Conduit Or Passageway Section Capture Chamber Patents (Class 73/863.71)
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Patent number: 11828686Abstract: Liquid sampling apparatus and methods enable hands free collection of samples from surface waters via drone or other remote delivery systems. The liquid sampling apparatus includes a frame configured to support a plurality of groundwater sampling bailers in circumferential spaced apart relationship around a central axis of the frame, each bailer comprising an elongate tubular housing configured to collect and store a liquid sample from a body of liquid. A weight is movably secured to the frame and is configured to move between a retracted position and a downwardly extended position. When in the downwardly extended position, the weight is configured to maintain the liquid sampling apparatus and the plurality of groundwater sampling bailers in a generally vertical orientation during liquid sample collection.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 2022Date of Patent: November 28, 2023Assignee: Duke Energy CorporationInventors: Maverick James Raber, Jason Chadwick Green, Isaac John Medford
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Patent number: 11788937Abstract: Methods and systems for collecting, transporting and extracting high quality fluid samples for laboratory analyses are disclosed. The systems and methods disclosed are especially important for collecting fluid samples in a manner that most closely resembles the fluids as captured and safely maintains the samples during transportation and extraction at the laboratory.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 2019Date of Patent: October 17, 2023Inventor: Todd Matthew Coleman
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Patent number: 11733132Abstract: Liquid sampling apparatus and methods enable hands free collection of samples from surface waters via drone or other remote delivery systems. The liquid sampling apparatus includes a frame configured to support a plurality of groundwater sampling bailers in circumferential spaced apart relationship around a central axis of the frame, each bailer comprising an elongate tubular housing configured to collect and store a liquid sample from a body of liquid. A weight is movably secured to the frame and is configured to move between a retracted position and a downwardly extended position. When in the downwardly extended position, the weight is configured to maintain the liquid sampling apparatus and the plurality of groundwater sampling bailers in a generally vertical orientation during liquid sample collection.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 2022Date of Patent: August 22, 2023Assignee: Duke Energy CorporationInventors: Maverick James Raber, Jason Chadwick Green, Isaac John Medford
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Patent number: 11017980Abstract: The invention relates to a method of manipulating a sample in an evacuated chamber of a charged particle apparatus, the method performed in said evacuated chamber, the method including: providing a sample on a first substrate; bringing an extremal end of a manipulator in contact with the sample; attaching the sample to said extremal end, the attaching being a removable attaching; lifting the sample attached to the extremal end of the manipulator from the first substrate and transport the sample to a second substrate; attaching the sample to the second substrate; and detaching the sample from the extremal end of the manipulator. At least one of the steps of attaching the sample being performed solely by bringing the sample into contact with a bundle of carbon nanotubes.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2016Date of Patent: May 25, 2021Assignee: FEI CompanyInventors: Tomá{hacek over (s)} Vystav{hacek over (e)}l, Petronella Catharina Maria Baken, Ernst Jan Ruben Vesseur, Pavel Poloucek
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Patent number: 10648685Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a piece of network access apparatus for indoor environment monitoring and a method for indoor environment monitoring of the network access apparatus. The present disclosure also relates to a network access apparatus for indoor environment monitoring and a method for indoor environment monitoring of the network access apparatus so that network access apparatus installed indoors (e.g. in the house, in the office, in a building) additionally take an action of monitoring indoor environment.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2017Date of Patent: May 12, 2020Assignee: CENTER FOR INTEGRATED SMART SENSORS FOUNDATIONInventors: Hyun Tae Cho, Chong Min Kyung
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Patent number: 10612356Abstract: Methods and systems are disclosed that may be used for laboratory evaluation of the effectiveness of fluids and/or proppants such as those for hydraulic fracturing of oil and gas wells using a test system network. A test system network may include a reconfigurable network of conductor segments that may be arranged to simulate a fracture network matrix that exists downhole within an underground formation during a hydraulic fracturing treatment. Test fluids, including proppant-less as well as proppant-laden test fluids, may be flowed through the conductor segment network of a test system to measure, among other things, fluid and/or proppant distribution and proppant volume (or mass) during and after treatment within various parts of the test system network after the proppant is transported into the network by the introduced test fluid/s.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2017Date of Patent: April 7, 2020Assignee: PropTester, Inc.Inventors: Donald A. Anschutz, Ian J. Renkes, Kimberly Schill
