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Patent 2510537 Summary

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Claims and Abstract availability

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(12) Patent Application: (11) CA 2510537
(54) English Title: CONTINUOUS FLUID SAMPLER AND METHOD
(54) French Title: ECHANTILLONNEUR DE FLUIDE EN CONTINU ET METHODE
Status: Deemed Abandoned and Beyond the Period of Reinstatement - Pending Response to Notice of Disregarded Communication
Bibliographic Data
(51) International Patent Classification (IPC):
  • G1N 1/10 (2006.01)
  • B67D 7/02 (2010.01)
  • B67D 7/34 (2010.01)
  • C12M 1/26 (2006.01)
  • G1N 33/04 (2006.01)
(72) Inventors :
  • BIGALKE, DARRELL L. (United States of America)
(73) Owners :
  • QUALITY MANAGEMENT INCORPORATED
(71) Applicants :
  • QUALITY MANAGEMENT INCORPORATED (United States of America)
(74) Agent: OYEN WIGGS GREEN & MUTALA LLP
(74) Associate agent:
(45) Issued:
(22) Filed Date: 2005-06-23
(41) Open to Public Inspection: 2005-12-24
Examination requested: 2010-04-12
Availability of licence: N/A
Dedicated to the Public: N/A
(25) Language of filing: English

Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT): No

(30) Application Priority Data:
Application No. Country/Territory Date
10/875,842 (United States of America) 2004-06-24

Abstracts

English Abstract


A method of using an aseptic sampling arrangement. The sampling
arrangement includes a septum cartridge and a securing element for use with a
fluid
enclosure. A locking arrangement is provided to allow selective access to the
septum cartridge and the securing element. The sampling arrangement further
includes a needle, a tube, and a collection bag. The sampling arrangement can
be
used to monitor the quality of a fluid product. The method of monitoring
includes
obtaining a fluid product sample from the fluid enclosure within the
collection bag.
The collection bag is then incubated for a period of time during which oxygen
permeates the bag to simulate post-pasteurizing conditions and/or pre-
pasteurizing
conditions of the fluid product. The method further includes monitoring the
level of
contamination detected within the fluid product sample.


Claims

Note: Claims are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.


I CLAIM:
1. A fluid system, comprising:
a) a transportable fluid vessel having an aperture that provides access to
an interior volume;
b) an aseptic sampling arrangement configured to provide aseptic
sampling of a fluid contained within the interior volume of the transportable
fluid
vessel, the aseptic sampling arrangement including a septum and a securing
element,
the septum being secured within the aperture of the fluid vessel by the
securing
element, the septum including a penetrable body constructed for penetration of
a
needle therethrough; and
c) a locking arrangement that provides selective access to the aseptic
sampling arrangement.
2. The fluid system of claim 1, wherein the transportable fluid vessel is a
tanker
truck.
3. The sampling arrangement of claim 1, wherein the locking arrangement
includes:
a) a base;
b) a cover sized to fit over the septum; and
c) a locking device arranged to secure the cover in relation to the base.
4. The sampling arrangement of claim 3, wherein the base of the locking
arrangement is configured to prevent access to the securing element of the
aseptic
sampling arrangement.
5. The sampling arrangement of claim 4, wherein the septum and the securing
element are enclosed within the base and the cover to prevent unwanted access
to
the internal volume of the transportable fluid vessel.
6. The sampling arrangement of claim 5, wherein the base includes sides
extending outward from a main portion, and wherein the cover is sized to fit
between the sides of the base to enclose the septum and the securing element.
21

7. The sampling arrangement of claim 1, wherein the septum comprises:
a) a penetrable body;
b) a cap piece; and
c) a penetrable layer at least partially covering a portion of the cap
piece.
8. The sampling arrangement of claim 7, wherein the securing element is a
threaded nut.
9. A aseptic sampling arrangement for a fluid enclosure, comprising:
a) a septum configured for receipt within an aperture of a fluid
enclosure, the septum including a boot, the boot being constructed to seal the
aperture of the fluid enclosure and provide for penetration of a needle
therethrough;
and
b) a locking arrangement configured to provide selective access to the
septum.
10. The sampling arrangement of claim 9, further including a securing element
configured to secure the septum within the aperture of the fluid enclosure.
11. The sampling arrangement of claim 10, wherein the locking arrangement
provides selective access to the septum and the securing element.
12. The sampling arrangement of claim 11, wherein the securing element is a
threaded nut.
13. The sampling arrangement of claim 9, wherein the locking arrangement
includes:
a) a base;
b) a cover sized to fit over the septum; and
c) a locking device arranged to secure the cover in relation to the base.
22

14. The sampling arrangement of claim 13, further including a securing element
configured to secure the septum within the aperture of the fluid enclosure,
wherein
the base of the locking arrangement prevents access to the securing element.
15. The sampling arrangement of claim 14, wherein the septum and the securing
element are enclosed within the base and the cover to prevent unwanted access
to
the internal volume of the fluid enclosure.
16. The sampling arrangement of claim 15, wherein the base includes sides
extending outward from a main portion, and wherein the cover is sized to fit
between the sides of the base to enclose the septum and the securing element.
17. The sampling arrangement of claim 9, wherein the septum further includes a
cap piece and a penetrable layer at least partially covering a portion of the
cap piece.
18. The sampling arrangement of claim 9, wherein the septum is configured for
receipt within an aperture of a transportable fluid vessel.
19. The sampling arrangement of claim 18, wherein the transportable fluid
vessel
is a tanker truck.
20. A method of providing selective aseptic access to a transportable fluid
enclosure, the method comprising the steps of:
a) positioning a septum of an aseptic sampling arrangement within an
aperture of the transportable fluid enclosure;
b) securing the septum within the aperture of the fluid enclosure with a
securing element;
c) enclosing the septum and the securing element within a locking
arrangement to prevent unwanted access to the septum and the securing element;
d) locking the locking arrangement to permit only selective access to the
septum and the securing element of the aseptic sampling arrangement.
21. A method of monitoring quality of a fluid product, the method comprising
the steps of:
23

a) providing an aseptic sampling arrangement including a septum and a
collection bag;
b) obtaining a sample of the fluid product by aseptically collecting the
fluid product in the collection bag;
b) incubating the collection bag for a period of time; and
c) monitoring the level of contamination within the sample of fluid
product during the period of time.
22. The method of claim 21, wherein the fluid product is a post-pasteurized
milk
product.
23. The method of claim 22, wherein the step of monitoring the level of
contamination includes determining a level of gram-negative bacteria present
within
the sample of the post-pasteurized milk product.
24. The method of claim 23, further including detecting gram-negative bacteria
within the sample of post-pasteurized milk product.
25. The method of claim 24, further including detecting gram-negative bacteria
within the time period of approximately six days.
26. The method of claim 21, wherein the fluid product is a raw milk product.
27. The method of claim 26, wherein the step of monitoring the level of
contamination includes determining a level of gram-positive bacteria present
within
the sample of the raw milk product.
28. The method of claim 21, wherein the collection bag is an oxygen permeable
collection bag.
29. The method of claim 28, wherein the step of incubating further includes
exposing the oxygen permeable collection bag to oxygen for the period of time.
24

