With Inspection Means (e.g., Window) Patents (Class 366/143)
  • Patent number: 11490767
    Abstract: An apparatus for agitating liquid foodstuff, comprising a whisk that includes a magnetic rotor of a brushless electromotor assembly, and a main body including a liquid foodstuff container in which the whisk is receivable such that it is rotatable around a rotation axis thereof, and a stator of the electromotor assembly. The stator is configured to electromagnetically drive the rotor in rotation, and includes at least one magnetic sensor configured to provide a signal that reflects positional changes of the magnetic rotor relative to the magnetic sensor. The main body also includes a controller configured to detect an initial, manually effected rotational movement of the whisk around its rotation axis from the signal of the magnetic sensor, and, once such initial movement of the whisk is detected, to operate the apparatus independent of said initial, movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2022
    Assignee: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS N.V.
    Inventor: Mark Ronald Ven Der Woning
  • Patent number: 11446844
    Abstract: A kneading device for dispersing a dispersoid in a dispersion medium includes a casing in which a kneading material containing the dispersion medium and the dispersoid is accommodated, a rotor disposed in the casing and kneading the kneading material while dispersing the dispersoid in the dispersion medium by rotating about a rotation axis, and a detection unit detecting a dispersion degree of the dispersoid in the dispersion medium by observing a state of the kneading material in the casing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2022
    Assignee: NIHON SPINDLE MANUFACTURING CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Hisashi Saito, Yoshihiko Nagata, Takamasa Kishima
  • Patent number: 11267010
    Abstract: A system having a material sensor system coupled to a material tank is provided. The material tank is configured to receive a quantity of the material and output a flow of the material. The material sensor system includes a float system coupled to an inner surface of the material tank. The float system includes a float configured float within a float cavity. The material sensor system includes a switch coupled to an outer surface of the material tank. The switch is communicatively coupled to the float system through a wall of the material tank, and the switch is configured to send one or more signals to a control system when the float engages the switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2022
    Assignee: Carlisle Fluid Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher Lee Strong, Bradley Paul Walter
  • Patent number: 10926198
    Abstract: This disclosure provides a deaeration apparatus comprising: a closable deaeration cavity configured to accommodate a liquid to be deaerated; a heating member configured to heat the deaeration cavity; a temperature detection member configured to detect a temperature inside the deaeration cavity; and a controller configured to receive the temperature detected by the temperature detection member and control the heating member based on the temperature. When using in deaeration of a liquid, the deaeration apparatus of the disclosure can shorten the deaeration time and improve the deaeration efficiency of the liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2021
    Assignees: BOE TECHNOLOGY GROUP CO., LTD., CHENGDU BOE OPTOELECTRONICS TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Zhenrui Fan, Zhong Lu, Wenxuan Zhang, Li Xiong, Cheng Tang, Mingwen Wang, Jianbo Yang, Hongguang Yuan, Wei Lin, Donghua Jiang
  • Patent number: 10905287
    Abstract: An appliance to foam a liquid for consumption, the appliance comprising: a container mounting portion to mount thereto a container to contain said liquid; an agitation system configured to foam said liquid, said system comprising a stator arranged external a mounted container, said stator configured to generate a rotating magnetic field for transmission of torque to rotate a rotary agitator arranged in a mounted container, wherein said stator comprises at a circuit board with electrically conductive portions formed thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2021
    Assignee: Societe des Produits Nestle S.A.
    Inventors: Xuan Mai Tu, Luan Vu Tran, Alexa Perrin
  • Patent number: 10593944
    Abstract: A co-precipitation reactor for manufacturing a positive electrode active material precursor for a secondary battery, the co-precipitation reactor including a reaction chamber having a plurality of suppliers configured to direct a reaction material and a pH adjusting material into the reaction chamber, a stirrer configured to be disposed in the reaction chamber, a drive motor configured to rotate the stirrer, a stirring shaft configured to receive power from the drive motor and rotate the stirrer, a first heater configured to heat an outside of the reaction chamber to heat the reaction material and the pH adjusting material, and a second heater configured to heat an inside of the reaction chamber to heat the reaction material and the pH adjusting material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2020
    Assignees: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD., SAMSUNG SDI CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Youhwan Son, Kwangjin Park, Jinseok Hong
  • Patent number: 10506896
    Abstract: An apparatus for agitating liquid foodstuff, comprising a whisk that includes a magnetic rotor of a brushless electromotor assembly, and a main body including a liquid foodstuff container in which the whisk is receivable such that it is rotatable around a rotation axis thereof, and a stator of the electromotor assembly. The stator is configured to electromagnetically drive the rotor in rotation, and includes at least one magnetic sensor configured to provide a signal that reflects positional changes of the magnetic rotor relative to the magnetic sensor. The main body also includes a controller configured to detect an initial, manually effected rotational movement of the whisk around its rotation axis from the signal of the magnetic sensor, and, once such initial movement of the whisk is detected, to operate the apparatus independent of said initial, movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2019
    Assignee: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS N.V.