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Patent number: 10578519Abstract: A liquid sampling device including a cylindrical body having a first plurality of grooves formed with irregular spacing near a first end of the cylindrical body, and a second plurality of grooves formed with irregular spacing near a second end of the cylindrical body, a top cap having an insertion portion to fit inside the cylindrical body and having a plurality of ridges formed thereon to correspond to the first plurality of grooves, and a cap portion having a suspension member, and a bottom cap having an insertion portion to fit inside the cylindrical body and having a plurality of ridges formed thereon to correspond to the second plurality of grooves, and an external annular flange forming an opening in the bottom cap to pass liquid therethrough, wherein the ridges of the top and bottom caps are configured to form snap fits with the corresponding grooves of the cylindrical body.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 2017Date of Patent: March 3, 2020Assignee: Aqua Bailers, Inc.Inventor: Michael A. Breidenbach
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Patent number: 10494717Abstract: Showerheads for semiconductor processing equipment are disclosed that include various features designed to minimize or eliminate non-uniform gas delivery across the surface of a wafer due to gas flow transients within the showerhead.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2018Date of Patent: December 3, 2019Assignee: Lam Research CorporationInventors: Edward Sung, Colin F. Smith, Shawn M. Hamilton
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Patent number: 10124270Abstract: Provided is a gas-blowing vaporizing and drying device for blowing gas at a solution containing a target component, and thus nebulizing the solution to promote vaporization of the solvent while dropping the solution into the collection container, in which contamination does not occur even if different solutes are successively powderized. In the gas-blowing vaporizing and drying device according to the present invention, a cap 20 to be fitted to the upper opening of a collection container body 19 includes: a solution-introducing tube 20A for introducing a solution supplied from a passage 14, into a collection container 21; a gas-introducing tube 20B for introducing a gas supplied from a passage 22, into the collection container 21; and an exhaust port 20C. Further, the exhaust port 20C includes a filter 20D for preventing the powderized solute from passing therethrough.Type: GrantFiled: July 4, 2012Date of Patent: November 13, 2018Assignee: SHIMADZU CORPORATIONInventors: Tomoyuki Yamazaki, Przemyslaw Stasica, Bob Boughtflower
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Patent number: 9410541Abstract: In combination, a liquid sample pump and an integral self-cleaning filter element will elongate the maintenance interval for the pump which saves on time and labor costs. The filter element itself is small, economical to make and forms an integral part of the liquid sample pump. A flow passageway continuously directs turbulent liquid to the underside of the filter element to sweep debris from the filter element and return such debris to the pipeline. When it is necessary to service the liquid sample pump, it is quick and easy to remove and replace the filter element, which also saves on time and labor costs. A bleed valve assembly allows air to be bled from the sample pump prior to operation, enhancing seal life. An optional muffler assembly excludes insects from the inside of the sample pump, again elongating maintenance intervals. An optional return valve assembly allows unused sample to be returned to the pipeline, thus benefitting the environment.Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 2014Date of Patent: August 9, 2016Assignee: Welker, Inc.Inventor: James T. Klentzman
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Patent number: 9176086Abstract: A sensing apparatus for detecting fluid quality change using signals obtained from a fluid quality sensor for exposure to a fluid and a reference sensor positioned in a reference sensing means having a fluid trap section holding a part of the fluid. Sensing values obtained from the fluid quality sensor and the reference sensor are compared in determining an aging factor. An application of the sensing apparatus is an apparatus for detecting engine oil quality change in an engine system. With the sensing apparatus, a first aging factor can be calculated after an engine cold soak and a second one can be obtained during engine operation. With these two aging factors, in addition to oil quality change, failures in the engine system and sensors, and oil change events can also be detected. Additionally, since reference sensing values are provided by the reference sensor, power disconnections have least effects.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 2013Date of Patent: November 3, 2015Inventor: Baohua Qi
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Patent number: 9125989Abstract: Device for determining the characteristics of peritoneal membrane comprising means for measuring glucose in the fluid drainage and a processing unit comprising means for determining the characteristics of the membrane as a function of that rate of glucose measured at different times. The invention also relates to a method for determining the characteristics of peritoneal membrane including the consideration of glucose measured at different moments in the liquid drainage.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2011Date of Patent: September 8, 2015Assignee: DEBIOTECH S.A.Inventor: Frédéric Neftel
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Patent number: 9116083Abstract: A sampling system for use in a sampling station that includes a sampling device that is releasable connectable to a branch line so that it may be removed when not needed at that site via a releasable coupling. The device has a main tube connected to the releasable coupling via a valve that is manually operated through an operating tube that is connected to the main tube so that it also functions to clear the main tube.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2012Date of Patent: August 25, 2015Inventor: Daniel Leigh Roe
