30th week of 2014 patent applcation highlights part 54 |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20140207190 | SPINAL THREE-DIMENSIONAL ORTHOPEDIC EQUIPMENT - A spinal three-dimensional orthopedic equipment comprises a frame, a front board member and a drive device for driving the front board member fixed on the frame, a back board member and a middle board member as well as their drive devices fixed on the frame, a head holding device fixed on the middle board member for holding the patient's head, and a drawing and holding device for drawing and holding the head and neck of the patient. The head holding device comprises a splint connected to the middle board member immovably, two sliding grooves are provided on the splint, and two head holding clips and a mandible tray connected to the sliding pieces mounted in the two sliding grooves respectively, which can slide along the sliding grooves. The spinal orthopedic equipment also comprises a front board member fast lifting device, and a drive device for controlling the lifting device. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207191 | System and Method for Performing Spinal Stabilization - A system and method for performing percutaneous spinal stabilization, comprising inserting a k-wire into skin and tissue proximal to the spine; drilling the k-wire into and through the spinous process, creating a narrow aperture therethrough; inserting one or more cannulas over the k-wire, through the skin and tissue and towards said bone, a second cannula configured to fit over the first; removing all but the outermost cannula, thereby creating a working channel through the skin and tissue, providing unobstructed access to the bone; inserting into the channel a screwdriver comprising a preferably flexible shaft long enough to extend through the cannula to the bone, and having releasably attached to the end a screw with external screw threads; and drilling one or more screws into and through the bone for securement to a cap secured to a hollow, oval, flat stabilizing plate positioned on the opposite side of the bone. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207192 | Spinous Process Fusion Implants and Insertion, Compression, and Locking Instrumentation - A bone plate assembly including at least one bone plate, polyaxially adjustable fixation elements and a polyaxially adjustable locking mechanism. A first plate includes at least one polyaxial element for lockable connection with a fixation pad, and a connection feature which allows the plate to translate and polyaxially rotate relative to the locking mechanism. A second plate includes at least one polyaxial element for connection with a fixation pad and a connection feature for non-rotatable connection with the locking mechanism. The locking mechanism allows translation and polyaxial adjustment of the first plate relative to the second plate and locks the first and second plates via a taper lock. The fixation pad includes a deflectable spacer configured to prevent premature locking of the pad. Methods for implantation of the bone plate assembly between bone structures are disclosed. Instrumentation for implantation, compression and locking of the bone plate assembly is disclosed. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207193 | SURGICAL SYSTEM AND METHODS OF USE - A surgical system including an expandable device is provided, including an inflatable body and a compliant sleeve. The compliant sleeve includes a distal end, a proximal end, and a cavity extending from the proximal end to the oppositely disposed distal end configured to receive a portion of the inflatable body. The cavity is defined by an inner wall and an outer wall of the compliant sleeve. The distal end of the compliant sleeve forms a closed portion of the cavity and the proximal end includes an opening. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207194 | System Comprising a Bone Plate and a Bone Screw - A system comprises a bone plate and a bone screw. The bone plate is provided with a through-hole, which extends from an upper face to a bone-side lower face of the bone plate. A lip is formed in the through-hole, which lip protrudes from the curved surface of the through-hole and extends in the circumferential direction of the through-hole. The bone screw has a head thread, which is designed to reshape the lip in the through-hole in order to form a threaded connection. The lip has a step arranged between the curved surface of the through-hole and a central region of the lip, which step extends along the lip. The system has the advantage that a bone screw can easily cut into the lip. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207195 | DYNAMIC BONE FIXATION ELEMENT AND METHOD OF USING THE SAME - The present invention relates to dynamic bone fixation elements and a surgical method to stabilize bone or bone fragments. The dynamic bone fixation elements preferably include a bone engaging component and a load carrier engaging component. The bone engaging component preferably includes a plurality of threads for engaging a patient's bone and a lumen. The load carrier engaging component preferably includes a head portion for engaging a load carrier (e.g., bone plate) and a shaft portion. The shaft portion preferably at least partially extends into the lumen. Preferably at least a portion of an outer surface of the shaft portion is spaced away from at least a portion of an inner surface of the lumen via a gap so that the head portion can move with respect to the bone engaging component. The distal end of the shaft portion is preferably coupled to the lumen. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207196 | Limited Collapse Surgical Screws - A telescopic surgical screw comprising: (a) a first screw section including a distal threaded section and a proximal section; (b) a second screw section including a proximal threaded section and a distal section; and, (c) a reconfigurable bushing configured to be received within at least one of the first screw section and the second screw section to limit travel of the first screw section with respect to the second screw section, where at least one of the first screw section and the second screw section includes an internal cavity sized to receive the reconfigurable bushing and where the first screw section is configured to be repositionable along a length of the second screw section to change an overall length of the surgical screw. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207197 | SYSTEM FOR OSTEOSYTHESIS OF THE STERNUM - An implant | 2014-07-24 |
20140207198 | TOOLS FOR IMPLANTATION OF INTERSPINOUS IMPLANTS AND METHODS THEROF - The present disclosure provides a single insertion and compression instrument to facilitate the implantation of a spinous process implant, such as a spinous process fixation device, between and about adjacent spinous processes. The instrument has a first leg and a second leg, each with a handle and implant engaging portions. The implant engaging portions releasably couple to the spinous process implant and have compression pads to facilitate compression of fasteners on the plates into bone. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207199 | Spinous Process Fusion Implants and Insertion, Compression, and Locking Instrumentation - A bone plate assembly including at least one bone plate, polyaxially adjustable fixation elements and a polyaxially adjustable locking mechanism. A first plate includes at least one polyaxial element for lockable connection with a fixation pad, and a connection feature which allows the plate to translate and polyaxially rotate relative to the locking mechanism. A second plate includes at least one polyaxial element for connection with a fixation pad and a connection feature for non-rotatable connection with the locking mechanism. The locking mechanism allows translation and polyaxial adjustment of the first plate relative to the second plate and locks the first and second plates via a taper lock. The fixation pad includes a deflectable spacer configured to prevent premature locking of the pad. Methods for implantation of the bone plate assembly between bone structures are disclosed. Instrumentation for implantation, compression and locking of the bone plate assembly is disclosed. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207200 | MEDICAL INSTRUMENT HANDLE - A medical instrument handle assembly, for holding a medical instrument configured for preparing a bone to receive an implant, includes: a housing including a housing pin; an elongate arm including a proximal end; a lever subassembly including a lever body and a lever latch, the lever body being pivotally connected to the proximal end of the elongate arm, the lever body and the lever latch being pivotally connected to one another and thereby being selectively positionable relative to one another between a first position and a second position, the first position being when the lever body and the lever latch are clamped about the housing pin, the second position being when the lever body and the lever latch are unclamped relative to the housing pin. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207201 | WEARABLE CARDIAC DEFIBRILLATOR SYSTEM CONTROLLING CONDUCTIVE FLUID DEPLOYMENT - In embodiments, a wearable cardiac defibrillator system includes an energy storage module configured to store a charge. Two electrodes can be configured to be applied to respective locations of a patient. One or more reservoirs can store one or more conductive fluids. Respective fluid deploying mechanisms can be configured to cause the fluids to be released from one or more of the reservoirs, which decreases the impedance at the patient location, and decreases discomfort for the patient. In some embodiments an impedance is sensed between the two electrodes, and the stored charge is delivered when the sensed impedance meets a discharge condition. In some embodiments, different fluids are released for different patient treatments. In some embodiments, fluid release is controlled to be in at least two doses, with an intervening pause. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207202 | Apparatus and Method for the Detection and Treatment of Atrial Fibrillation - Embodiments of the invention provide methods for the detection and treatment of atrial fibrillation (AF) and related conditions. One embodiment provides a method comprising measuring electrical activity of the heart using electrodes arranged on the heart surface to define an area for detecting aberrant electrical activity (AEA) and then using the measured electrical activity (MEA) to detect foci of AEA causing AF. A pacing signal may then be sent to the foci to prevent AF onset. Atrial wall motion characteristics (WMC) may be sensed using an accelerometer placed on the heart and used with MEA to detect AF. The WMC may be used to monitor effectiveness of the pacing signal in preventing AF and/or returning the heart to normal sinus rhythm (NSR). Also, upon AF detection, a cardioversion signal may be sent to the atria using the electrodes to depolorize an atrial area causing AF and return the heart to NSR. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207203 | NEURAL STIMULATION SYSTEMS, DEVICES AND METHODS - Various system embodiments comprise circuitry to determine when an arrhythmia has terminated, and a neural stimulator adapted to temporarily deliver neural stimulation therapy to assist with recovering from the arrhythmia in response to termination of the arrhythmia. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207204 | PREDICTION AND MONITORING OF CLINICAL EPISODES - Apparatus and methods are described, including a method for treating a clinical episode. The method comprises sensing at least one parameter of a subject without contacting or viewing the subject or clothes the subject is wearing, analyzing the parameter, detecting the clinical episode at least in part responsively to the analysis, and responsively to detecting the clinical episode, treating the clinical episode using a device implanted in the subject. Other applications are also described. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207205 | CONNECTOR FOR A MEDICAL DEVICE HAVING A RIGID SLEEVE AND A FLEXIBLE SEAL WITH COMPLIMENTARY SURFACE PROFILES - A connector for a multipolar lead has a cavity that contains a stack of alternating annular electrical contact elements and annular isolation elements. The isolation elements comprise an annular rigid sleeve and an annular flexible seal disposed against an annular face in an interior region of the rigid sleeve. The flexible seal extends axially from one lateral side of the rigid sleeve to the other in the interior region of the rigid sleeve. The sleeve and the seal include are immobilized relatively to each other in the axial direction by use of mating surface profiles respectively defined on an inner annular side of the sleeve and on an outer annular side of the flexible seal. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207206 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SYSTOLIC INTERVAL ANALYSIS - According to a system or method, information indicative of a cardiac depolarization signal can be obtained. Information indicative of an acoustic signal from an implantable acoustic sensor included as a portion of an implantable therapy device can be obtained. A feature indicative of an R wave can be identified from the information indicative of the cardiac depolarization signal, and a feature indicative of an S2 heart sound can be identified from the information indicative of the acoustic signal. A time interval between an instant corresponding to the feature indicative of the R wave and an instant corresponding to the feature indicative of the S2 heart sound can be determined. Using information about the determined time interval, an adjusted pacing therapy parameter can be provided for use in a pacing therapy to be provided by the implantable therapy device. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207207 | EXTENDED PAIN RELIEF VIA HIGH FREQUENCY SPINAL CORD MODULATION, AND ASSOCIATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Extended pain relief via high frequency spinal cord modulation, and associated systems and methods. A method for treating a patient in accordance with a particular embodiment includes selecting a neural modulation site to include at least one of a dorsal root entry zone and dorsal horn of the patient's spinal cord, and selecting parameters of a neural modulation signal to reduce patient pain for a period of time after ceasing delivery of the signals, the period of time being at least one tenth of one second. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207208 | DRESSING FOR TISSUE TREATMENT - A control unit for a dressing for treating damaged tissue via a pair of electrodes. An electric current passes between the electrodes through the gel to repair the damaged tissue. Sensors can be incorporated into the dressing along with a control unit. The control unit can vary current supplied to the electrodes. One or more pre-defined programmes can be stored in the control unit for supplying an alternating current to the electrodes with a varying amplitude, frequency and waveform. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207209 | Apparatus and Method to Control an Implant - A device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure includes a housing configured to retain a battery, a primary antenna associated with the housing, and at least one processor in electrical communication with the battery and the primary antenna. In some embodiments, the at least one processor may be configured to cause transmission of a primary signal from the primary antenna to an implantable device during a treatment session of at least three hours in duration, wherein the primary signal is generated using power supplied by the battery and includes a pulse train, the pulse train including a plurality of modulation pulses. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207210 | OPTMIZING ENERGY TRANSMISSION IN A LEADLESS TISSUE STIMULATION SYSTEM - Method and systems for optimizing acoustic energy transmission in implantable devices are disclosed. Transducer elements transmit acoustic locator signals towards a receiver assembly, and the receiver responds with a location signal. The location signal can reveal information related to the location of the receiver and the efficiency of the transmitted acoustic beam received by the receiver. This information enables the transmitter to target the receiver and optimize the acoustic energy transfer between the transmitter and the receiver. The energy can be used for therapeutic purposes, for example, stimulating tissue or for diagnostic purposes. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207211 | Apparatus for Irradiating Skin Using Light - The present invention relates to an apparatus for irradiating skin with light for preventing a user's eyes from being exposed to medical light. An apparatus for irradiating skin with light according to the present invention comprises an input unit for a user input, a light source unit including light sources of at least two colors and configured to irradiate the skin of a user with medical light, a contact sensor provided at periphery of the light source unit, and a controller configured to control an intensity of the light radiated from the light source unit according to whether skin contact is detected by the contact sensor, wherein the controller controls the intensity of the light from the light source unit in at least two stages before and after the skin contact is detected. Therefore, the present invention has an advantage in which safety is improved because the user's eyes are not exposed to high-intensity medical light. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207212 | HEATING DEVICE USING EXOTHERMIC CHEMICAL REACTION - The current invention discloses a treatment device having a heat source, a power source, a heat applicator and a lighting mechanism. The power source includes at least one nanotech battery, ensuring superior properties such as prolonged electricity production and prompt recharging. The heat applicator includes a heat conductive layer made from nanofibers, providing highly efficient heat distribution to the targeted regions. The lighting mechanism employs light emitting nano fibers to treat targeted regions. The power source provides energy to the light source, which generates light so that the applicator may distribute to an injury site or wound bed of a user. The heat source may be an exothermic chemical reaction designed to last for several hours supplying heat to the treatment device or a electronically produced heat. In addition to the medical utilizations, the current device may also play a central role in other apparatus that require thermal control or lighting capabilities. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207213 | LASER METHOD FOR TREATING HYPERHIDROSIS TARGETING SWEAT GLANDS - A non-surgical, drug-free hyperhidrosis treatment includes applying infra-red laser irradiation having a wavelength of at least approximately 1064 nm to a plurality of discrete spots in the affected area. The operating parameters of the infra-red laser are adjusted so that the irradiation penetrates the skin at each spot and deactivates the underlying sweat glands. The degree of sweat suppression is controlled by adjusting the number of and spacing between the spots. The laser light can be generated by a NdYAG laser. The spot size can be approximately 2 mm, the pulse duration approximately 0.65 ms, and the laser power approximately 9300 Watts. A prior art laser source can be used to manually implement the invention, or a special purpose apparatus can automatically deflect the infra-red beam under digital control between the desired spot locations. In embodiments, the controller further controls the laser timing and other operating parameters. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207214 | APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR CONTROLLING AND APPLYING FLASH LAMP RADIATION - Apparatus and methods are disclosed for treating allergic rhinitis (seasonal and perennial hay fever), by application of flash lamp radiation. The nasal cavity can be illuminated in a safe and effective manner, with non-coherent light from a flash-lamp or other suitable source. This illumination can be accomplished in any suitable manner, including by use of a handheld device. Such handheld embodiments may contain a power source (battery or AC), control circuitry, light source (flash-lamp or diode laser), lens (focusing or non-focusing), light filter, and/or fiber-optic for delivering light to the nasal cavity. Embodiments include using any suitable light energy, such as visible light in the red wavelengths with a power output of 1 to 10 Joules per cm | 2014-07-24 |
