interior of the pump from internal contamination from a chemical or toxic agent. The airflow through the detector may be varied by an adjustable orifice. A pistol grip for holding the system and operating it is balanced with respect to a center of gravity.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 3, 2009Publication date: April 29, 2010Inventors: Kirollos Salama Kirollos, Gueorgui Milev Mihaylov
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Patent number: 7700044Abstract: A chemical vapor sensor is provided that passively measures a chemical species of interest with high sensitivity and chemical specificity. In an aspect, ethanol vapor in a vehicle cabin is measured, and sufficient sensitivity is provided to passively detect a motor vehicle driver that exceeds a legal limit of blood alcohol concentration (BAC), for use with vehicle safety systems. The sensor can be situated in an inconspicuous vehicle cabin location and operate independently without requiring active involvement by a driver. A vapor concentrator is utilized to amplify a sampled vapor concentration to a detectible level for use with an infrared (IR) detector. In an aspect, in comparison to conventional chemical sensors, the sensitivity of detection of ethanol vapor is increased by a factor of about 1,000. Further, a single channel of infrared detection is utilized avoiding spurious infrared absorption and making the chemical vapor sensor less costly to implement.Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 2005Date of Patent: April 20, 2010Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.Inventors: David K. Lambert, Larry M. Oberdier, Christopher M. Thrush
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Patent number: 7700045Abstract: A sampling device is described for analysis of a substance, wherein the substance is selected from the group consisting of isocyanates, aminoisocyanates, isothiocyanates, anhydrides, amines and carboxylic acids and can be present in both gas and particle phases in an air flow passed, for sampling, through the sampling device, said device comprising: a) an adsorption device comprising a coating, wherein said coating comprises a reagent mixture in the form of one or more primary or secondary amines and an acidic compound having the ability to form a salt (or ionic bond) with the amine(s) for adsorption of and reaction with the substance in the gas phase of the air flow; and b) a filter device comprising said mixture of amine(s) and acidic compound for adsorption of and reaction with the substance in the particle phase of the air flow.Type: GrantFiled: February 24, 2006Date of Patent: April 20, 2010Assignee: Provtagaren ABInventors: Gunnar Skarping, Marianne Dalene
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Patent number: 7695681Abstract: An apparatus, according to one aspect, may include a chromatograph and a bulk acoustic resonator. The chromatograph may include a channel that is defined at least partially in a monolithic substrate. The channel may have an inlet to receive a sample and an outlet. A chromatography material may be included in the channel. The bulk acoustic resonator may have a first electrode and a second electrode that has a chemically functionalized surface. The chemically functionalized surface may be included in a chamber that is defined at least partially in the monolithic substrate and that is coupled with the outlet of the channel. Methods of making and using such apparatus, and systems including such apparatus, are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2005Date of Patent: April 13, 2010Assignee: Intel CorporationInventors: Li-Peng Wang, Qing Ma
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Patent number: 7687030Abstract: A hydrogen gas visualization device comprises a hydrogen sensor having a thin film layer formed on the surface of a substrate and a catalyst layer formed on the surface of the thin film layer which, when contacted by hydrogen gas contained in an atmosphere, hydrogenates the thin film layer and thereby changes the optical reflectance of the thin film layer, and one or more sensor faces provided with the hydrogen sensor. The hydrogen gas visualization device visualizes, on the sensor faces, the distribution of hydrogen gas contained in the atmosphere contacting the hydrogen sensor and thereby visualizes the existence and flow of the hydrogen gas.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 2006Date of Patent: March 30, 2010Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha ATSUMITECInventors: Naoki Uchiyama, Hiroyuki Matsumoto
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Patent number: 7687029Abstract: An automated analyzer is described for determining, by way of combustion, nitrogen contained in organic compounds, in particular proteins present in foods, animal feeds, polymers, fuels etc., characterized in that the carbon dioxide absorption device upstream of the nitrogen detector is self-regenerating and comprises: a distributor valve able to switch different gas circuits without contaminations and losses from one gas sample to another, a carousel consisting of a plurality of absorber elements inside which is placed an adsorbent material, a furnace suitable for said adsorbers, in such a manner that each of said adsorbers presents itself in turn for each analysis and that on completion of said analysis the same adsorber is conveyed to the furnace for degassing of the absorbent material and thus for its relative regeneration.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 2005Date of Patent: March 30, 2010Assignee: Ecoenergetics S.r.l.Inventors: Pietro Italiano, Bruno Lavettre
