Patent application number | Description | Published |
20080255647 | Implantable Addressable Segmented Electrodes - Implantable addressable segmented electrode devices, as well as methods for making and using the same, are provided. The subject devices include segmented electrode structures made up of an integrated circuit electrically coupled to two or more electrodes, where each electrode can be individually activated. Also provided are implantable devices and systems, as well as kits containing such devices and systems or components thereof, which include the segmented electrode structures. | 10-16-2008 |
20080284599 | Pharma-Informatics System - Compositions, systems and methods that allow for the detection of the actual physical delivery of a pharmaceutical agent to a body are provided. Embodiments of the compositions include an identifier and an active agent. The invention finds use in a variety of different applications, including but not limited to, monitoring of therapeutic regimen compliance, tracking the history of pharmaceutical agents, etc. | 11-20-2008 |
20080312726 | Implantable Hermetically Sealed Structures - Implantable hermetically sealed structures and methods for making the same are provided. Also provided are devices, systems and kits including the hermetically sealed structures, as well as methods of using such devices and systems. | 12-18-2008 |
20090013791 | PRESSURE SENSOR CIRCUITS - Implantable pressure sensors and methods for making and using the same are provided. A feature of embodiments of the subject pressure sensors is that they are low-drift sensors. The subject sensors find use in a variety of applications. | 01-15-2009 |
20090062879 | SELF-REFERENCING COMMUNICATION IN IMPLANTABLE DEVICES - Various aspects of the present invention enable robust, reliable control functionality for effectors present on intraluminal, e.g., vascular leads, as well as other types of implantable devices. Aspects of the invention include implantable integrated circuits that have self-referencing and self-clocking signal encoding, and are capable of bidirectional communication. Also provided by the invention are effector assemblies that include the integrated circuits, as well as implantable medical devices, e.g., pulse generators that include the same, as well as systems and kits thereof and methods of using the same, e.g., in pacing applications, including cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) applications. | 03-05-2009 |
20090062880 | SELF-REFERENCING COMMUNICATION IN IMPLANTABLE DEVICES - Various aspects of the present invention enable robust, reliable control functionality for effectors present on intraluminal, e.g., vascular leads, as well as other types of implantable devices. Aspects of the invention include implantable integrated circuits that have self-referencing and self-clocking signal encoding, and are capable of bidirectional communication. Also provided by the invention are effector assemblies that include the integrated circuits, as well as implantable medical devices, e.g., pulse generators that include the same, as well as systems and kits thereof and methods of using the same, e.g., in pacing applications, including cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) applications. | 03-05-2009 |
20090118594 | SMART PARENTERAL ADMINISTRATION SYSTEM - The invention provides methods and systems for evaluating a fluid transfer event between a parenteral fluid delivery and a patient. The evaluation of the fluid transfer event can be prospective real-time and/or historic, as desired, and take a variety of different formats. | 05-07-2009 |
20090131767 | Body-associated fluid transport structure evaluation devices - Implantable devices for evaluating body-associated fluid transport structures and methods for using the same are provided. In some instances, the implantable devices include an elongated structure with at least one hermetically sealed integrated circuit sensor stably associated therewith and a transmitter. The devices find use in a variety of different applications, including monitoring the function of various types of body-associated fluid transport structures, such as arteriovenous fistulae, vascular grafts, catheters, cerebrospinal fluid shunts, and implantable central venous access devices. | 05-21-2009 |
20090227204 | Pharma-Informatics System - Compositions, systems and methods that allow for the detection of the actual physical delivery of a pharmaceutical agent to a body are provided. Embodiments of the compositions include an identifier and an active agent. The invention finds use in a variety of different applications, including but not limited to, monitoring of therapeutic regimen compliance, tracking the history of pharmaceutical agents, etc. | 09-10-2009 |
20090287266 | HIGH-VOLTAGE TOLERANT MULTIPLEX MULTI-ELECTRODE STIMULATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR USING THE SAME - High-voltage tolerant multiplex multi-electrode stimulations systems and methods of using the same are provided. Aspects of the systems include a multiplex multi-electrode stimulation device, such as lead, configured to deliver high-voltage stimulation pulses through low-voltage satellites. Also provided are low-power implantable defibrillation systems, where such systems may include a high-voltage tolerant multiplex multi-electrode stimulation system. | 11-19-2009 |
20090299447 | DEPLOYABLE EPICARDIAL ELECTRODE AND SENSOR ARRAY - Minimally invasive deployable epicardial array devices are provided. The devices include deployable platform comprising two or more effectors, such as sensors and actuators, where the devices are configured to be deployed at an epicardial location via a minimally invasive, e.g., sub-xiphoid approach. In embodiments of the present invention, at least one area of the electrode patch is an electrical control area that comprises a series of effectors, e.g., sensors and/or electrodes. Other embodiments provide localized physical constraint and dynamic mechanical stimulation of the heart to effectuate physical and biological responses. Still other embodiments provide both of these functions. Also provided are methods of using the devices, as well as systems and kits that include the devices. | 12-03-2009 |