20140207215 | SKIN TANNING AND LIGHT THERAPY INCORPORATING LIGHT EMITTING DIODES - The invention relates to a skin tanning chamber, the improvement comprising at least one light emitting diode emitting a UVA light, such as a UVA LED that emits essentially only UVA. Additionally, multiple LEDs of varying types with various characteristic wavelengths are controlled independently to produce an arbitrary light pattern in an arbitrary sequence over time. The chamber can be rigid or flexible. It can be a bed, booth or incorporated into a flexible form, such as a garment or cloth. In one embodiment, the chamber further comprises at least one LED emitting a UVC light, whereby the UVC light sanitizes the chamber surface. Preferably the LED emitting the UVA light is under independent control from the LED emitting UVC light. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207216 | TREATMENT DEVICE USING NANOTECHNOLOGY - The current invention discloses a treatment device having a heat source, a power source and a heat applicator. The power source includes at least one nanotech battery, ensuring superior properties such as prolonged electricity production and prompt recharging. The heat applicator includes a heat conductive layer made from nanofibers, providing highly efficient heat distribution to the targeted regions. The power source provides energy to the heat source, which generates heat so that the applicator may distribute to an injury site or wound bed of a user. The current device may also be used for cooling, instead of heating applications. In addition to the medical utilizations, the current device may also play a central role in other apparatus that require thermal control capabilities. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207217 | SKIN TREATMENT DEVICES AND METHODS - Radiofrequency (RF) skin treatment devices and methods are provided herein. RF energy is delivered via electrodes in a phase-controlled manner which heats skin volumes below the surface more than the skin surface itself. At least one electrode at least partially encloses at least one other electrode. The combination of controlling the phases of the RF energy delivered to different electrodes and the enclosing configuration of the electrodes allows concentrating the delivered energy in specific regions below the skin surface at a particularly high efficiency. Configurations of the enclosing and the enclosed electrodes, their forms and combinations with other electrodes and the phase polarities applied to the electrodes are also provided. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207218 | AIR CONVECTIVE WARMER WITH NOISE REDUCTION FILTER - To reduce the noise level of an air convective warmer, the air filter of the warmer is fitted with an air intercept mechanism to disrupt the flow of air that traverses inside the interior cavity of the air filter. By thus disrupting the air flow, the noise that otherwise would have been generated due to a non-interrupted air stream flow is lowered. The air intercept mechanism may be in the form of at least one partition positioned inside the interior cavity of the air filter. Alternatively, double-ended open tubes may be used, so long as the interior cavity of the filter is sealed, with only the tubes providing the passages for air to output from the air filter. Yet a third embodiment of the air reduction filter has an air impermeable material covering at least one portion of the surface area of the filtering material to prevent the inflow air from directly entering into the interior cavity of the air filter through the covered surface area. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207219 | MODULAR STIMULUS APPLICATOR SYSTEM AND METHOD - A modular stimulus applicator system and method are disclosed. The system includes a plurality of wirelessly controlled stimulus pods, anchored to a patient's body, and configured to deliver stimulus to the patient's body. The stimulus can be heat, vibration, or electrical stimulus, or any combination thereof. The stimulus pods are controlled by a control station that can include a user-interface through which the patient can control application of the stimulus. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207220 | Implantable Neurostimulator with Integral Hermetic Electronic Enclosure, Circuit Substrate, Monolithic Feed-Through, Lead Assembly and Anchoring Mechanism - An implantable medical device is provided for the suppression or prevention of pain, movement disorders, epilepsy, cerebrovascular diseases, autoimmune diseases, sleep disorders, autonomic disorders, abnormal metabolic states, disorders of the muscular system, and neuropsychiatric disorders in a patient. The implantable medical device can be a neurostimulator configured to be implanted on or near a cranial nerve to treat headache or other neurological disorders. One aspect of the implantable medical device is that it includes an electronics enclosure, a substrate integral to the electronics enclosure, and a monolithic feed-through integral to the electronics enclosure and the substrate. In some embodiments, the implantable medical device can include a fixation apparatus for attaching the device to a patient. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207221 | CAPACITOR ELECTROLYTE - A capacitor for an implantable medical device is presented. The capacitor includes an anode, a cathode, a separator therebetween, and an electrolyte over the anode, cathode, and separator. The electrolyte includes ingredients comprising acetic acid, ammonium acetate, phosphoric acid, and tetaethylene glycol dimethyl ether. The capacitor has an operating voltage ninety percent or greater of its formation voltage. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207222 | HOUSINGS FOR IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES AND METHODS FOR FORMING HOUSINGS - Described herein is an implantable medical device and methods for making a device that includes a metal housing a molding process. In one embodiment, the housing includes a header attachment element extends from the housing. In another embodiment, the implantable medical device includes a header attachment surface comprising one or more header retaining features configured to secure a connector header to the header attachment surface. In another embodiment, the housing includes one or more structural elements extending from and integrally molded with the interior surface of the first or second portions of the housing. Also disclosed are methods of making the implantable medical device. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207223 | EXTERNAL PACEMAKER WITH AN ELECTRODE TEMPORAILY CONNECTABLE TO A HEART AND COUPLED VIA A PLUG CONNECTOR - An external pacemaker with at least one electrode temporarily connectable to the heart, and at the distal end of which is an active region, which makes contact with heart tissue, and at the proximal end is a contact plug. The electrode is for transmission of stimulation, defibrillation, and/or cardioversion pulses and is plugged into a pacemaker plug socket. The contact plug has first and second contact regions at its plug part. The plug socket matches the contact plug with two mating contacts, the first for transmitting stimulation pulses and the second for transmitting defibrillation and/or cardioversion pulses. In the plugged-in position, only the contact region on the plug part makes contact with the mating contact provided for transmitting the defibrillation and/or cardioversion pulses, such that no defibrillation and/or cardioversion pulse can be transmitted to electrodes which are unsuitable for defibrillation and/or cardioversion and have only a single-stage contact plug. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207224 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR TRANSCRANIAL STIMULATION - The present invention provides systems, apparatus and methods for applying electric current to neurons in the brain to treat disorders and to improve motor and/or memory functions in a patient. In a method according to the invention, an electrode is positioned adjacent to and spaced from the skin surface of the patient's head and an electric current is applied through the electrode to a target region in the brain to modulate one or more neurons in the target region. The electrode is housed within an enclosure and spaced from the skin surface so that the electrode does not directly contact the patient's tissue, which reduces the potential for collateral tissue damage or necrosis and shields the electrode from the patient's tissue which substantially inhibits Faradic products (e.g., H | 2014-07-24 |