30. The method of claim 29, wherein the step of exposing the oxygen permeable
collection bag includes simulating storage conditions of the fluid product.
31. The method of claim 30, wherein the step of simulating storage conditions
includes simulating an oxygen saturated fluid product without adding oxygen to
the
sample of fluid product.
32. The method of claim 29, wherein the step of exposing the oxygen permeable
collection bag includes simulating pre-pasteurizing conditions of the fluid
product.
33. The method of claim 32, wherein the step of simulating pre-pasteurizing
conditions includes simulating the pre-pasteurizing conditions without adding
oxygen to the sample of fluid product.
34. The method of claim 21, wherein the septum is positioned within an
aperture
of an enclosure containing the fluid product, and wherein the step of
obtaining a
sample of fluid product further includes inserting a penetrating member into
the
septum to provide fluid communication between the enclosure and the collection
bag, the penetrating member and the collection bag being interconnected by a
tube.
25

Description

Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.


CA 02510537 2005-06-23
CONTINUOUS FLUID SAMPLER AND METHOD
Field of the Invention
This disclosure concerns a sampling arrangement. More specifically,
this disclosure describes the assembly and method of use of a sampling
arrangement
for aseptic, continuous sampling of a fluid material.
Background of the Invention
There are numerous applications wherein it is desirable to obtain
discrete or continuous samples from fluid transportation systems or fluid
processing
enclosures. Enclosures and fluid transportation systems, as used herein, refer
to any
closed containment structure without respect to its size. Thus it includes
such small
enclosures such as cans that may be used in shipping starter bacteria from a
culture
lab. On the other end of the spectrum, it includes large tanks and associated
pipelines, which may have capacities of several thousand gallons, such as are
used in
the dairy processing industry.
Efficient and effective techniques and apparatus for obtaining aseptic
samples from such systems and enclosures, are particularly desirable. Examples
of
industries that require such aseptic sampling include, but are not limited to,
the
pharmaceutical, bioengineering/biotechnology, brewing/distilling, food
processing
and dairy processing industries. Applications for such samplings range broadly
from process monitoring to laboratory and research applications. For example,
sampling is commonly used on dairy farms for herd management or in regulated
manufacturing facilities. The sampling is used to detect and control microbial
contamination, spoilage microorganisms, food-borne illness, and environmental
mastitis both within systems being sampled and externally of such systems.
While
preferred embodiments of this invention will be described with respect to its
sampling use and application in the dairy industry, it will be understood that
the
invention is not to be construed as limited to use in that industry or to the
application
described, or to any limitations associated with the specifics of the
components or
methods disclosed with respect to such preferred embodiments.

CA 02510537 2005-06-23
Various methods and devices have been employed to perform
sampling tasks. Typical sampling techniques commonly involve discrete or
isolated
sampling from a laminar portion of a fluid transport line. Typical such
sampling
systems and techniques that have been used in the dairy processing industry
are
described in U.S. Patents 4,941,517; 5,086,813; and 5,269,350. To the extent
that
such patents may be used to assist the reader in understanding principles and
examples of sampling apparatus and methods, they are herein incorporated by
reference.
While the apparatus and techniques described in these patents are
particularly applicable to systems designed to accommodate them, there also
exists a
need to perform sampling in existing enclosures and fluid transportation
systems
that have not been designed for sampling functions. Such systems typically
require
redesign or retrofitting to accommodate sampling functions. Such retrofitting
can be
expensive and/or difficult to achieve, can require significant system downtime
in
implementation of the sampling function and/or replacement of parts to
maintain the
system, or can lead to system degradation or contamination of the system being
sampled. For example, one known method of discrete sampling of fluid involves
inserting a needle through a sealing gasket located between connecting ends of
pipelines of the fluid transportation system. Problems arises from this method
as
this method is not aseptic because the gasket becomes so perforated after
repeated
sampling that the gasket may lose its sealing integrity or introduce
contaminants into
the system through the perforations. This method requires that the gasket be
replaced, which can become expensive both in labor costs and shut down costs.
There are many applications wherein it is desirable to obtain a
continuous sample from fluid transportation systems or fluid processing
enclosures.
The discrete sampling methods typically extract a discrete sample size limited
to the
volume of a hypodermic needle and syringe. Typically the needle is inserted,
fluid
is drawn, and the needle is removed. It would be beneficial in some
applications to
have a system that could draw a continuous, controlled and constant sample
volume
over an extended period of time. A sampling device that facilitates this
feature
would also need to accommodate larger volume samples and a means to cool the
sample during longer sampling time periods. While continuous sampling
techniques
have been tried, they have generally not been particularly effective,
efficient or
2

CA 02510537 2005-06-23
reliable in maintaining the aseptic condition of the system during the
sampling
interval.
Known discrete sampling techniques have not proven to be readily
adaptable to continuous sampling techniques. For example, if the sample is
taken
from a region of laminar fluid flow, the sampling needle can create a venturi
effect
in the fluid flow being sampled, which can cause reverse flow siphoning from
the
collected sample and back into the sampled fluid. If such suction effect is
disrupted
by providing the sampling system with an air gap, the aseptic nature of the
sampling
system is compromised.
Improvement in methods and devices for sampling is needed,
generally to better accommodate: ease of repeated continuous sampling of large
volumes; structural integrity of fluid transport equipment; management of
contamination; and convenience of continuous and controlled volume sampling.
The present invention addresses these and other needs for continuous sampling
of
fluid transportation systems or fluid processing enclosures.
Summary of the Invention
One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method of monitoring
quality of a fluid product. The method includes providing an aseptic sampling
arrangement including a septum and a collection bag. A sample of the fluid
product
is obtained by aseptically collecting the fluid product in the collection bag.
The
collection bag is incubated for a period of time. The method also includes
monitoring the level of contamination within the sample of fluid product
during the
period of time.
Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a sampling
arrangement for use with a fluid enclosure. The sampling arrangement includes
a
removable septum configured for receipt within an aperture of the fluid
enclosure.
The septum is constructed for penetration of a needle therethrough to provide
fluid
communication between an internal volume of the fluid enclosure and a
collection
bag. The sampling arrangement also includes a locking arrangement configured
to
provide selective access to the removable septum.
Yet another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a sampling
arrangement having a septum, a securing element, and a locking arrangement.
The
septum is configured for receipt within an aperture of a fluid enclosure. The