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Patent number: 8925375Abstract: A multiple loop sample introduction system comprises a valve assembly including a sample collection valve and a sample introduction valve. First and second sample loops are in fluid communication with the sample collection valve and the sample introduction valve to receive aliquots of liquid samples to be introduced into a nebulizer. The valve assembly is operable to port a first aliquot into the first sample loop, while porting a second aliquot received in the second sample loop for introduction into the nebulizer.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2011Date of Patent: January 6, 2015Assignee: Elemental Scientific, Inc.Inventor: Daniel R. Wiederin
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Publication number: 20140366653Abstract: The invention provides a sample container arrangement for collecting multiphase samples of gas and liquid, particularly oil in water samples that are representative with respect to oil concentration, oil droplet size and oil droplet size distribution, the sample container arrangement comprises a sample container with an upper end, a lower end and a container volume for sample collection, such as a standing cylinder, distinctive in that the container arrangement further comprises: one inlet connected to the upper end or part of the container volume, one outlet with a valve with bleeding function, connected to the upper end or part of the container volume, and one outlet connected to the lower end of the container volume.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 14, 2012Publication date: December 18, 2014Inventor: Trygve Husveg
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Publication number: 20140290340Abstract: There is provided a monitoring apparatus including a gas sampling apparatus and a sensor that detects a chemical substance included in gas obtained by the gas sampling apparatus. The gas sampling apparatus includes: an air supplying unit that forms an air curtain to form a space that covers a region to which an object to be monitored is included and which is separated from the outside environment; a sampling unit that extracts the gas inside the separated space; and a diffusion gas supplying unit that supplies, into the separated space, an amount of diffusion gas that is at least equal to the sampled amount of the sampling unit, wherein the sampling unit includes a plurality of sampling nozzles disposed at three-dimensionally different positions inside the separated space.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 4, 2012Publication date: October 2, 2014Applicant: ATONARP INC.Inventors: Prakash Sreedhar Murthy, Akira Imai
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Patent number: 8789431Abstract: An sampling device for capturing a material sample and a method of using said device to process said material sample in situ within the device. Embodiments of the invention may be disposed as elongate probes having extendable sample capture elements. A sample capture element of such a device may include a sample capture pocket located near a distal end thereof for capturing and trapping a sample of material. The sample capture pocket may be provided with a port for receiving material therein and a port for expelling material therefrom. These ports may be placed in communication with corresponding material transfer channels extending through the sample capture element to allow for the in situ processing of a material sample, and the subsequent discharge of the sample to an analyzer or another downstream location.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2012Date of Patent: July 29, 2014Assignee: Mettler-Toledo AGInventors: Peter Alfred Blacklin, Wayne Fowler, Jr., Joel Michael Hawkins, Howard William Ward, II
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Publication number: 20140202234Abstract: In one example, a sample gas analyzer includes a sample cell configured to receive a gas sample, a sample tube including a passageway that is in communication with the sample cell, and an intake portion. A cleaning element is disposed between, and arranged for fluid communication with, the sample tube and the sample cell, and includes a body having a chamber configured to aid in imparting a rotational motion to a fluid stream entering the chamber. The cleaning element also includes an inlet port that is in communication with the chamber and that is configured and arranged for communication with the atmosphere. Finally, the cleaning element includes an outlet port in communication with the chamber and the sample cell.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 23, 2013Publication date: July 24, 2014Applicant: Campbell Scientific, Inc.Inventors: Rex P. Burgon, Steven D. Sargent
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Patent number: 8776622Abstract: Portable devices and related methods for collecting and storing atmospheric samples for subsequent chemical analysis are provided. A sample cartridge according to one implementation includes self-sealing inlet and outlet ports configured to close automatically when not in use, and a sample retention portion between the inlet and outlet ports that is adapted to trap an atmospheric sample. The sample cartridge may also include a memory device for recording data regarding the sample. Another embodiment provides a portable sampler configured to removably secure a self-sealing sample cartridge. A portable sampling device may also be used with an analytical instrument. The analytical instrument may analyze the sample and read the data recorded on the sample cartridge's memory.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 2012Date of Patent: July 15, 2014Assignee: FLIR Detection, Inc.Inventors: Matthew Briscoe, Brent Rardin, Dennis Barket, Jr.