20100022836 | IN-BODY DEVICE HAVING A MULTI-DIRECTIONAL TRANSMITTER - Multi-directional transmitters for in-body devices, such as implantable and ingestible devices, are provided. Aspects of the in-body multi-direction transmitters of the invention include signal transmitters configured to transmit an identifying signal in at least two different directions in an x-y plane. Embodiments of the in-body devices are configured to emit a detectable signal upon contact with a target physiological site. Also provided are methods of making and using the devices of the invention. | 01-28-2010 |
20100081894 | COMMUNICATION SYSTEM WITH PARTIAL POWER SOURCE - The system of the present invention includes a conductive element, an electronic component, and a partial power source in the form of dissimilar materials. Upon contact with a conducting fluid, a voltage potential is created and the power source is completed, which activates the system. The electronic component controls the conductance between the dissimilar materials to produce a unique current signature. The system can be used in a variety of different applications, including as components of ingestible identifiers, such as may be found in ingestible event markers, e.g., pharma-informatics enabled pharmaceutical compositions. | 04-01-2010 |
20100131023 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES COMPRISING CATHODIC ARC PRODUCED STRUCTURES - Implantable medical devices that include cathodic arc produced structures are provided. Cathodic arc produced structures of the invention may be thick, stress-free metallic structures that have configurations heretofore not available in implantable medical devices. In yet other embodiments, the structures may be crenulated or porous layers. Also provided are methods of producing implantable medical devices as well as systems for practicing the subject methods. | 05-27-2010 |
20100185055 | INGESTIBLE EVENT MARKER SYSTEMS - Ingestible event marker systems that include an ingestible event marker (i.e., an IEM) and a personal signal receiver are provided. Embodiments of the IEM include an identifier, which may or may not be present in a physiologically acceptable carrier. The identifier is characterized by being activated upon contact with a target internal physiological site of a body, such as digestive tract internal target site. The personal signal receiver is configured to be associated with a physiological location, e.g., inside of or on the body, and to receive a signal the IEM. During use, the IEM broadcasts a signal which is received by the personal signal receiver. | 07-22-2010 |
20100204766 | IMPLANTABLE INTEGRATED CIRCUIT - Embodiments of the present invention enable robust, reliable control functionality for effectors present on intraluminal, e.g., vascular leads, as well as other types of implantable devices. Embodiments of the invention enable the required functionality for accurate long term control of effectors units, even ones present on multiplex carrier configurations, while provide for low power consumption. Aspects of the invention include implantable integrated circuits that have power extraction; energy storage; communication; and device configuration functional blocks, where these functional blocks are all present in a single integrated circuit on an intraluminal-sized support. Also provided by the invention are effector assemblies that include the integrated circuits, as well as implantable medical devices, e.g., pulse generators that include the same, as well as systems and kits thereof and methods of using the same, e.g., in pacing applications, including cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) applications. | 08-12-2010 |
20100214033 | LOW VOLTAGE OSCILLATOR FOR MEDICAL DEVICES - Low voltage oscillators that provide a stable output frequency with varying supply voltage are provided. The subject oscillators find use in a variety of different types of devices, e.g., medical devices, including both implantable and ex-vivo devices. | 08-26-2010 |
20100228312 | Implantable Cardiac Motion Powered Piezoelectric Energy Source - Implantable cardiac motion powered piezoelectric energy sources are provided. Aspects of the subject implantable energy sources they include a piezoelectric transducer that converts cardiac mechanical energy to electrical energy. The subject energy sources find use in a variety of applications, including providing power to a wide range of implantable devices. | 09-09-2010 |
20100262206 | Methods and Apparatus for Enhancing Cardiac Pacing - Methods, apparatus and systems for enhancing cardiac pacing generally provide for measuring at least one cardiac characteristic, calculating at least one cardiac performance parameter based on the measured characteristic(s), and adjusting at least one functional parameter of a cardiac pacing device. Devices may include at least one catheter (such as a multiplexed catheter with one or more sensors and/or actuators), at least one implant (such as a sensor implantable in a heart wall), or a combination of both. Various cardiac performance parameters and/or pacing device performance parameters may be weighted, and the parameters and their respective weights may be used to determine one or more adjustments to be made to the pacing device. In some instances, the adjustments are made automatically. | 10-14-2010 |