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Patent number: 7682566Abstract: A surface plasmon resonance assay apparatus is loaded with a sensor unit. A sensing surface of a thin film detects reaction of a sample. A dielectric prism is overlaid with the thin film to constitute an interface. A reflection angle upon occurrence of attenuated total reflection of the illuminating light is changeable according to reaction of the sample on the sensing surface. Protecting panels are disposed to face outer surfaces of the prism, for covering and protecting at least partially the outer surfaces. A first window in one of the protecting panels is positioned on a path of the illuminating light traveling for incidence on the interface, for passing the illuminating light. A second window in one remaining protecting panel is positioned on a path of the illuminating light traveling upon reflection by the interface, for passing the illuminating light.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 2006Date of Patent: March 23, 2010Assignee: FUJIFILM CorporationInventor: Hisashi Ohtsuka
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Publication number: 20100041159Abstract: An apparatus and methods for concentrating or removing hydrophobic organic compounds (HOCs) are provided. A biodegradable polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) polymer is provided and the HOC (or a material containing a HOC) is contacted with the PHA. PHA polymers can be used to easily concentrate or remove microcontaminant levels as low as 0.01 ppm of hydrophobic organic compounds without using large solvent volumes. Methods for synthesizing the PHAs are also provided. Methods are further provided for degrading HOCs that have been sequestered from a HOC-contaminated material using isolated bacterial strains or microbes such as Escherichia, Pseudomonas and others. The method comprises contacting at least one isolated bacterial strain (or microbe) to the sequestered HOC for a time sufficient to effect removal of the HOC. The provided methods are advantageous for concentrating HOCs and providing a platform for microbial remediation of these compounds.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 15, 2009Publication date: February 18, 2010Inventors: Christopher T. Nomura, Jingnan Lu
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Patent number: 7662636Abstract: A sensing element in which a dye that changes in the light absorption characteristic of the visible region upon reaction with ozone gas is deposited in the pores of a porous material is prepared. A change in dye before and after exposing the sensing element to a measurement environment for a predetermined time is measured. The ozone gas amount in measurement target air is measured on the basis of the change in dye.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2008Date of Patent: February 16, 2010Assignee: Nippon Telegraph and Telephone CorporationInventors: Yasuko Maruo, Shigeo Ogawa, Seizou Sakata, Tohru Tanaka
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Patent number: 7640067Abstract: A controller directs a process primarily performed to control emission of a particular pollutant into the air. The process has multiple process parameters (MPPs), including a parameter representing an amount of the particular pollutant. The controller includes either a neural network process model or a non-neural network process model. In either case, the model represents a relationship between a first of the MPPs and one or more of the other MPPs. The one or more other MPPs include a second of the MPPs which is other than the parameter representing the amount of the emitted particular pollutant. Also included is a processor configured with logic to estimate a value of the second MPP, and to direct control of the first MPP based on the estimated value of the second MPP and the model.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 2004Date of Patent: December 29, 2009Assignee: Alstom Technology Ltd.Inventors: Scott A. Boyden, Stephen Piche
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Patent number: 7638343Abstract: The invention relates to methods of identification or evaluation of compounds useful in the field of fragrances and aromas (the volatile part of a flavor). Methods according to the invention take into account the occurrence of enzymatic metabolism in the human respiratory tract, including the oral and in particular the nasal cavity.Type: GrantFiled: July 15, 2005Date of Patent: December 29, 2009Inventor: Boris Schilling
