Location History:
- Newfoundland, NJ (US) (1976 - 1985)
- Los Gatos, CA (US) (1988 - 2001)
- Oldwick, NJ (US) (2002 - 2005)
Company Filing History:
12 out of 5,175 
1 out of 23 
1 out of 2 Years Active: 1976-2005
Title: Howard L. North, Jr.: Innovator in Blood Collection and Cell Washing Technologies
Introduction
Howard L. North, Jr. is a notable inventor based in Los Gatos, California, recognized for his contributions to medical technologies. With a remarkable portfolio of 20 patents, North has made significant advancements in the fields of blood collection and washing of blood cells, ultimately aiming to enhance laboratory efficiency and accuracy.
Latest Patents
Among his latest innovations is a method for partitioning blood and delivering clean serum. This patented method involves the use of an ordinary vacuum blood collection tube assembly, which is rotated during a centrifugation process to separate serum from formed elements. A higher density, immiscible inert liquid is pumped into the assembly to displace the serum towards the axis of rotation, allowing for clean serum to be diverted into a dedicated receiver vessel. To ensure purity, a contaminant detector manages a three-way valve, ensuring that contaminants are diverted to a waste vessel, resulting in only clean serum being delivered. Automation of this process allows for the sequential processing of blood samples at a rate of approximately one sample per minute.
Another innovative patent focuses on methods for washing cells. This apparatus is designed to wash blood cells in a discrete manner compatible with automated sample preparation systems. The test tube containing the cells is mounted on a rotatable spindle featuring central passageways for the introduction of wash fluids and air. By centrifuging the cells and applying vacuum to aspirate the supernatant, followed by introducing and aspirating wash fluid, this method effectively cleanses the cells. Subsequent rotational acceleration and deceleration resuspend the cells in clean wash fluid, enhancing laboratory efficiency.
Career Highlights
Throughout his career, Howard L. North, Jr. has worked with notable companies such as Becton Dickinson and Company Limited, where he utilized his expertise to innovate medical devices and solutions that benefit the healthcare industry. His work has played a crucial role in creating safer and more effective diagnostic procedures.
Collaborations
North has collaborated with various talented individuals in his field, including colleagues Harvey L. Schulte and Eric S. Chase. Their combined efforts and expertise further strengthen the innovative nature of the projects they have undertaken together.
Conclusion
Howard L. North, Jr. has made significant contributions to the medical technology sector through his innovative patents and collaborative efforts. His work not only enhances the efficiency of blood collection and processing but also paves the way for future advancements in laboratory automation and patient care. His legacy will continue to inspire new generations of inventors and innovators in the field of medical technology.
Inventor’s Patent Attorneys refers to legal professionals with specialized expertise in representing inventors throughout the patent process. These attorneys assist inventors in navigating the complexities of patent law, including filing patent applications, conducting patent searches, and protecting intellectual property rights. They play a crucial role in helping inventors secure patents for their innovative creations.