    Inventor: Mark Ronald Ven Der Woning
  • Patent number: 10164196
    Abstract: Provided is an aniline derivative represented by formula (1). (In formula (1), R1 represents an alkyl group, an alkenyl group, an alkynyl group, an aryl group having 6-20 carbon atoms, a heteroaryl group, or a group represented by formula (2), and R2-R55 independently represent a hydrogen atom, a halogen atom, a nitro group, a cyano group, an aldehyde group, a hydroxy group, a thiol group, a carboxylic acid group, an alkyl group, an alkenyl group, an alkynyl group, an aryl group, a heteroaryl group, etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2018
    Assignee: Nissan Chemical Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Naoki Nakaie, Taichi Nakazawa
  • Patent number: 9198532
    Abstract: A popcorn popper having a heat source transferring heat to a heating surface and also having a reflective surface for focusing the heat radiated by the heat source toward the heating surface. The popcorn popper can include a mechanical stirrer on the heating surface for shifting the kernels during heating and evenly distributing the kernels across the heating surface. The popcorn popper can have a cover with an integrated reservoir for holding toppings for the popcorn, wherein the reservoir is adapted to drain the topping through the cover without fouling the cover air vents and evenly distribute the topping onto the kernels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2015
    Assignee: National Presto Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Ryan H. Barrows, Michael R. Berge
  • Patent number: 9060527
    Abstract: A beverage dispenser for partially frozen beverages includes at least one bowl for storing a beverage product, with a freezing cylinder positioned in the bowl. The beverage dispenser further includes a cooling system for supplying a cooling medium to the freezing cylinder to cool the beverage product when stored in the bowl, along with a dispenser assembly for dispensing the beverage product from the bowl. The beverage dispenser includes an auger which rotates about the freezing cylinder. A driven hub is positioned on and rotates with respect to the freezing cylinder, and the driven hub engages a rear end portion of the auger. A driver hub is positioned inside of the freezing cylinder and is magnetically coupled to the driven hub, such that rotation of the driver hub causes a corresponding rotation of the driven hub, and thus, rotation of the auger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2015
    Assignee: Grindmaster Corporation
    Inventors: Richard Leon Sipp, Curry Joseph Cates, Jose G. Avendano
  • Patent number: 8967851
    Abstract: Spectral and hyperspectral imaging systems allow monitoring of pharmaceutical or other industrial blending processes to establish the characteristics of the blend. To illustrate, a batch type blender may be equipped with a computer controlled drive mechanism that is slowed down at a predetermined point during rotation to assess the progress of the blending through an imaging window mounted on the blender. A fast hyperspectral imaging device can be provided directly on the blender to view the blend through the imaging window, or can be placed in a fixed position relative to the rotating blender. The image of the blend is preferably captured line-by-line at a location at or near the bottom of the blender synchronously with the blender's rotation. The spectral information acquired from the blend at each rotation can be used to assess whether the nominal blend composition is achieved, or to reveal uniformity of the blend.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: Kemeny Associates
    Inventor: Gabor J. Kemeny
  • Publication number: 20150036451
    Abstract: A microwave moisture probe is used in a system and method to measure completeness of mixing in portable total mixed ration (TMR) feed mixers. The probe continuously monitors the moisture concentration of the feed mix and communicates its readings to a processor. The processor processes the data from the probe and determines when the feed has been mixed optimally. The processor then communicates with a display to provide a signal to a user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2013
    Publication date: February 5, 2015
    Inventor: Robert J. Buresh
  • Publication number: 20150036452
    Abstract: A stirring container and a stirring apparatus are provided. The stirring container includes a barrel and a plurality of stirring paddles. The barrel is defined with an inner surface, an outer surface, and a center axis. The first opening and a second opening are located at two ends of the center axis; and the paddles are fixed on the inner surface of the barrel and extend from the first opening to the second opening and the extending directions thereof are skewed to the center axis. The stirring apparatus includes the aforesaid stirring container, a supporting structure and a rotation module. The supporting structure connects to the outer surface of the barrel to make the barrel rotatable and covers the second opening. The rotation module connects to the outer surface to rotate the stirring container. Thereby, the stirring container and the stirring apparatus can provide better stirring results.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2014
    Publication date: February 5, 2015
    Inventors: Yun-Long TUN, Shih-Ming HSU
  • Patent number: 8893995
    Abstract: The present invention efficiently and cost-effectively extracts and collects cells from a tissue. The inventors have discovered that the tissue can be effectively fragmented and the resulting cells can be purified using a system or kit with multiple components. An advantage of the present invention is that tissue processing takes place in a closed system such that sterility can be maintained throughout the process, even if certain components are removed during processing, for example through the use of valves, clamps, and heat seals. Furthermore, any or all of the steps can be automated or manually accomplished, according to the specific needs of the application or the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Assignee: Auxocell Laboratories, Inc.
