Including Sealing Means Patents (Class 494/38)
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Patent number: 11802536Abstract: A wave driven electrical generating apparatus has a vertically oriented wheel having a plurality of buckets spaced around a periphery of the wheel, facing in a direction tangent to the wheel, a support structure supporting the wheel on a horizontal shaft, and a generator connected to the shaft such that motion of the wheel turns the generator. The electrical generating apparatus is anchored, immersed in water in a location having wave activity, wherein the wave activity drives the wheel to create torque to drive the generator to generate electricity.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 2023Date of Patent: October 31, 2023Inventor: Salvatore Deiana
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Patent number: 11260403Abstract: A centrifugal separator includes a rotating body driving and sealing structure in which a hermetically sealed space is formed between a rotating body and an outer case by sealing the inside and outside using a noncontact seal during rotation of the rotating body, in an airtight manner. A rotation coupling unit is provided at the upper end of a centrifugal cylinder, and even when the centrifugal cylinder is deformed during use causing an internal fluid to leak through a fitting portion of a bottom member to the centrifugal cylinder, the fluid leaks in the hermetically sealed space so that the driving system or the like is not contaminated.Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 2017Date of Patent: March 1, 2022Assignee: Mitsui Electric Co., Ltd.Inventor: Kazushige Hayakawa
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Patent number: 10780445Abstract: A separator for centrifugally processing a flowable product includes a rotatable drum bounding a centrifuging chamber. The drum has a feeding and removal system having at least one feeding device and one or more removal devices composed of plastic or a plastic composite. An inner drum, composed of plastic or a plastic composite, is arranged in an outer supporting device of the drum. The feeding device and the one or more removal devices extend into the inner drum, do not rotate with the inner drum during operation, and are glued and/or welded to each other in such a way that the feeding device and the one or more removal devices are sealingly connected. The feeding and removal system has one or more grippers as the removal device, each of which one or two or more grippers has a disk segment and a shaft segment.Type: GrantFiled: November 27, 2015Date of Patent: September 22, 2020Assignee: GEA MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT GmbHInventors: Wilfried Mackel, Thomas Bathelt, Kathrin Quiter, Frank Taetz
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Patent number: 10029921Abstract: A method for lowering the pressure inside the hood interior of a separator arrangement with a separator with a rotatable drum includes rotating the rotatable drum about a vertical rotation axis. Before processing a product that is to be processed, a liquid is first directed through the drum and the pressure inside the hood interior is lowered, by a device, as a result of rotations of the drum in the manner of a jet pump. After the pressure inside the hood interior has been lowered sufficiently, then the actual processing of the product that is to be processed is performed.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 2013Date of Patent: July 24, 2018Assignee: GEA Mechanical Equipment GmbHInventors: Kathrin Quiter, Wilfried Mackel
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Patent number: 9790160Abstract: A continuous process for the oxidative cleavage of vegetable oils containing triglycerides of unsaturated carboxylic acids, to obtain saturated carboxylic acids, comprising feeding to a first continuous reactor a vegetable oil, an oxidizing compound and catalyst capable of catalyzing the oxidation reaction of the olefinic double bond to obtain an intermediate compound containing vicinal diols: feeding to a second continuous reactor said intermediate compound, a compound containing oxygen and a catalyst capable of catalyzing the oxidation reaction of the vicinal diols to carboxylic groups, to obtain saturated monocarboxylic acids (i) and triglycerides containing saturated carboxylic acids with more than one acid function (ii); separating the saturated monocarboxylic acids (i) from the triglycerides (ii); hydrolyzing in a third reactor the triglycerides (ii) to obtain glycerol and saturated carboxylic acids with more than one acid function; and purifying said saturated carboxylic acids by fractioned crystallizaType: GrantFiled: May 2, 2016Date of Patent: October 17, 2017Assignee: Novamont S.p.A.Inventors: Arno Bieser, Giampietro Borsotti, Francesca Digioia, Adriano Ferrari, Alessandro Pirocco
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Patent number: 9314790Abstract: A centrifuge layering insert configured for insertion into a centrifuge tube includes a tube having a first open end and a second open end. The centrifuge layering insert also includes a casing having an outer wall, an inner wall, a first open end, and a second substantially closed end. The casing forms an annular space around the tube between the tube first end and the tube second end. The tube has at least a portion of the length extending beyond the first open end of the casing in a direction opposite the second open end of the tube.Type: GrantFiled: June 8, 2010Date of Patent: April 19, 2016Assignee: Safety Art, LLCInventor: Naida M. Loskutoff
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Patent number: 9238233Abstract: The object of the present invention is to realize standardization of products of the vertical centrifugal separators so that it is no longer necessary to change the pressure-resistant design specifications of the bearing mechanism depending on the set pressure inside the casing. The vertical centrifugal separator having the bearing mechanism that is disposed in an opening of the casing and rotatably supports the rotary shaft of the bowl passing through the opening. The shaft sealing mechanism is a contactless shaft sealing mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 2014Date of Patent: January 19, 2016Assignee: TOMOE ENGINEERING CO., LTD.Inventor: Kenji Morita