20100280366 | CONTINUOUS FIELD TOMOGRAPHY SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF USING THE SAME - Continuous field tomography systems are provided. Aspects of systems include a data aggregating module configured to receive both continuous field tomography data and non-continuous field physiological data and produce an aggregated data product from these disparate types of data. Also provided are methods of using systems of the invention in a variety of different applications, including diagnostic and therapeutic applications. The systems and methods of the invention find use in a variety of different applications, such as cardiac related applications. | 11-04-2010 |
20100312188 | Body-Associated Receiver and Method - Receivers, which may be external or implantable, are provided. Aspects of receivers of the invention include the presence of one or more of: a high power-low power module; an intermediary module; a power supply module configured to activate and deactivate one or more power supplies to a high power processing block; a serial peripheral interface bus connecting master and slave blocks; and a multi-purpose connector. Receivers of the invention may be configured to receive a conductively transmitted signal. Also provided are systems that include the receivers, as well as methods of using the same. Additionally systems and methods are disclosed for using a receiver for coordinating with dosage delivery systems. | 12-09-2010 |
20100312228 | INGESTIBLE THERAPY ACTIVATOR SYSTEM AND METHOD - An ingestible therapy activator system and method are provided. In one aspect, the ingestible therapy activator includes an ingestible device having an effector module to send an effector instruction and a responder module associated with a therapeutic device. The responder module may receive and process the effector instruction, resulting in a response by the therapeutic device. Examples of responses by therapeutic device include activating a therapy, deactivating a therapy, modulating a therapy, and discontinuing a therapy. | 12-09-2010 |
20100318163 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR LEADS FOR IMPLANTABLE DEVICES - A charge pump is provided in the same integrated circuit chip as a control means which permits selectively connecting any of one or more electrodes with conductors along a lead. The charge pump derives about two volts from a one-volt supply, and becomes stable within a few tens of microseconds. The charge pump may be composed of three doublers—the first generating timing signals for the second and third doublers, with the second and third doublers working out of phase with each other. | 12-16-2010 |
20110009715 | INGESTIBLE EVENT MARKER DATA FRAMEWORK - The ingestible event marker data framework provides a uniform, comprehensive framework to enable various functions and utilities related to ingestible event marker data (IEM data). The functions and utilities include data and/or information having an aspect of data derived from, collected by, aggregated by, or otherwise associated with, an ingestion event. | 01-13-2011 |
20110022113 | Analyzer Compatible Communication Protocol - Methods and systems for programming a plurality of leads under at least two distinct modalities are provided. The leads may be grouped within satellites and multiple satellites may be configured within a single lead. Each lead includes a power and communications bus providing commands, and information and pulses to the satellites. The leads may be connected to at least two different command and pulse sources, optionally a cardiac pacemaker and/or a cardiac pulse analyzer system. A command may include or be preceded by a wake-up pulse that facilitates identification of a modality applicable to the associated command and data. A command may further optionally include a reference pulse or series of reference pulses, whereby the satellite references data pulses in relation to one or more aspects of the associated reference pulse. A data pulse may deliver two bits of information. | 01-27-2011 |
20110022124 | 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. | 01-27-2011 |
20110034964 | Integrated Circuit Implementation and Fault Control System, Device, and Method - Apparatus and methods enable robust, reliable control for implantable medical devices, including cardiac pacemakers, defibrillators and cardiac resynchronization devices. Integrated circuits in the devices have minimized interfaces, can derive power from the interface signals, and have high voltage and latch-up protection. A device lead has a power generation circuit and a switching circuit using cascaded PMOS transistors for operating with a stable voltage despite fluctuations in the supplied voltage. The lead has control electronics that provide a very low impedance between an electrode and a lead conductor during most of the duration of a pacing pulse, but during a brief initial portion of the pacing pulse, provide a very high impedance to permit charging up a power supply that is local to the control electronics. A method of stabilizing the external impedance and a system for fault detection and fault recovery for an implantable device are also provided. | 02-10-2011 |
20110040203 | EVALUATION OF GASTROINTESTINAL FUNCTION USING PORTABLE ELECTROVISCEROGRAPHY SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF USING THE SAME - Portable electroviscerography systems are provided. Aspects of the systems include a body-associated receiver and an ingestible identifier unit, both of which are configured to detect visceral electrical signals. The system communicates with an extra-corporeal data processor configured to receive data from the body-associated receiver and generate and electroviscerogram from the received data. Also provided are methods of producing electroviscerograms using systems of the present invention. | 02-17-2011 |