    Inventors: Rouzbeh R. Taghizadeh, John Meade
  • Publication number: 20140328135
    Abstract: In a mixer for manufacturing and/or treating a meat product in a mixing space (4) to which a lighting system (2) is assigned, the mixing space (4) is viewed by an image sensor (1).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 1, 2014
    Publication date: November 6, 2014
    Applicant: Inotec GmbH Maschinenentwicklung und Vertrieb
    Inventor: Miroslav Domlatil
  • Patent number: 8876362
    Abstract: A nail polish display system includes a case, which may take the form of a shelving system or platform, sized to hold and display multiple bottles of nail polish. The bottles are attached to coupling devices, such as clamps, sleeves, magnetic couplers, etc. to an agitator, which preferably takes the form of a rotatable rod. A motor operates the agitator to move, rotate or otherwise agitate the bottles and therefore sufficiently and continuously mix the nail polish within the bottles. The system may include one or more sensors configured to detect the presence of a patron, configured to detect a position of the motor or agitator, and/or configured to detect when a door to the case is being opened. Further, the motor may be programmable and receive instructions from either a controller or control logic using input from one or more of the sensors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Inventor: Cuong Nguyen
  • Publication number: 20140171532
    Abstract: A fill material which includes first and second types of polymers which are mixed together to be used for filling frameless furniture or the like as well as the method and apparatus for making the fill material and supplying the fill material to a frameless furniture sheath.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2012
    Publication date: June 19, 2014
    Inventors: John R. Widly, Chris A. Vanderhagen
  • Patent number: 8746954
    Abstract: A system for managing a concrete delivery vehicle having a mixing drum 14 and hydraulic drive 16 for rotating the mixing drum, including a rotational sensor 20 configured to sense a rotational speed of the mixing drum, a hydraulic sensor 22 coupled to the hydraulic drive and configured to sense a hydraulic pressure required to turn the mixing drum, a temperature sensor for sensing temperature of the drum, and a communications port 26 configured to communicate a slump calculation to a status system 28 commonly used in the concrete industry, wherein the sensing of the rotational speed of the mixing drum is used to qualify a calculation of current slump based on the hydraulic pressure required to turn the mixing drum. Temperature readings are further used to qualify or evaluate a load. Also, water purge connections facilitate cold weather operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Assignee: Verifi LLC
    Inventors: Roy Cooley, Michael Topputo, Steve Verdino, Jerold Brickler
  • Patent number: 8491178
    Abstract: A receptacle having interconnected chambers arranged to permit multiple process steps to be performed independently or simultaneously. The receptacles are manufactured to separate liquid from dried reagents and to maintain the stability of the dried reagents. An immiscible liquid, such as an oil, is included to control loading of process materials, facilitate mixing and reconstitution of dried reagents, limit evaporation, control heating of reaction materials, concentrate solid support materials to prevent clogging of fluid connections, provide minimum volumes for fluid transfers, and to prevent process materials from sticking to chamber surfaces. The receptacles can be adapted for use in systems having a processing instrument that includes an actuator system for selectively moving fluid substances between chambers and a detector. The actuator system can be arranged to concentrate an analyte present in a sample. The detector can be used to detect an optical signal emitted by the contents of the receptacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignees: Gen-Probe Incorporated, Qualigen, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott S. Breidenthal, Sara H. Fan, Richard S. Lee, Norman C. Nelson, Matthew J. Scott, Jason A. Taylor
  • Patent number: 8480976
