Patent ID: 7687026
Filing Date: 2010-03-30
Classification: B01F,B01J,C12M,C40B,G01N

Abstract:
1. A method for using acoustic energy, the method comprising the steps of: generating an acoustic energy wavetrain directed toward at least one sample held within a vessel, the acoustic energy wavetrain originating from an acoustic energy source spaced from and exterior to the vessel, wherein the acoustic energy wavetrain has a frequency of between about 100 kilohertz and about 100 megahertz and converges in a focal zone having a width of less than about 2 centimeters; and transmitting the acoustic energy wavetrain through a first medium and a second medium toward the vessel such that a portion of the at least one sample in the vessel is exposed to acoustic energy at the focal zone, and wherein the first medium is different from the second medium and sensing at least one condition to which the at least one sample is subjected during exposure to the acoustic energy and altering at least one of the acoustic energy or a location of the at least one sample in response to the at least one condition.