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Patent number: 8770048Abstract: The invention provides a liquid storage installation which includes a tank (70) containing a liquid and a device (10) for measuring and sampling the liquid. The device (10) includes an elongate hollow body (12) having a closed bottom and a plurality of spaced apart sampling ports (20, 22, 24) at spaced apart positions. The device (10) further includes a sleeve (14) which extends around the sampling port and in which corresponding sampling ports (26, 28, 30) are provided at spaced apart positions. The body (12) and sleeve (14) are displaceable relative to one another between an open position in which the sampling ports are in register permitting liquid flow between the tank and the interior of the body and a closed position in which the ports are out of register and flow between the tank and the interior of the body (12) is prohibited.Type: GrantFiled: November 26, 2010Date of Patent: July 8, 2014Inventor: Simphiwe Lionel Khuzwayo
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Publication number: 20140174208Abstract: A gas sample extraction assembly for controllably accessing gas in a gas sample container includes a coupler body having a coupler bore and a coupler end for engaging the gas sample container; an upper member having an upper member bore; a biasing member disposed between the upper member and the coupler body; and a stem having a first portion coupled to the upper member bore and a second portion disposed in the coupler bore, the stem being movable relative to the coupler body between a first axial position and a second axial position, wherein the biasing member is configured to bias the stem in the first axial position.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 25, 2014Publication date: June 26, 2014Applicant: Isotech Laboratories, Inc.Inventors: Dennis D. COLEMAN, Todd M. COLEMAN
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Patent number: 8701509Abstract: A sampling device allows samples to be taken from a fluid that is pressurized and/or contains volatile components. The sampling device has a sampling housing (121, 521), an inlet (10, 110, 510), an outlet (11, 111, 511), a measuring cell (17, 317, 517) and a valve unit (118, 534). The valve unit has a valve which, in a first position, connects the inlet to the outlet by way of the measuring cell. In a second position, the valve connects the inlet directly to the outlet, while also disconnecting the measuring cell from both the inlet and the outlet. The valve unit also has at least one adjustable flow restrictor, through which the flow of the fluid through the sampling device is regulated.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 2011Date of Patent: April 22, 2014Assignee: Mettler-Toledo AGInventors: Klaus-Dieter Anders, Dragan Radanovic
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Patent number: 8673238Abstract: A fluid control and processing system for controlling fluid flow among a plurality of chambers comprises a body including a fluid processing region continuously coupled fluidicly with a fluid displacement region. The fluid displacement region is depressurizable to draw fluid into the fluid displacement region and pressurizable to expel fluid from the fluid displacement region. The body includes at least one external port. The fluid processing region is fluidicly coupled with the at least one external port. The fluid displacement region is fluidicly coupled with at least one external port of the body. The body is adjustable with respect to the plurality of chambers to place the at least one external port selectively in fluidic communication with the plurality of chambers.Type: GrantFiled: April 1, 2013Date of Patent: March 18, 2014Assignee: CepheidInventors: Douglas Dority, Ronald Chang
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Patent number: 8584535Abstract: Highly efficient and rapid filtration-based concentration devices, systems and methods are disclosed with sample fluidic lines and a filter packaged in a disposable tip which concentrate biological particles that are suspended in liquid from a dilute feed suspension. A sample concentrate or retentate suspension is retained while eliminating the separated fluid in a separate flow stream. The concentrate is then dispensed from the disposable tip in a set volume of elution fluid. Suspended biological particles include such materials as proteins/toxins, viruses, DNA, and/or bacteria in the size range of approximately 0.001 micron to 20 microns diameter. Concentration of these particles is advantageous for detection of target particles in a dilute suspension, because concentrating them into a small volume makes them easier to detect. All conduits by which the disposable tip attaches to the instrument are combined into a single connection point on the upper end of the tip.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 2010Date of Patent: November 19, 2013Assignee: Innova Prep LLCInventors: Andrew Edward Page, Zachary A. Packingham, David Scott Alburty, Alec D. Adolphson
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Patent number: 8584513Abstract: Disclosed are methods of determining the effectiveness of an asphaltene deposition inhibitor in oilfield applications. Such methods typically comprising the steps of introducing an oil well fluid into a microfluidic/millifluidic system; introducing a mixture of an asphaltene deposition inhibitor and carrier into the microfluidic/millifluidic system; introducing a precipitating agent, typically comprising heptane, into the microfluidic/millifluidic system; and optionally introducing toluene into the microfluidic/millifluidic system; then observing the presence or absence of asphaltene aggregation within the microfluidic/millifluidic system.Type: GrantFiled: February 24, 2011Date of Patent: November 19, 2013Assignee: Rhodia OperationsInventors: Lawrence A. Hough, Jean-Christophe Castaing, Gary Woodward, Ruela Talingting Pabalan, Floryan De Campo