    Abstract: A receptacle having a plurality of interconnected chambers arranged to permit multiple process steps or processes to be performed independently or simultaneously. The receptacles are manufactured to separate liquid from dried reagents and to maintain the stability of the dried reagents. An immiscible liquid, such as an oil, is included to control loading of process materials, facilitate mixing and reconstitution of dried reagents, limit evaporation, control heating of reaction materials, concentrate solid support materials to prevent clogging of fluid connections, provide minimum volumes for fluid transfers, and to prevent process materials from sticking to chamber surfaces. The receptacles can be adapted for use in systems having a processing instrument that includes an actuator system for selectively moving fluid substances between chambers and a detector. The actuator system can be arranged to concentrate an analyte present in a sample.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignees: Gen-Probe Incorporated, Qualigen, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott S. Breidenthal, Sara H. Fan, Richard S. Lee, Norman C. Nelson, Matthew J. Scott, Jason A. Taylor
  • Publication number: 20130171723
    Abstract: A mixing bag for use in bioprocessing in which a fluid is received and agitated using an internal fluid-agitating element driven by an external motive device is disclosed. The bag may include an integral sparger and sensor receiver. Related methods are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2012
    Publication date: July 4, 2013
    Applicant: ATMI PACKAGING, INC.
    Inventors: Alexandre N. Terentiev, Sergey Terentiev
  • Publication number: 20130039145
    Abstract: Presented herein is a mixing apparatus to mix liquid and solids, solids and solids, liquids and liquids or combinations thereof into a homogenous solution in a sealed container shaken in a side to side, up and down, and/or orbital pattern with a warming plate to heat the contents to a desired temperature or for a specific time period with a decreased risk of foreign contaminants in accordance with prescribed instructions for preparing a mixture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 9, 2011
    Publication date: February 14, 2013
    Applicant: EAZY ENTERPRISES LLC
    Inventors: Felicia Lynne Pollaro, Mark Brian Docherty
  • Publication number: 20130003490
    Abstract: The invention relates to a kitchen appliance (1) having a mixing vessel (2) and a stirrer located in the mixing vessel, wherein the mixing vessel can be heated and the kitchen appliance (1) has a time selector switch (5, 6) which enables a time selection in respect of the stirrer and/or the heating operation, wherein a pre-programmed sequence of preparation steps can furthermore be carried out. In order to carry out operation as safely as possible, according to the invention the sequence cannot be triggered until an active selection made by the user in respect of the time and/or stirrer and/or heating setting is made, insofar as a stir and/or heating operation is in the pre-programmed sequence, by means of the one or more selector switches.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2010
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Applicant: VORWERK & CO. INTERHOLDING GMBH
    Inventors: Uwe Kemker, Torsten Lang, Jutta Schomacher
  • Patent number: 8235578
    Abstract: Provided here is an agitation vessel which enhances energy transmission efficiency in an agitation apparatus and an analysis apparatus, simplifies the structure of the agitation apparatus and the analysis apparatus, and allows for downsizing and improved maintenanceability. An agitation vessel (5) agitates retained liquid by sound waves. A sound wave generating member (24) which generates sound waves is provided integrally with the agitation vessel (5). The agitation vessel (5) includes a bottom wall (5d) and plural side walls (5c) made of an optically transparent material, and a part of the opposing side walls among the plural side walls (5c) is a photometric window (5b) that optically measures the liquid agitated. The sound wave generating member (24) is arranged on the side wall (5c), on which the photometric window (5b) is arranged, among the plural side walls (5c).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: Beckman Coulter, Inc.
