E.i. Dupont De Nemours and Company

Charles F Collier

Charles W Robertson, Jr

Donald H Brunk

David J Regester

James L Seago

Alexander D Kopatsis

Thomas P Ladisch

Robert A King

William G DiMaio

William E Feathers

Brian A Deane

James D Riall

Peter M Mrozinski

Norman P Pih

A reusable apparatus for multiphase, multistage countercurrent liquid separation is presented. The apparatus is particular useful in progressive multistage separation of target microorganisms from background organisms and materials with precise transfer, air exclusion, homogeneous mixing, isolation from the ambient atmosphere, in the absence of valves and at ow cost. The structure has at least one chamber in which a piston-like sliding bottom is sealingly moved or braked and includes internal structure for mixing, preferably a magnetic-stainless steel ball which can be reciprocated from the outside to mix the liquid contents. Motion of the bottom is limited by stops. A number of ways to actuate the apparatus are taught.

Apparatus for mixing liquids used in countercurrent multiphase liquid

A gel cassette useful in electrophoretic separation of molecular fragments is disclosed, in which a gelatinous substrate is uniquely configured to concentrate similar separated fragments. Containment means is also disclosed which provides for the desired configuration of the substrate. The containment means further includes a cover design which locks into an open position to eliminate cross contamination. In addition, processes for the preparation of such cassettes and for use of the cassettes in separation and transfer apparatus are disclosed.

Gel cassette for enhanced electrophoretic separation and processes for

A bowed framed membrane is disclosed for use in automated direct blot electrophoresis and subsequent membrane process steps to develop a chemiluminescent image of the resultant blot of selected fragments and to detect that image. A frame made from a thin rigid plastic plate such as polyethylene is provided with a window. A membrane covers that window and is bonded on two opposing sides only while the frame is held in a bowed condition. The membrane is maintained under tension during processing by the bowing permitting processing at the elevated temperatures used in molecular biological procedures without loss of flatness. Processes for preparing such frames and various utilities are also disclosed.

Bowed framed membrane, processes for the preparation thereof, and uses

A separation and direct blot transfer module useful in gel electrophoresis is disclosed in which a transfer membrane stabilized by a frame is moved substantially orthogonally relative to the plane of the separation gel while in minimal contact with the end of the gel toward which molecular fragments are driven electrophoretically. The frame moves at a controlled velocity in a selected direction away from a line of contact that generates a controlled tension in the membrane which is a function of the loading on the line of contact. The module is particularly amenable to automated processing. Apparatus for automated separation, transfer, membrane processing, detection and identification is disclosed in which the module of the invention is employed.

Apparatus for direct blotting and automated electrophoresis, transfer

A probe is introduced through the elastomeric cap of a closed sample container and moved sideways to stretch the cap and thereby provide an air passage to atmosphere while the sample is aspirated.

Method for pipetting liquid from a sealed container

An apparatus for providing linear motion in two opposed directions and circular motion in a first direction using a single drive motor.

Growing community of inventors

Wilmington, DE, United States of America

Charles F Collier