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Patent number: 8528424Abstract: In a gas analyzer 3 and a gas analyzing system 100 adapted to introduce and analyze a part of a measurement target gas flowing through a measurement target gas flow passage 12, in order to ensure accuracy in controlling the measurement target gas flowing through the measurement target gas flow passage 12 and accuracy in its own and other measurements, there are provided an object measurement device 35 adapted to acquire a part of the measurement target gas introduced from the measurement target gas flow passage 12 so as to measure a quantity etc. of a measurement object contained in the measurement target gas, an acquired gas flow rate measurement device 34 adapted to measure a flow rate of the measurement target gas acquired by the object measurement device 35, and a gas supply device 36 adapted to supply another gas of a flow rate equal to the gas flow rate measured by the acquired gas flow rate measurement device 34 to a portion downstream of a shunt point in the measurement target gas flow passage 12.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 2011Date of Patent: September 10, 2013Assignee: Horiba, Ltd.Inventors: Yoshinori Otsuki, Masayoshi Shinohara, Kazuo Hanada
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Patent number: 8505395Abstract: A partial dilution exhaust sampling system has an expanded ability to simultaneously perform two different evaluations on exhaust from a power source. Beyond testing for particulate matter production, the system may simultaneously evaluate exhaust for undesirable gaseous emissions such as NOx and carbon dioxide and/or concurrently evaluate particle size and distribution in the exhaust sample. After extracting sample flow from the exhaust stream of the power source and adding diluent to the sample flow, the diluted sample flow is divided into a first portion flow and a second portion flow. Depending upon whether the additional exhaust evaluation device is in parallel with the particulate measurement gravimetric filter or in series with the filter, a dilution flow actuator and/or an exit actuator may be adjusted to account for a fraction of diluted sample flow directed to the auxiliary exhaust evaluation device.Type: GrantFiled: August 25, 2009Date of Patent: August 13, 2013Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.Inventor: Russell R. Graze, Jr.
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Publication number: 20130192339Abstract: Composite sampling of a fluid flowing through a conduit includes collecting, in a vessel coupled to the conduit through which the fluid is flowing, a first discrete sample of fluid from the conduit, the first discrete sample having a first selected volume, and collecting, in the vessel and at a first interval from the first sample, a second discrete sample of the fluid from the conduit, the second discrete sample having a second selected volume, thereby forming a composite sample in the vessel while the vessel is coupled to conduit. The composite sample includes the first discrete sample and the second discrete sample, and may include one or more additional discrete samples. An apparatus for collecting the composite sample includes a gas chromatograph, and is arranged such that the composite sample is provided to the gas chromatograph without removing the composite sample from the apparatus or transporting the composite sample.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 25, 2013Publication date: August 1, 2013Inventors: Wayne A. Kriel, Mario A. Ibarra, Sven Lataire
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Publication number: 20130160532Abstract: Various medical systems and methods are described, including a medical monitoring system. The medical monitoring system can have a fluid system configured to receive bodily fluid and optically analyze said fluid to determine analyte concentration. The fluid system can have a removable portion. The removable portion can have an opening with a port. The system can also have a container configured to contain anticoagulant. The container can have a portion configured to mate with the port of the removable portion. The container can be further configured to not fit into a conventional luer fitting. An anti-coagulant insertion apparatus is also described. The apparatus can have a syringe, a dock with a port, and an adapter configured to connect the syringe to the port. The dock can also have a tab configured to move with the port.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 14, 2012Publication date: June 27, 2013Applicant: OptiScan Biomedical CorporationInventors: Gil Rivas, Michael Butler, Jeffrey T. Chiou, Eugene Lim
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Patent number: 8431413Abstract: A fluid control and processing system for controlling fluid flow among a plurality of chambers comprises a body including a fluid processing region continuously coupled fluidicly with a fluid displacement region. The fluid displacement region is depressurizable to draw fluid into the fluid displacement region and pressurizable to expel fluid from the fluid displacement region. The body includes at least one external port. The fluid processing region is fluidicly coupled with the at least one external port. The fluid displacement region is fluidicly coupled with at least one external port of the body. The body is adjustable with respect to the plurality of chambers to place the at least one external port selectively in fluidic communication with the plurality of chambers.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2011Date of Patent: April 30, 2013Assignee: CepheidInventors: Douglas B. Dority, Ronald Chang
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Patent number: 8420014Abstract: The present invention is directed to a liquid droplet monitoring and measuring apparatus for use with a liquid dispensing system of the type comprising a nozzle having a liquid dispensing tip and means for delivering the dispensed liquid through the nozzle onto a receiving substrate. Further, the invention provides a method of monitoring and measuring the volume of a liquid droplet as it is being dispensed from a liquid dispensing system comprising a nozzle having a dispensing tip. The main use for the invention is in the fields of drug discovery, genomics, medical diagnostics and other life science-related applications. The invention could also be used in other areas for example in the food industry, cosmetic industry or the chemical industry.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2007Date of Patent: April 16, 2013Assignee: Allegro Research LimitedInventors: Igor V. Shvets, Cecilia Franken, Tomasz P. Zawada