20110060392 | Implantable Microstimulators - Electrolytic capacitor microstimulators are provided. Microstimulators of the invention are configured to operate, upon implantation into a living body, as an electrolytic capacitor that employs body fluid as its electrolyte. Also provided are methods and systems that include the microstimulators of the invention, as well as methods of using the devices and systems in a variety of different applications. | 03-10-2011 |
20110082530 | Method and Apparatus for Implantable Lead - In one embodiment of the invention, an implantable lead is provided. It has a plurality of satellites along its length, each satellite having at least one electrode and having as many as four electrodes at each satellite. Each satellite has a chip which controls the manner in which electrodes are or are not connected with a conductor within the lead. In an embodiment a control signal is transmitted through the connector of the first and along the at least one conductor to the chips of the satellites, thereby configuring at each chip a respective impedance between the at least one conductor and the respective at least one electrode. Sub-sequently, a pacing current is passed through the connector of the first lead and along the at least one conductor, and at each chip passing a portion of the pacing current through the respective impedance to the respective at least one electrode. | 04-07-2011 |
20110105864 | Pharma-Informatics System - Compositions, systems and methods that allow for the detection of the actual physical delivery of a pharmaceutical agent to a body are provided. Embodiments of the compositions include an identifier and an active agent. The invention finds use in a variety of different applications, including but not limited to, monitoring of therapeutic regimen compliance, tracking the history of pharmaceutical agents, etc. | 05-05-2011 |
20110130809 | Pacing and Stimulation Apparatus and Methods - System, device and method of variable pacing and stimulation are provided. In one example device, one or more lead integrated circuits may programmably control one or more variability parameters. One or more electrodes may provide electrical stimulation. Each electrode may be individually addressable by at least one of the lead integrated circuits and controlled by at least one variability parameter. Electrodes may be intentionally shorted together during time intervals that fall between times of stimulus, so as to dissipate potentials that might otherwise persist and cause electrode degradation. | 06-02-2011 |
20110172521 | Implantable Doppler Tomography System - The inventive implantable Doppler tomography system allows, for the first time, the use of Doppler shift for purposes of tracking cardiac wall motion. The present inventive Doppler tomography system methods and devices provide a critical new tool in the physician's armamentarium which provides accurate, real time monitoring of the mechanical performance of the heart. | 07-14-2011 |
20110196454 | SENSING SYSTEM, DEVICE, AND METHOD FOR THERAPY MODULATION - Sensing system, device, and method for therapy modulation are provided. Various aspects include a receive module and a therapy-related action module. The receive module may receive a therapy parameter of an individual. The therapy-related action module may effectuate, based on the therapy parameter, a therapy-related action associated with a nervous system of the individual. | 08-11-2011 |
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. | 09-15-2011 |
20110230935 | Rechargeable Stimulation Lead, System, and Method - Implantable electrical stimulation leads, method, and system are provided. Components of the system include a hermetically sealed integrated circuit controller, two or more hermetically sealed individually addressable satellite electrode structures and an inductive power source. The lead includes a housing, a conductor positioned within the housing, addressable stimulation units secured within the housing, wherein each stimulation unit includes a hermetically sealed integrated circuit, and a plurality of electrodes each electrically isolated from the other. | 09-22-2011 |
20110257491 | IN-BODY DEVICE HAVING DEPLOYABLE ANTENNA - Deployable antennas for in-body devices, such as implantable and ingestible devices, are provided. Aspects of the in-body deployable antennas of the invention include antennas configured to go from a first configuration to a second configuration following placement in a living body, e.g., via ingestion or implantation. Embodiments of the in-body devices are configured to emit a detectable signal upon contact with a target physiological site. Also provided are methods of making and using the devices of the invention. | 10-20-2011 |
20110270052 | Ingestion-Related Biofeedback and Personalized Medical Therapy Method and System - Methods, devices and systems for acquiring information useful to support a patient in implementing and adhering to a medically prescribed therapy plan are provided. The therapy may incorporate biofeedback methods and/or personalized therapy aspects. A method includes steps of receiving, by a receiving device, biometric information associated with an ingestible event marker; analyzing, by a computing device having a microprocessor configured to perform a biometric information analysis, the biometric information; and determining a therapeutic recommendation at least partly on the basis of the analysis and/or integrating biofeedback techniques into patient therapy or activity. A system includes a biometric information module to receive biometric information associated with an ingestible event marker; an analysis module to analyze the biometric information; and a determination module to optionally determine and communicate a therapeutic recommendation at least partly on the basis of the analysis. | 11-03-2011 |
