This inventor holds 4 USPTO granted patents, plus 2 CIPO patents. Top assignee: Phillips Petroleum Company. Active years: 1990-1993.
Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1990-1993
Title: Inventor Spotlight: Michael T. Seals
Introduction
Michael T. Seals, an esteemed inventor based in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, has made significant contributions to the field of fermentation technologies. With a total of four patents to his name, he has carved out a niche in the innovative process of degassifying fermentation broths, which is crucial in various biotechnological applications.
Latest Patents
Among his latest innovations, Michael T. Seals has developed a groundbreaking technique for fermentation broth degassification. This method involves a post-fermentation degassing process that effectively handles foamed fermentation broths containing cultured microorganisms. The technique employs a pressurized charge through a heat exchanger to cool the broth, followed by a nozzle that forms a spray suspension within a gaseous spray chamber located in the upper portion of a degassing vessel.
In this design, the spray chamber vented to the atmosphere allows for the coalescence of the spray suspension into a bulk liquid phase situated in the lower part of the degassing vessel. This innovative setup ensures that the upper surface of the bulk liquid serves as the bottom surface of the spray chamber, with the nozzle oriented to direct the spray suspension downwardly onto the surface of the bulk liquid and the foam formed above it. Furthermore, a portion of the bulk liquid phase is recycled to the upper part of the vessel through a second nozzle, creating a second spray suspension that gets coalesced into the bulk liquid phase.
Career Highlights
Michael Seals has worked with Phillips Petroleum Company, where he has leveraged his expertise to advance the field of fermentation processes. His patents not only reflect his profound knowledge of chemical engineering but also his commitment to enhancing industrial fermentation technologies.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Michael has collaborated with notable colleagues such as Eugene H. Wegner and Lonnie C. Baugh. These partnerships highlight the collaborative spirit within the research community at Phillips Petroleum Company, fostering innovation through shared knowledge and expertise.
Conclusion
Michael T. Seals continues to be a pivotal figure in the realm of fermentation technology, contributing significant advancements through his innovative patents. His work not only exemplifies the drive for progress in the industry but also showcases the importance of collaboration among skilled inventors. As developments in biotechnology continue, Michael's contributions will undoubtedly play a vital role in shaping future innovations.