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Publication number: 20090317916Abstract: A chemical sample collection and detection system is disclosed. The chemical sample collection and detection system includes a sample collection device and a detection device. The sample collection device includes a housing having two opposite sides and at least one openings on each side to allow a fluid sample passing through the housing; and a sorbent material placed between the two opposite sides of the housing or a sorbent coated screen. The sorbent material adsorbs chemical vapors, and traps particles and aerosols in the fluid sample when the fluid sample passes the housing through the openings. The detection device includes an atmospheric pressure ionization source and an ion detector. The atmospheric pressure ionization source desorbs and ionizes the chemicals trapped/sorbed on the sorbent material and the ion detector analyzes the ions for the presence of the sorbed chemical.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 23, 2008Publication date: December 24, 2009Inventors: Kenneth J. Ewing, Danielle N. Dickinson, Douglas B. Henderson, Johnny Ho
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Patent number: 7633606Abstract: A collection and detection system is configured as a detect to warn system in which the presence of specific types of particles are detected, and may or may not be identified. An air collection module intakes ambient air, detect the presence of one or more different types of airborne particles within the ambient air, and collect the airborne particles, such as within a fluid. A triggering mechanism is positioned to continuously monitor the airflow, to determine one or more characteristics of the airborne particles. If those measured characteristics match specific known characteristics, a trigger signal is generated. In response, a confirmation device performs a detection method on a fluid solution including the airflow particles to determine the presence of one or more different types of specific biological particles.Type: GrantFiled: August 24, 2006Date of Patent: December 15, 2009Assignee: Microfluidic Systems, Inc.Inventors: Allen Northrup, Farzad Pourahmadi, Bob Yuan, Amy J. Devitt
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Patent number: 7628959Abstract: A hydrogen gas sensor and/or switch fabricated from arrays nanowires composed of metal or metal alloys that have stable metal hydride phases. The sensor and/or switch response times make it quite suitable for measuring the concentration of hydrogen in a flowing gas stream. The sensor and/or switch preferably operates by measuring the resistance of several metal nanowires arrayed in parallel in the presence of hydrogen gas. The nanowires preferably comprise gaps or break junctions that can function as a switch that closes in the presence of hydrogen gas. Consequently, the conductivity of the nanowires of the sensor and/or switch increases in the presence of hydrogen.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 2007Date of Patent: December 8, 2009Assignee: The Regents of the University of CaliforniaInventors: Reginald Mark Penner, Erich C. Walter, Fred Favier
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Patent number: 7622080Abstract: A hydrogen gas sensitive semiconductor sensor including a catalytic metal layer, a semiconductor layer and an insulator layer arranged between the catalytic metal layer and the semiconductor layer. The catalytic metal layer includes an outer surface and an inner surface including at least one hydrogen atom adsorption surface portion. Each hydrogen atom adsorption surface portion is arranged adjacent to the insulator layer. The surface area of the outer surface is at least 100% larger than the total surface area of all of the at least one hydrogen atom adsorption surface portion. A probe includes the sensor, A hydrogen gas detection system includes the sensor. Use of the sensor for detection of presence of and/or measurement of concentration of hydrogen gas in a gas sample.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2006Date of Patent: November 24, 2009Assignee: Adixen Sensistor ABInventor: Fredrik Enquist
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Patent number: 7614315Abstract: A probe for measuring mercury emissions in a flue gas. The probe contains a novel cartridge for holding one or more sorbent traps, which cartridge is easily removed and inserted on-site with reduced danger of sorbent trap damage.Type: GrantFiled: February 15, 2008Date of Patent: November 10, 2009Assignee: Shaw Intellectual Property Holdings, Inc.Inventor: Randall Moore
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Patent number: 7615192Abstract: A sensing element in which a dye that changes in the light absorption characteristic of the visible region upon reaction with ozone gas is deposited in the pores of a porous material is prepared. A change in dye before and after exposing the sensing element to a measurement environment for a predetermined time is measured. The ozone gas amount in measurement target air is measured on the basis of the change in dye.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2008Date of Patent: November 10, 2009Assignee: Nippon Telegraph and Telephone CorporationInventors: Yasuko Maruo, Shigeo Ogawa, Seizou Sakata, Tohru Tanaka
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Patent number: 7611903Abstract: A system for quantitatively reducing oxide gases. A pre-selected amount of zinc is provided in a vial. A tube is provided in the vial. The zinc and the tube are separated. A pre-selected amount of a catalyst is provided in the tube. Oxide gases are injected into the vial. The vial, tube, zinc, catalyst, and the oxide gases are cryogenically cooled. At least a portion of the vial, tube, zinc, catalyst, and oxide gases are heated.Type: GrantFiled: September 11, 2002Date of Patent: November 3, 2009Assignee: Lawrence Livermore National Security, LLCInventors: John S. Vogel, Ted J. Ognibene, Graham S. Bench, Graham F. Peaslee