20110282179 | Shielded stimulation and sensing system and method - Spatial arrays of electrodes are provided, each array in a region of tissue. The electrodes of an array are connected so that some of the electrodes serve as shield electrodes relative to a pair of electrodes used for pulse stimulation or sensing of electrical activity, or both. The shield electrodes are connected together, defining an electrical node, the node defining a stable potential in predetermined relationship with power supply levels or with reference voltages for sensing circuitry. Multiplexing techniques may be employed so that sensed activity at each of several electrode locations can be communicated to electronics external to the electrode locations. | 11-17-2011 |
20120001752 | Communication System with Partial Power Source - The system of the present invention includes a conductive element, an electronic component, and a partial power source in the form of dissimilar materials. Upon contact with a conducting fluid, a voltage potential is created and the power source is completed, which activates the system. The electronic component controls the conductance between the dissimilar materials to produce a unique current signature. The system can be used in a variety of different applications, including as components of ingestible identifiers, such as may be found in ingestible event markers, e.g., pharma-informatics enabled pharmaceutical compositions. | 01-05-2012 |
20120004520 | Communication System with Multiple Sources of Power - The system of the present invention includes a conductive element, an electronic component, and a partial power source in the form of dissimilar materials. Upon contact with a conducting fluid, a voltage potential is created and the power source is completed, which activates the system. The electronic component controls the conductance between the dissimilar materials to produce a unique current signature. The system can also measure the conditions of the environment surrounding the system. | 01-05-2012 |
20120004527 | Communication System Using an Implantable Device - The system of the present invention includes an implantable device that can detect high and low frequency current signature. The implantable device can communicate with a communication device that includes a conductive element, an electronic component, and a partial power source in the form of dissimilar materials. Upon contact with a conducting fluid, the communication device is activated. | 01-05-2012 |
20120007734 | Communication System with Remote Activation - The system of the present invention includes a conductive element, an electronic component, and a partial power source in the form of dissimilar materials. Upon contact with a conducting fluid, a voltage potential is created and the power source is completed, which activates the system. The electronic component controls the conductance between the dissimilar materials to produce a unique current signature. The system can also measure the conditions of the environment surrounding the system. | 01-12-2012 |
20120011699 | HIGH-THROUGHPUT PRODUCTION OF INGESTIBLE EVENT MARKERS - High-throughput ingestible event marker manufacturing systems are provided. The systems include an assembly unit configured to stably associate an ingestible event marker with a carrier to produce a product. Also provided are manufacturing methods to produce such products which include assembling an ingestible event marker with an assembly unit configured to stably associate an ingestible event marker with a carrier. | 01-19-2012 |
20120016211 | Evaluation of Gastrointestinal Function Using Portable Electroviscerography Systems and Methods of Using the Same - Portable electroviscerography systems are provided. Aspects of the systems include a body-associated receiver and an ingestible identifier unit, both of which are configured to detect visceral electrical signals. The system communicates with an extra-corporeal data processor configured to receive data from the body-associated receiver and generate and electroviscerogram from the received data. Also provided are methods of producing electroviscerograms using systems of the present invention. | 01-19-2012 |
20120022341 | Two-Wrist Data Gathering System - Sensing is carried out from locations at considerable remove from the stomach. Cooperating sensor electronics are placed at each of two wrists of the patient. The potential discomfort and inconvenience of an abdominal patch are reduced or eliminated. And alternative power sources become available. | 01-26-2012 |
20120024889 | Polypharmacy Co-Packaged Medication Dosing Unit Including Communication System Therefor - A custom medication dosing unit is disclosed. The custom medication dosing unit includes a housing having a shell element provided with a bottom surface and a circumferential edge extending from the bottom surface and a portion defining an opening for accommodating a medication. A first closure element provided with a circumferential edge is placed on the circumferential edge of the shell element in an adhering and closing manner. A medication is disposed within the opening defined between the shell element and the first closure element. A circuit module is associated within the first closure element. A system includes the custom medication dosing unit operative to communicate with a local node. Also disclosed is a method of manufacturing the custom medication dosing unit. | 02-02-2012 |
20120035684 | Multiplexed, Multi-Electrode Neurostimulation Devices with Integrated Circuits Having Integrated Electrodes - 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 control circuit operatively coupled to one or more electrodes. Also provided are methods of manufacturing wherein the application of laser welding is avoided in forming the satellite electrode structures and an integrated control circuit thereof is thereby shielded from mechanical stress during satellite manufacture. Additionally 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. | 02-09-2012 |