20140207225 | SYSTEM FOR DEPLOYING A RESISTIVE SHAPE MEMORY CATHETERIZATION DEVICE AND METHODS FOR USE THEREWITH - A system for deploying a shape memory catheterization device within a patient, includes a catheter for endovascular insertion of the shape memory catheterization device. A heat source heats the shape memory catheterization device above the transition temperature. A transformation data generator includes a circuit driver for driving a circuit that includes at least one resistive element of the shape memory catheterization device and a detection circuit for generating transformation data based on a resistance of the at least one resistive element, wherein the transformation data indicates a shape transformation of the shape memory catheterization device from a catheterization shape to a transformed shape. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207226 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR TREATMENT OF VASCULAR ANEURYSMS - The present invention relates to devices and methods for the treatment of diseases in the vasculature, and more specifically, devices and methods for treatment of aneurysms found in blood vessels. In a first embodiment of the present invention, a two part prostheses, where one part is an expandable sponge structure and the other part is an expandable tubular mesh structure, is provided. In the first embodiment, the expandable sponge structure is intended to fill the aneurysm cavity to prevent further dilatation of the vessel wall by creating a buffer or barrier between the pressurized pulsating blood flow and the thinning vessel wall. In the first embodiment, the expandable tubular mesh structure is placed across the aneurysm, contacting the inner wall of healthy vessel proximal and distal to the aneurysm. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207227 | STENT WITH POSITIONING ARMS - A stent is provided with arms for positioning the stent between two passageways. The stent may also be a stent-graft with a transition between a covered portion and an uncovered portion that is positioned relative to the junction between the two passageways. The arms are self-expanding and are biased outward from the tubular wall of the stent structure. The arms engage the wall of the first passageway around the junction to the second passageway to position a portion of the stent in the first passageway and another portion of the stent in the second passageway. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207228 | SHAPE MEMORY ALLOY ARTICLES WITH IMPROVED FATIGUE PERFORMANCE AND METHODS THEREFORE - Articles made of shape memory alloys having improved fatigue performance and to methods of treating articles formed from shape memory alloy materials by pre-straining the articles (or desired portions of the articles) in a controlled manner so that the resultant articles exhibit improved fatigue performance. The shape memory articles are preferably medical devices, more preferably implantable medical devices. They are most preferably devices of nitinol shape memory alloy, most particularly that is superelastic at normal body temperature. The pre-straining method of the present invention as performed on such articles includes the controlled introduction of non-recoverable tensile strains greater than about 0.20% at the surface of a desired portion of a shape memory alloy article. Controlled pre-straining operations are performed on the shape-set nitinol metal to achieve non-recoverable tensile strain greater than about 0.20% at or near the surface of selected regions in the nitinol metal article. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207229 | Venous Valve Apparatus, System, and Method - A venous valve with a tubular frame that includes an outer surface and an inner surface opposite the outer surface and defining a lumen, and a cover over at least the outer surface of the tubular frame, where the cover includes surfaces defining a reversibly sealable opening for unidirectional flow of a liquid through the lumen. A system with the venous valve and a catheter including a proximal end and a distal end, the venous valve located between the proximal end and distal end of the catheter. A method including forming the venous valve and reversibly joining the venous valve and a catheter. A method including positioning at least part of the catheter including the venous valve at a predetermined location and deploying the venous valve from the catheter at the predetermined location. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207230 | Implant Delivery and Deployment System and Method - An implant delivery system comprising a catheter including at least one lumen, an implant configured to be received in the lumen, and a latching mechanism configured to be received in the implant. The latching mechanism may be configured to releasably couple the implant to a delivery wire and to transmit a torque through the delivery wire to cause at least a portion of the implant to rotate. The an implant may comprise a shaft, a spacer configured to interact with at least a portion of at least one cusp of a heart valve to at least partially restrict a flow of blood through the heart valve in a closed position, a garage configured to couple the spacer to a first end region of the shaft, and at least one anchor mechanism. The garage may define a cavity configured to receive the latching mechanism and to increase rotational and translational stability of the latching mechanism. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207231 | ANCHORING OF PROSTHETIC VALVE SUPPORTS - Apparatus is provided, including: (1) a delivery tube, transluminally advanceable to the heart of the subject; (2) a prosthetic valve support, configured to support a prosthetic valve at a native valve of the heart, and including an upstream support portion, the upstream support portion: (A) having a working configuration in which it is generally annular and (B) having a delivery configuration in which it defines a channel, and is configured to be disposed within the delivery tube; (3) a tissue anchor, slidable through the channel; and (4) an anchor driver. The anchor driver is slidable within the delivery tube and the channel, and configured to anchor the upstream support portion to tissue of the heart by driving the tissue anchor through the upstream support portion and into the tissue, while at least part of the upstream support portion is disposed within the delivery tube. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207232 | REMOVABLE HEART PUMP, AND METHOD IMPLEMENTED IN SUCH A PUMP - The heart pump includes: a rotary impeller inserted in the systemic ventricle, the rotary impeller being provided with: a sealing membrane sutured onto the outer wall of the heart so as to secure the rotary impeller to the wall of the heart; a casing arranged inside the systemic ventricle such as to be able to suction and then discharge the blood; a preferably brushless motor connected to the casing and arranged inside the systemic ventricle and/or in the body of the ventricle, so as to facilitate maintenance; a managing unit installed in the epigastric region and including a preferably rechargeable power source and a unit for controlling the rotary impeller; a wired link between the managing unit and the rotary impeller; and a system for transmitting haemodynamic and rhythmic data measured by the heat pump via telemedicine. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207233 | INSTRUMENTATION AND METHOD FOR POSITIONING AND SECURING A GRAFT - In one embodiment, the present invention is a method of positioning and securing a graft to bone including the steps of: positioning the graft into a bore hole in the bone; positioning a guide wire into the bore hole in the bone; positioning a slide instrument between the guide wire and the graft; positioning a driver, and an anchor secured thereto, over the guide wire; directing the anchor along the guide wire and towards and into the bore hole; and imparting a rotational force to the anchor to secure the anchor between a sidewall of the bore hole and a portion of the graft. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207234 | Rim Anchoring Systems for Flexible Surgical Implants for Replacing Cartilage - Flexible cartilage-replacing implants are disclosed that use either or both of (1) enlarged peripheral rim components, and/or (2) elongated flexible reinforcing members that are embedded around the peripheral edge of an implant device. These types of anchoring devices, especially when used in combination, can provide flexible implants that can be implanted arthroscopically into synovial joints, for complete replacement of damaged cartilage segments. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207235 | EXPANDABLE ALLOGRAFT CAGE - A spinal implant for insertion into and positioning in an intervertebral space is provided. The spinal implant includes an intervertebral cage having at least two cage ends and a spacer for insertion into the intervertebral cage between the at least two cage ends, the spacer configured to distract the intervertebral space to a desired height. The intervertebral cage and spacer comprise bone, and in some embodiments, allograft bone. A method for fusing two adjacent vertebrae utilizing the intervertebral allograft cage and spacer is also provided. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207236 | EXPANDABLE SPINAL IMPLANT SYSTEM AND METHOD - A spinal implant includes a first member having a wall that defines an axial cavity. A second member extends between a first end and a second end and defines a longitudinal axis. The second member is configured for disposal with the axial cavity and translation relative to the first member. A third member has an outer surface engageable with tissue and an inner surface disposed to dynamically engage the first end in response to the engagement of the outer surface with the tissue. Systems and methods are disclosed. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207237 | Porous Biocompatible Polymer Material and Methods - Embodiments described include devices and methods for forming a porous polymer material. Devices disclosed and formed using the methods described a spacer for spinal fusion, craniomaxillofacial (CMF) structures, and other structures for tissue implants. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207238 | EXPANDABLE CAGE - An apparatus supports the spine between vertebrae and promotes spinal fusion. The apparatus generally includes a first supporting member, a second support member, and an expansion member. The first support member has a first longitudinal passage extending therethrough, a first supporting end configured to engage tissue, and a rack configured to engage a tool. The second supporting member contains a second longitudinal passage extending therethrough and a second supporting end configured to engage tissue. The second longitudinal passage is dimensioned to receive at least a portion of the first supporting member. The first and second supporting members are configured to move with respect to each other. The expansion member is removably positioned between the first and second supporting members and is adapted to maintain the first and second supporting members in a fixed relative position. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207239 | LATERAL APPROACH EXPANDABLE SPINAL IMPLANT AND METHOD - An expandable interbody fusion device configured for placement into the intradiscal space between vertebral bodies in a lumbar spine from a lateral approach. The device is expanded by the insertion of a plurality of wafers into the device in situ. The length of the device is configured to extend on the vertebral body endplate from pedicle to pedicle and to reside interiorly of the ring apophysis with at least a portion of the device resting on the area of increased bone density at the posterior portion of the endplate between the pedicles. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207240 | PERCUTANEOUS SACROILIAC JOINT IMPLANT AND METHOD FOR SURGICALLY INSERTING AND SECURING THE IMPLANT INTO THE SACROILIAC JOINT - An implantable device comprising a tapered body having a cavity therein, an open end, a first opening arranged diametrically opposite a second opening wherein the first and second openings are proximate the open end, and a plurality of apertures within the tapered body; and, a first ancillary member operatively arranged to project outwardly from the first opening and a second ancillary member arranged to project outwardly from the second opening. A method for surgically inserting and securing the implant into the sacroiliac joint, comprising the steps of: drilling a tapered body, tapping and placing a first ancillary member to either the sacrum or the iliac bone through an open end of the tapered body, and tapping and placing a second ancillary member to either the sacrum or the iliac bone through the open end of the body. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207241 | NON-PLANAR ORTHOPEDIC IMPLANTS AND METHODS - Deformable joint implants with a generally hyperbolic paraboloid shape are disclosed, including configurations for delivery into the small joints of the body in the wrists, hands, ankle and feet, such as the first carpo-metacarpal joint, which comprises a double-saddle structure. The center of the implant may be supported, or supported and configured as a central opening. Implants with supported center regions may have a uniform or non-uniform thickness. A region of non-uniform, reduced thickness may be circular, oval or ring-like in shape, with a central support that may have an increased thickness relative to the perimeter region of the implant. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207242 | System and Method for Hemi Knee Replacement for Tibial Plateau Fracture - The present invention provides a prosthetic implant for partial replacement of an anatomical part. The implant includes a unitary body with a generally flat lower end face for supporting the body on a cortical surface, a generally curved exterior side face and a generally flat upper end face. A modular bearing plate disposed on the upper end face includes an upper articular surface for supporting articulation of an anatomical surface and an opposed mounting surface in contact with the upper end face. A fixation bracket includes a first end coupled to the exterior side face of the body and a second end projecting downward past the lower end face of the body with a contour generally corresponding to an outer surface of an anatomical part. The prosthetic implant is configured to replace a portion of the outer surface of the anatomical part and extend partially into the anatomical part. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207243 | Implants for Altering Wear Patterns of Articular Surfaces - Methods and devices for correcting wear pattern defects in joints. The methods and devices described herein allow for the restoration of correcting abnormal biomechanical loading conditions in a joint brought on by wear pattern defects, and also can, in embodiments, permit correction of proper kinematic movement. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207244 | Joint Arthroplasty Systems, Methods, and Components - Surgical implant systems, methods, and components are described herein. More particularly, the disclosure relates to joint arthroplasty systems, methods, and components. Particular embodiments described herein can be used to modify the subtalar joint (e.g., posterior facet of the subtalar joint), calcaneocuboid, talonavicular, and any other suitable joint. An exemplary implant system comprises a first implant component, a second implant component, and an insert. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207245 | CUP WITH CROSS-LINKED POLYMER LAYER - This invention relates to a method of forming a polymer component and comprises blending polymer particles with antioxidant to form a mixture in which the antioxidant coats the polymer particles, irradiating the polymer particles to cross-link the polymer particles therein and forming the irradiated mixture into a consolidated component. The invention also relates to a method of forming an articular surface for a prosthesis and a prosthesis having a polymer articular bearing surface wherein at least one pre-determined portion of the bearing surface is provided with cross-linked polymer bonds. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207246 | FEMORAL HEAD PROSTHESIS - A femoral head prosthesis ( | 2014-07-24 |
20140207248 | HIERARCHICAL MULTISCALE FIBROUS SCAFFOLD VIA 3-D ELECTROSTATIC DEPOSITION PROTOTYPING AND CONVENTIONAL ELECTROSPINNING - A hierarchical multiscale fibrous scaffold comprises multiple patterned layers of microfibers with one or more layers of nanofibers interleaved therebetween. In a method for making such scaffolds, electrodeposition or near-field electrospinning is used to deposit patterned layers of microfibers in a stack. Conventional electrospinning is used to deposit nanofibers on the layers of microfibers. The method may be used to tune the mechanical properties of the scaffold, facilitated by microfibers, and the biological features of the scaffold, facilitated by nanofibers. Scaffolds produced by such a process may have highly biomimetic architectures, and allow rapid cellular infiltration and sustainable cell growth for multiple tissue types. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207249 | Tissue Repair Implant - Described herein are tissue repair implants comprising at least a first layer of peritoneal membrane. The first layer of peritoneal membrane can be located adjacent to a second layer of peritoneal membrane and can be in direct contact with the second layer of peritoneal membrane. Additional layers (e.g., a third or fourth layer) can be included. Where more than one layer is present, the layers can be affixed to one another. For example, a first layer of peritoneal membrane can be attached to the second layer of peritoneal membrane by an adhesive bond, suture, or staple. One or more of the peritoneal membranes can be non-crosslinked, partially crosslinked, or substantially fully crosslinked. Any of the layers of peritoneal membrane may be attached to a wall (e.g., an interior or exterior wall) of an abdominal tissue by an adhesive, suture, and/or staples. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207250 | Tissue Scaffold - A process of forming a tissue scaffold is described, the process comprising electrospinning polymer fibers from a spinneret onto a tissue scaffold template. In embodiments, the fibers are plasma-treated between the spinneret and the template. The scaffold may be constructed of alternating layers of aligned and randomly oriented fibers. The scaffold may be heat treated to control the mechanical properties of the scaffold, such as density, pore size and pore interconnectivity. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207251 | BIO-SELECTIVE SURFACE TEXTURES - Bio-selective textured surfaces are described which mediate foreign body response, bacterial adhesion, and tissue adhesion on devices implanted in a mammalian body. Hierarchical levels of texture, some capable of establishing a Wenzel state others a Cassie state, are employed to interface with living structures, either to promote or discourage a particular biological response/interaction. Since a gaseous state is traditionally required to establish a Cassie or Wenzel state, and gases do not remain long in living tissue, described are tissue/device interactions analogous to the above states with the component normally represented by a gas replaced by a bodily constituent, wherein separation of tissue constituents develops and a desired interaction state evolves. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207252 | NEURAL PROSTHETIC WITH TOUCH-LIKE SENSING - An apparatus and method is related to providing sensing functions that are similar to “human touch” when located in a prosthetic device such as a BION microstimulator that is implanted in a patient. The apparatus includes a power circuit, a communication circuit and a sensor circuit. The power circuit provides power to the communication circuit and the sensor circuit. The sensor cooperates with the communication circuit, which communicates to the brain. The sensor uses various techniques to detect changes in the environment for the surrounding tissue using criteria such as reflectivity, impedance, conductivity, return signal spectrum, return signal rate and return signal phase to name a few. For example, the impedance observed by the sensor changes when: the skin tissue is deformed around the sensor, or when the skin is surrounded by water. The sensory information is interpreted by the brain as an analog of touch or feel. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207253 | Alignment Device For a Prosthetic Leg Sleeve Pin - A prosthetic sleeve and sleeve pin alignment device has a support, and a body extending from the support. The body has a cup defining an inner wall surface defining a sleeve-receiving recess having a longitudinal axis and defining a sleeve pin-receiving guide hole to a sleeve-pin receiving pin guide aperture. The sleeve pin-receiving pin guide aperture has a central axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the sleeve-receiving recess. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207254 | CPU UNIT FOR PLC, PLC-USE SYSTEM PROGRAM, RECORDING MEDIUM IN WHICH PLC-USE SYSTEM PROGRAM IS STORED, PLC SYSTEM, PLC SUPPORT DEVICE, PLC SUPPORT PROGRAM, AND RECORDING MEDIUM IN WHICH PLC SUPPORT PROGRAM IS STORED - A system program includes a procedure library in which at least a procedure for controlling execution of a control program and a procedure for controlling output of output data and input of input data are included. If schedule-building data including execution order specifications for the procedures included in the procedure library is stored in a storage section, the system program causes a microprocessor to execute the procedures included in the procedure library in accordance with the procedure execution order specifications included in schedule-building data. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207255 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR DETERMINING AN AGGREGATE CONTROL CONNECTION STATUS OF A FIELD DEVICE IN A PROCESS CONTROL SYSTEM - A method includes identifying a plurality of elements in a process control system that uses a process value from a field device. The method also includes identifying an aggregate control connection status of the field device by (i) determining whether one or more of the elements can use a manual value in place of the process value, (ii) determining whether one or more other elements in the plurality can use a user configured value, and (iii) evaluating a logic expression based on results of the determining in (i) and (ii). The method further includes determining whether the field device is available to be taken offline based on the aggregate control connection status. In addition, the method includes generating a notification based on the determination of whether the field device is available to be taken offline. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207256 | ELECTRIC DEVICE AND ELECTRIC DEVICE CONTROL METHOD - An electric device includes operation unit, working unit, and a number-of-times detecting unit that counts the number of times of instructions being against energy savings. In addition, the device includes time measuring unit that measures time from when the number-of-times detecting unit starts the counting, and a controller that generates a signal to induce a modification of a first energy-saving pattern. When the time is within a first predetermined period, the controller generates a signal that requires the modification of the first energy-saving pattern into a more lenient second energy-saving pattern, with the time being from when time measuring unit starts the measurement to when the number of the times counted by the number-of-times detecting unit reaches a predetermined value. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207257 | GUIDANCE SYSTEM BY CONTROL OF DERIVATIVE - Guidance System for controlling output variables of single-input single-output or multi-input multi-output processes, where the process parameters are known or unknown and time-varying. The guidance system of the present invention generates a desired trajectory for a process output variable, and based on said desired trajectory, computes a set point for the derivative variable of said process output variable. This set point is then applied to a model based advanced controller for said derivative variable and the control action generated by said model based advanced controller is applied to the process and guides the process evolution in such a way that said process output variable converges towards said desired trajectory. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207258 | LOW ENERGY ENVIRONMENTAL SENSOR THAT RECEIVES INPUTS VIA MOVEMENT THEREOF, AND A METHOD OF OPERATING A ROCKING ENVIRONMENTAL SENSOR - A low energy environmental sensor is provided herein that is configured to receive user inputs from movement of the sensor itself. A method of operating a rocking environmental sensor is also provided. In one embodiment, the rocking environmental sensor includes: (1) a base having a fulcrum point and (2) a face including a first movement initiator area and a second movement initiator area configured to cause the face to toggle with respect to the fulcrum point and complete a signaling path indicating a user input. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207259 | MACHINE CONTROL PANEL - A key switch on a machine control panel is provided with two contacts such that the machine control panel can include two independent communication circuits. Signals from a double-contact key switch are received by the two communication circuits, and safety-related signals are transmitted from the communication circuits to a numerical controller through a bus. The signals received by the numerical controller are compared with each other so that they can be made to comply with the safety standards by monitoring the integrity of the safety function. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207260 | DATA CREATING DEVICE AND METHOD - A data creating device includes an instrument control data generating portion that creates instrument definition data wherein fields for defining a field instrument in an instrument controlling device, including instrument tag information for the field instrument, are added to point definition data. The data creating device also includes a display controlling portion that controls creation and display of display data for inputting the instrument tag information into instrument tag information fields of the instrument definition data. The display data that is created by the display controlling portion is displayed on the displaying portion under control of the display controlling portion. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207261 | Systems and Methods for Automated Display of Permissive Logic in Control Systems Associated with a Power Generation Unit - Certain embodiments herein relate to automated display of permissive logic in control systems associated with a power generation unit. A control device may be configured to provide automated updates of system data, such as signals received from power generation equipment, to an HMI or SCADA display, as non-limiting examples. A logic builder block may receive permissive logic configurations, including one or more combinational logic blocks. A logic builder block may be associated with power generation equipment to facilitate the identification of related system data and the subsequent association of the system data to corresponding input pins for the combinational logic blocks. The permissive logic configurations may be compiled into object code and downloaded to the control device, where it may be executed to perform the above described functions, among other functions. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207262 | FIREARM LOCKING SYSTEM USER INTERFACE - A locking system for a firearm is disclosed. A lock has a set state and an unset state, and substantial movement of any one or more fire control group components is inhibited with in the set state. A biometric sensor attachable to a grip of the firearm is receptive to an input biometric feature data set corresponding to a physiological feature of a user. A biometric input controller stores biometric feature data sets corresponding to enrolled user identities in a memory, and compares it against the input biometric feature data set to generate a biometric input validation status indicator signal. A proximity sensor attachable to the grip detects possession of the firearm by the user and generates a corresponding grip detection indicator signal. A system controller selectively actuates the lock to the set state and the unset state based upon a received combination and sequence of the biometric input validation status indicator signal and the grip detection indicator signal. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207263 | EVALUATING A FITNESS LEVEL - A system for determining fitness level includes an electronic interface operable to receive an event performance measurement for each of a plurality of athletic events, a processor communicatively coupled to the electronic interface and operable to associate one or more fitness categories with each of the plurality of athletic events, determine an event performance score for each received event performance measurement, calculate a fitness category score for each of the plurality of fitness categories, wherein each fitness category score is based on one or more of the event performance scores, and calculate a total fitness score based on the calculated fitness category scores, and the electronic interface further operable to communicate the calculated total fitness score over an electronic communication network. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207264 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR EXERCISE MONITORING COMBINING EXERCISE MONITORING AND VISUAL DATA WITH WIRELESS WEARABLE DEVICES - Embodiments of the invention provide a method and apparatus for a wireless exercise monitoring system for interactively monitoring an aspect of exercise, sports, or fitness utilizing a wearable device, such as a watch, eyewear, or smart apparel. The device is equipped with, or connected to, a digital camera. Sensors integrated with, or wirelessly connected to, the wearable internet device record physiological data during exercise and data measuring the amount of exercise performed. The data and visual images from the camera are transmitted to one or more internet servers, and may be shared with other mobile internet devices. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207265 | Systems and Methods for Dynamic Audio Processing - Systems and methods presented herein may provide for processing audio with increased loudness and dynamics. A first clock frequency associated with a digital audio file may be increased to a second clock frequency, which speeds up the playback of the audio. The digital audio file may then be converted to analog at the higher second frequency, where it is further modified in the analog domain. The analog audio is then converted back into digital audio at the second clock frequency. The clock frequency is then decreased back to the first clock frequency for playback or storage of the processed (i.e., modified or manipulated) digital audio file. Alternatively, the entire process can take place in the digital domain. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207266 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR REAL TIME SOUND EFFECT MODULATION BASED ON ATTITUDE VARIATIONS - Provided are systems and methods for real time sound effect modulation based on attitude variations. The system may include one or more position sensors installed on a moving object, with the position sensors reporting positional data associated with the moving object. A memory may contain predetermined criteria for altering characteristics of a sound associated with the moving object, and a database may contain sound examples. A processor may receive the positional data from the position sensors and determine positional changes based on the data. The processor may fetch sound examples from the database and fetch predetermined criteria from the memory. The processor may modulate the sound examples based on positional changes according to the predefined criteria to produce modulated sound examples. The processor may aggregate the modulated sound examples to produce an aggregated modulated sound example. Speakers on the moving object may emit the aggregated modulated sound example. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207267 | METRIC BASED ON ESTIMATE VALUE - A method includes obtaining an estimate value generated by an estimation process and obtaining an actual value corresponding to the estimate value. The method further includes computing a metric based on a ratio of a loss function and a weighted sum of the estimate value and the actual value. The loss function includes a penalty parameter to control a relative penalty of positive and negative prediction errors. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207268 | Operating Arrangement - An operator control device includes an operator control element configured to provide haptic feedback to an operator. The operator control element is activatable by an input member of the operator and has: a first planar component; and a second planar component oriented in parallel with the first planar component, the first and second planar components being movable relative to one another. The first and second planar components are guidable between a position of rest and an activation position while maintaining their parallel orientation with respect to one another. In the activation position the distance between the first and second planar components is smaller than in the position of rest. The first and second planar components are spring loaded in the position of rest. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207269 | Method of Process Stability - The present disclosure relates to an APC method and tool architecture to elaborate process stability, comprising a two-loop architecture for fine tuning by an APC loop and recovery tuning by an equipment performance optimization (EPO) loop of one or more process parameters. Fine tuning by the APC loop comprises neutralization of systematic drifts from manufacturing tool or the manufacturing process itself. Recovery tuning by the EPO loop comprises aligning processing tool conditions with their tool baseline configuration. The APC method and tool architecture establishes switching criteria for fine tuning of process parameters and recovery tuning of equipment parameters. A synergy mechanism is further established between the two loops, wherein adjustments to equipment parameters made by the EPO loop are recognized by the APC loop to avoid double-tuning. The APC method and tool architecture results in manufacturing process stability within a manufacturing process module. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207270 | COMPONENT MOUNTING DEVICE AND COMPONENT MOUNTING METHOD - A mounting turn that is going to be performed from now on and the identifiers of the feeders that are the supply sources of the components for the mounting turn are read out from a mounting program, and it is determined whether there is a non-supply feeder which does not supply a component to the component supply position | 2014-07-24 |
20140207271 | TOOL OPTIMIZING TUNING SYSTEMS AND ASSOCIATED METHODS - The present disclosure provides various methods for tuning process parameters of a process tool, including systems for implementing such tuning. An exemplary method for tuning process parameters of a process tool such that the wafers processed by the process tool exhibit desired process monitor items includes defining behavior constraint criteria and sensitivity adjustment criteria; generating a set of possible tool tuning process parameter combinations using process monitor item data associated with wafers processed by the process tool, sensitivity data associated with a sensitivity of the process monitor items to each process parameter, the behavior constraint criteria, and the sensitivity adjustment criteria; generating a set of optimal tool tuning process parameter combinations from the set of possible tool tuning process parameter combinations; and configuring the process tool according to one of the optimal tool tuning process parameter combinations. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207272 | WIRE ELECTRIC DISCHARGE MACHINE INCLUDING CONTROL MEANS FOR HOLDING WIRE ELECTRODE AT DESIRED ANGLE - A relationship between a weight of a reel supported by a column of a wire electric discharge machine when a wire electrode is wound around the reel, and an amount of slanting of the wire electrode when the wire electrode extended between an upper wire guide and a lower wire guide becomes slanted as a result of the column being deformed by the weight of the reel is stored. The weight of the reel is determined during electric discharge machining, and the amount of slanting of the extended wire electrode is determined from the weight of the reel. A compensation amount for the slanting of the wire electrode is determined from the amount of slanting, and the slanting of the wire electrode is compensated by the compensation amount. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207273 | CONTROL DEVICE FOR MACHINE TOOL WITH TIME ESTIMATION UNIT FOR ESTIMATING TIME UNTIL MOTOR REACHES OVERHEAT TEMPERATURE - A control device for a machine tool including a motor for driving a spindle includes: a current detection unit that detects a current driving the motor; a storage unit that stores overheat temperature specified for the motor; a temperature detection unit that detects temperature of the motor; a time estimation unit that estimates, by using the temperature detected by the temperature detection unit and the overheat temperature, time from when present estimation takes place until the motor reaches the overheat temperature, under a condition in which the current detected by the current detection unit continuously passes through the motor; and a provision unit that provides the time estimated by the time estimation unit. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207274 | EFFORT MODULATION FOR PROCESS CONTROL OF FRICTION STIR OPERATIONS - A system and method for making adjustments to output effort from a spindle driver using a multi-stage nested control loop of an active controller to provide constant power to a friction stir zone during a friction stir operation. Providing constant power facilitates temperature control within the friction stir zone and thereby improves the result of the operation such as a weld. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207275 | ELECTRIC HAND HAVING FORCE SENSOR - An electric hand for grasping an object by opening and closing fingers includes a force sensor for detecting forces acting on the fingers. The fingers are actuated based on a detected force value detected by the force sensor. When it is judged that the detected force value has reached a predetermined target force value, an electric current supplied to an actuating section is restricted so as not to be greater than a predetermined holding electric current. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207276 | AUTOMATED COLLATING CONVEYOR SYSTEM - A method of moving and boxing packages, including positioning a conveyor belt assembly having distal and proximal ends to receive a package at the distal end, sending a signal when a first package is placed upon the distal end, generating an air pulse to reorient the first package into a predetermined orientation, moving the first package to a loading area, and removing the first package into a shipping container. Next, the first package is moved far enough to make room for a second package, a second package is placed onto the distal end, a signal is sent when the second package is placed upon the distal end, and an air pulse is generated to reorient the second package into a predetermined orientation. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207277 | APPARATUS FOR THE DELIVERY OF A PRODUCT - An apparatus for the delivery of a product having a delivery outlet, a delivery control device, a remote command device, and a mobile communications device is disclosed. The delivery control device is connected to the remote command device via a communications network and is adapted to activate the delivery outlet when in receipt of an activation signal from the remote command device. The mobile communications device is connectable to the remote command device via a communications network. The remote command device is adapted to send the activation signal to the delivery control device when in receipt of an activation request signal from the mobile communications device. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207278 | Medication Dispensing System - Medication dispensing system for remote monitoring of the daily dispensing of medication and pre/post dispense monitoring of medication effected physiological functions is disclosed. In one embodiment a dispensing unit equipped with weight sensing mechanism such as scale or balance communicates with a monitoring application residing in a wireless terminal. The monitoring application provides supervision over a medication dispensing process. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207279 | ROBOT APPARATUS - A robot apparatus includes an arm that includes an outer skin and a detector that detects the deformation of the outer skin. The detector includes a sending unit that sends a signal, a receiving unit that receives the signal, and a transmission route that is provided along the outer skin so as to lead the signal. The detector detects the deformation of the outer skin based on whether a signal reaches the receiving unit. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207280 | ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS INCLUDING MOBILE ROBOTS AND METHODS USING SAME - A computer-implemented method for receiving user commands for a remote cleaning robot and sending the user commands to the remote cleaning robot, the remote cleaning robot including a drive motor and a cleaning motor, includes displaying a user interface including a control area, and within the control area: a user-manipulable launch control group including a plurality of control elements, the launch control group having a deferred launch control state and an immediate launch control state; at least one user-manipulable cleaning strategy control element having a primary cleaning strategy control state and an alternative cleaning strategy control state; and a physical recall control group including a plurality of control elements, the physical recall control group having an immediate recall control state and a remote audible locator control state. The method further includes: receiving user input via the user-manipulable control elements; responsive to the user inputs, displaying simultaneously within the same control area a real-time robot state reflecting a unique combination of control states; and commanding the remote cleaning robot to actuate the drive motor and cleaning motor to clean a surface based on the received input and unique combination of control states. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207281 | Environmental Management Systems Including Mobile Robots and Methods Using Same - A mobile robot includes a microprocessor connected to a memory and a wireless network circuit, for executing routines stored in the memory and commands generated by the routines and received via the wireless network circuit. The microprocessor drives the mobile robot to a multiplicity of accessible two dimensional locations within a household, and commands an end effector, including at least one motorized actuator, to perform mechanical work in the household. A plurality of routines include a first routine which monitors a wireless local network and detects a presence of a network entity on the wireless local network, a second routine which receives a signal from a sensor detecting an action state of one of the network entities, the action state changeable between waiting and active, and a third routine which commands the end effector to change state of performing mechanical work based on the presence and on the action state. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207282 | Mobile Robot Providing Environmental Mapping for Household Environmental Control - A mobile robot includes a processor connected to a memory and a wireless network circuit, for executing routines stored in the memory and commands generated by the routines and received via the wireless network circuit. The processor drives the mobile robot to a multiplicity of accessible two dimensional locations within a household, and commands an end effector, including at least one motorized actuator, to perform mechanical work in the household. A plurality of routines include a first routine which monitors a wireless local network and detects a presence of a network entity on the wireless local network, a second routine which receives a signal from a sensor detecting an action state of one of the network entities, the action state changeable between waiting and active, and a third routine which commands the end effector to change state of performing mechanical work based on the presence and on the action state. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207283 | ROBOT WITH HANDLING UNIT - The disclosure relates to a robot for picking up a food product from a support and for shifting it to a desired location, said robot comprising at least one robot arm with a handling unit for picking up the food product, and the food product being displaceable by moving the handling unit by means of the robot arm. The robot arm and the handling unit have provided between them a sensor, in particular a force sensor, with the aid of which the force acting between the robot arm and the handling unit can be detected in at least one direction. The invention additionally relates to a method of operating a robot for shifting a food product. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207284 | WAFER CENTER FINDING WITH KALMAN FILTER - A device is provided having a robotic arm for handling a wafer, the robotic arm including one or more encoders that provide encoder data identifying a position of one or more components of the robotic arm. The device also having a processor adapted to apply an extended Kalman Filter to the encoder data to estimate a position of the wafer. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207285 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MONITORING ENTRY OF OBJECT INTO SURROUNDING AREA OF ROBOT - A monitoring system monitors entry of an object into a surrounding area of a robot. The monitoring system includes visible light irradiation section, a sensor section and a monitoring control unit. The visible light irradiation section irradiates visible light from a level higher than that of the robot toward at least an outer edge portion of at least one of an operating area, which is set up to enclose a movable range of the robot, and a predetermined area which is set up around the operating area. The sensor section monitors entry of a new object, which is not registered in advance, into the operating area. The monitoring control unit issues a request for stopping the robot to a robot control unit that controls the robot, when entry of a new object into the operating area is detected by the sensor section. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207286 | INTERFACING WITH A MOBILE TELEPRESENCE ROBOT - A telepresence robot may include a drive system, a control system, an imaging system, and a mapping module. The mapping module may access a plan view map of an area and tags associated with the area. In various embodiments, each tag may include tag coordinates and tag information, which may include a tag annotation. A tag identification system may identify tags within a predetermined range of the current position and the control system may execute an action based on an identified tag whose tag information comprises a telepresence robot action modifier. The telepresence robot may rotate an upper portion independent from a lower portion. A remote terminal may allow an operator to control the telepresence robot using any combination of control methods, including by selecting a destination in a live video feed, by selecting a destination on a plan view map, or by using a joystick or other peripheral device. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207287 | ACTUATOR CONTROL APPARATUS - An actuator control apparatus includes an analog-digital conversion circuit, a servo circuit, a sampling circuit, and a driving circuit. The analog-digital conversion circuit is configured to sample a position detection signal with a first sampling period, convert the sampled signal into a digital signal, and output the digital signal, the position detection signal outputted from a position sensor corresponding to a position of a control target. The servo circuit is configured to calculate a displacement amount, by which the control target is to be displaced by an actuator, and output first servo control data corresponding to the calculated displacement amount, based on the position detection signal converted into the digital signal. The sampling circuit is configured to linearly interpolate the first servo control data, and output second servo control data sampled with a second sampling period shorter than the first sampling period. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207288 | CONTROL UNIT FOR AN HVAC SYSTEM COMPRISING AN ECONOMIZER AND METHOD FOR OPERATING SUCH CONTROL UNIT - A control unit ( | 2014-07-24 |
20140207289 | HVAC SYSTEM CONFIGURED BASED ON ATMOSPHERIC DATA, AN INTERFACE FOR RECEIVING THE ATMOSPHERIC DATA AND A CONTROLLER CONFIGURED TO SETUP THE HVAC SYSTEM BASED ON THE ATMOSPHERIC DATA - A HVAC system that employs atmospheric data, a controller for an HVAC system and a graphical user interface that receives atmospheric data are provided is disclosed. In one embodiment the HVAC system includes: (1) an interface that receives atmospheric data for an installed location of the HVAC system and (2) a controller that configures the HVAC system based on the atmospheric data. | 2014-07-24 |
20140207290 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR COMMUNICATING WITH ROOFTOP AIR HANDLING UNITS AND OTHER HVAC COMPONENTS - A device for communicating information from a controller for a rooftop air handling unit to a portable electronic device includes a wire terminal for wiring to the controller and for receiving a signal including information from the controller. The device further includes a transceiver configured to form a direct wireless communications link between the transceiver and portable electronic device. The device yet further includes a circuit coupled to the wire terminal and the transceiver. The circuit is configured to extract the information from the signal. The circuit is further configured to format the information into a format in which the information can be presented to a user by the portable electronic device and to provide the translated information from the transceiver to the portable electronic device. | 2014-07-24 |