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Patent number: 8408045Abstract: An instrument for measuring density, with a housing (1) and a measurement cell (2) arranged therein. The housing has an inlet opening and an outlet opening for a fluid sample, with a first adapter (12) for connecting the inlet opening to a sample reservoir (14), with a second adapter (11), for connecting the outlet opening to a waste container (15), and with an adapter housing (13), which is attached to the housing. The adapter housing comprises a feed-through for the first and second adapters, characterized in that the adapter housing is designed in one piece, and the adapters can each be affixed in the adapter housing first fastening means without tools.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2010Date of Patent: April 2, 2013Assignee: Mettler-Toledo AGInventor: Christian Forrer
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Patent number: 8371181Abstract: A continuous flow syringe pump includes a first syringe configured for at least one of loading or dispensing at least one fluid, a second syringe configured for at least one of loading or dispensing the at least one fluid, and a first valve connected to the first syringe and the second syringe. The continuous flow syringe pump also includes a second valve connected to the first valve. The continuous flow syringe pump further includes at least one outlet connected to the first valve. The at least one outlet is configured to alternate output of the at least one fluid between the first syringe and the second syringe in a substantially continuous operation.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2009Date of Patent: February 12, 2013Assignee: Elemental Scientific, Inc.Inventor: Daniel R. Wiederin
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Patent number: 8365617Abstract: An in situ sampling device for capturing a material sample from a vessel. Embodiments of the present invention may be disposed as elongate probes having extendable sample capture elements. A sample capture element of such a device may include a concave sample capture pocket located near a distal end thereof. The sample capture pocket is adapted to capture a known volume of material when the sample capture element is extended into said material. The material sample remains trapped in the sample capture pocket upon sample capture element retraction. The sample capture pocket may be provided with a port for receiving material therein and a port for expelling material therefrom. These ports may be placed in communication with corresponding material transfer channels extending through the sample capture element. A device of the present invention provides for substantially contemporaneous sample capture and sample processing.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2010Date of Patent: February 5, 2013Assignee: Mettler-Toledo AGInventors: Peter Alfred Blacklin, Wayne Fowler, Jr., Joel Michael Hawkins, Howard William Ward, II
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Patent number: 8337283Abstract: A system for presenting a crop sample to a crop property sensor is in particular suited for a harvesting machine and comprises a bypass line branching off from a crop feeding assembly, a conveyor for feeding the branched-off crop through the bypass line without damaging the crop, and a crop property sensor for sensing one or more properties of the crop in the bypass line. The bypass line is upwardly angled or extends vertical, such that the conveyor elevates the material from the crop guiding channel to the crop property sensor.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 2010Date of Patent: December 25, 2012Assignee: Deere & CompanyInventors: Georg Kormann, James J. Phelan, Andrzej Kozicki, Thomas Herlitzius, Jens Teichmann, Andi Günther
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Patent number: 8272279Abstract: Chemical sampling systems and methods that can inexpensively and efficiently provide accurate chemical sampling in dusty environments are disclosed. The system can include a chemical detector, an elastomeric membrane, and a support structure for the elastomeric membrane. The gas chromatograph can have a sample inlet through which chemicals from the gaseous environment can enter the gas chromatograph. The sample inlet can be covered with the elastomeric membrane, the elastomeric membrane being configured to extract chemicals from the gaseous environment while excluding dust and other particles from passing into the gas chromatograph. The support structure can be disposed between the elastomeric membrane and the sample inlet and can provide mechanical support to the elastomeric membrane.Type: GrantFiled: July 16, 2009Date of Patent: September 25, 2012Assignee: Seer Technology, Inc.Inventors: Gary R. Bodily, Neil Arnold, Jed W. Bodily, Daniel C. Maxwell
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Publication number: 20120236312Abstract: A microchip which includes, a liquid flow path through which a liquid sample including a sample flows; and a gas flow path in which compressed gas flows, wherein liquid sample inlet which communicates with the starting end of the liquid flow path and a gas supply port which communicates with a terminal of the gas flow path are formed on the same plane, and a sealing material is disposed so as to enclose the liquid sample inlet and the gas supply port.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 22, 2012Publication date: September 20, 2012Applicant: Sony CorporationInventor: Toru Takashimizu
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Patent number: 8246909Abstract: A method measures a property of a germicidal solution in an endoscope processor spectroscopically by placing a quantity of the solution into a cuvette and passing a light therethrough. A reservoir receives a quantity of the solution and bubbles are filtered out via a cross-flow filter prior to putting a sample therefrom into the cuvette for measuring.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 2007Date of Patent: August 21, 2012Assignee: Ethicon, Inc.Inventors: Hal Williams, Yan Fang, Richard Jackson