20120059257 | Ingestible Event Markers Comprising an Ingestible Component - Ingestible event markers comprising an identifier and an ingestible component are provided. The ingestible component may vary, where ingestible components of interest include osmotic ingestible components, liquid capsules, tablets, multi-layered ingestible component and multi-compartment ingestible components. In some instances, the identifier is mechanically stably associated with the ingestible component. Also provided are systems that include the ingestible event markers, as well as methods of using the ingestible event markers. | 03-08-2012 |
20120078132 | Method and Apparatus of Neural Signal Determination and Therapy Enhancement - A method and device are provided that detect and identify a neural signal by type and optionally or automatically provide a signal that affects a nerve carrying the neural signal. A plurality of electrodes is positioned along a nerve and monitors the electrical activity of the nerve. The invented system analyzes the monitored data to determine when the monitored activity can be identified as a known type of bioelectric signal, e.g., a pain nerve signal. The system may optionally attempt to affect, disrupt, diminish, nullify or block transmission of bioelectric signals along the nerve, e.g., by directing electrical energy through an electrode to nullify a bioelectric signal along a pain nerve. | 03-29-2012 |
20120095355 | Volume Sensing - Each sensor in one or more pairs of sensors is associated with a particular tissue, for example a first tissue location and a second tissue location respectively. Tissue at a particular tissue location may be solid, for example, muscle tissue, fat tissue, etc., or fluid, for example, blood, fluids associated with edema, etc. The area between the two tissue locations associated with a pair of sensors may comprise solid tissue, fluid tissue, an empty chamber, or combinations thereof. For each pair of sensors in the at least one pair of sensors, a first impedance measurement between the pair of sensors and associated with a first frequency is determined. For each pair of sensors in the at least one pair of sensors, a second impedance measurement between the pair of sensors and associated with a second frequency is determined. A comparison of a ratio of the first impedance measurement at a point in time to the second impedance measurement at a corresponding point in time may be made to determine a volume-related value associated with an area located between the first tissue location and the second tissue location. | 04-19-2012 |
20120101430 | Body-Associated Receiver and Method - Receivers, which may be external or implantable, are provided. Aspects of receivers of the invention include the presence of one or more of: a high power-low power module; an intermediary module; a power supply module configured to activate and deactivate one or more power supplies to a high power processing block; a serial peripheral interface bus connecting master and slave blocks; and a multi-purpose connector. Receivers of the invention may be configured to receive a conductively transmitted signal. Also provided are systems that include the receivers, as well as methods of using the same. Additionally systems and methods are disclosed for using a receiver for coordinating with dosage delivery systems. | 04-26-2012 |
20120109112 | Ingestible Therapy Activator System and Method - An ingestible therapy activator system and method are provided. In one aspect, the ingestible therapy activator includes an ingestible device having an effector module to send an effector instruction and a responder module associated with a therapeutic device. The responder module may receive and process the effector instruction, resulting in a response by the therapeutic device. Examples of responses by therapeutic device include activating a therapy, deactivating a therapy, modulating a therapy, and discontinuing a therapy. | 05-03-2012 |
20120116201 | Data Gathering System - A device for gathering data has first and second electrodes. The first electrode is coupled to a surface of interest, and the second electrode is coupled to “everything else” or “the air”. The first electrode is shielded from the second, and from most sources of parasitic capacitance, by a shield that is driven by an active driver that drives the shield to track, and ideally to match, the instantaneous potential of the electrode. The second electrode is likewise shielded in a similar way from most sources of parasitic capacitance. These shields likewise help to limit the extent to which RFI from the device electronics couples with either of the electrodes. In this way the sensing device achieves a markedly better signal-to-noise ratio at frequency bands of interest. | 05-10-2012 |
20120209135 | Implantable Device, System and Method for Measuring Physiologic Parameters - An apparatus having at least one implantable lead, e.g., two leads, three leads, etc., is provided. In one example, the apparatus includes at least two satellites electrically coupled to a common implantable pulse generator by at least two conductors extending from the common implantable pulse generator to each of the at least two satellites. Each satellite, for example, is associated with a respective tissue site such as a cardiac wall. | 08-16-2012 |
20120277813 | Pacing and Stimulation Apparatus and Methods - System, device and method of variable pacing and stimulation are provided. In one example device, one or more lead integrated circuits may programmably control one or more variability parameters. One or more electrodes may provide electrical stimulation. Each electrode may be individually addressable by at least one of the lead integrated circuits and controlled by at least one variability parameter. Electrodes may be intentionally shorted together during time intervals that fall between times of stimulus, so as to dissipate potentials that might otherwise persist and cause electrode degradation. | 11-01-2012 |