    Inventors: Miyuki Murakami, Nobuyoshi Tsuda
  • Patent number: 8210736
    Abstract: An improved post-mix type food product dispenser that includes a housing having a clear, transparent visual display that permits real-time viewing of the mixing process that takes place within a mixing chamber defined by a rotating rotor that is closely received within the housing. The apparatus is operated by the customer and uniquely produces and dispenses on demand individualized portions of freshly prepared food products as selected by the customer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Inventor: Jeffrey C. Raber
  • Patent number: 8052929
    Abstract: A receptacle having a plurality of interconnected chambers arranged to permit multiple process steps or processes to be performed independently or simultaneously. The receptacles are manufactured to separate liquid from dried reagents and to maintain the stability of the dried reagents. An immiscible liquid, such as an oil, is included to control loading of process materials, facilitate mixing and reconstitution of dried reagents, limit evaporation, control heating of reaction materials, concentrate solid support materials to prevent clogging of fluid connections, provide minimum volumes for fluid transfers, and to prevent process materials from sticking to chamber surfaces. The receptacles can be adapted for use in systems having a processing instrument that includes an actuator system for selectively moving fluid substances between chambers and a detector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Assignees: Gen-Probe Incorporated, Qualigen, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott S. Breidenthal, Sara H. Fan, Richard S. Lee, Norman C. Nelson, Matthew J. Scott, Jason A. Taylor
  • Patent number: 8048375
    Abstract: A receptacle having a plurality of interconnected chambers arranged to permit multiple process steps or processes to be performed independently or simultaneously. The receptacles are manufactured to separate liquid from dried reagents and to maintain the stability of the dried reagents. An immiscible liquid, such as an oil, is included to control loading of process materials, facilitate mixing and reconstitution of dried reagents, limit evaporation, control heating of reaction materials, concentrate solid support materials to prevent clogging of fluid connections, provide minimum volumes for fluid transfers, and to prevent process materials from sticking to chamber surfaces. The receptacles can be adapted for use in systems having a processing instrument that includes an actuator system for selectively moving fluid substances between chambers and a detector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignees: Gen-Probe Incorporated, Qualigen, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott S. Breidenthal, Richard S. Lee, Norman C. Nelson, Matthew J. Scott, Jason A. Taylor, Sara H. Fan
  • Publication number: 20100290308
    Abstract: A system for pumping or mixing a fluid using a rotating pumping or mixing element and various other components for use in a pumping or mixing system are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2010
    Publication date: November 18, 2010
    Inventor: Alexandre N. Terentiev
  • Patent number: 7798363
    Abstract: A caulk product is provided. The product comprises an amount of caulk that is formulated so as to be white in color prior to curing and clear after curing. A cylindrical cartridge contains the amount of caulk, wherein the cartridges comprises a dispensing tip, a substantially cylindrical body, a removable and replaceable endcap, and a breakable seal located between the tip and the body. A transparent area is disposed within a wall of the cartridge so as to allow the color of the caulk to be viewed, wherein the area defined by the cartridge body is adapted to accommodate the insertion of colorant and a mixing tool without overflow. A related method for coloring caulk is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: Red Devil, Inc.
    Inventor: Larry Brandon
  • Patent number: 7780336
    Abstract: A receptacle having a plurality of interconnected chambers arranged to permit multiple process steps or processes to be performed independently or simultaneously. The receptacles are manufactured to separate liquid from dried reagents and to maintain the stability of the dried reagents. An immiscible liquid, such as an oil, is included to control loading of process materials, facilitate mixing and reconstitution of dried reagents, limit evaporation, control heating of reaction materials, concentrate solid support materials to prevent clogging of fluid connections, provide minimum volumes for fluid transfers, and to prevent process materials from sticking to chamber surfaces. The receptacles can be adapted for use in systems having a processing instrument that includes an actuator system for selectively moving fluid substances between chambers and a detector. The actuator system can be arranged to concentrate an analyte present in a sample.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Assignees: Gen-Probe Incorporated, Qualigen, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott S. Breidenthal, Sara H. Fan, Richard S. Lee, Norman C. Nelson, Matthew J. Scott, Jason A. Taylor
  • Publication number: 20100195432