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Patent number: 8950586Abstract: A platelet collection device comprising a centrifugal spin-separator container with a cavity having a longitudinal inner surface. A float in the cavity has a base, a platelet collection surface above the base, an outer surface. The float density is below the density of erythrocytes and above the density of plasma. The platelet collection surface has a position on the float which places it below the level of platelets when the float is suspended in separated blood. During centrifugation, a layer of platelets or buffy coat collects closely adjacent the platelet collection surface. Movement of a float having a density greater than whole blood through the sedimenting erythrocytes releases entrapped platelets, increasing the platelet yield.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 2013Date of Patent: February 10, 2015Assignee: Hanuman LLCInventors: Randel Dorian, Richard W. Storrs, Scott R. King
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Patent number: 8894559Abstract: The spinning disc centrifuge rotor includes a sample holder formed from a cylindrical disc body and a cover plate that are made from a transparent material, such as polycarbonate. The disc-shaped body has two concentric or coaxial recesses defined therein. The first recess forms a cylindrical well or sample chamber for receiving a generally cylindrical rock sample. The second recess has a larger diameter than the first recess, and is shallower, forming a fluid collection area above the sample well, the second recess forming an annular ring extending around the top edge or rim of the sample well. An O-ring snugly within the outer wall of the second recess and forms a seal between the cover plate and the floor of the second recess, preventing fluid leakage. A rotor shaft extends from the bottom face of the cylindrical disc.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2011Date of Patent: November 25, 2014Assignee: Kuwait UniversityInventor: Osamah Ali Alomair
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Publication number: 20130331252Abstract: A centrifuge bowl for separating whole blood into blood components includes a rotatable body, and inlet, and a plurality of vibration reduction members. The rotatable body has a body portion and a neck portion. The body portion defines an interior for receiving whole blood, and the body is rotatable to separate the whole blood into a plurality of blood components. The inlet is in fluid communication with the interior of the rotatable body, and is configured to introduce the whole blood into the rotatable body. The plurality of vibration reduction members are spaced about the neck portion, and are configured to reduce vibration of the centrifuge bowl as the bowl is rotated.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 21, 2013Publication date: December 12, 2013Applicant: Haemonetics CorporationInventors: Bruce Brunner, Christopher J. Caputo
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Patent number: 8562502Abstract: A centrifugal separator includes: a rotor configured to hold a sample to be separated; a driving device configured to rotate the rotor and including a driving shaft; a chamber configured to contain the rotor and including a through hole through which the driving shaft is passed; a seal member configured to fitted over the through hole of the chamber and the driving shaft; a drain hole configured to discharge liquid in the chamber to an exterior; and an undulated part configured to guide a flow of the liquid and is provided on an upper surface of the seal member.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2011Date of Patent: October 22, 2013Assignee: Hitachi Koki Co., Ltd.Inventors: Ryou Murayama, Shoji Kusumoto, Yuki Shimizu
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Patent number: 8529425Abstract: A horizontal centrifugal separator is configured such that a groove formed along a joint surface between an upper casing and a lower casing constituting the casing is outwardly bent near an opening of the casing, and that an elastic sealing member is disposed in the groove and an end portion thereof abuts against a sealing surface provided on a ring member which is provided so as to surround the outer circumference of the opening of the casing and is pressed against the casing. In this case, surface sealing is constituted by the end portion of the elastic sealing member and the sealing surface of the ring member. In this manner, the hermeticity can be improved without using a sealing member having a complicated structure.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 2007Date of Patent: September 10, 2013Assignee: Tomoe Engineering Co., Ltd.Inventors: Atsushi Onodera, Keishiro Yamazaki
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Patent number: 8474630Abstract: A platelet collection device comprising a centrifugal spin-separator container with a cavity having a longitudinal inner surface. A float in the cavity has a base, a platelet collection surface above the base, an outer surface. The float density is below the density of erythrocytes and above the density of plasma. The platelet collection surface has a position on the float which places it below the level of platelets when the float is suspended in separated blood. During centrifugation, a layer of platelets or buffy coat collects closely adjacent the platelet collection surface. Movement of a float having a density greater than whole blood through the sedimenting erythrocytes releases entrapped platelets, increasing the platelet yield.Type: GrantFiled: May 25, 2012Date of Patent: July 2, 2013Assignee: Hanuman, LLCInventors: Randel Dorian, Scott R. King, Richard Wood Storrs
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Publication number: 20130157834Abstract: A hybrid metal/composite centrifuge is described which can be designed and manufactured for large sizes which have traditionally been of metal construction only. The hybrid metal/composite centrifuge combines an “all composite”, fully disposable, centrifuge rotor with a reusable metal center tube which retains the rotor bearings. This design combines a fully disposable composite rotor, for example made of an incinerable plastic material, with a removable and reusable metal centertube.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 18, 2012Publication date: June 20, 2013Applicant: CUMMINS FILTRATION IP, INC.Inventor: Cummins Filtration IP, Inc.