CA 02510537 2005-06-23
securing element configured to secure the septum within the aperture of the
fluid
enclosure. The locking arrangement includes a base, a cover, and a locking
device,
and is configured to provide selective access to the septum and the securing
element.
Still another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a fluid system
including a fluid enclosure, an aseptic sampling arrangement, and a locking
arrangement. The aseptic sampling arrangement has a septum and a securing
element, the septum being secured within an aperture of the fluid enclosure by
the
securing element. The locking arrangement provides selective access to the
sampling arrangement.
And another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method of providing
access to a fluid enclosure. The method includes positioning a septum of an
aseptic
sampling arrangement within an aperture of the fluid enclosure andsecuring the
septum within the aperture of the fluid enclosure with a securing element. The
method further includes enclosing the septum and the securing element within a
locking arrangement to prevent unwanted access to the septum and the securing
element and locking the locking arrangement to permit only selective access to
the
septum and the securing element.
A variety of examples of desirable product features or methods are set
forth in part in the description that follows, and in part will be apparent
from the
description, or may be learned by practicing various aspects of the
disclosure. The
aspects of the disclosure may relate to individual features as well as
combinations of
features. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description
and the
following detailed description are explanatory only, and are not restrictive
of the
claimed invention.
Brief Description of the Drawings
Referring to the drawings wherein like numerals represent like parts
throughout the several views,
FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of a system incorporating a
continuous sampling arrangement in accordance with the principles disclosed;
FIG. 2 is a detailed schematic illustration of one embodiment of the
continuous sampling arrangement in accordance with the principles disclosed;
4

CA 02510537 2005-06-23
FIG. 3 is a side view of a pipe elbow depicted in the sampling
arrangement of FIG. 2;
FIG. 4 is a top view of the pipe elbow depicted in FIG. 3;
FIG. 5 is a top view of one embodiment of a septum used in the
sampling arrangement of FIG. 2;
FIG. 6 is a top fractional view of another embodiment of a septum
used in the sampling arrangement of FIG. 2;
FIG. 7 is a cross sectional view of the septum shown in FIG. 5, taken
generally along line 7-7 of FIG. 5;
FIG. 8 is a fragmentary perspective view of a needle depicted in the
sampling arrangement of FIG. 2;
FIG. 9 is an illustration of one embodiment of a regulating device
that can be used in the sampling arrangement of the present invention;
FIG. 10 is a first, partially exploded, side view of one embodiment of
a locking arrangement that can be used with the sampling arrangement in
accordance with the principles disclosed;
FIG. 11 is a second, partially exploded, side view of the locking
arrangement of FIG. 10;
FIG. 12 is a bottom plan view of one embodiment of a base of the
locking arrangement depicted in FIG. 10; and
FIG. 13 is a first side view of the locking arrangement of FIG. 10,
shown with a locking device.
Detailed Descriution
This invention provides an apparatus and method for the continuous
aseptic sampling of fluid material from a fluid transportation system or fluid
processing enclosure 5, schematically illustrated in FIG. 1. A fluid material
6 to be
sampled is illustrated as flowing through a fluid line 20 by the fluid flow
arrow
designation "F". A preferred sampling arrangement of the present invention is
schematically illustrated at 10 and is depicted as operatively connected, by
the
dashed line 8, to sample the fluid material 6 (as hereinafter described in
more detail).
The principles described herein for the sampling arrangement 10 can
be used in various industries and in various applications where aseptic
sampling of
5

CA 02510537 2005-06-23
material is desired. Aseptic sampling involves transferring fluids to or from
process
systems that are sensitive to contamination from the outside environment. For
example, the pharmaceutical, bioengineering/biotechnology, brewing/distilling,
food
processing and dairy processing industries are in need of aseptic sampling
technology. Such sampling technology can be applied broadly, the applications
ranging from process monitoring to laboratory and research applications. For
example, the fluid processing enclosure or fluid transportation system 5
illustrated in
FIG. 1 may comprise a dairy processing system used in the dairy industry. An
example of one type of fluid processing enclosure or fluid transportation
system 5
that has been used in the dairy processing industry is described in U.S.
Patent
5,269,350 and herein incorporated by reference. In such a system, the fluid
material
6 therein may include raw milk or a processed milk product. The sampling
arrangement 10 may be incorporated or retrofitted to the fluid transportation
system
5 to provide continuous aseptic sampling for detecting microbial contamination
or
1 S monitoring mastitis, coliform, food-borne illness bacteria, or spoilage
bacteria in a
dairy herd, for example.
While preferred embodiments of this invention will be described with
respect to its sampling use and application in the dairy industry, it will be
understood that the invention is not to be construed as limited to use in that
industry
or to the particular application described.
The Structural Components, Generally
Referring to FIG. 2, the preferred sampling arrangement 10 depicted
includes: an elbow 12 having flanges 14 and a port 22; a least one septum or
septum
cartridge 40 (shown in phantom); a connecting conduit 16; and a collection
container 18. In general, the sampling arrangement 10 comprises an arrangement
that provides for a continuous draw of fluid from a flow F within a fluid line
20, and
deposits the fluid sample in the collection container 18 to provide the user
with an
accumulated process sample. It is to be understood that the fluid line 20 may
comprise a variety of fluid transportation systems or fluid containment
enclosures,
and is not limited to pipe constructions. The collection container 18 may
include a
pouch, bag, reservoir, or other closed container of a typical construction and
size,
such as those used in the medical industry. In the illustrated embodiment, a
medical
6

CA 02510537 2005-06-23
type bag comprising a 2-liter collection pouch or bag is used. A variety of
sizes and
constructions of containers is contemplated.
As illustrated, the pipe segment or elbow 12 of the sampling
arrangement 10 is in direct fluid communication with the fluid line 20 of the
fluid
S transportation system. In accordance with the principles of the present
invention, it
is desirable to perform sampling from an area or region of non-laminar flow
within
the line 20. The elbow 12 provides a turbulent or non-laminar flow region
within its
interior flow cavity by its non-linear configuration. It is to be understood
that there
are other means of creating a non-laminar flow region within the fluid flow
line,
such as having a protrusion or device extending into the flowing fluid within
a
substantially straight portion of the .fluid line. Therein fluid turbulence or
non-
laminar flow is formed downstream of the extending device or protrusion.
Creation
of a non-laminar sampling region eliminates the problem of reversed fluid flow
from
the sample to the main fluid line, which commonly occurs in devices and
methods of
the prior art.
Refernng now to FIGS. 3 and 4, the connection flanges 14 of the
elbow 12 extend circumferentially at each end of the elbow 12. The flanges 14
may
include grooves (shown in phantom) sized to receive sealing gaskets (not
shown) to
seal the connections between pipe segments when installed in common fluid
transportation line systems. In accord with the principles of the present
invention,
the sampling arrangement is generally adapted to be retrofitted within
existing fluid
lines of various fluid flow systems S (FIG. 1). Certainly the sampling
arrangement
10 can be incorporated as original equipment into new installations of fluid
transportation lines as well. Other means of connection or retrofit
adaptation,
including welding, are contemplated as a means of installation. The sampling
arrangement is generally designed with standard plumbing components to
facilitate
retrofit modifications. It is to be understood that non-standard elements,
such as
non-standard pipe diameter, fittings, or material, are within the scope of the
principles disclosed.
Preferably the elbow 12 is made of industry standard stainless steel,
such as 304 or 316L stainless steel. Other materials applicable for use in the
industry into which the sampling arrangement is implemented are contemplated.
The elbow depicted in FIG. 3 incorporates a standard 90-degree elbow. The
angular
configuration of the elbow will typically be a standard dimension within the
range of
7