    Abstract: A cover for blending one or more materials in an open topped container. The cover is adapted to close the open top during blending. The cover may have a central hole for passing the shaft of a powered blender and a peripheral opening for pouring materials from the container or into a container, and to view the progress of the mixing. Optionally, the cover may have a third opening and as a further option, a fourth opening, the third and fourth openings adapted to connect to a commercial vacuum device for evacuating dust from the container during blending. The third and fourth openings may be formed as prescored removable portions of the cover. In a further option, the third and fourth openings may be provided with close fitting removable resilient plugs. The upper surface of the cover may be inclined so that liquids flow towards the peripheral opening and into the container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 2, 2009
    Publication date: August 5, 2010
    Inventors: Kevin Laurence, Stuart Long
  • Patent number: 7740398
    Abstract: A dynamic mixer includes a housing structure having a mixing chamber, having an inlet opening through which a material or materials to be mixed is passed into the mixing chamber and an outlet. A mixer rod has mixing rod portion disposed in the housing structure and a plurality of mixing paddle portions each having a mixing surface. The mixing rod is adapted for attachment to a drive unit which imparts a rotational mixing force to the rod. In one exemplary non-limiting embodiment of a mixer, the housing structure includes a hollow tubular structure with first and second open ends, a hollow T fitting having a first opening attached to the first end of the hollow tubular structure, a second opening opposed to and in alignment with the first opening and a third opening transverse to the first and second openings, and a coupler fitting attached to the second open end of the tubular structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Assignee: Fluid Research Corporation
    Inventors: David J. Cline, Truc S. Tang, Richard T. Naruo, Stephen P. Gordon
  • Patent number: 7731412
    Abstract: Fluid processing apparatus comprises a fluid-handling manifold comprising a manifold body having at least a first fluid duct and a second fluid duct. The first and second fluid ducts are in fluid communication with each other at a microfluidic junction of the fluid-handling manifold. The manifold body further comprises a transducer operative to generate ultrasonic acoustic traveling wave radiation into fluid in the microfluidic junction from an active surface toward a non-reflective boundary of the microfluidic junction. The microfluidic junction is operative to pass fluid received from the first and second duct, with micro-mixing effected by the traveling wave radiated into the junction during the fluid flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2010
    Assignee: Protasis Corporation
    Inventors: Graham Sparey-Taylor, David Strand, David Barrow
  • Publication number: 20100112183
    Abstract: An in-shell-scrambled-egg is disclosed. The scrambled egg is comprised of a natural poultry natural egg wherein the nested layers of the egg are scrambled and the shell of the egg is unbroken. In addition an in-shell egg scrambler is also disclosed and comprises of a rotation unit operatively connected to an egg retention portion designed adapted to rotate the egg retention portion such that an egg retained therein is scrambled without breaking the shell thereof. The egg rotation can be controlled by a controller and a sensor can recognize that the egg is scrambled.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2008
    Publication date: May 6, 2010
    Applicant: EGGNOLOGY LTD.
    Inventor: Assaf Gurner
  • Patent number: 7666602
    Abstract: An automated analyzer for performing multiple diagnostic assays simultaneously includes multiple stations, or modules, in which discrete aspects of the assay are performed on fluid samples contained in reaction receptacles. The analyzer includes stations for automatically preparing a specimen sample, incubating the sample at prescribed temperatures for prescribed periods, performing an analyte isolation procedure, and ascertaining the presence of a target analyte. An automated receptacle transporting system moves the reaction receptacles from one station to the next.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Assignee: Gen-Probe Incorporated
    Inventors: Kelly G. Ammann, Ernest V. Hansberry
  • Publication number: 20100034048
    Abstract: A microtiter plate (1), which can be used in a device G, comprises a plurality of receptacles (2) disposed next to one another for a substance or fluid to be stirred and analyzed, wherein stirring rods (3) are provided for stirring. So as to drive these stirring rods, it is provided that the bottoms (4) of the individual receptacles (2) are displaceable and deflectable and that a stirring rod (3) penetrates each of them centrally, the rod being seized by a drive on an outer section (3b) protruding downward beyond the bottom (4) such that it can be set into a back and forth motion or a gyrating or rotary motion and thus continues the desired stirring motion on the inside of the receptacle (2).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 11, 2007
    Publication date: February 11, 2010
    Applicant: IKA-Werke GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Peter Jägle
  • Publication number: 20090281663
    Abstract: A dual-axis mixing device having a rotatable main support and one or more attached offset supports such as turntables is provided. The main support and offset rotational supports can be controlled independently of one another to reduce or prevent dead zone formation in materials mixed in the centrifuge. An operator can specify various rotation procedures depending on the materials to be mixed and the operator's observation of the materials during the mixing process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 5, 2009
    Publication date: November 12, 2009
    Applicant: BOSTON SCIENTIFIC SCIMED, INC.