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Patent number: 8328024Abstract: A separator that uses centrifugation to fractionate a suspension such as blood comprises a separation container and a buoy. The buoy is carried in the separation container and has a tuned density that is configured to reach an equilibrium position in a suspension. The guide surface is carried on the buoy upper surface and is inclined to an accumulation position near a buoy perimeter. The buoy suspension fractionation system can be used in a method of isolating a fraction from a suspension, and in a method for re-suspending particulates for withdrawal.Type: GrantFiled: August 4, 2011Date of Patent: December 11, 2012Assignees: Hanuman, LLC, Biomet Biologics, LLCInventors: Michael D. Leach, Randel Dorian, Jacy C. Hoeppner
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Publication number: 20120165177Abstract: To provide a vertical centrifugal separation apparatus which recovers a centrifuged liquid with a reduced loss and is suitable for when a target is the centrifuged liquid, and a method of recovering the centrifuged liquid. In performing centrifugation, the liquid to be processed is supplied from a lower portion of a cylindrical rotational tube which rotates about a vertical axis, and the centrifuged liquid is discharged and recovered from an upper portion of the cylindrical rotational tube. When the centrifugation is stopped for cleaning the cylindrical rotational tube, for example, the cylindrical rotational tube is set to a first overturn position to recover the remaining centrifuged liquid, and then the cylindrical rotational tube is set to a second overturn position to pull the tube out of the casing. Such a structure allows the recovery of the centrifuged liquid as the target with a reduced loss and without waste.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 25, 2009Publication date: June 28, 2012Inventors: Tetsuya Tsugawa, Kokichi Dohi, Atsushi Sada
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Patent number: 8192343Abstract: A continuous flow centrifuge system is provided. The system includes a rotor, a stator, a stator housing, upper and lower bearing plates, upper and lower bearings, first and second snap rings, and lip seal. The upper bearing rotatably secures a shaft of the rotor in the upper bearing plate. The first snap ring secures the upper bearing to the rotor shaft. The lip seal is over the upper bearing and forms a rotatable seal with the upper bearing plate. The second snap ring secures the lip seal to an inner diameter of the upper bearing plate. The upper and lower bearing plates are secured to the stator housing so that the rotor is operatively aligned with the stator.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2008Date of Patent: June 5, 2012Assignee: Alfa Wassermann, Inc.Inventors: Kurt Spiegel, Sorin Weissman, Bill Lepse, Blaine J. Marsh
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Patent number: 8187477Abstract: A platelet collection device comprising a centrifugal spin-separator container with a cavity having a longitudinal inner surface. A float in the cavity has a base, a platelet collection surface above the base, an outer surface. The float density is below the density of erythrocytes and above the density of plasma. The platelet collection surface has a position on the float which places it below the level of platelets when the float is suspended in separated blood. During centrifugation, a layer of platelets or buffy coat collects closely adjacent the platelet collection surface. Movement of a float having a density greater than whole blood through the sedimenting erythrocytes releases entrapped platelets, increasing the platelet yield.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 2010Date of Patent: May 29, 2012Assignees: Hanuman, LLC, Biomet Biologics, LLCInventors: Randel Dorian, Scott R. King, Richard W. Storrs
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Publication number: 20120129676Abstract: A system for separating components defining a cavity for receiving the fluid. The system further includes a rigid insert slidably disposed in the cavity, the insert including a funnel-shaped upper portion and a hole therethrough. The insert has a density such that upon centrifugation a selected component of the fluid resides within the upper portion of the insert. A bone marrow aspiration device includes an introducer needle assembly and an aspiration needle assembly. The introducer needle assembly includes an introducer cannula and a removable trocar. The aspiration needle assembly includes a flexible aspiration cannula and a flexible stylet. The length of the aspiration cannula is substantially greater than the length of the introducer cannula. The aspiration needle assembly is receivable in the introducer cannula when the trocar is removed from the introducer needle assembly. The aspiration cannula forms a channel for aspirating bone marrow when the stylet is removed.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 28, 2010Publication date: May 24, 2012Inventors: Neil Francis Duffy, Jeffrey R. Chabot
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Publication number: 20120088647Abstract: A separator for separating a multiphase mixture comprising a pressure vessel supported for rotation within a casing containing a gas which may be held at an elevated temperature or pressure. A plurality of vanes is disposed within the pressure vessel. The pressure vessel has an inlet, a first phase outlet and a plurality of second phase outlets disposed radially outwardly of the first phase outlet with respect to a separator axis. A regulator is provided in the form of pressure-activated nozzles to regulate flow through the second phase outlets. In use, a mixture of solids and liquid is fed into the pressure vessel and the pressure vessel is spun within the gas causing solids to accumulate in the vicinity of the second phase outlets. The pressure-activated nozzles are repeatedly opened and closed to expel the accumulated solids.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 25, 2011Publication date: April 12, 2012Applicant: Specialist Process Technologies LimitedInventors: David J. Parkinson, Kevin E. Collier