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Patent number: 8220347Abstract: Exemplary embodiments are directed to a device and method of use thereof for facilitating the analysis of samples of sub-slab soil gas that comprise an adapter body that includes, a first barbed portion, an external engaging portion, a threaded collar portion, a second barbed portion, and an internal cavity that axially passes through the length of the adapter body. The device may further include a tubular body with an interior cavity adapted to receive at least a portion of the second barbed portion of the adapter body to produce a mating engagement therebetween.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 2011Date of Patent: July 17, 2012Assignee: Cox-Colvin & Associates, Inc.Inventor: Craig A. Cox
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Patent number: 8210035Abstract: The present invention precisely measures characteristic values (such as the absorption coefficient) of an electromagnetic wave when a density of a PM in a DPF which collects the PM in an exhaust gas. The DPF receives the exhaust gas, and collects the PM in the exhaust gas. The DPF includes first hole portions which are open at a first end on a side for receiving the exhaust gas, and are closed at a second end on a side opposite to the first end, second hole portions which are closed at the first end and are open at the second end, and third hole portions which are closed at the first end. The first hole portion and the second hole portion are adjacent to each other. The third hole portions are adjacent to each other. The PM in the exhaust gas passing through partition walls which partition the first hole portion and the second hole portion adjacent to each other is collected by the partition walls.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2009Date of Patent: July 3, 2012Assignee: Advantest CorporationInventors: Motoki Imamura, Shigeki Nishina
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Patent number: 8205513Abstract: A closure device including a fill chamber housing, which forms an edge for a hollow cross-section of a fill chamber, and at least one shut-off valve having a through-passage, the valve being displaceable between an open position and a closed position by a guide gap transversely to a filler chamber longitudinal direction. In the open position, the shut-off valve with the through-passage thereof forms a passage of a fill chamber cross-section, and in the closed position the shut-off valve closes the fill chamber cross-section. A cleaning chamber is formed, the chamber height of which is greater than the gap height of the guide gap, and the position of the chamber is associated with the shut-off valve such that the edge of the through-passage is located in the cleaning chamber in the closed position.Type: GrantFiled: August 6, 2009Date of Patent: June 26, 2012Assignee: FLSmidth A/SInventor: Manfred Pottmann
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Patent number: 8192689Abstract: The invention relates to a device for taking out and analyzing a sample from a polymerization reactor comprising one or more sample conduits (2), for taking a sample out of said reactor and for conducting said sample to one or more sample flash tanks (3), whereby said conduits each are in communication with said reactor (19) and each are provided with at least two sampling valves (4, 5); comprising one or more sample flash tanks (3), for separating said solid particles and evaporated gas, whereby said sample flash tanks are connected to said conduits (2) and provided with means for analyzing said evaporated gas (7), and comprising one or more sample receivers (6), for purifying said solid particles, whereby said receivers are connected to said sample flash tanks (3) and provided with means (8) for analyzing said solid particles. The invention further relates to a method for improving a polymerization reaction in a polymerization reactor.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2011Date of Patent: June 5, 2012Assignee: Total Petrochemicals Research FeluyInventor: Hugo Vandaele
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Patent number: 8151630Abstract: A quantitative fit test (QNFT) system and method for assessing the biological fit factor (FF) performance of respiratory protective devices. The biological QNFT system includes the following three main elements: an aerosol generation system; an exposure chamber; and an aerosol sampling subsystem. The aerosol sampling subsystem includes an aerosol spectrometer that counts particles in discrete size units ranging from 0.5 to 20 micrometers (?m) making it possible to obtain several size-specific FF measurements from a single respirator fit test. A virtual impactor in the aerosol generation system increases the number of challenge particles in the primary target size of interest (1 to 5 ?m) and increases the sensitivity of the method allowing FF values of up to one million to be measured without the need to correct for in-mask background particles.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 2009Date of Patent: April 10, 2012Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the ArmyInventors: Paul D. Gardner, Jonathan P. Eshbaugh
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Patent number: 8141440Abstract: A closed loop system for obtaining a sample of a fluid from a source of fluid is disclosed, the system including a collection vessel having a fluid chamber disposed therein. A valve assembly is disposed within the collection vessel and adapted to selectively open and close a fluid communication path between the fluid chamber and an associated fluid receptacle. An inlet provides a fluid communication path between the source of fluid and the fluid chamber, and an outlet provides a fluid communication path between the fluid chamber and a fluid recovery system.Type: GrantFiled: April 26, 2007Date of Patent: March 27, 2012Assignee: Gammon Technical Products, Inc.Inventors: Howard M. Gammon, James H. Gammon