    Inventor: Todd ROBIDA
  • Patent number: 7585465
    Abstract: Pharmaceutical product release rate testing device includes a base, at least one carousel member rotatably mounted on the base, each carousel member including a plurality of test tube pockets each adapted to receive a test tube fillable with test media, and a dipping mechanism for dipping samples to be tested into the test tubes when present in the pockets and filled with test media. A rinsing/filling mechanism is provided to rinse or fill test tubes in one set of pockets while test tubes in another set of pockets are involved in the dipping process via the dipping mechanism. The carousel member is temperature-controlled such that all of the test tubes when present in the pockets are at substantially the same temperature for critical stages of the testing process. Methods for conducting pharmaceutical product release rate testing using the device are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2009
    Assignee: Logan Instruments Corp.
    Inventors: Luke Lee, Yu Sheng Zhang, Jose Castro
  • Publication number: 20090207689
    Abstract: A vessel (1) for the mixing of fluid substances (4) is provided, which is fully lined on the inside with synthetic enamel or the like and which includes a main body (2), a lid (3) for the main body, a stirrer (5) inside the main body (2), and a multiplicity of additional devices (12, 15) for controlling and monitoring the substance mixture, characterized in that it has a multiplicity of support elements (13) for the multiplicity of additional devices (12, 15), which are integrally mounted on the inner surfaces of the main body and are likewise fully coated, each support element (13) being suitable for removable mounting of the respective additional device of the multiplicity of additional devices (12, 15) inside the main body (2).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2006
    Publication date: August 20, 2009
    Inventor: Gianni Artusi
  • Patent number: 7537376
    Abstract: This invention relates to a device for a continuously operated dilution of a slurry sample, through which device the slurry sample is fed directly into a continuously operated optical analyzer, such as a grain size analyzer. The device comprises elements for feeding the slurry sample, elements for feeding diluting liquid and elements for removing solids contained in the slurry, as well as elements for discharging both the liquid contained in the slurry and the liquid used for dilution. The device of the invention comprises at least one downwardly narrowing chamber (2, 31) that is connected to the analyzer measurement cell (3, 34) so that two opposite walls (10, 32) of the chamber (2, 31) are essentially parallel both with respect to each other and with respect to the respective walls (21, 35) of the measurement cell (3, 34).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2009
    Assignee: Outotec Oyj
    Inventor: Christian Von Alfthan
  • Publication number: 20090016932
    Abstract: A microfluidic device is provided including at least one chamber accessible by microfiuidic channels characterized in that the surface of the channels and the chambers are patterned and comprise hydrophilic and hydrophobic areas. The surface energy in correspondence of the areas, i.e., the capillary force, being such that a liquid can be guided along the hydrophilic path, enter the chamber from one side, wet part of one surface of the chamber as a thin layer without touching the opposite surface of the chamber, thus avoiding to fill the volume inside the chamber in correspondence of the hydrophilic pattern until a second liquid, either sequentially or in parallel, comes to wet part of the opposite surface of the chamber and eventually touches the first liquid layer, resulting in a sudden coalescence and efficient mixing between the liquids.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2008
    Publication date: January 15, 2009
    Inventors: Mario Curcio, Carlo Effenhauser, Michael Glauser
  • Publication number: 20080298169
    Abstract: A mixing device configured for shipment and/or storage includes a base housing at least one motor, a jar removably mountable to the base in an operating configuration for containing foodstuff, and a blade assembly loosely positioned in the jar. The blade assembly has a first surface and an opposing second surface. The second surface of the blade assembly operatively engages that at least one motor in the operating configuration. The device further includes a blending tool operatively connected to the first surface of the blade assembly and an enclosure removably mountable to the first surface of the blade assembly to enclose the blending tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2008
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Applicant: Hamilton Beach Brands, Inc.