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Patent number: 8128548Abstract: Centrifugal separators and related methods and devices are described. More particularly, centrifugal separators comprising a first fluid supply fitting configured to deliver fluid into a longitudinal fluid passage of a rotor shaft and a second fluid supply fitting sized and configured to sealingly couple with the first fluid supply fitting are described. Also, centrifugal separator systems comprising a manifold having a drain fitting and a cleaning fluid supply fitting are described, wherein the manifold is coupled to a movable member of a support assembly. Additionally, methods of cleaning centrifugal separators are described.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2008Date of Patent: March 6, 2012Assignee: Battelle Energy Alliance, LLCInventors: David H. Meikrantz, Jack D. Law, Troy G. Garn, Lawrence L. Macaluso, Terry A. Todd
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Patent number: 8092362Abstract: A separator arrangement includes a separator having a drum with a vertical rotation axis. The drum is placed on a rotatable drive spindle and is surrounded by a shroud. A separating wall separates the separator arrangement into a sanitary area that includes the drum and the shroud and a drive area that includes the drive device. The separator and the drive device are decoupled as a unit, in terms of vibration, by at least one of the separating wall and a foundation attachment. The drive device includes a motor, a coupling, at least one bearing device, and a flange section around the drive spindle underneath a drive cover, and a sealing device. A membrane arrangement is formed in a region of the drive cover and, for vibration purposes, decouples the drive cover from the machine frame in a region around the drive spindle.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2007Date of Patent: January 10, 2012Assignee: Westfalia Separator AGInventors: Werner Kohlstette, Olaf Müller, Thomas Homann
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Patent number: 8070666Abstract: A disposable device for centrifugation of blood is used for separating or also washing constituents of the blood includes a centrifugation chamber with a revolving shaft and an opening through which the shaft passes, a rotational guide, a rotational driver, and at least one static member for admission/evacuation engaged in the centrifugation chamber. This member includes at least one channel for intake of the blood and at least one outlet channel for one of its constituents, and at least one admission channel for a pressurized gaseous fluid which opens out inside the centrifugation chamber. A gap is formed in the opening between the centrifugation chamber and the static member and allows the gaseous fluid to escape from the centrifugation chamber.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 2006Date of Patent: December 6, 2011Inventor: Jean-Denis Rochat
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Publication number: 20110294642Abstract: A centrifugal separator includes: a rotor configured to hold a sample to be separated; a driving device configured to rotate the rotor and including a driving shaft; a chamber configured to contain the rotor and including a through hole through which the driving shaft is passed; a seal member configured to fitted over the through hole of the chamber and the driving shaft; a drain hole configured to discharge liquid in the chamber to an exterior; and an undulated part configured to guide a flow of the liquid and is provided on an upper surface of the seal member.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 23, 2011Publication date: December 1, 2011Applicant: HITACHI KOKI CO., LTD.Inventors: Ryou MURAYAMA, Shoji KUSUMOTO, Yuki SHIMIZU
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Patent number: 8042281Abstract: A centrifugal bowl separator, including a bowl, a source of pressurized gas in selective flow communication with the bowl and operable to selectively supply pressurized gas to an interior portion of the bowl, and first and second pressure seals selectively established to provide a zone within a portion of the bowl such that when the pressurized gas is introduced, pressure within the portion of the bowl increases for enhanced removal of moisture and drying of solids within the portion of the bowl.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 2010Date of Patent: October 25, 2011Assignee: Decanter Machine, Inc.Inventors: Thomas P. Estes, Christopher R. Lambert, Jeffrey D. Mongold, Charles B. Tate
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Patent number: 8021289Abstract: A clean-in-place decanter centrifuge for processing a combined liquid and solid material to separate the solid material from the liquid. The centrifuge is designed for use in the food processing industry, particularly for dairy products, and therefore has fluid injectors for cleaning all surfaces within the centrifuge including the opposed mating surfaces which function as non-contacting seal mechanisms. The centrifuge has no metal-to-metal contact areas within the interior of the bowl and scroll assembly. In one embodiment, the outer wall of the bowl and scroll assembly comprises a plurality of drain lines located in the rear wall section of the bowl to allow essentially all liquid to drain from the bowl and scroll assembly. In another embodiment, the bowl hub comprises at least one drain line to allow lubrication oil to drain into said cavity and prevent ingress of lubrication oil into said bowl and scroll assembly.Type: GrantFiled: February 20, 2009Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: TEMA Systems, Inc.Inventors: Michael L. Vastola, Pawel K. Krawczyk, Michael T. Mullins