CA 02510537 2005-06-23
35 degrees to 180 degrees, typically 90 degrees. The preferred diameter of the
elbow pipe is at least 1 inch, typically from about 1.5 to 3.5 inches in
diameter.
The elbow 12 according to the present invention includes at least one
aperture or port 22. The elbow 12 may be located in any configuration in the
fluid
transportation system where the port 22 is operably in fluid communication
with the
fluid material 6 within the system. Thus, the interior angle of the elbow 12
may be
oriented, for example, upward, downward or sideways in a fluid line
arrangement. It
is also contemplated that to ensure that the port is operably in fluid
communication
with the fluid material 6, the port 22 may be configured in alternative
locations on
the elbow 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the port 22 is located on the
outer
radius of the elbow 12. Alternative embodiments may include, for example, an
elbow having a port located on the interior radius of the elbow. Preferably,
the port
22 is disposed at or within a non-laminar flow region of the elbow 12.
As depicted in FIG. 3, the port 22 may include a transversely
extending pipe portion or conduit 26. The conduit 26 is sized to receive a
septum
cartridge 40. The conduit 26 may include an externally threaded region 28 for
purposes of securing the septum cartridge 40. In one embodiment, the thread
comprises a standard 1.5"-8 ACME thread corresponding to a mating internally
threaded nut 30. The threaded nut 30 may include an internal annular shoulder
32
(shown in phantom). The annular shoulder 32 acts as a bearing surface that
engages
a first surface 46 of the septum cartridge 40 (shown also in FIG. 7) to secure
the
septum cartridge in sealing manner when assembled within the port 22. Other
types
of fasteners commonly used as securing or retaining means within this context
are
contemplated and may include, for example, a hex nut, a knurled lock nut, or a
keyed nut.
Referring generally to FIG. 2, the septum cartridge 40 is in fluid
communication with the interior cavity of the fluid line 20 by means of the
aperture
or port 22 in the elbow 12. As shown in FIGS. 5-7, the septum cartridge 40
generally comprises a cap 45, a central core member or boot 49, and a
plurality of
guide holes 48 formed through the cap. For purposes of clarifying features,
the
septum cartridge 40 can be considered to have a top 41 and a bottom 42.
The cross-section of the boot 49 is seen to increase progressively
from the bottom 42 toward the top 41 of the septum cartridge 40. The boot 49
is
sized such that when the boot is placed within the port 22 of the elbow there
is
8

CA 02510537 2005-06-23
compressive contact between the interior surfaces defining the port 22 and the
boot
49. The boot thereby functions as a sealing member. The boot 49 illustrated is
generally conical, but could adopt a variety of shapes as will be obvious from
the
following discussion of the functioning of the septum cartridge in combination
with
other components of the invention.
The boot 49 may be made of material that is generally considered to
be of a rubber compound. While compounding of an acceptable rubber composition
is believed to be within the skill of the rubber molding art, it is found that
rubber
compounds based on ethylene propylene dime monomer terpolymer (EPDM) are
particularly advantageous, having suitable sealing characteristics. EPDM is a
known elastomer, and recognized by those skilled in the polymer arts. Other
elastomers are contemplated, such as those derived from, or modified with,
butene
isoprene, ethylene, and the like. In an alternative embodiment, the boot may
comprise a silicone compound. Silicone also provides suitable sealing
characteristics. Materials such as Viton or other FDA approved elastomers are
also
contemplated for use in manufacture of the boot.
Preferably, the cap 45 includes an annular radially extending portion
34 defining the first upwardly oriented surface 46 and an opposing second
lower
surface 47. The outer diameter of the annular portion 34 is preferably only
slightly
less than the inner diameter of the internal shoulder 32 on the threaded nut
30 for
purposes of engaging and retaining the septum cartridge 40 within the port 22
of the
elbow in the sampling arrangement 10.
The cap 45 is made of a material that is normally not penetrable by
conventional hypodermic needles. A typical material for fabrication of the cap
may
include one of the engineering plastics, such as nylon, polypropylene, or high-
density polyethylene. The penetrability of the septum cartridge 40 is thus
provided
by one or more of the integrally formed guide holes 48, which begin from a top
surface 43 of the cap 45 and extend downwardly through the cap 45.
The guide holes 48 are integral with the cap 45 and located to
correspond to the boot 49. The guide holes 48 extend downwardly through the
cap
structure 45 and are oriented and positioned so that a sampling needle 50
(shown in
FIG. 8) may pass through the guide hole 48 and into the boot 49. The guide
holes
48 are generally sized to be only slightly larger than the needle, such that
the needle
slidably fits snugly within the guide hole, preferably without substantial
friction, but
9

CA 02510537 2005-06-23
with a close enough fit to ensure that the guide hole provides direction to
the needle
as it is inserted through the boot. In one embodiment (FIG. 5), the septum
cartridge
40a includes seven guide holes. In another embodiment (FIG. 6), the septum
cartridge 40b includes twelve guide holes. Typically the septum cartridge
includes
at least one guide hole, generally 1 to 15 guide holes.
A cover film 60 covers the top surface 43 of the cap 45, including the
guide holes 48 formed in the top surface 43 of the cap 45. The cover film 60
easily
identifies used holes to reduce the risk of contamination from reinserting a
needle
into a previously used guide hole. The cover film 60 may be made from any
readily
pierceable film material. A typical film material is a vinyl tape having an
adhesive
coating to securably attach the cover film 60 to the top surface of the cap
45.
Referring to FIGS. 2 and 8, the penetrating body or needle 50 is in
fluid communication with the connecting conduit 16, and the connecting conduit
16
is in fluid communication with the collection container 18. In the preferred
embodiment, the needle comprises a beveled end 51 having an aperture 52 that
defines a hollow portion running longitudinally through the needle 50. It is
to be
understood that other penetrating bodies, such as lumens, hollow members, or
inserting devices may be used in accordance with the principles disclosed.
In use, the needle 50 penetrates the cover 60, passes through a
selected guide hole 48, and penetrates through the boot 49. As the needle
penetrates
the boot, the needle displaces the elastomeric/rubber material of the boot
which
forms a fluid impenetrable seal about the needle. The beveled end 51 of the
needle
50 progresses through the boot 49 and emerges from the boot at the bottom 42
of the
septum cartridge 40. The needle therein enters into the flow of fluid F.
The needle 50 is sized and adapted for use with the septum cartridge
40. Typically the needle comprises a 12 gauge to 22 gauge needle, preferably a
16
gauge needle. The needle generally has a length of from about 1.0 inches to
4.5
inches. Preferably the needle is at least 1.5 inches in length if the port 22
is bottom
placement oriented and at least 2.0 inches if the port 22 is top placement
oriented.
What is meant by top and bottom placement oriented is how the sampling port is
oriented with respect to ground. Thus, if the elbow is top placement oriented,
a
longer needle SO is needed to ensure the needle aperture 52 is submerged
within the
fluid material when operatively inserted through the septum 40.