20120299723 | Communication System Incorporated in a Container - The system of the present invention includes a container and an electronic component with a partial power source in the form of dissimilar materials. The container includes a liquid. Upon contact with the liquid, a voltage potential is created and the power source is completed, which activates the system. The electronic component controls the conductance between the dissimilar materials to produce a unique current signature. | 11-29-2012 |
20130060102 | Two-Wrist Data Gathering System - Sensing is carried out from locations at considerable remove from the stomach. Cooperating sensor electronics are placed at each of two wrists of the patient. The potential discomfort and inconvenience of an abdominal patch are reduced or eliminated. And alternative power sources become available. | 03-07-2013 |
20130096501 | System and Method for Patient Access Port Reporting - A method is disclosed for detecting, by a sensing and data acquisition circuit module, at least one parameter associated with an access port. The method includes wiping at least a portion of an access port, allowing the access port to dry for a predetermined amount of time, accessing the access port with an access device, such as a syringe, and detecting at least one parameter associated with the access port by the sensor and acquisition module. An access port is disclosed that includes a sensor and a data acquisition module for sensing, recording, and providing an alert associated with the detection of the at least one parameter associated with the access port. | 04-18-2013 |
20130172690 | APPARATUS, SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETECTION AND DELIVERY OF A MEDICINAL DOSE - An apparatus is disclosed as part of a system for tracking and confirming delivery of a medicinal dose to a user. The apparatus includes a detector. The detector is secured to and communicatively coupled to the user and is capable of detecting a current flow through the user's body. The current flow is produced when the user makes contact with the apparatus. The apparatus includes at least two contact areas connected to a power source where a circuit and, hence, a current path is completed through the user's body as the user makes contact with the apparatus. The current flow is detected by the detector, which is coupled to the user. Also disclosed is an apparatus for tracking and confirming delivery of a medicinal dose to a user where the apparatus includes an acoustic detector. Upon loading the dose into a chamber an acoustic vibration is generated. The vibration is detected and correlated with a current flow that is produced when the user makes contact with the apparatus. The combined event of vibration detection and current flow detection confirms that the dose is loaded and the user is in contact with the apparatus and ready to receive the dose. | 07-04-2013 |
20130231188 | Networked Application with a Physiological Detector - The present invention provides receiving devices and method for use with gaming pursuits, including, in one aspect, a plurality of receivers to communicate physiologic data, at least one hub to receive the physiologic data, and a gaming module to receive, directly or indirectly, the physiologic data from the hub. | 09-05-2013 |
20130338452 | Low Profile Antenna for in Body Device - Low profile antennas for ingestible devices, such as ingestible event markers, are provided. Aspects of the ingestible devices of the invention include low profile signal transmission antennas configured such that they are flexible or degrade after use, allowing the antenna and attached components to pass easily through the body. Embodiments of the low profile antennas are configured to emit a detectable signal upon contact with a target physiological site. Also provided are methods of making and using the devices of the invention. | 12-19-2013 |
20140017995 | Multi-Mode Communication Ingestible Event Markers and Systems, and Methods of Using the Same - Aspects of the invention include multi-mode communication ingestible event marker devices. Ingestible event marker devices of the invention include an ingestible component comprising a conductive communication module and at least one additional non-conductive communication module. The non-conductive communication module may be integrated with the ingestible component or at least a portion or all of the non-conductive communication module may be associated with a packaging component of the ingestible event marker device. Additional aspects of the invention include systems that include the devices and one or more receivers, as well as methods of using the same. | 01-16-2014 |
20140051965 | Implantable Zero-Wire Communications System - The present invention provides implantable systems that communicate wirelessly with each other using a unique format that enables devices configurations and applications heretofore not possible. Embodiments of the present invention provide communication apparatuses and methods for exchanging information with implantable medical devices. In some embodiments, two implantable devices communicate with each other using quasi-electrostatic signal transmission in a long wavelength/low frequency electromagnetic band, with the patient's body acting as a conductive medium. | 02-20-2014 |