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Patent number: 7992725Abstract: A separator that uses centrifugation to fractionate a suspension such as blood comprises a separation container and a buoy. The buoy is carried in the separation container and has a tuned density that is configured to reach an equilibrium position in a suspension. The guide surface is carried on the buoy upper surface and is inclined to an accumulation position near a buoy perimeter. The buoy suspension fractionation system can be used in a method of isolating a fraction from a suspension, and in a method for re-suspending particulates for withdrawal.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 2008Date of Patent: August 9, 2011Assignee: Biomet Biologics, LLCInventors: Michael D. Leach, Randel Dorian, Jacy C. Hoeppner
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Patent number: 7908764Abstract: A centrifugal bowl separator, including a bowl, a source of pressurized gas in selective flow communication with the bowl and operable to selectively supply pressurized gas to an interior portion of the bowl, and first and second pressure seals selectively established to provide a zone within a portion of the bowl such that when the pressurized gas is introduced, pressure within the portion of the bowl increases for enhanced removal of moisture and drying of solids within the portion of the bowl.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 2008Date of Patent: March 22, 2011Assignee: Decanter Machines, Inc.Inventors: Thomas P. Estes, Christopher R. Lambert, Jeffrey D. Mongold, Charles B. Tate
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Patent number: 7837884Abstract: A platelet collection device comprising a centrifugal spin-separator container with a cavity having a longitudinal inner surface. A float in the cavity has a base, a platelet collection surface above the base, an outer surface. The float density is below the density of erythrocytes and above the density of plasma. The platelet collection surface has a position on the float which places it below the level of platelets when the float is suspended in separated blood. During centrifugation, a layer of platelets or buffy coat collects closely adjacent the platelet collection surface. Movement of a float having a density greater than whole blood through the sedimenting erythrocytes releases entrapped platelets, increasing the platelet yield.Type: GrantFiled: December 29, 2008Date of Patent: November 23, 2010Assignee: Hanuman, LLCInventors: Randel Dorian, Scott R. King, Richard Wood Storrs
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Patent number: 7811463Abstract: A rotatable rotor for separating components contained in a fluid, comprising an annular base having a first annular channel and an annular cover having a second annular channel for holding a flexible doughnut-shaped centrifuge bag therebetween. The cover has one or more radially spaced apart concentric indicator lines for monitoring the separation of the components. When the base and cover are superimposed, the first and second channels define an annular interior chamber having an off-centered figure eight configuration. The base and cover each comprise a grooved column axially centered and extending from the base top surface and the cover bottom surface, respectively. The flexible bag comprises inner and outer tubes extending from the core of the bag and which are seated in the column grooves to ensure that the bag is fixably rotatable with the rotor.Type: GrantFiled: March 24, 2008Date of Patent: October 12, 2010Assignee: Arteriocyte Medical Systems, Inc.Inventors: Victor D. Dolecek, David Malcolm
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Publication number: 20090146428Abstract: A system for generating energy using water waves includes a unit having two rotors connected by a ramp. The unit is positioned at or near the surface of a body of water and oriented so that the waves break on the ramp and travel along the length of the ramp. Each rotor is provided with a plurality of buckets having an open top and a bottom having a opening. The opening is sealed by a flap when water enters through the top of the bucket, but is open when water enters or attempts to enter the bucket through the opening. As the water travels along the ramp, the water is fed into the buckets on the rotors to turn the rotors and drive generators positioned at both ends of the rotors. The energy is transmitted to an external collection point for use or distribution.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 5, 2007Publication date: June 11, 2009Applicant: Kinetic Wave PowerInventor: James A. Sack
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Publication number: 20090005230Abstract: A centrifuge with an electric motor (46), composed of a centrifuge outer frame (47), a heavy liquid collecting tank (18), a lower hollow shaft (22), centrifugal units, an upper hollow shaft (38), and a light liquid collecting tank (41). The heavy liquid collecting tank, the lower hollow shaft, the upper hollow shaft, and the light liquid collecting tank are all fixed to the centrifuge outer frame, the centrifugal units are fixed between the upper hollow shaft and the lower hollow shaft, the motor is connected to the upper hollow shaft and drives the upper hollow shaft to rotate, the upper hollow shaft is fixed to two or more centrifugal units connected in series and drives the centrifugal units to rotate, a hollow portion of the upper hollow shaft communicates with the light liquid collecting tank, centrifugal units are fixed to the lower hollow shaft and drive the lower hollow shaft to rotate, the heavy liquid collecting tank is a casing formed between the centrifuge outer frame and the centrifugal units.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 20, 2006Publication date: January 1, 2009Inventor: Shujiang Song