CA 02510537 2005-06-23
Still referring to FIG. 2, the connecting conduit 16 also includes
sealing ends 62 at locations where the fluid flow transitions from the needle
50 to
the connecting conduit 16 and from the connecting conduit 16 to the collection
container 18. A typical, usable connecting conduit is the type used by the
medical
industry in fluid administration sets. Conduit in accordance with the
principles
disclosed includes, for example, tubing, flexible piping or flexible lumen
constructions that provide closed, aseptic fluid communication between ends.
Preferably the connecting conduit 16 is of sufficient length to reach
from the elbow 12 to an area where the collection container 18 is placed. The
length
may thus vary and typically falls within the range of 5 inches to 65 inches,
and
preferably is about 38 inches in length. In one embodiment, the connecting
conduit
comprises a 0.121 inch inside diameter and a 0.166 outside diameter. It is to
be
understood that typical fluid administration sets having a needle, connecting
conduit,
and a collection pouch are contemplated for use in this sampling arrangement.
1 S In use, the needle 50 is inserted through the septum 40 into a non-
laminar fluid flow region of the elbow 12. Sampling at a non-laminar fluid
flow
region addresses the problem of reversed fluid flow often created by a venturi
effect
of prior sampling systems. The venturi effect is created where the velocity of
the
laminar fluid flow flowing past an orifice or tube opening (such as in a
needle)
causes a corresponding decrease in fluid pressure, which creates a siphoning
or
suction. Thus, instead of drawing sampled fluid from the fluid line into a
collection
container, sampled fluid is actually drawn from the collection container back
into the
fluid line. The sampling arrangement 10 of the present invention reduces or
eliminates this problem.
Some Selected Alternate Embodiments
Alternative embodiments incorporating the principles of the present
invention will be apparent from the description below and in the context of
the
illustrations in FIGS. 2 and 9.
In one alternative embodiment, the sampling arrangement 10 includes
a flow restricting device. The flow restricting device may comprise a clamp 64
as
shown in FIG. 2. The clamp 64 compressively engages the outer surface of the
connecting conduit 16 and is adjustable such that flow through the tube may be
11

CA 02510537 2005-06-23
restricted to a desired flow rate. Thereby, the continuous sampling rate may
be
increased or decreased during sampling as needed.
Another embodiment of the sampling arrangement includes an
alternative means of regulating flow. FIG. 9 depicts a fragmented portion of a
sampling arrangement including a metering or peristaltic pump 68. The
peristaltic
pump 68 cooperatively engages connecting conduit 16 and is adjusted as is
known in
the art to provide a desired regulated flow rate.
The clamp 64 and the peristaltic pump 68 are products of common
manufacture. The clamp may comprise any clamping device suitable to provide
restriction in the connecting conduit 16. The peristaltic pump may comprise,
for
example, a variable flow pump having a medium flow rate of 4.0 to 85.0
milliliters
per minute. Specifically, a Medium Flow variable flow pump, Model Number
54856-075, manufactured by MASTERFLEX is one variable flow pump that may be
used.
Yet another embodiment of the present invention provides for cooling
of the extracted sample held by the collection container. If it is desirable
to keep the
extracted sample cool during collection, the collection container 18 may be
placed in
an insulated cooler 70 surrounded by ice or cold packs as shown in FIG. l, for
example. Common coolers can be modified to include a hole 72 in the top or lid
through which the connecting conduit 16 can be routed.
FIGS. 10-13 illustrates still another embodiment of the present
invention including a tamper-resistant locking arrangement 80. As previously
described, the disclosed sampling arrangement 10 is coupled to the fluid
processing
enclosure or fluid handling/transport system 5. In this particular
application, the
fluid transport system S includes, for example, a tank 82. The tank may be any
type
of fluid-containing tank, such as the fluid processing enclosures 5 previously
described, storage tanks, and even over-the-road transportation tanks, such as
a
tanker truck, for example. The locking arrangement 80 is useful in any
application
where product tampering or product removal may be of concern. The locking
arrangement 80 is also useful in locations or processing areas that are less
frequently
monitored.
As shown in FIGS. 10-13, the locking arrangement 80 generally
includes a base 102, a cover 84 and a locking device 86 (FIG. 13). The locking
arrangement 80 is configured to enclose the threaded nut 30 and septum
cartridge 40
12

CA 02510537 2005-06-23
(FIGS. 5-7) of the sampling arrangement 10 to prevent unwanted access to the
internal volume of the tank 82.
Referring now to FIGS. 11, a hole 104 is formed in the base 102 of
the locking arrangement 80. In use, the base 102 is positioned at a conduit
126 of
the tank 82. As previously described, the conduit 126 is sized to receive the
septum
cartridge 40 (see FIG. 3). In the illustrated embodiment, the conduit 126
includes a
shoulder 106 upon which the base 104 sets. An externally threaded region
(shown
for example in FIG. 3) of the conduit 126 extends through the hole 104 of the
base
102. The threaded nut 30 of the sampling arrangement 10 is threaded onto the
externally threaded region for purposes of both securing the septum cartridge
40
within the conduit 126 and capturing the base 102 between the nut 30 and the
shoulder 106 of the conduit 126.
The cover 84 of the locking arrangement 80 is then positioned over
the threaded nut 30. As shown in FIGS. 10 and 1 l, the cover 84 is sized to
fit
between opposing sides 108 and opposing brackets 92 of the base 102. The
opposing sides 108 and the opposing brackets 92 of the base 102 extend outward
from a main portion 110 (FIG. 12) of the base 102. In the illustrated
embodiment,
the sides 108 are shorter than the brackets 92. In use, the sides 108 aid to
position
the cover 84 in relation to the base 102 so that the cover 84 is retained
between the
opposing sides 108 of the base 102. The opposing brackets 92 are configured to
extend outward from the main portion 110 of the base 102 beyond the cover 84
when positioned assembled as shown in FIG. 13. Eachof the brackets 92 includes
a
hole 94 (FIG. 11) that receives a rod 98 (FIG. 13) of the locking device 86.
Referring to FIG. 13, when the rod 98 of the locking device 86 is
positioned through the holes 94 of the brackets 92, the rod 98 extends across
the top
of the cover 84 so that the cover 84 cannot be removed. Because the cover 84
cannot be removed, the top 41 of the septum cartridge 40 cannot be accessed;
similarly, the threaded nut 30 cannot be accessed. In addition, the main
portion 110
of the base 102 also prevents access to the threaded nut 30. As can be
understood a
lock 100, such as a combination lock or key lock, is coupled to the rod 98 to
secure
the locking device 86 and prevent unwanted access to the septum cartridge 40,
the
threaded nut 30, and the fluid contained within the tank 82. To access the
septum
cartridge, the locking device 86 is unlocked, and the cover 84 is simply
removed.
13

