37th week of 2011 patent applcation highlights part 53 |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20110224714 | METHODS AND DEVICES FOR THE SURGICAL CREATION OF SATIETY AND BIOFEEDBACK PATHWAYS - Disclosed are devices and systems which to sense parameters related to the mechanical forces imposed on devices implanted in the stomach. The parameters of the system are further translated into patient feedback systems to create satiety inducing pathways in the stomach. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224715 | Reversible Vascular Filter Devices and Methods for Using Same - The present invention provides, in one embodiment, a vascular filter device for capturing dislodged blood clots within a vessel. The vascular filter device includes an expandable framework for securing the device within a vessel. The device also includes a pathway extending through the framework. The device further includes at least one filter in alignment with the pathway for capturing dislodged clots or emboli. In an embodiment, the filter can be given form by a material that can be easily eliminated in situ to permit reestablishment of the pathway. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224716 | PERCUTANEOUS CATHETER AND GUIDEWIRE HAVING FILTER AND MEDICAL DEVICE DEPLOYMENT CAPABILITIES - The invention provides a nested tubing cannula which comprises outer and inner elongate tubular members, both having a proximal end, a distal end, and a lumen therebetween. The inner tubular member is sealed at its distal end and is nested substantially coaxially within the lumen of the outer tubular member, so that the gap between the inner and the outer tubular member defines a second lumen whereas the first lumen is the lumen of the inner tubular member. A tubular sleeve is disposed coaxially between the inner and outer tubular members. A balloon is mounted on a distal region of the outer tubular member and is in communication with the first lumen. The cannula further comprises a port proximal or distal the balloon occluder and is in communication with the second lumen. Methods for making the devices herein are disclosed. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224717 | NASAL DILATOR WITH VARIABLE SPRING RATE - A nasal dilator strip and methods, the strip including a first layer including a cover having adhesive on a surface thereof, the cover having a first edge with a convex locating feature and a second edge opposite the first edge, the second edge being an uninterrupted edge, and a second layer having opposite surfaces, one opposite surface of the second layer being secured to the first layer, at least a portion of the other opposite surface of the second layer having adhesive to hold the two-layer nasal dilator strip in place on a user's nose, the second layer including a substantially planar resilient member, the resilient member having a constant thickness and longitudinal sides which converge from a center of the resilient member to a pair of spaced apart ends. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224718 | SURGICAL NEEDLE DRIVER AND METHOD OF MAKING THE SAME - A surgical needle driver including a pair of jaws. The pair of jaws includes an upper jaw and a lower jaw, where the lower jaw has an outer surface facing an outer surface of the upper jaw. The outer surface of each jaw each has a plurality of polygonal pyramidal teeth configured to engage a surgical needle. Each of the plurality of polygonal pyramidal teeth has more than four exposed faces. A method of manufacturing the needle driver or components of the needle driver includes a powder injection molding process. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224719 | BIOABSORBABLE PLUG - In one example implementation, a device for closing an opening in tissue includes a proximal end and a distal end. The device further includes a port that extends from the proximal end of the device towards the distal end of the device. In addition to extending from the proximal end of the device towards the distal end of the device, the port includes a restriction zone and a storage region. The device further includes a blocking element that is configured to move between a neutral position, located in the storage region of the port, and a blocking position, located in the restriction zone of the port. When the blocking element is in the blocking position, the blocking element cooperates with the restriction zone in the port to assist in blocking fluid flow through the port. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224720 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR CLOSING A HOLE IN CARDIAC TISSUE - Devices, systems, and methods for closing a hole in cardiac tissue. In at least one embodiment of a device for occluding a tissue aperture of the present disclosure, the device comprises a body comprising a proximal end, a distal end, a sidewall, and at least one marker, the body tapered towards the distal end and defining a body aperture therethrough capable of receiving an elongated member. In at least one embodiment, the body further comprises a diaphragm positioned at or near one or more of the proximal end of the body and/or the distal end of the body. In another embodiment, the diaphragm comprises a plurality of sheaths, wherein the plurality of sheaths sealably obstruct the body aperture. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224721 | Universal Introducer - A device for introducing a catheter into a vessel through a puncture in a vessel and for sealing the puncture. The device includes an elongated body having a proximal end and a distal end sized to be positioned within a tissue site which includes the puncture. The elongated body includes a utility lumen sized to allow a catheter to be delivered through the utility lumen. The utility lumen is positioned within the elongated body so positioning the elongated body within the tissue site allows a catheter delivered through the utility lumen to enter the vessel. The elongated body also includes a closure lumen having an entrance port. A closure composition can be delivered through the entrance port into the closure lumen. The closure lumen also includes an exit port adjacent the distal end of the elongated body. The closure composition delivered into the closure lumen can be delivered through the exit port to the tissue site adjacent the puncture. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224722 | Occlusion Device And Surgical Instrument And Method For Its Implantation/Explantation - An occlusion device includes a braiding of thin wires or threads tapering to the diameter of a catheter used for an intravascular implantation/explantation procedure and having a proximal retention area, a distal retention area at which ends of the wires or threads converge into a holder, and a cylindrical crosspiece interposed between the proximal retention area and the distal retention area, whereby the two retention areas are positioned on two sides of a shunt to be occluded in a septum following implantation while the crosspiece transverses the shunt. The holder exhibits a head section at its free end having an eyelet as a cross-hole which can be gripped and held in form-fit fashion by an implantation/explantation instrument. A surgical instrument having such a holder includes gripper tongs with gripping jaws which open and close by a push/pull system, and which force-fit grips the head section of the holder. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224723 | CYANOACRYLATE TISSUE ADHESIVES - A tissue adhesive including cyanoacrylate and polyethylene glycol (PEG), wherein the PEG remains a polyether and wherein the tissue adhesive is bioabsorbable. A tissue adhesive including cyanoacrylate bulk monomer and cyanoacrylate nanoparticles containing a therapeutic therein. A kit for applying a tissue adhesive, including the tissue adhesive described above and an applicator. Methods of accelerating degradation of a cyanoacrylate tissue adhesive applying a tissue adhesive, closing an internal wound, administering a therapeutic to tissue, treating cancer, and preventing infection in a wound. Methods of method of making a bioabsorbable tissue adhesive and making a therapeutic tissue adhesive. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224724 | HYDROGEL TISSUE ADHESIVE FORMED FROM AMINATED POLYSACCHARIDE AND ALDEHYDE-FUNCTIONALIZED MULTI-ARM POLYETHER - A hydrogel tissue adhesive formed by reacting an aminated polysaccharide with a water-dispersible, aldehyde-functionalized multi-arm polyether is described. The hydrogel tissue adhesive may be useful as a general tissue adhesive and sealant for medical and veterinary applications such as wound closure, supplementing or replacing sutures or staples in internal surgical procedures such as intestinal anastomosis and vascular anastomosis, tissue repair, ophthalmic procedures, drug delivery, and to prevent post-surgical adhesions. Additionally, due to the presence of the aminated polysaccharide, the hydrogel tissue adhesive may also promote wound healing and blood coagulation, and provide antimicrobial properties. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224725 | FLUIDTIGHT PUNCTURING AND OCCLUSION DEVICE FOR ANATOMICAL STRUCTURE - A surgical staple for a surgical stapling device fitted with a substantially flat back that can deform between a closed position and an open penetration position of the staple, and two spaced-apart pin rows. The back comprises two parts that are hinged with respect to each other. The two pin rows are affixed by the base of the pins to these two parts, substantially lying along axes perpendicular to a plane of each of the two parts. In the closed position of the back a free end of the pins of the two rows converge, but when the back is in the open penetration position, the axes of the pins of the two rows tend to align parallel to each other so as to offer minimal resistance to penetration into tissues and the parts of the back bearing the bases of the pins are separated by a gap larger than in the closed position. The staple is particularly designed to be used with a combined device for plugging and fluidtight puncturing of a wall of a hollow organ. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224726 | SUTURE ANCHOR - There is described a suture anchor with anchor members moveable as between a suture-unlocked configuration and suture-locked configuration. In one embodiment, the anchor members include an outer anchor member with features, e.g., flexible barbs, configured to secure the suture anchor in the suture-locked configuration to material proximate a pre-formed hole in bone material. The outer anchor member is also configured with a bore to receive suture material, and which is sized and shaped to receive an inner anchor member therein. The inner anchor member includes securing features such as projections that compress the suture material against the surface of the bore when the suture anchor is actuated from the suture-unlocked configuration to the suture-locked configuration. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224727 | Threaded Suture Anchor - The present disclosure relates to a suture anchor. The suture anchor includes a body having a proximal end and a distal end, the body including threads along at least a partial length of the body and at least one through hole, the threads including a profile such that the threads located near the distal end of the body include a first shape and the threads located near the proximal end of the body include a second shape different from the first shape. Delivery devices and anchor dilators are also disclosed. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224728 | CLOSURE SYSTEM AND USES THEREOF - The present invention relates generally to a closure system for use in surgical procedures. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224729 | HALLUX VALGUS REPAIRS USING SUTURE-BUTTON CONSTRUCT - A technique and associated instrumentation for correcting large intermetatarsal angles that result from hallux valgus. The system includes a button and a suture loop attached to the button. A suture strand is threaded through holes in the button to attach the button to the suture. The suture ends are then brought together (by being swaged, spliced or cinched together, for example) to form the suture loop comprising a continuous, uninterrupted suture loop with a single strand of swaged-together ends. The swaged-together ends may be attached to a suture passing instrument such as a K-wire (Kirschner wire) that may be further used to drill a hole through the first and second metatarsals. The swaged-together ends of the suture are then passed through the drill holes in the first and second metatarsals; and the ends of the suture are pulled until the button abuts the second metatarsal. The swaged together portion of the suture loop is then cut, and the free suture ends are passed through holes in another (second) button. The suture ends are pulled to adjust the first metatarsal to a correct intermetatarsal angle, and the first metatarsal is secured in place by tying the ends of the suture together against the second button. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224730 | Pacifiers - A pacifier includes a generally spherically or hemispherical, pliant, breast-like body having a center portion, the body comprised of a soft fabric stuffed with a light-weight stuffing material. The pacifier further includes a nipple. The body incorporates a feature for removably attaching the nipple to the body at the center portion of the body. In one configuration the nipple includes a nipple body and a base. The body includes a nipple support panel sewn to the soft fabric. The soft fabric includes an aperture in the center portion. The aperture is sized such that it can be distorted to accommodate insertion of the nipple base wherein the nipple base is retained between the soft fabric and the nipple support panel with the nipple body projecting through the aperture. A pacifier in the form of a blanket having a removable nipple is also described. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224731 | Interspinous Process Spacing Device - Various embodiments described herein provide devices and associated methods for treating spinal disease by implanting one or more interspinous process spacing devices. In one embodiment, an interspinous process spacing device includes a first attachment side and a second attachment side, whereby each attachment side includes one or more slots formed in the outer surface and oriented proximate one end for receiving fasteners extending inwardly from a second interspinous process spacing device. The device further includes a spacer tray positioned between the first attachment side and the second attachment side, the spacer tray extending from the first attachment side and slideably insertable through a tray slot formed in the second attachment side, wherein the spacer tray is adapted to retain adjacent spinous processes in a spaced apart orientation. The device further includes securing means for securing the second attachment side relative to the first attachment side, wherein, upon securing the second attachment side relative to the first attachment side, the interspinous process spacing device is engaged with the adjacent spinous processes. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224732 | BONE FIXATION APPARATUS - What is provided is a fixation system that offers a strong and stable construct for maximum fusion augmentation and yet is versatile enough for any patient and is easy to use. Disclosed is a connection assembly for connecting a spinal implant, the assembly comprising: a body, the body including a body opening for receiving at least a portion of a first connector; a swivel having first and second ends and being operatively connected to the body, the first end including a swivel opening for receiving at least a portion of a second connector; a locking plate having an arm at least partially extending into the body opening; a locking unit operatively connected to the body and contacting the second end of the swivel; and whereby activation of the locking unit causes the arm to engage the first connector and swivel opening to engage the second connector thereby preventing relative rotation between the first and second connectors. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224733 | DUAL ACTION ROD REDUCING AND LOCKING DEVICE AND METHOD - Provided is a dual action surgical instrument for use in orthopedic surgical procedures that is capable of reducing a rod into position in a rod receiving notch in the head of a bone screw with a first action and subsequently locking the rod into the receiving notch by a second action of the same instrument. A method of using the device is also provided. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224734 | COMPRESSION PLATE KIT AND METHODS FOR REPAIRING BONE DISCONTINUITIES - A compression plate kit that allows for manual compression of a bone discontinuity includes a bone plate, two or more reduction fasteners in the form of screws or pins, for example, and a compression clamp. The compression clamp can include engagement members configured to engage the reduction screws or pins, thereby allowing a practitioner to compress a bone discontinuity by manually closing the compression clamp. One or more implementations of a kit of the present invention can provide a practitioner with physical or tactile feedback during the compression of a bone discontinuity, and thus, provide the practitioner with the ability to better control the compression and spacing of bone portions during a reduction. One implementation of the kit includes a coupler for coupling the upper portions of the reduction fasteners together for selective fine tuning adjustments. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224735 | ODONTOID FRACTURE DYNAMIC COMPRESSION APPARATUS AND METHOD - A cervical fixation system and method for repairing odontoid fractures includes securing an anterior plate to caudal portion of C2 body below the odontoid neck. The anterior plate houses lag screw within a posterior shaft. A cannulated fixation device crosses the fracture site with fixation into the cephalad fragment. The lag screw can be pulled caudally into the plate with a compression screw to apply a compression force across the fracture site. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224736 | PROXIMAL HUMERUS FRACTURE REPAIR PLATE AND SYSTEM - Devices and systems for repairing bone fractures and more specifically a fracture repair plate that provides for fixation of a metaphysis to the diaphysis of a long bone, for instance a fracture between the proximal humerus and the diaphysis of the humerus. The fracture repair system includes an implantable repair fracture repair plate and a bone anchor for fixing the fracture repair plate to a bone. In one embodiment, the fracture repair plate may also be adapted to serve as an anchor for a suture. The fracture repair system may also include a fracture reduction mechanism attachable to the fracture repair plate for imparting a controlled translational movement between two bone segments along a plane that lies substantially parallel to the surface of the bone to which the fracture repair plate is attached and substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the bone shaft. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224737 | System for achieving selectable fixation in an orthopedic plate - An orthopedic plate and fastener system is provided for fixation of bones which has an implant that can selectably be used to achieve fixed angle and variable locking of the fasteners, as well as non-locking of the fasteners. The system includes a variable locking assembly that includes a locking insert, having threads which mates with internal threads of a through opening in the implant. The system also provides for locking fixed angle fixation, and non-locking variable angle fixation, all of which can be used with the threaded holes of the plates. The locking insert is provided on a ring driver, which is similar to or acts as the drill guide used with the locking fasteners of the present. Thus, the invention also relates to a method of enabling surgery where the surgeon can select the mode of fixation of fasteners between variable axis locking, variable axis non-locking, and fixed angle locking fixation, all utilizing the same fastener opening within the implant. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224738 | BONE CONNECTOR WITH PIVOTABLE JOINT - System, including methods, apparatus, and kits, for connecting bones and/or bone portions using a bone connector with a pivotable joint. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224739 | IMPLANTATION PIN KIT AND METHOD FOR IMPLANTING AN IMPLANTATION PIN - An implantation pin kit and a method for implanting an implantation pin includes a cannulated implantation pin having a channel and a heating device. The channel of the pin extends in a longitudinal direction of the pin and connects a proximal opening at a proximal end of the pin with a distal opening at a distal end of the pin. The channel of the pin and the heating device are adapted such that the heating device can be accommodated within at least a portion of the channel of the pin. The heating device is adapted to thermally heat material comprised in at least one of the pin and the heating device. Thereby, meltable material of the pin can be liquefied or additional liquefied meltable material can be inserted into the pin and the liquefied material can then be push towards and out of the distal opening in order to augment and fix the implantation pin in a target structure. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224740 | Implantation Tools for Interspinous Process Spacing Device - Various embodiments described herein provide devices and associated methods for treating spinal disease by implanting one or more interspinous process spacing devices. In one embodiment, an interspinous process spacing device includes a first attachment side and a second attachment side, whereby each attachment side includes one or more slots formed in the outer surface and oriented proximate one end for receiving fasteners extending inwardly from a second interspinous process spacing device. The device further includes a spacer tray positioned between the first attachment side and the second attachment side, the spacer tray extending from the first attachment side and slideably insertable through a tray slot formed in the second attachment side, wherein the spacer tray is adapted to retain adjacent spinous processes in a spaced apart orientation. The device further includes securing means for securing the second attachment side relative to the first attachment side, wherein, upon securing the second attachment side relative to the first attachment side, the interspinous process spacing device is engaged with the adjacent spinous processes. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224741 | Device and Method for Treatment or Evacuation of Intervertebral Disc or Vertebral Body - A method of positioning an S-shaped elongated tool in an intervertebral disc or a vertebral body. The S-shaped elongated tool has shape memory properties and retains its predetermined arcuate shape when no pressure or force is applied to it. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224742 | METHODS AND DEVICES FOR ACCESSING AND RETRACTING A CAPSULE OF A JOINT - Devices and methods are disclosed herein for accessing the hip joint. A first device can be securely attached to the capsule of a joint. The first device can tent the capsule to increase the volume of the peripheral compartment. A second device can be biased against the first device to pierce the tented capsule and create a portal. Devices and methods are also disclosed herein for distending the capsule of a joint. A distention device may access a portal established within the capsule. The distention device can expand the capsule by applying an expansive force within the peripheral compartment. The distention device can maintain distention of the peripheral compartment while other devices access the joint. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224743 | Smart Multiple Hand-Piece Micro-Current Facial Toner - A body-less facial therapy device teaches smart hand-pieces which are directly connected one to the other. The hand-pieces have thereon multiple electrodes which do not move relative to one another. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224744 | ELECTRODE CONTACT CONFIGURATIONS FOR CUFF LEADS - A stimulation system is disclosed that may include a stimulator unit coupled to electrode contacts on a cuff. In one embodiment, the cuff may be placed at least partially around a nerve. The stimulation system may include at least two electrode contacts disposed on the cuff such that a distance between the at least two electrode contacts various along a length of the electrode contacts. In another embodiment, a plurality of electrode contacts are disposed on the cuff such that distances between at least one electrode contact within the plurality of electrode contacts and each electrode contact immediately adjacent to the at least one electrode contact are different. The stimulator unit may also be implantable. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224745 | Emergency Medical Station And Advertisement Display - A medical emergency station having a housing, an automated external defibrillator in the housing, and a video screen incorporated into a single unit. The medical emergency station includes a video regarding the proper use of the automated external defibrillator. The video is activated whenever the automated external defibrillator is removed from the housing. A commercial advertisement and other media appears on the video screen whenever the video regarding the use of the automated external defibrillator is not in use. The commercial advertisements help to offset the cost of the medical emergency station. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224746 | Method, Apparatus and Computer Program for Defibrillation Delivery Decision - A method, apparatus and computer program for defibrillation delivery decision comprising the steps of: a)Determining a shockable rhythm with a first algorithm, whereby said first algorithm is adapted to analyze an ECG signal in the presence of chest compression; b) Determining a shockable rhythm with a second algorithm, whereby said second algorithm is adapted to analyze an ECG in the absence of chest compression; c) Determining with a third algorithm if the patient is undergoing chest compression. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224747 | IMPLANTABLE DEFIBRILLATION OUTPUT CIRCUIT - An implantable defibrillation circuit can include an output circuit. The output circuit can include a first switch configured to controllably connect a first supply node to a first output node, a second switch configured to controllably connect a second supply node to the first output node through a first rectifier, and the second switch can be configured to inhibit the first switch from connecting the first supply node to the first output node when the second supply node is connected to the first output node through the second switch. In an example, the first and second switches can include insulated gate bipolar transistors. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224748 | MONITORING DEVICE AND METHOD FOR OPERATING A MONITORING DEVICE - A monitoring device for a patient for predicting a cardiovascular anomaly and a method for operating a monitoring device is provided. Furthermore, an implantable electrotherapy device, such as an implantable cardiac pacemaker, an implantable cardioverter, or an implantable defibrillator, having a monitoring device are also provided. In an embodiment, the monitoring device acquires a value change of a hemodynamic parameter, which occurs as a result of a detected value change of a state parameter, for example, as a result of an activation or deactivation of a cardiac resynchronization therapy. By suitable evaluation of the value change of the hemodynamic parameter, the monitoring device can output an evaluation result signal which is indicative of an imminence of a cardiovascular anomaly, such as a cardiac decompensation, long beforehand and with high specificity. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224749 | NERVE STIMULATION TECHNIQUES - A method is provided for treating heart failure in a subject in need of such treatment, including applying a stimulating current to parasympathetic nervous tissue of the subject, selected from the group consisting of: a vagus nerve and an epicardial fat pad. The stimulating current is configured to inhibit release of at least one proinflammatory cytokine sufficiently to the treat heart failure of the subject. A level of the at least one proinflammatory cytokine is measured. Optionally, the stimulating current is configured to change a level of Connexin 43 of the subject, and the level of Connexin 43 is also measured. Other embodiments are also described. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224750 | DOSING VAGAL NERVE STIMULATION THERAPY IN SYNCHRONIZATION WITH TRANSIENT EFFECTS - The present disclosure is directed to a method of using an implantable medical device. One embodiment of the present disclosure comprises delivering electrical stimulation proximate nerve tissue of a patient during a transient physiological effect period separated by a recovery period. The transient physiological effect period is when electrical stimulation has an increased level of efficacy and the recovery period is when additional electrical stimulation does not provide a beneficial physiological effect to the patient. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224751 | CAPTURE DETECTION BASED ON PROPAGATED DEPOLARIZATION FROM A PACING SITE - A methods and devices for capture detection are based on sensing a propagated depolarization from a contralateral cardiac chamber. An intersite sensing interval is determined based on an intersite pacing delay and an intersite conduction delay associated with first and second pacing sites. Pacing pulses are delivered to the first pacing site and the second pacing site, the pacing pulses separated in time by the intersite pacing delay. An intersite sensing interval is timed. The process includes sensing, during the intersite sensing interval, at the first pacing site for a depolarization propagated to the first pacing site from the second pacing site. It a depolarization propagated from the second pacing site is not sensed, then capture of the first and second pacing sites is detected. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224752 | MICROELECTRODE STIMULATION FOR TREATMENT OF EPILEPSY OR OTHER NEUROLOGIC DISORDER - Methods for treating a neurologic disorder by neurostimulation. The stimulation may be applied using electromagnetic energy. In certain embodiments, distributed electrical stimulation is applied to a target site of the brain in an ongoing fashion. A microelectrode array may be used to provide the distributed electrical stimulation. The method may also comprise the detection of electrophysiologic signals from the brain. These detected signals may be analyzed and used for closed-loop feedback of the neurostimulation. Also provided are systems for neurostimulation and software for operating such systems. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224753 | Electrical Stimulation Device and Method for the Treatment of Neurological Disorders - An electrical stimulation system and method for the treatment of neurological disorders is disclosed. In a preferred embodiment, the electrical stimulation system includes channels of electrodes positioned in electrical contact with tissue of a neuromuscular target body region of a patient to provide pattered neuromuscular stimulation to the patient's musculature. In addition, at least one electrode from a channel is positioned in electrical contact with a tissue of the motor control region of the brain. A series of patterned electrical pulses are then applied to the patient through the channels to provide peripheral neuromuscular stimulation, and a direct current is applied transcranially to the brain. Various exemplary embodiments of the invention are disclosed. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224754 | ELECTRONIC LOW-FREQUENCY PULSE PATCH OF A ONE-PIECE STRUCTURE AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING THE SAME - An electronic low-frequency pulse patch of a one-piece structure is disclosed, which has a power supply and a circuit capable of outputting positive and negative current pulses concealed therein, and in which, without use of a flexible ribbon cable set and an additional fastener, a host unit and a coupling conductive patch unit assembly are joined together with the appearance to form a one-piece seamless water-proof structure for use as a self-adhesion patch device capable of generating a low-frequency pulse output. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224755 | SPINAL CORD IMPLANT SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A system for transferring spinal cord signals comprises a superior electrode and an inferior electrode. The superior electrode interfaces with a first portion of a spinal cord of a human body; and the inferior electrode interfaces with a second portion of the spinal cord. The superior electrode has at least one superior contact for receiving signals from the first portion of the spinal cord to transmit to the inferior electrode; and the inferior electrode has at least one inferior contact for transmitting signals received from the superior electrode to the second portion of the spinal cord. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224756 | Reducing Effect of Magnetic and Electromagnetic Fields on an Implant's Magnet and/or Electronics - An implantable magnet that can freely turn in response to an external magnetic field, thus avoiding torque and demagnetization on the implantable magnet. The implantable magnet can be combined with an electric switching function depending on the orientation of an external magnetic field, thus protecting an implanted coil and/or implant electronics against induction of over-voltage or performing an electric switching function for other various purposes. The magnetic switch may further include, for example, a first switching contact and a second switching contact. A magnetically soft body that includes an electrically conductive surface is shiftable between a first position where the body is in simultaneous contact with the first and second switching contacts, and a second position where the body is out of contact with at least one of the first and second switching contacts. The body and the implantable magnet are positioned such that the body is shifted to one of the first position and the second position as a function of the external magnetic field resulting in a magnetic force between the magnet and the magnetically soft body. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224757 | Multiplexed Multi-Electrode Neurostimulation Devices - Implantable stimulation devices are provided. Aspects of the devices include a multiplexed multi-electrode component configured for neural stimulation. The multiplexed multi-electrode component includes two or more individually addressable satellite electrode structures electrically coupled to a common conductor. The satellite structures include a hermetically sealed integrated circuit controller operatively coupled to one or more electrodes. Also provided are systems that include the devices of the invention, as well as methods of using the systems and devices in a variety of different applications. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224758 | Dosing Limitation For An Implantable Medical Device - An implantable medical device (IMD) including an input interface that operates to receive an external input and a stimulation mode controller coupled to the input interface. The stimulation mode controller operates to temporarily interrupt a normal stimulation mode of the IMD in response to the external input. The IMD also includes an alternative stimulation selection module coupled to the stimulation mode controller, the alternative stimulation selection module operating to determine whether to implement an alternative mode of electrical signal therapy based on the external input and a threshold. The alternative mode differs in at least one stimulation parameter from the normal stimulation mode. The stimulation mode controller further operates to implement the alternative mode of the electrical signal therapy based on the determination of the alternative stimulation selection module. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224759 | Fungal Infection Therapy with Low Level Laser - Methods for treating fungal infections of the hand or foot use applications of low level laser energy to the infected area to inhibit fungal growth. A laser device is used to produce one or more low-level laser beams, typically in the range of 400-800 nm emanated at a power of less than 1 watt. The laser light is scanned across the infected area for a predetermined duration. Preferably, the duration is between about 10 and 30 minutes, so that at least 0.5 joules of laser energy is applied. Preferably, about 10 joules of laser energy is applied. The application may be repeated, and is preferably repeated once, about five weeks after the first application. A topical medication, such as an antifungal cream, may be used in conjunction with the laser light to speed up fungal removal. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224760 | Thermal Regulation Blanket and Method of Use Thereof - A thermal regulation blanket includes a plurality of cells with a first reagent. A plurality of pouches with a second reagent are disposed within the plurality of cells. A plurality of dividers are disposed between each of the plurality of cells. A thermally conductive layer is disposed over the cells and the plurality of dividers. When the first reagent and the second reagent mix, a thermal reaction occurs which modifies a temperature of the thermally conductive layer. A method of providing thermal therapy to a patient includes positioning the patient on a thermal regulation blanket, an abdomen of the patient is engaged with at least one abdominal blanket of the thermal regulation blanket. At least one cell of the thermal regulation blanket is activated to begin providing thermal therapy to the patient. A temperature of the thermal regulation blanket is monitored with a temperature sensor. At least one additional cell is activated to adjust the temperature of the thermal regulation blanket. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224761 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR COOLING BIOLOGICAL TISSUE - Exemplary embodiments of apparatus and method for tissue cooling using a plurality of hollow needles to deliver a cooled fluid into the tissue can be provided. For example, a volume and/or temperature of the fluid can be controlled to cool the tissue to a particular temperature or to within a predetermined temperature range. A tissue surface overlying the tissue to be cooled can be pre-cooled using conventional cooling techniques to increase the efficacy of the exemplary procedure. The exemplary method and apparatus can be used, e.g., to disrupt or damage fatty tissue that may then be reabsorbed by the body. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224762 | Therapeutic System for Securing a Hot or Cold Source to a Body - A therapeutic system for securing a hot or cold source to a body is disclosed herein. An elastic sleeve designed to enclose a portion of a body part includes one or more hook and loop fasteners. A hot or cold source with corresponding hook and loop fasteners is then secured to the one or more hook and loop fasteners of the elastic sleeve. A portion of the elastic sleeve is then folded back over itself and the hot or cold source to comfortably secure it to a desired body part. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224763 | Apparatus and Device for Spot Heat Treating Skin - A heating device is provided for treating skill related conditions, comprising a power source, a heating element connected to the power source, and an outer shell that encases the heating element, the outer shell being made of wood. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224764 | IMPLANTABLE ANCHOR FOR MEDICAL STIMULATION LEADS - In one embodiment, an anchor for anchoring a medical lead within the body of a patient, comprises: a first housing portion; a second housing portion, wherein the first and second housing portions define an inner passageway through the anchor and the inner passageway comprises first and second tapered portions at first and second ends of the inner passageway; and a gripping insert disposed within the inner passageway; wherein the first and second housing portions are adapted to be set in a first configuration and a second configuration by user manipulation; wherein in the first configuration, the inner passageway through the first and second housing portions permits the gripping insert to be retained in a first state; wherein in the second configuration, the gripping insert is compressed into a second state; wherein in the second configuration, the gripping insert is further compressed into a third state when the gripping insert is forced against one of the first and second tapered portions by movement of a medical lead placed in the anchor. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224765 | SPIRALED WIRES IN A DEEP-BRAIN STIMULATOR PROBE - The present invention regards a probe for deep brain stimulation (DBS), with high overall impedance, but low overall resistance. This is achieved since the probe comprises a structure comprising at least two interconnected spirals, wherein said two spirals have different direction of rotation. A system for deep brain stimulation comprising the probe, a power source and an electrode is also disclosed. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224766 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL SYSTEM - This invention relates to an implantable medical system, where an implantable device including a power source operable connected to electrical components is adapted to generate electrical pulses, and a probe having a distal-end and a proximal-end. The distal-end has one or more electrodes adapted to be in electrical contact with a target tissue and wires for connecting the one or more electrodes to the implantable device. The wires conduct the electrical pulses from the implantable device to the one or more electrodes and into the target tissue. The probe has at least one capacitor and wires for connecting the at least one capacitor to the electrical components in the implantable device such that the at least one capacitor forms a part of the electrical components of the implantable device. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224767 | ELECTRODE ASSEMBLY WITH FIBERS FOR A MEDICAL DEVICE - An electrode assembly includes an electrode adapted to at least partially surround a first longitudinal portion of a target nerve or nerve bundle. The electrode includes an inner surface adapted to contact an outer surface of the target nerve or nerve bundle. The electrode also includes a plurality of fiber elements each having a proximal end and a distal end. The fiber elements are coupled at the proximal ends to the inner surface of the electrode and the distal ends of the fiber elements are operative to penetrate the outer surface of the target nerve or nerve bundle. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224768 | SURGICAL WEIGHT CONTROL SYSTEMS AND METHODS - An obesity treatment system has a first treatment region sized and configured for deployment in a duodenum and a second treatment region sized and configured for deployment in a stomach. The first and second treatment regions are spaced apart a distance sized and configured to permit simultaneous deployment of the first treatment region in the duodenum and deployment of the second treatment region in the stomach. The first and second treatment regions each carry at least one electrode, which can deliver energy to ablate tissue in and the duodenum. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224769 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR ANCHORING AN ELONGATED OBJECT IN BODY LUMENS - An apparatus and method for anchoring an elongated object, for example a wire, in tubular body vessel, such as arteries, veins, the colon, bile ducts, etc. are disclosed. The wire may be a catheter, a guide wire, a tube or an electrical lead. In one embodiment, a fixation device is advanced over the wire and, upon external actuation, either deforms the wire or deploys an anchoring mechanism so as to secure the wire against the vessel wall. The anchoring mechanism can be easily removed from the vessel even in the presence of vessel occlusion. In another embodiment, a wire tensioned between two locations on a distal section of the wire deforms the wire and urges the wire into wall apposition. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224770 | Drug Eluting Stents and Methods of Making the Same - A stent formed from a bioabsorbable polymer matrix including at least one bioabsorbable polymer and at least one therapeutic agent dispersed therein, and methods of making the same. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224771 | CATHETER - The invention relates to a catheter for introducing into a hollow human or animal organ. Said catheter comprises a catheter tip that protrudes forwards and a region that is encased by an expandable tubular hollow body and that is situated behind the catheter tip. Said catheter is characterised in that a wire spiral is located in the encased region. It can also be advantageous to provide a radiopaque ring, in particular a platinum, gold or tungsten ring, on a hollow shaft of the catheter, together with several rib-type projections running around the hollow shaft and projecting from the latter, in a region in front of and/or behind the radiopaque ring. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224772 | BIFURCATED GRAFT DEPLOYMENT SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A method for deploying an endoluminal vascular prosthesis using a deployment catheter that has at least a main graft portion and a first branch graft portion. The deployment catheter preferably comprises an elongate, flexible catheter body having a proximal end and a distal end, and an outer sheath and an inner core that is axially moveable with respect to the outer sheath. The catheter preferably comprises a main graft restraint that has a main graft release mechanism comprising a main graft sheath and a suture threaded through a plurality of the openings in the main graft sheath. The catheter further comprises at least one branch graft restraint comprising at least one branch graft release mechanism. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224773 | METHODS AND DEVICES FOR PROTECTING A PASSAGEWAY IN A BODY WHEN ADVANCING DEVICES THROUGH THE PASSAGEWAY - A liner is advanced through a narrowed region in a vessel such as the internal carotid artery. The liner is advanced through the narrowed region in a collapsed position. A stent is then advanced through the liner and expanded to open the narrowed region. The liner may also have an anchor which expands an end of the liner before the stent is introduced. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224774 | ENDOPROSTHESIS AND DELIVERY SYSTEM FOR DELIVERING THE ENDOPROSTHESIS WITHIN A VESSEL OF A PATIENT - An endoprosthesis is disclosed for implantation at a bifurcation between a main vessel and at least two secondary vessels. The endoprosthesis includes first and second bodies. Each body includes a self-expanding and flexible structure having a proximal region, an intermediate region, and a distal region. The distal region terminates at a free end. The flexible structure defines a leg and a support member adjacent to the leg. The leg terminates at the free end of the distal region. The second body is positioned within the first body. The proximal region of the first body includes a free end configured for positioning within the main vessel. The leg of the first body is configured for positioning within a first secondary vessel. The leg of the second body is configured for positioning within a second secondary vessel. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224775 | Stent Geometry - A non-expandable stent and a method for implanting the stent are provided. The stent includes a generally tubular body having a lumen defined therethrough. The body includes a proximal portion having a curved portion configured for placement proximal to a sphincter. The body further includes a distal portion having retaining member extending outward from a proximal end of the distal portion. The retaining member is configured for placement distal to the sphincter and for engagement of the sphincter. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224776 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR TREATING VASCULAR MALFORMATIONS - A device for treating vascular malformations includes a primary coil and secondary windings. The primary coil provides resilience and structural integrity while the secondary windings fill interstitial spaces in the primary coil to isolate the vascular malformation. The device may have increased density along a central portion to isolate the malformation. In another aspect, the device may have a central opening through which embolic materials may be delivered. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224777 | STENT WITH INDEPENDENT STENT RINGS AND TRANSITIONAL ATTACHMENTS - A vascular endoprosthesis ( | 2011-09-15 |
20110224778 | STENT PATTERN FOR POLYMERIC STENTS - A stent having a stent pattern including a plurality of cylindrical rings, each ring including a plurality of diamond-shaped cells having four curved elements defining apices of the diamond-shaped cells is disclosed herein. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224779 | THIN COLLAGEN TISSUE FOR MEDICAL DEVICE APPLICATIONS - This invention relates to processes of preparing heterogeneous graft material from animal tissue. Specifically, the invention relates to the preparation of animal tissue, in which the tissue is cleaned and chemically cross-linked using both vaporized and liquid cross-linking agents, resulting in improved physical properties such as thin tissue and lowered antigenicity, thereby increasing the ease of delivering the tissue during surgery and decreasing the risk of post-surgical complication, respectively. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224780 | STENTS FOR PROSTHETIC HEART VALVES - A stented valve including a generally tubular stent structure that has a longitudinal axis, first and second opposite ends, a plurality of commissure support structures spaced from the first and second ends and extending generally parallel to the longitudinal axis, at least one structural wire positioned between each two adjacent commissure support structures, and at least one wing portion extending from two adjacent commissure support structures and toward one of the first and second ends of the stent structure. The stented valve further includes a valve structure attached within the generally tubular stent structure to the commissure support structures. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224781 | REPOSITIONABLE ENDOLUMINAL SUPPORT STRUCTURE AND ITS APPLICATIONS - An endoluminal support structure includes strut members interconnected by swivel joints to form a series of linked scissor mechanisms. The structure can be remotely actuated to compress or expand its shape by adjusting the scissor joints within a range of motion. In particular, the support structure can be repositioned within the body lumen or retrieved from the lumen. The support structure can be employed to introduce and support a prosthetic valve within a body lumen. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224782 | SELF EXPANDING BIFURCATED ENDOVASCULAR PROSTHESIS - Disclosed is a bifurcated tubular endoluminal vascular prosthesis, useful in treating, for example, an abdominal aortic aneurysm. The prosthesis comprises a self expandable wire support structure surrounded at least in part by a flexible tubular membrane. A delivery catheter and methods are also disclosed. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224783 | ENDOPROSTHESIS COATING - An endoprosthesis, such as a stent, includes anchoring regions formed of polymer that enhance adherence of a coating, e.g. a drug eluting polymer coating, to a stent surface, e.g. made of ceramic. The anchoring regions can be formed using stamping processes. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224784 | MEDICAL DEVICE SUITABLE FOR USE IN TREATMENT OF A VALVE - A medical device ( | 2011-09-15 |
20110224785 | PROSTHETIC MITRAL VALVE WITH TISSUE ANCHORS - Apparatus and methods are described including a prosthetic atrioventricular valve ( | 2011-09-15 |
20110224786 | Degenerative Valvular Disease Specific Annuloplasty Rings - Annuloplasty rings optimally sized to take into account more of the common degenerative valve pathologies. Each ring has a structural ring body with a shape that complies with predicted shapes of degenerative valvular diseases, such as fibroelastic deficiency (FED), Marfan's or Barlow's. The predicted shapes are obtained through careful echocardiographic and intraoperative measurements, and often differ for different annulus orifice sizes. For instance, in mitral rings the larger rings have larger minor axis and oblique axis dimensions relative to their major axis dimensions, and are more circular as opposed to D-shaped. The rings may also be three-dimensional and the relative heights around the rings may change for different sized rings. A mitral ring may have a higher anterior saddle relative to a posterior saddle, with the relative heights varying across the ring sizes. The ring may have varying flexibility around the ring periphery which also changes for different ring sizes. A bulge on the sewing cuff forms a step on the outflow side for ease of suturing, which may be indicated by a suture line. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224787 | HEART HELP DEVICE, SYSTEM, AND METHOD - The present invention relates to an implantable device for improving the pump function of the heart of a human patient by applying an external force on the heart muscle, said device comprising at least one pump device comprising: a first part having a first surface, and a second part having a second surface. The first part is displaceable in relation to the second part and said first and second surfaces abut each other, at least partially. The second part exerts, directly or indirectly, force on an external part of said heart muscle. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224788 | INFLATABLE INTRA OCULAR LENS/LENS RETAINER - The invention provides for an inflatable intra ocular lens/lens retainer or a system of inflatable intra ocular lens/lens retainers, which are fitted into an aphakic eye, to substantially occupy the space previously held by the crystalline lens to retain and secure the position of delicate intra ocular structures of the eye. The inflatable lens/lens retainer may also be used suspend optical interfaces along the visual axis of the eye. The inflatable intra ocular lens/lens retainer may be pressed against residual elements of the lens capsule to re-establish accommodation. In the absence of a lens capsule, the inflatable intra ocular lens/lens retainer may be compressed directly by the ciliary muscle to alter the refractive state of the eye. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224789 | COCHLEAR IMPLANT SYSTEMS INCLUDING MAGNETIC FLUX REDIRECTION MEANS - Cochlear implant systems include a circuit board having electronic circuitry configured to generate one or more signals configured to direct electrical stimulation of one or more stimulation sites within a patient, an induction coil configured to transmit a telemetry signal by generating a telemetry magnetic field, and a telemetry flux guide positioned between the induction coil and the circuit board. The telemetry flux guide is configured to direct magnetic flux of the telemetry magnetic field away from the circuit board. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224790 | DISC-BASED ORTHOPEDIC DEVICES - Methods and apparatuses for treatment of various joint conditions include a device inserted into a joint space. During delivery, the profile of the device is constrained in at least one dimension to minimize invasive impact on tissue and/or bone. The device may be restrained for implantation by a thread or a rigid elongate member. After insertion, the device may expand at the implantation site. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224791 | Orthopedic implant with bone interface anchoring - A cartilage resurfacing implant is provided for replacing cartilage of an articulating portion of a bone at a skeletal joint having opposed joint surfaces. The cartilage resurfacing implant includes a body having a bearing surface and a bone interface. The bearing surface is able to support articulation with an opposing joint surface. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224792 | ARTIFICIAL MUSCLE - The invention relates to an artificial muscle made of aplurality of nano-motors (referred to hereafter as nano power cells), wherein the nano-motors are the smallest unit for the production of complex muscular structures for generating longitudinal motor forces. The artificial muscle according to the invention is made of nano-motors (nano power cells), formed of symmetrical individual plates formed as double triangular segments and arranged radially in a honeycomb pattern, said plates being displaceable in the center and comprising an expansion unit in the interior thereof. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224793 | Base Piece That Can Be Adjusted Prior To Its Attachment, And Can Be Easily Incorporated Into A Device Replacing A Corpus Vertebrae - Adjustable base piece ( | 2011-09-15 |
20110224794 | ARTIFICIAL SPINAL DISK - An artificial spinal implant for placement between adjacent vertebrae to replace disk material and to stabilize the involved vertebrae is described. The artificial disk may be disassembled for installation and/or removal for repair, replacement or adjustment, and may be assembled from the front of the spine as individual component parts, thereby permitting alignment of the spine during the assembly process, and the stabilization of the involved vertebrae once assembly has been completed. Further, the components may be chosen from a set of similar components having different sizes, thereby enabling the implant to be tailor fit to the requirements of the patient. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224795 | SPINAL FUSION IMPLANT - The present invention is directed to a variety of interbody spinal fusion implants for insertion across the surgically corrected height of a disc space between two adjacent vertebral bodies of a human spine. The spinal fusion implants of the present invention have opposed upper and lower portions with openings extending through the implant to provide for bone growth from vertebral body to vertebral body. The upper and lower portions of the spinal fusion implants of the present invention have bone engaging projections to engage the implants to the adjacent vertebral bodies. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224796 | IMPLANT FOR FUSING SPINAL COLUMN SEGMENTS - The invention relates to an optical lens shaped into the form of a shroud and having a light-permeable front side ( | 2011-09-15 |
20110224797 | TWO PIECE CANCELLOUS CONSTRUCT FOR CARTILAGE REPAIR - The invention is directed toward a cartilage repair assembly comprising a shaped allograft two piece construct with a demineralized cancellous cap and a mineralized cylindrical base member defining a blind bore with a through-going transverse bore intersecting the blind bore. The demineralized cancellous cap has a cylindrical top portion and a smaller diameter cylindrical stem extending away from the top portion which fits into the blind bore of the mineralized base member. The cap stem defines a transverse through-going bore which is aligned with the through-going bore of the base member to receive a cylindrical cortical pin holding the cap within the base member. The shaped structure is dimensioned to fit in a drilled bore in a cartilage defect area so that the assembly engages the side wall of the drilled bore in an interference fit. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224798 | Hip replacement process - In a human hip replacement process, the steps include providing a selected size generally longitudinally extending stem and laterally angled neck, the stem received endwise into a recess in an elongated femur, there being a ball on the neck, the neck and stem having a non-circular tongue and groove interfit connection to resist relative rotary displacement therebetween, the connection defining a generally longitudinal axis, fitting the ball in a socket on a hip bone, to pivot in the socket, the selection of stem and neck, and tongue and groove connection between the size selected stem and neck, enabling accurate pivoting of the ball. A set of different size balls and neck units are enabled for selective choice, as during surgery. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224799 | Method for Trochanteric Reattachment - A method for trochanteric reattachment can include positioning a femoral prosthesis relative to a proximal portion of a femur. A first portion of a self-locking adjustable flexible member construct can be coupled to a first attachment region of the prosthesis, and a second portion of the self-locking adjustable flexible member construct can be coupled to a second attachment region of the femoral prosthesis, where the second portion can be opposite the first portion. A trochanter can be positioned relative to the femur and a trochanteric engaging region of the prosthesis, and the self-locking adjustable flexible member construct can be positioned around an outer surface of the trochanter. Free ends of the self-locking adjustable flexible member construct can be tensioned to draw the trochanter into secure engagement with the prosthesis and the femur via the self-locking adjustable flexible member construct in an absence of a knot. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224800 | CELL-SCAFFOLD CONSTRUCTS - The present invention relates to the regeneration, reconstruction, augmentation or replacement of organs or tissue structures using scaffolds and cells derived from peritoneal tissue. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224801 | SEMI-PERMEABLE MEMBRANES FOR USE IN SURGICAL REPAIRS - A semi-permeable membrane can be used to promote the surgical repair of cartilage in a damaged or diseased joint, such as a knee, hip, or shoulder. In one method, the semi-permeable membrane is secured to the “articulating” surface (the exposed surface, as opposed to the “anchoring” surface which rests on a condyle) of a resorbable fibrous matrix that has been seeded, before implantation, with chondrocyte or similar cells that generate cartilage. A membrane used in this manner can help protect the cells as they grow, reproduce, and secrete new cartilage inside the resorbable matrix. In another method, the semi-permeable membrane is secured to a slightly damaged surface of a cartilage segment that is suffering from a condition known as chondromalacia, without using an underlying implanted matrix or other device. In a slightly different use, a semi-permeable membrane as disclosed herein can be used in conjunction with a cell-growing scaffold that is being used to generate tissue to repair or supplement an internal organ, such as a liver, spleen, pancreas, or possibly a heart | 2011-09-15 |