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Patent number: 7470371Abstract: A platelet collection device comprising a centrifugal spin-separator container with a cavity having a longitudinal inner surface. A float in the cavity has a base, a platelet collection surface above the base, an outer surface. The float density is below the density of erythrocytes and above the density of plasma. The platelet collection surface has a position on the float which places it below the level of platelets when the float is suspended in separated blood. During centrifugation, a layer of platelets or buffy coat collects closely adjacent the platelet collection surface. Platelets are then removed from the platelet collection surface. Movement of a float having a density greater than whole blood through the sedimenting erythrocytes releases entrapped platelets, increasing the platelet yield.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 2006Date of Patent: December 30, 2008Assignee: Hanuman LLCInventors: Randel Dorian, Scott R. King, Richard Wood Storrs
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Patent number: 7354388Abstract: A separator including a rotatable drum having a drum top part, a vertical axis of rotation and a disk stack arranged therein. Also included is a piston slide for opening and closing solids discharge openings in the drum. A radial gap is formed between the drum top part and the piston slide in an open condition of the piston slide. Radially successive annular chambers are located in the piston slide and in the drum top part and are mutually connected by a bottleneck.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2005Date of Patent: April 8, 2008Assignee: Westfalia Separator AGInventors: Wilfried Mackel, Andreas Schulz
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Patent number: 7347948Abstract: A rotatable rotor for separating components contained in a fluid, comprising an annular base having a first annular channel and an annular cover having a second annular channel for holding a flexible doughnut-shaped centrifuge bag therebetween. The cover has one or more radially spaced apart concentric indicator lines for monitoring the separation of the components. When the base and cover are superimposed, the first and second channels define an annular interior chamber having an off-centered figure eight configuration. The base and cover each comprise a grooved column axially centered and extending from the base top surface and the cover bottom surface, respectively. The flexible bag comprises inner and outer tubes extending from the core of the bag and which are seated in the column grooves to ensure that the bag is fixably rotatable with the rotor.Type: GrantFiled: December 3, 2004Date of Patent: March 25, 2008Assignee: Ateriocyte Medical Systems, Inc.Inventors: Victor D. Dolecek, David Malcolm
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Patent number: 7311652Abstract: The present invention relates to a fixing device of a cover for a centrifuge rotor, a receiving chamber of the centrifuge rotor, which is driven using a drive unit, for receiving samples to be centrifuged being closable aerosol-tight using the cover. The fixing device is provided with an opening so that the drive unit is accessible through the fixing device and the cover without removing the cover. The present invention has the advantage that the rotor may be removed from the centrifuge and the rotor remains closed aerosol-tight at the same time. In addition, simple, one-handed operation is made possible.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2006Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Assignee: Thermo Electron LED GmbHInventor: Sebastian Henne
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Patent number: 7306741Abstract: A flexible, disposable centrifuge bag for receiving and holding a fluid sample, comprising one or more tubes and upper and lower flexible sheets having doughnut shaped configurations. The upper and lower sheets are superimposed and completely sealed together at their outer perimeters to define an outer perimeter of the centrifuge bag. The inner perimeter of the bag defines a central core. The tubes are sandwiched between the upper and lower sheets and extend from the central core of the centrifuge bag. The upper and lower sheets are sealed together at their inner perimeters such that the tubes are sealed between said upper and lower sheets at the inner perimeter. The bag may be used to harvest platelet rich plasma from whole blood in either a batch method or while simultaneously infusing additional aliquots of whole blood into the bag during centrifugation.Type: GrantFiled: December 3, 2004Date of Patent: December 11, 2007Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.Inventors: Victor D. Dolecek, David Malcolm
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Patent number: 7144361Abstract: A continuous flow type centrifuge to which a liquid sample is continuous supplied. The centrifuge includes a rotor rotatably supported by a main housing and drivingly rotated by a motor. The rotor includes a cylindrical rotor body, a hollow cylindrical core body, and end plates. The hollow cylindrical core body is disposed in the rotor body providing a space therebetween. The core body has an upper open end, a lower open end and an outer peripheral surface provided with a plurality of partitioning walls positioned at an equal interval in a circumferential direction of the core body for providing a plurality of cavities each defined by the core body, the rotor body and neighboring partitioning walls. The end plates include an upper end plate disposed to cover the upper open end, and a lower end plate disposed to cover the lower open end.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2004Date of Patent: December 5, 2006Assignee: Hitachi Koki Co., Ltd.Inventors: Masaharu Aizawa, Yoshinori Tobita