    Inventors: Benjamin Henry Branson, III, Derek Hassell
  • Publication number: 20080212397
    Abstract: The invention discloses a system for mixing a liquid material and a solid material, said system comprising: i) a base unit (22?), for the liquid material and the solid material; ii) a liquid material supply (21); iii) a solid material supply (200); iv) a liquid/solid mixing output (23); and v) an injection unit (20) connected to the liquid material supply and to the solid material supply, said injection unit injecting said liquid material and said solid material in the base unit; vi) a separation and extraction unit (24) simultaneously separating surplus of gas coming from the mixing of the liquid material and the solid material and extracting from the base unit said surplus of gas.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2006
    Publication date: September 4, 2008
    Inventor: Joel Rondeau
  • Patent number: 7401973
    Abstract: A dust-free mixing system for use with drilling fluids. The dust-free mixing system can have an eductor. The eductor can have a housing with an axial bore for receiving a first suction induction port. The first suction induction port is for receiving a first dry component. The eductor can have a second suction induction port for receiving a second dry component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2008
    Assignee: Vortex Ventures, Inc.
    Inventor: William Gerald Lott
  • Publication number: 20080130403
    Abstract: The invention is a device for mixing nursery dirt, peat moss and wood shavings into a marketable soil mixture. The device is made of a housing, a conveyor, a motor, a scalloped cylinder, a metal blade, at least seven metal cylinders, sprockets that turn the scalloped cylinder and at least three of the metal cylinders, a belt, and a chain.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2006
    Publication date: June 5, 2008
    Inventor: Ernesto Acosta
  • Patent number: 7364701
    Abstract: A liquid homogenizing unit comprising a feed flow channel (56), a discharge flow channel (57), a first intermediate flow channel (58) communicating with the feed flow channel (56), and a second intermediate flow channel (55) communicating will the first intermediate flow channel (58) and discharge flow channel (57). The first intermediate flow channel (58) extends in a direction which crosses the second intermediate flow channel (55).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2008
    Assignee: Arkray, Inc.
    Inventors: Takanori Kamada, Kazunori Hirose
  • Publication number: 20080084785
    Abstract: A dynamic mixer includes a housing structure having a mixing chamber, having an inlet opening through which a material or materials to be mixed is passed into the mixing chamber and an outlet. A mixer rod has mixing rod portion disposed in the housing structure and a plurality of mixing paddle portions each having a mixing surface.. The mixing rod is adapted for attachment to a drive unit which imparts a rotational mixing force to the rod.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2006
    Publication date: April 10, 2008
    Inventors: David J. Cline, Truc S. Tang, Richard T. Naruo, Stephen P. Gordon
  • Patent number: 7339674
    Abstract: A color adjustment system for changing the color of fluid flowing from a source. The color adjustment system includes a main mixing pipe connected to storage vessels to continuously receive flows of colorants from the storage vessels. A fluid inspection cell is connected to the main mixing pipe for continuously receiving a sample portion of the flow of the fluid composition. A spectrophotometer is positioned to view the sample portion of the flow of the fluid composition through a window of the fluid inspection cell. The spectrophotometer transmits measured color values to a control unit, which generates control signals in response thereto. The control signals are transmitted to colorant pumps, which pump colorants to the main mixing pipe in response to the control signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2008
    Assignee: The Sherwin-Williams Company
    Inventors: Daniel S. Wierzbicki, James C. M. Manter
  • Patent number: 7300197
    Abstract: An apparatus for dissolving a solid material in a liquid including a container for receiving the solid material and the liquid. A turbidimeter measures the turbidity of the liquid in the container. A blender stirs the liquid in the container until the turbidity thereof, as measured by the turbidimeter, falls below a predetermined level. A sensor gauges the level of liquid in the container and causes a valve to admit liquid into the container when the liquid level falls below a set point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2007
    Inventors: Brent K. McCurdy, Mario DeBerardinis, David A. Johnson
  • Patent number: 7075645
    Abstract: A blending apparatus comprises a blender including a container having a wall, the wall including a window. The container rotates about an axis of rotation. A wireless spectrometer is mounted to the container and operates through the window, in a direction that does not intersect the axis of rotation, for obtaining a set of spectroscopic data regarding the product during an operation of the blender. In addition, a method for assaying a blended product in a blender includes mounting a wireless spectrometer to the container, rotating the container about its axis of rotation so as to blend the product; operating the wireless spectrometer through a window in the container, in a direction that does not intersect the axis of rotation, to obtain spectroscopic data regarding the product during the blending, and determining a homogeneity of the product from the spectroscopic data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2006
    Assignee: Euro-Celtique S.A.
    Inventors: Lane Gehrlein, Emil Ciurczak, Gary Ritchie