CA 02510537 2005-06-23
Although the locking arrangement 80 has been described with respect
to a tank application, it is contemplated that the locking arrangement 80 can
further
be used in pipe system applications, such as the application shown in FIG. 2,
or
other fluid transport systems and processing enclosures.
The alternative embodiments herein described may be used in
combination with each other or used independent of one another.
The Method of Continuous Sampling, Generally.
In operation, the elbow 12 is installed at a convenient sampling
location along a fluid line 20. The elbow is preferably oriented such that the
port 22
is in direct fluid contact with the material transferred within the fluid
line, to reduce
the potential of air drawn during sampling.
The boot 49 of the septum cartridge 40 is placed into the sampling
port 22 until the second surface 47 of the cap 45 rests against the outer edge
of the
sampling port 22. The securing nut 30 is installed onto the conduit of the
port 22 to
sealingly, operatively secure the septum within the port.
For aseptic sampling, the sampling arrangement, including the port,
nut, septum cartridge, etc, are sanitized with a common alcohol prep or other
sanitizer. In particular, aseptic sampling is optimized when the cover film 60
is
cleansed with a disinfectant, and a sterilized needle 50 is inserted through
the
disinfected cover film, through an unused guide hole, and through the septum
boot.
The needle is preferably directed or slanted toward the center of the
septum boot at insertion. This provides greater assurance that the needle
penetrates
through the entirety of the boot. In effect, the boot essentially squeegees or
cleanses
the needle of any contaminants missed during initial aseptic disinfectant
processes.
Directing the needle toward the center of the boot also reduces the
possibility of
contacting the wall of the extended portion of the elbow.
The needle may be oriented such that the beveled end S 1 faces
toward the flow of the fluid material to aid in fluid sampling. A pressure
differential
is applied between the collection container and the fluid line to effect the
fluid
sampling or material transfer. The pressure differential may be applied in a
number
of ways. One way is by introducing pressure into the fluid line. Another is by
reducing pressure in the connecting conduit or collection container. Any means
of
generating an adequate pressure differential between the fluid line and the
collection
14

CA 02510537 2005-06-23
container is effective to cause the flow of material through the needle. Other
methods of applying the pressure differential and thus effecting the transfer
of a
sample will be obvious to those skilled in the art.
Material from a tank, for example, thus flows from the fluid line 20,
through the needle 50, and into the collection container 18 by way of the
connecting
conduit 16. In one alternative application, the collection container may be
placed
into a cooling container 70 of ice or ice water, for example, to reduce or
eliminate
bacterial growth during the sampling process.
The flow from the fluid line 20 to the collection container 18 may be
adjusted to a particular flow or sampling rate by means of the clamp
restriction. The
flow may likewise be metered wherein the peristaltic pump is assembled to the
connecting conduit to regulate the flow.
When the desired sample has been collected, the collection container
is removed from the connecting conduit 16 and sealed. The needle 50 is removed
1 S from the septum cartridge 40. As the needle end is withdrawn, the material
of the
boot 49 withdraws into the position held prior to needle penetration. The boot
49 of
the septum 40 thus closes and seals the passageway of the now removed needle.
After performing a number of sampling procedures, so that all guide
holes have been used, the septum cartridge 40 is removed and discarded. The
punctured cover film 60 provides a ready indictor of those guide holes that
have
been used. A new septum cartridge easily replaces the used septum cartridge
for
future samplings.
Some Selected Alternate Methods of Use
Once a sample has been collected, the collection container 18 of the
present invention may be used to determine any number of product quality
defects.
One use for determining product quality defects applies to the dairy industry;
in
particular, to detecting quality defects in dairy fluid products, such as
milk, for
example.
One such defect is post-pasteurization contamination (PPC). There
are many sources of post-pasteurization contamination including inadequate
cleaning and sanitizing, contaminated water, engineering defects such as
cracked
tanks or other equipment components, condensation in compressed air lines, and

CA 02510537 2005-06-23
other sources. Undoubtedly contamination from these sources can result in poor
keeping quality, consumer complaints, and reduced profits.
One of the primary causes of dairy product quality defects is post-
pasteurization contamination (PPC) with gram-negative psychrotrohic bacteria
found in pasteurized milk. In recent years, research has shown that the level
of post-
pasteurization contamination of gram-negative bacteria in pasteurized milk can
be
extremely low, but still affect dairy product quality. This research showed
that
contamination rates as low as one bacterium per liter can cause spoilage and
other
product defects in a short time if the growth rate of that bacterium is
extremely fast.
Other research has shown that the growth rate is dependent on storage
temperature
and oxygen concentrations of the milk. For example, it is possible for gram-
negative bacteria to cause quality defects at 7°C (45°F) in a
little as ten days under
ideal growth conditions of saturated oxygen in milk.
The disclosed sampling arrangement 10 can be used to effectively
1 S monitor dairy processes for the potential of contamination of the gram-
negative
psychrotrophic bacteria. In particular, to monitor for possible gram-negative
bacteria contamination, the arrangement 10 is used to obtain an aseptic fluid
sample
within the collection container 18 at the discharge of the HTST (High
Temperature
Short Time) pasteurizing processor. Because of the aseptic design of the
sampling
arrangement 10, contamination of both the fluid sample and the primary fluid
flow
during sampling is prevented to preclude the sampling arrangement as a source
of
bacterial contamination. Typically, the size of the fluid sample is between
about 50-
500 ml in volume, however, the collection container 18 can aseptically
accommodate larger samples of up to about 5 liters.
In one embodiment, the collection container 18 preferably has an
oxygen permeability that simulates the level of oxygen to which the fluid
product is
exposed. For instance, the oxygen permeability preferably simulates the oxygen
saturation associated with pre-packing operations and the product packaging
within
which the fluid will be stored. By this, the collection container 18 allows
gram-
negative bacteria to grow in the same fashion as the bacteria would in product
storage containers. In particular, the oxygen permeability of the collection
container
18 promotes the same growth rate of contaminate as there would be in a product
that
has been fully oxygen saturated through pumping, agitating and filling
procedures.
The arrangement 10 thereby simulates the storage conditions for purposes of
16