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Patent number: 6827863Abstract: A flexible, disposable centrifuge bag for receiving and holding a fluid sample, comprising one or more tubes and upper and lower flexible sheets having doughnut shaped configurations. The upper and lower sheets are superimposed and completely sealed together at their outer perimeters to define an outer perimeter of the centrifuge bag. The inner perimeter of the bag defines a central core. The tubes are sandwiched between the upper and lower sheets and extend from the central core of the centrifuge bag. The upper and lower sheets are sealed together at their inner perimeters such that the tubes are sealed between said upper and lower sheets at the inner perimeter. The bag may be used to harvest platelet rich plasma from whole blood in either a batch method or while simultaneously infusing additional aliquots of whole blood into the bag during centrifugation.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 2003Date of Patent: December 7, 2004Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.Inventors: Victor D. Dolecek, David Malcolm
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Patent number: 6793615Abstract: A fluid separation centrifuge for the separation of particulate matter from a flow of oil is designed with a disposable rotor assembly including a molded plastic rotor housing and a fluid separation device positioned within the rotor housing. Included as part of the fluid separation device is a unitary, molded plastic base plate which is designed and arranged with a peripheral lip formed with a channel portion therein. In a cooperating manner, the rotor housing is constructed and arranged with a molded plastic, generally cylindrical projection which is designed and arranged to receive the channel portion so as to create a fluid-tight, sealed interface at the location of contact between the projection and the channel portion.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2002Date of Patent: September 21, 2004Assignee: Fleetguard, Inc.Inventors: Kevin C. South, Peter K. Herman, Hendrik N. Amirkhanian, Ismail C. Bagci
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Patent number: 6776752Abstract: A centrifugal separator provides for discharge of solids by either an axial-motion scraper or a piston/extrusion assembly. The axial-motion scraper (80) is used with hard-packed or friable solids, and includes and integral feed liquid accelerator and feed holes. The piston/extrusion assembly is used with pasty solids, and includes a piston (12) extending into a bowl (10) and having openings (45) permitting fluid communication across the piston. After separation is complete, a centrate valve (34) closes one end of the bowl, and the piston is moved axially in the bowl by an actuator. A bowl suspension employs a spherical mounting structure (96) and a short spindle (98). A bearing (100) and the spindle (102) of the bowl are mounted within the bearing housing. The suspension is retained by a ring and retaining member secured to the separator in compressive contact with the spherical portion of the bearing housing.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2003Date of Patent: August 17, 2004Assignee: Wagner Development, Inc.Inventor: Robert B. Carr
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Publication number: 20030195105Abstract: A centrifugal separator provides for automatic discharge of solids by either an axial-motion scraper or a piston/extrusion assembly. The axial-motion scraper is used with hard-packed or friable solids, and includes an integral feed liquid accelerator and feed holes. The piston/extrusion assembly is used with pasty solids, and includes a piston extending into a separator bowl and having openings permitting fluid communication across the piston. After high-speed separation is complete, a centrate valve closes one end of the bowl, and the piston is moved axially in the bowl by an actuator. Accumulated solids are scraped from the sides of the bowl and extruded out of the piston openings for discharge from the bowl. A bowl suspension employs a spherical mounting structure and a short, stiff spindle. A spherical portion of a bearing housing is mounted in a spherical mounting region at one end of the separator, with a cylindrical portion of the bearing housing extending along the rotational axis.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 14, 2003Publication date: October 16, 2003Applicant: R. B. CARR ENGINEERING, INC.Inventor: Robert B. Carr
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Patent number: 6579217Abstract: A centrifuge rotor including a sample carrier (1) enclosing within an outer housing (7,8) and being rotatable about a principal axis of rotation of the rotor, the sample carrier (1) having a peripheral zone for holding sample tubes (6) in an orientation parallel to the said axis when at rest and the sample carrier being capable of deflecting to enable sample tubes (6) to swing out under the effect of centrifugal force. The swinging out of the tubes (6) is constrained and controlled by the arrangement of the sample carrier (1) and contact between the tubes (6) and outer housing (7,8).Type: GrantFiled: December 31, 2001Date of Patent: June 17, 2003Assignee: Seward Ltd.Inventor: Adrian Christopher Buxton
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Patent number: 6530871Abstract: A centrifuge, comprising: a centrifuge basket for separating a fed substance to be centrifuged into different constituents; a receptacle surrounding a portion of the basket; a bag insertable into the receptacle, the bag having an exterior wall and an interior for catching at least a portion of the constituents delivered by the centrifuge basket; a space surrounding the bag; and wherein the interior of the bag near an axis of rotation of the centrifuge basket is connected by a hose with the space surrounding the bag. A method of operating the centrifuge including the steps of mounting the receptacle, feeding the substance to be centrifuged, rotating the centrifuge basket and catching solids in the bag while separating the solids and liquid.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 2001Date of Patent: March 11, 2003Assignee: Westfalia Separator AGInventors: Wilfried Mackel, Werner Kohlstette, Thomas Kleimann, Willi Niemerg