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Patent number: 7595023Abstract: Sensor arrays and sensor array systems for detecting analytes in fluids. Sensors configured to generate a response upon introduction of a fluid containing one or more analytes can be located on one or more surfaces relative to one or more fluid channels in an array. Fluid channels can take the form of pores or holes in a substrate material. Fluid channels can be formed between one or more substrate plates. Sensor can be fabricated with substantially optimized sensor volumes to generate a response having a substantially maximized signal to noise ratio upon introduction of a fluid containing one or more target analytes. Methods of fabricating and using such sensor arrays and systems are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 2006Date of Patent: September 29, 2009Assignees: The California Institute of Technology, University of Florida, Aerovironment, Inc.Inventors: Nathan S. Lewis, Michael S. Freund, Shawn S. Briglin, Phillip Tokumaru, Charles R. Martin, David Mitchell
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Patent number: 7588726Abstract: A vapor analysis system comprising a vapor analyzer capable of collecting and analyzing a vapor sample for detection of a compound that may be contained within the vapor sample. A controller is coupled to the vapor analyzer. The controller is programmed to produce an indicator signal indicative of a relative concentration of the compound detected by the vapor analyzer within the vapor sample. A sample probe includes a housing containing a vapor channel through which the vapor sample is collected, and a vapor cable couples the sample probe to the vapor analyzer to allow collection and channeling of the vapor sample to the vapor analyzer. A multi-dimensional user indicator is disposed on the housing of the sample probe receives and operates in response to the indicator signal to indicate the relative concentration of the compound detected within the vapor sample for presentation via a multi-directional stimulus to a user of the vapor analysis system.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 2003Date of Patent: September 15, 2009Assignee: Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc.Inventors: Robert F. Mouradian, Patrick John Kennedy, K. Stephen Johnson, Jr.
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Publication number: 20090211336Abstract: Isopotential heaters used in the preconcentration stage of sample detection systems are described. The heaters have at least two electrically conducting paths of which the resistances of the electrically conducting baths are substantially equal such that in use uniform heat distribution is achieved.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 14, 2008Publication date: August 27, 2009Applicant: QINETIQ LIMITEDInventors: David J. Combes, Timothy I. Cox, Ian C. Sage
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Patent number: 7578974Abstract: A resistance-type oxygen sensor which is provided to be used mainly for measuring the oxygen gas partial pressure of automobile exhaust gas, and which has a short output response time in response to changes in oxygen partial pressure, low resistivity of the oxide semiconductor, and low temperature dependence of the resistivity. In a resistance-type oxygen sensor, in which the oxygen gas detection part comprises an oxide semiconductor, the oxide semiconductor is an oxide comprising cerium ions and hafnium ions, the amount of substance of cerium ions as a percentage of the amount of substance of positive ions is 60 mol % or more, the amount of substance of hafnium ions as a percentage of the amount of substance of positive ions is 3 to 30 mol %, and the hafnium ions are an oxide in solid solution in the parent phase.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 2005Date of Patent: August 25, 2009Assignee: National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and TechnologyInventors: Noriya Izu, Norimitsu Murayama, Woosuck Shin, Ichiro Matsubara
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Patent number: 7578973Abstract: Airborne particles are impacted on a collection surface, analyzed, and then the collection surface is regenerated. Thus, the same collection surface can be used in numerous cycles. The analysis can be focused on one or more properties of interest, such as the concentration of airborne biologicals. Sensors based on regenerative collection surfaces may be incorporated in many networks for applications such as building automation.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2004Date of Patent: August 25, 2009Assignee: MesoSystems Technology, Inc.Inventors: Charles John Call, Ezra Merrill, Robert Beckius
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Patent number: 7559980Abstract: A passive air sampler or badge suitable for wearing includes a vial adaptor to facilitate transferring granular or particulate adsorbent to and from it directly into a specially designed vial sized to accommodate a standard amount for use in a desorption tube for chromatographic or other analysis of the materials desorbed.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2006Date of Patent: July 14, 2009Assignee: SKC, Inc.Inventor: Lloyd V. Guild