20110224802 | SHOCK ABSORBING APPARATUS AND METHOD - The present invention in one embodiment is a vacuum pump including a compressible elastomeric member with an internal reservoir enclosing a volume of fluid, an outlet port providing fluid communication between the internal reservoir and a fluid sink, and an inlet port providing fluid communication between the internal reservoir and a fluid source. The pump further includes first and second pressure elements coupled to the elastomeric member on opposing sides. At least one of the first and second pressure elements is adapted to apply a longitudinal force along, and a rotational force about, an axis extending through the compressible elastomeric member. Upon the application of a longitudinal compression force to the compressible elastomeric member, fluid flows from the internal reservoir to the fluid sink and upon the application of a longitudinal expansion force, fluid flows from the fluid source to the internal reservoir. Upon the application of a rotational force, the elastomeric member exerts a counter-rotational force. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224803 | POWERED LEG PROSTHESIS AND CONTROL METHODOLOGIES FOR OBTAINING NEAR NORMAL GAIT - A powered leg prosthesis includes powered knee joint comprising a knee joint and a knee motor unit for delivering power to the knee joint. The prosthesis also includes a prosthetic lower leg having a socket interface coupled to the knee joint and a powered ankle joint coupled to the lower leg opposite the knee joint comprising an ankle, joint and an ankle motor unit to deliver power to the ankle joint. The prosthesis further includes a prosthetic foot coupled to the ankle joint, at least one sensor for measuring a real-time input, and at least one controller for controlling movement of the prosthesis based on the real-time input. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224804 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ACTUATING A PROSTHETIC ANKLE - Systems and methods for sensing actuating a prosthetic ankle are disclosed. In one example, the system, such as an actuated prosthetic ankle joint, detects that the user has moved to a relaxed position, such as sitting, reclining, crawling, or leaning. In response, the actuated prosthetic ankle joint actively adjusts the angle between the members of the ankle to a relaxed state. The system may further detect when the user has moved to exit the relaxed position, and may actively adjust the angle between the members of the ankle to an exit state. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224805 | STRAPLESS PROSTHETIC ARM - Permanent magnets or electromagnets or a combination of such magnets are provided to retain a prosthetic device on an extremity or limb, such as an amputated arm. The prosthesis utilizes the opposing forces, which are developed by virtue of like magnetic poles being in proximity to each other, to urge the prosthesis to remain attached to the extremity. The prosthesis is prevented from rotation by virtue of a centering force that is provided by an attachment magnet in the prosthesis being placed between two implanted magnets. A removable mounting ring is placed over the prosthesis to maintain it on the extremity. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224806 | PLANT MONITOR AND CONTROL DEVICE AND A MAINTENANCE SUPPORT METHOD THEREOF - This invention includes a control device and a maintenance support device. The maintenance support device included in the plant monitor and control device selects temporary setting target logic element among logic elements contained in a control logic data, generates a temporary setting target logic element data, and generates a temporary setting logic element parameter data in accordance with a value of logic element parameter inputted by an operator. The control device memorizes the temporary setting target logic element data sent from the maintenance support device as the temporary setting target logic element data, and also the logic element parameter data before the temporary setting corresponding to the logic element designated by the temporary setting target logic element data among the logic element parameter data. Then, the control device renews the logic element parameter data located in the saving area with use of the temporary setting logic element parameter data sent from the maintenance support device. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224807 | COMMUNICATION APPARATUS AND EVENT PROCESSING METHOD OF THE SAME - A communication apparatus in the present invention is an intercom ( | 2011-09-15 |
20110224808 | Security for Objects in a Process Plant Configuration System - A configuration system uses process plant items that may represent, or be capable of representing, entities in a process plant to assist in configuring, organizing, and changing the control and display activities within the process plant. Access to the items may be controlled by associating access control data with the items. The configuration system may also use objects that represent, or may be capable of representing, one or more steps to be performed by entities in the process plant. Access to these objects may be controlled by associating access control data with the objects. The access control data may indicate whether users or certain users may be able to, for example, view or modify all or some data associated with the process plant items or the objects. The process plant items may comprise, for example, module class objects which may be capable of generically representing process entities of the process plant, module objects which may be capable of specifically representing process entities of the process plant, composite templates, module templates, etc. The objects that represent, or may be capable of representing, one or more steps to be performed by entities in the process plant may comprise, for example, phase classes or unit phases. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224809 | Method for Operating an Automation System - A method for operating an automation system which executes, as an automation solution, a control program having a plurality of software modules, where the method comprises replacing at least one software module comprising an old software module at the runtime of the control program with a new software module wherein the new software module is loaded into a memory of the automation system, an old data area associated with the old software module is compared with a new data area associated with the new software module, program code instructions for converting data for or from the old data area into data for or from the new data area is generated, and a program code instruction for invoking the old software module is replaced with program code instructions for invoking the generated program code instructions for data conversion and for invoking the new software module. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224810 | HOME AND BUILDING AUTOMATION | 2011-09-15 |
20110224811 | SCALABLE HIGH-PERFORMANCE INTERACTIVE REAL-TIME MEDIA ARCHITECTURES FOR VIRTUAL DESKTOP ENVIRONMENTS - System for providing interactive two-way audio in desktop virtualization environment, the desktop virtualization environment comprising desktop virtualization server computer and desktop virtualization client endpoint device with associated microphone element. The system incorporates instance of server software executing on the desktop virtualization server and providing interactive user interface functions to associated desktop virtualization client endpoint device; and instance of endpoint software executing on the desktop virtualization client endpoint device including network port, the instance of endpoint software receiving an incoming real-time audio stream from the network port and providing real-time and audio playback functions on the desktop virtualization client endpoint device. In the system, the desktop virtualization client endpoint is configured to: accept real-time audio input from a microphone element associated with the desktop virtualization client endpoint; and provide an outgoing real-time compressed audio stream to the network port responsive to the real-time audio input from the microphone element. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224812 | METHOD AND ARRANGEMENT FOR THE AUTOMATIC OPTIMIZATION OF THE TRANSFER FUNCTION OF A LOUDSPEAKER SYSTEM - In the case of a method for optimizing the transfer behavior of loudspeaker systems in a consumer electronics device, the actual transfer function of the loudspeaker system to be optimized is determined, in that a test signal is reproduced on the loudspeaker system either directly or via audio signal processing stages (DSP, amplifier, etc.) installed in the device, and the acoustic signal emitted by the loudspeaker system is captured by means of microphone and the actual transfer function is determined from the measurement values. Furthermore, in the method, a code for a DSP algorithm is generated and optimized to the extent that, in the case of a previously set maximum deviation from the desired transfer function, the fewest DSP resources are needed. The completely optimized code is loaded into the DSP of the device and activated. A corresponding arrangement has a microphone, a measurement unit, a DSP code generator, and an interface that loads the generated DSP code into the connected consumer electronics devices. | 2011-09-15 |
20110224813 | IMAGE PROCESSING DEVICE AND IMAGE PROCESSING METHOD - An image processing device is provided with a designating operation accepting unit which displays a setting screen on which an image indicating the entire shape of an object appears. The designating operation accepting unit accepts first, second, and third designating operations on the setting screen, and which allows selection of a process item. The first designating operation sets a common process sequence. The second designating operation sets a section-specific process sequence. The third designating operation designates a target section of a section-specific process. The common process sequence includes a process item by which the section-specific process is performed, and through this process item the common process sequence and each section-specific process sequence are associated with each other. Information indicating data in model data, and corresponding to the designated target section is associated with the section-specific process, and is then entered as section specifying information. | 2011-09-15 |