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Publication number: 20010027156Abstract: The invention is directed to a centrifugation bowl with a rotating core. The centrifugation bowl includes a rotating bowl body which defines a primary separation chamber. The core, which is generally cylindrically shaped and is disposed within the bowl body, defines a secondary separation chamber. A stationary header assembly may be mounted on top of the bowl body through a rotating seal. The stationary header assembly includes an inlet port for receiving whole blood and an outlet port from which one or more blood components are withdrawn. The inlet port is in fluid communication with a feed tube that extends into the primary separation chamber. The outlet port is in fluid communication with an effluent tube that extends into the bowl body. The effluent tube includes an entryway at a first radial position relative to a central, rotating axis of the bowl.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 18, 2001Publication date: October 4, 2001Inventors: Yair Egozy, Paul J. Vernucci, Lelie E. Rose, Etienne Pages
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Patent number: 6286838Abstract: A rotor assembly for a laboratory centrifuge includes a rotor body having a loading region encircled by an annular first bearing surface. A lid is configured to be removably secured to the rotor body so as to substantially cover the loading region. The lid includes an annular second bearing surface. Disposed between the lid and the rotor body when the two are secured together is an annular sealing element. The sealing element has a substantially U-shaped transverse cross section and includes an outward facing annular base. An annular first sealing lip projects inward from the upper end of the base and is biased in sealed engagement with the second bearing surface of the lid. An annular second sealing lip projects inward from the lower end of the base and is biased in sealed engagement with second bearing surface of the rotor body. An annular collecting groove is formed on the sealing element between the first sealing lip and the second sealing lip.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 1998Date of Patent: September 11, 2001Assignee: Kendro Labatory Products GmbHInventors: Helmut Krüger, Viktor Betke, Frank Eigemeier
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Patent number: 6261217Abstract: A separation set for blood component preparation and similar separations for use in a centrifuge rotor, the set including a plate-like separation container made of a flexible material, an annular pinch valve which is mounted on and divides the separation container into a central section and an annular outer section, a first component container which is connected to the center of the separation container, a second component container which is connected to the circumference of the separation container, and a blood withdrawal tube for supplying blood to the outer section. The blood is separated in the outer section into plasma, buffy coat and red blood cells. Then the plasma is displaced to the first component container and the buffy coat to the central section where it is enclosed through the action of the pinch valve. The separation set with the pinch valve is then removed from the centrifuge and the red blood cells are transferred to the second component container.Type: GrantFiled: October 18, 1999Date of Patent: July 17, 2001Assignee: Sanguistech AktiebolagInventors: Peter Unger, Eric Westberg
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Patent number: 6053856Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for separating components of a fluid or particles. A separation vessel having a barrier dam is provided to initially separate an intermediate density components of a fluid, and a fluid chamber is provided to further separate these the intermediate density component by forming an elutriative field or saturated fluidized particle bed. The separation vessel is placed in a retainer on a centrifuge rotor and ridges in the retainer form various dams in the separation vessel. Also discloses are tubing sets and various separation vessels for use with the apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 1997Date of Patent: April 25, 2000Assignee: Cobe LaboratoriesInventor: Dennis Hlavinka
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Patent number: 6033563Abstract: A centrifuge with a slide-in filter comprises a centrifuge basket, a filter cloth element which can be pushed into or out of it, and a machine housing, to which a first housing chamber with an outlet for discharging a filtrate and a second housing chamber with an outlet for discharging a filter cake are connected in the region of the centrifuge basket. The first housing chamber is sealingly enclosed by a first separate housing section and the second housing chamber is likewise sealingly enclosed by a second separate housing section. The two housing sections are mounted so that each is able to pivot in different directions around separate axes in such a way that they are pivotable individually between a closed state and an open state relative to the centrifuge basket.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 1998Date of Patent: March 7, 2000Assignee: Heinkel Industriezentrifugen GmbH & Co.Inventor: Hans Gerteis
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Patent number: 6015375Abstract: A centrifuge has a centrifugal drum with a peeling chamber and a hydrohermetic chamber (locking chamber) (7). The centrifuge is so designed that solids deposited at the periphery (outer bottom 19) of the locking chamber (7) are carried away with the overflow stream of the sealing liquid or/and with the flow of the cleaning medium during CIP method of the space located between the centrifugal drum (2) and the centrifuge housing. A second locking chamber lid (1) is located between a locking disk (9) of the locking chamber (7) and a lid (17) for forming with the first lid a flow channel (20) for carrying away solids deposited on the outer bottom of the locking chamber via an overflow weir (16). The centrifuge is used in the field of separation technology, in particular when high hygienic requirements are applied, e.g. in the field of the foodstuff industry.Type: GrantFiled: July 17, 1998Date of Patent: January 18, 2000Assignee: Westfalia Separator AGInventor: Reinhard Moss