CA 02510537 2005-06-23
monitoring for gram-negative bacteria without the addition of air or oxygen to
a
collected sample.
Once the desired fluid sample size is collected, the sample is
permitted to incubate for a time period sufficient to allow for low-level
contaminants
to reach a level that can be counted by conventional laboratory procedures.
Typically, the incubation period corresponds to the shelf life of the fluid
product. In
one method, for example, the fluid sample is incubated for a number of days at
45
°F. During the incubation period, oxygen permeates the collection bag
to oxygenate
the fluid product. A Standard Plate Count is conducted during the incubation
period
to determine the level of gram-negative bacteria present within the sample.
The
Standard Plate Count can be repeated any number of times during the incubation
period. Methods other than the Standard Plate count for detecting
psychrotrophic
bacteria (spoilage bacteria) can be used.
To illustrate the oxygen permeability of the collection bag 18, a study
of gram-negative psychrotrohic bacteria was conducted at the University of
Minnesota's Biological Technology Institute. In this study, a fluid sample of
sterilized milk was inoculated with pseudomonas bacteria at a population of
about
60 organisms per liter. The inoculated milk was filled in three collection
bags and
three 60cc syringes, and then incubated in the refrigerator at 7°C
(45°F). The three
syringes containing inoculated milk served as non-permeable container
controls.
Bags and syringes containing un-inoculated milk also served as controls (see
Table 1
below). In the inoculated collection bags, the presence of the bacteria was
clearly
evident with six days. In contrast, the inoculated syringes required 21 days
to
positively confirm the presence of bacteria. By using the disclosed sampling
arrangement 10, the time needed to obtain contamination results is
significantly
shortened due to the oxygen permeability feature of the collection bag 18.
Reducing
the time needed to detect contamination saves in production costs and reduces
product waste associated with continued production of a contaminated product.
17

CA 02510537 2005-06-23
Table 1: Daily cell counts of bacteria (cfu/ml)
Day
0 3 6 7 8 9 10 13 15 21
Control<1 <1 <1 <1 <1 <1 <1 <1 <1
bag
1
Control<1 <1 <1 <1 <1 <1 <1 <1 <1
bag
2
Bag <1 1 15 80 169 334 750 2.2x10 6.510'
1
Bag <1 1 15 70 110 200 350 1.0x10 10.5x10'
2
Bag <1 2.5 13 70 29 100 600 1.7x10 6.0x10'
3
Control<1 <l <I <1 <1 <l <1 <1 <1 <1
Syr
1
Control<1 <1 <l <1 <1 <1 <1 <1 <1 <1
Syr
2
Syr <1 <1 <1 <1 <1 3 4 3 <1 21.5
1
Syr <1 <1 <1 <1 <1 2 <1 <1 <1 3.5
2
Syr3 <1 1 <1 1 <1 5 2 1 <1 193
Another defect affecting the quality of dairy fluid products is spore-
forming bacteria found in pre-pasteurized or raw milk. Raw milk quality can
greatly
influence the keeping quality of market milk. One of the primary causes of
spore-
forming bacteria is gram-positive psychrotrohic bacteria. Spore-forming
bacteria is
generally caused by contamination introduced in pre-pasteurization milk
processes.
Determining the level of spore-forming bacteria in a fluid product sample
provides
valuable information for evaluating the associated production, cleaning
processes
and shelf life.
Research has also shown that the level of spore-forming
contamination of gram-positive bacteria in raw milk can be low, but still
affect dairy
product quality. For instance, spore-forming bacteria has been found to
survive heat
treatments of up to 176°F at 10 minute intervals. In fact, the heat
treatment in some
cases has even activated spore germination and outgrowth in milk. The
disclosed
sampling arrangement 10 can be used to effectively monitor dairy processes for
the
potential of contamination of the gram-positive psychrotrophic bacteria.
In particular, to monitor for possible gram-positive bacteria
contamination, the arrangement 10 is used to obtain an aseptic fluid sample
within
the collection container 18. Because of the aseptic design of the sampling
arrangement 10, contamination of both the fluid sample and the primary fluid
flow
18

CA 02510537 2005-06-23
during sampling is prevented to preclude the sampling arrangement as a source
of
spore-forming bacteria contamination.
Spore-forming bacteria is inherent in raw milk, however, an
excessive amount of spore-forming bacteria, or the presence of spore-forming
bacteria that has an accelerated growth rate is undesirable and will most
likely result
in unacceptable milk quality at refrigeration temperature. The collection
container
18 of the present sampling arrangement 10 has an oxygen permeability that
provides
a level of oxygen saturation that accelerates the growth rate of spore-forming
bacteria. By this, the collection container 18 allows gram-positive bacteria
to grow
in an accelerated fashion to determine the amount of gram-positive bacteria
present.
Once the desired fluid sample size is collected (e.g., up to 5 liters),
the sample is permitted to incubate for a time period sufficient to allow for
the
spore-forming contaminants to grow. For example, in one method, the fluid
sample is incubated for a period of time approximate to the standard product
shelf
life, e.g., 18-24 days, at 45 °F. During this period, oxygen permeates
the collection
bag to oxygenate the fluid product. A conventional laboratory procedure, such
as a
Standard Plate Count, is then conducted after the period of time to determine
the
level of gram-positive bacteria present within the sample. A level of gram-
positive
bacteria greater than 10,000,00 counts/ml, for example, would indicate that
the
spore-forming bacteria present has the potential for causing product quality
defects.
This information can then be used to re-evaluate production and cleaning
process to
reduce the likelihood of future quality problems.
To illustrate the oxygen permeability of the collection bag 18, a study
of gram-positive psychrotrohic bacteria was conducted at the University of
Minnesota's Biological Technology Institute. In this study, a fluid sample of
raw
milk was collected in the disclosed bag. The bag was incubated for 18-24 days
at a
temperature of about 7°C (45°F). A standard plate count was then
conducted.
Using gram-stain procedures, the samples having bacteria counts of greater
than
10,000,000/ml were identified (see Table 2 below). Identifying the samples
having
high bacteria counts reduces product waste associated with continued
production of
a contaminated product.
19