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Patent number: 8048386Abstract: A fluid control and processing system for controlling fluid flow among a plurality of chambers comprises a body including a fluid processing region continuously coupled fluidicly with a fluid displacement region. The fluid displacement region is depressurizable to draw fluid into the fluid displacement region and pressurizable to expel fluid from the fluid displacement region. The body includes at least one external port. The fluid processing region is fluidicly coupled with the at least one external port. The fluid displacement region is fluidicly coupled with at least one external port of the body. The body is adjustable with respect to the plurality of chambers to place the at least one external port selectively in fluidic communication with the plurality of chambers.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2002Date of Patent: November 1, 2011Assignee: CepheidInventors: Douglas B. Dority, Ronald Chang
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Patent number: 8020426Abstract: An apparatus determines gas sorption properties of a large number of material samples simultaneously. The apparatus includes a switchable manifold of low-volume conduits and an array of sensors, where each low-volume conduit fluidly couples a single sample of gas-sorbing material to a dedicated detector. The switchable manifold is also configured to fluidly couple the samples to a vacuum source or a dosing gas source. Because of the very low internal volume of the conduits, essentially all gas released from a particular sample is accurately detected by the corresponding detector, either through sorption of the released gas, by measuring pressure, or by other means. In this way, a very accurate measurement of the quantity of gas released by the sample is made. In one embodiment, the array of sensors includes hydride-based sensors, which contain a material that forms an optically and/or electrically responsive hydride upon exposure to hydrogen-containing gas.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 2008Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: Hy-Energy, LLCInventor: Karl J. Gross
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Publication number: 20110219889Abstract: An improved immersible oxygen probe for molten metals has a gas permeable body including an immersion end and a support end adapted for being supported by a lance. An oxygen cell and a thermocouple are supported in the immersion end of the body. An unobstructed gas flow passageway is provided through the gas permeable bodies and through the probe body from the immersion end to the support/connector end whereby gases released from the molten metal and sensor body during immersion readily pass through the probe and can escape from within the probe. Thus rapid analysis of the molten metal with improved accuracy within a few seconds after immersion is achieved.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 28, 2009Publication date: September 15, 2011Applicant: MIDWEST INSTRUMENT COMPANYInventors: Ascencion Z. Villarreal V, Paul A. Turner
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Patent number: 8003403Abstract: A chemical sensor for detecting organic or inorganic target vapors and comprising a silicon member having a silicon surface with semiconductor pores therein, at least one luminescent sensory material entrapped in the semiconductor pores. The luminescent spectral material is exposed to the target vapors, wherein an excitation of the at least one luminescent sensory material results in a luminescent spectral response due to emission interference. The change in the luminescent spectral response is measured during this exposure.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 2008Date of Patent: August 23, 2011Assignee: Emitech, IncInventor: Igor A. Levitsky
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Patent number: 7955843Abstract: An apparatus and method for an aseptic fluidic interface between bioprocess systems is provided. The apparatus includes an inlet valve, adapted for automatic control, that is coupled to a biofluid source site. A sampling conduit extends from the inlet valve to an outlet valve. The outlet valve is adapted for automatic control and is coupled to a biofluid process site. A trap is at the sampling conduit. A waste valve, adapted for automatic control, is located at a waste conduit extending from the sampling conduit to a waste site. Also included is a wash fluid source that is coupled to at least one of the inlet or outlet valves. In the method, the sample is automatically directed to the biofluid process site by opening the outlet valve, and closing the waste valve. Also included is isolating the biofluid sites by closing the inlet and outlet valves, and opening the waste valve to drain biofluid from the trap to the waste site.Type: GrantFiled: November 27, 2006Date of Patent: June 7, 2011Assignee: Groton Biosystems, LLCInventor: George E. Barringer, Jr.
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Patent number: 7921739Abstract: A method for in situ sampling and monitoring of a fluid flowing in a flow path, whereby the fluid is to be directed to a chamber a first valve may provide a connection between an inlet to the chamber and the flow path and a second valve may provide a connection between an outlet from the chamber and the flow path, comprising the following steps: a) opening the first valve and the second valve to let the incoming fluid flow through the inlet to the chamber and from the chamber through the outlet into the continuation of the fluid path, thereby allowing fluid to circulate through the chamber for a certain time, b) trapping the fluid in the chamber by closing the second valve and thereafter closing the first valve, c) opening a valve 9 for reducing pressure, to obtain a pressure in the chamber suitable for monitoring the fluid, d) opening an access valve 11 and leading the fluid trapped in the chamber into a monitor system wherein the fluid is analyzed, and thereby providing the data representing the fluid charaType: GrantFiled: May 22, 2008Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Inventors: Sølve J. Fjerdingstad, John F. Reintjes, John E. Tucker, Lawrence L. Tankersley