CA 02510537 2005-06-23
Table 2: Cell counts of bacteria (cfu/ml)
Sam Dai Ba VolumeWeek Week Week Week
le 1 2 3 4
L CFU/ml CFU/ml CFU/ml CFU/ml
Gram- Gram- Gram- Gram-
Gram+ Gram+ Gram+ Gram+
Date: 3/23/2004 3/30/2004 4/7/2004 4/13/2004
Da : 7 14 22 28
3/16/2004PlantA 1.3 <10 <10 <10 <10 <10 <10 <10 <10
B
Tuesda B 1.5 <10 <10 <10 <10 <10 <10 <10 <10
Gram- Gram- Gram- Gram-
Gram+ Gram+ Gram+ Gram+
Date: 3/24/2004 3/31/2004 4/7/2004 4/15/2004
Da : 7 14 21 29
3/17/2004PlantA 1.2 <10 <10 <10 <10 <10 7.56 <10 1.0
A x x
10" 106
Wednesda B 1.2 <10 <10 <10 <10 <10 2.33 <10 1.93
x x
10 106
Gram- Gram- Gram- Gram-
Gram+ Gram+ Gram+ Gram+
Date: 3/31/2004 4/7/2004 4/15/2004 4/21/2004
Da : 7 14 22 28
3/24/2004PlantA 1.2 <10 <10 <10 3.0 <10 1.41 <10 1.05
A x x x
10 106 10
Wednesda B 1.2 <10 <10 <10 0.4 <10 0.95 <10 3.1
x x x
10 10 10'
Gram- Gram- Gram- Gram-
Gram+ Gram+ Gram+ Gram+
Date: 4/7/2004 4/14/2004 4/21/2004 4/28/2004
Da : 7 14 21 28
3/31/2004PlantA 1.2 <10 <10 <10 <10 <10 <10 <10 <10
A
Wednesda B 1.2 <10 <IO <10 <10 <10 <10 <10 <10
Gram- Gram- Gram- Gram-
Gram+ Gram+ Gram+ Gram+
Date: 4/9/2004 4/16/2004 4/23/2004 4/30/2004
Da : 7 14 21 28
4/2/2004PlantA 1.0 < < < 7.7 < 6.7 < 2.5
B 10 10 10 x 10 x 10 x
10 105 I
O6
Frida B 1.1 <10 <10 <10 5.8 <10 4.96 <10 6.5
x x x
10 10 106
Gram- Gram- Gram- Gram-
Gram+ Gram+ Gram+ Gram+
Date: 4/22/2004 4/29/2004 5/6/2004 5/12/2004
Da : 7 14 21 27
4/15/2004PlantA 1.1 <10 <10 <10 <10 <10 <10 <10 6
B x
10
Thursda B 1.2 <10 <10 <10 <10 <10 <10 <10 <10
The above specification, examples and data provide a complete
description of the manufacture and use of the invention. Many embodiments of
the
invention can be made according to the disclosed principles.

Representative Drawing
A single figure which represents the drawing illustrating the invention.
Administrative Status

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Event History

Description Date
Inactive: Dead - No reply to s.30(2) Rules requisition 2014-04-15
Application Not Reinstated by Deadline 2014-04-15
Deemed Abandoned - Failure to Respond to Maintenance Fee Notice 2013-06-25
Inactive: Abandoned - No reply to s.30(2) Rules requisition 2013-04-15
Inactive: S.30(2) Rules - Examiner requisition 2012-10-15
Inactive: IPC deactivated 2011-07-29
Inactive: IPC deactivated 2011-07-29
Letter Sent 2010-05-04
Letter Sent 2010-04-29
Request for Examination Received 2010-04-12
Request for Examination Requirements Determined Compliant 2010-04-12
All Requirements for Examination Determined Compliant 2010-04-12
Inactive: Single transfer 2010-04-12
Inactive: IPC from MCD 2010-02-01
Inactive: IPC from MCD 2010-02-01
Inactive: IPC expired 2010-01-01
Inactive: IPC expired 2010-01-01
Inactive: Office letter 2007-02-20
Inactive: Office letter 2006-07-11
Inactive: Correspondence - Formalities 2006-06-21
Inactive: Applicant deleted 2006-06-21
Correct Applicant Request Received 2006-02-10
Application Published (Open to Public Inspection) 2005-12-24
Inactive: Cover page published 2005-12-23
Inactive: IPC assigned 2005-12-15
Inactive: IPC assigned 2005-12-15
Inactive: IPC assigned 2005-12-15
Inactive: IPC assigned 2005-12-15
Inactive: First IPC assigned 2005-12-15
Correct Applicant Request Received 2005-08-17
Inactive: Filing certificate correction 2005-08-17
Inactive: Courtesy letter - Evidence 2005-08-09
Inactive: Filing certificate - No RFE (English) 2005-08-03
Application Received - Regular National 2005-08-03

Abandonment History

Abandonment Date Reason Reinstatement Date
2013-06-25

Maintenance Fee

The last payment was received on 2012-06-21

Note : If the full payment has not been received on or before the date indicated, a further fee may be required which may be one of the following

  • the reinstatement fee;
  • the late payment fee; or
  • additional fee to reverse deemed expiry.

Patent fees are adjusted on the 1st of January every year. The amounts above are the current amounts if received by December 31 of the current year.
Please refer to the CIPO Patent Fees web page to see all current fee amounts.

Fee History

Fee Type Anniversary Year Due Date Paid Date
Application fee - standard 2005-06-23
MF (application, 2nd anniv.) - standard 02 2007-06-26 2007-03-21
MF (application, 3rd anniv.) - standard 03 2008-06-23 2008-03-28
MF (application, 4th anniv.) - standard 04 2009-06-23 2009-03-19
MF (application, 5th anniv.) - standard 05 2010-06-23 2010-03-17
Request for examination - standard 2010-04-12
Registration of a document 2010-04-12
MF (application, 6th anniv.) - standard 06 2011-06-23 2011-03-16
MF (application, 7th anniv.) - standard 07 2012-06-26 2012-06-21
Owners on Record

Note: Records showing the ownership history in alphabetical order.

Current Owners on Record
QUALITY MANAGEMENT INCORPORATED
Past Owners on Record
DARRELL L. BIGALKE
Past Owners that do not appear in the "Owners on Record" listing will appear in other documentation within the application.
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Document
Description 
Date
(yyyy-mm-dd) 
Number of pages   Size of Image (KB) 
Abstract 2005-06-22 1 21
Claims 2005-06-22 5 167
Description 2005-06-22 20 1,074
Drawings 2005-06-22 7 128
Representative drawing 2005-11-27 1 5
Cover Page 2005-12-15 1 36
Filing Certificate (English) 2005-08-02 1 158
Request for evidence or missing transfer 2006-06-26 1 101
Reminder of maintenance fee due 2007-02-25 1 110
Reminder - Request for Examination 2010-02-23 1 119
Acknowledgement of Request for Examination 2010-04-28 1 177
Courtesy - Certificate of registration (related document(s)) 2010-05-03 1 102
Courtesy - Abandonment Letter (R30(2)) 2013-06-09 1 165
Courtesy - Abandonment Letter (Maintenance Fee) 2013-08-19 1 172
Correspondence 2005-08-02 1 27
Correspondence 2005-08-16 2 89
Correspondence 2006-02-09 2 82
Correspondence 2006-07-05 1 12
Correspondence 2006-06-20 1 29
Correspondence 2007-02-12 1 12