20140066734 | Apparatus and Method for Measuring Biochemical Parameters - In a first embodiment, electrodes are coupled to a surface at first, second, and third locations, the first location being further from the third location than from the second location. Impedance is measured at distinct frequencies between pairs of the electrodes. As a result, impedance is measured at differing regions below the surface, one region being deeper below the surface than the other region. In a second embodiment, a microfluidic device carries out an analysis. The analysis may be within a flexible patch adhered to a surface, or may be in a solid device implanted in a body of liquid surrounded by tissue. The analysis may involve pumping a fluid or may involve drawing an analyte electrophoretically through a microfluidic channel. | 03-06-2014 |
20140179221 | Communication System with Multiple Sources of Power - The system of the present invention includes a conductive element, an electronic component, and a partial power source in the form of dissimilar materials. Upon contact with a conducting fluid, a voltage potential is created and the power source is completed, which activates the system. The electronic component controls the conductance between the dissimilar materials to produce a unique current signature. The system can also measure the conditions of the environment surrounding the system. | 06-26-2014 |
20140180202 | Ingestible Therapy Activator System and Method - An ingestible therapy activator system and method are provided. In one aspect, the ingestible therapy activator includes an ingestible device having an effector module to send an effector instruction and a responder module associated with a therapeutic device. The responder module may receive and process the effector instruction, resulting in a response by the therapeutic device. Examples of responses by therapeutic device include activating a therapy, deactivating a therapy, modulating a therapy, and discontinuing a therapy. | 06-26-2014 |
20140203950 | Mobile Communication Device, System, and Method - A mobile device for detecting an electrical signal generated by an ingestible event marker is disclosed. The mobile device includes a detection subsystem to receive an electrical signal generated by an ingestible event marker from a detection arrangement. A processing subsystem is coupled to the detection subsystem to decode the electrical signal. A radio subsystem is configured to transmit the decoded electrical signal to a wireless node. A system includes the mobile device and the detection arrangement. A method includes receiving the electrical signal generated by the ingestible event marker at the mobile device, decoding the electrical signal to extract information associated with the ingestible event marker, and transmitting the information to a wireless node. | 07-24-2014 |
20140236077 | Body-Associated Receiver and Method - Receivers, which may be external or implantable, are provided. Aspects of receivers of the invention include the presence of one or more of: a high power-low power module; an intermediary module; a power supply module configured to activate and deactivate one or more power supplies to a high power processing block; a serial peripheral interface bus connecting master and slave blocks; and a multi-purpose connector. Receivers of the invention may be configured to receive a conductively transmitted signal. Also provided are systems that include the receivers, as well as methods of using the same. Additionally systems and methods are disclosed for using a receiver for coordinating with dosage delivery systems. | 08-21-2014 |
20150048929 | Multi-Mode Communication Ingestible Event Markers and Systems, and Methods of Using the Same - Aspects of the invention include multi-mode communication ingestible event marker devices. Ingestible event marker devices of the invention include an ingestible component comprising a conductive communication module and at least one additional non-conductive communication module. The non-conductive communication module may be integrated with the ingestible component or at least a portion or all of the non-conductive communication module may be associated with a packaging component of the ingestible event marker device. Additional aspects of the invention include systems that include the devices and one or more receivers, as well as methods of using the same. | 02-19-2015 |
20150051465 | Ingestible Event Marker Systems - Ingestible event marker systems that include an ingestible event marker (i.e., an IEM) and a personal signal receiver are provided. Embodiments of the IEM include an identifier, which may or may not be present in a physiologically acceptable carrier. The identifier is characterized by being activated upon contact with a target internal physiological site of a body, such as digestive tract internal target site. The personal signal receiver is configured to be associated with a physiological location, e.g., inside of or on the body, and to receive a signal the IEM. During use, the IEM broadcasts a signal which is received by the personal signal receiver. | 02-19-2015 |
20150080677 | Communication System Using an Implantable Device - The system of the present invention includes an implantable device that can detect high and low frequency current signature. The implantable device can communicate with a communication device that includes a conductive element, an electronic component, and a partial power source in the form of dissimilar materials. Upon contact with a conducting fluid, the communication device is activated. | 03-19-2015 |
20150080680 | Communication System with Partial Power Source - The system of the present invention includes a conductive element, an electronic component, and a partial power source in the form of dissimilar materials. Upon contact with a conducting fluid, a voltage potential is created and the power source is completed, which activates the system. The electronic component controls the conductance between the dissimilar materials to produce a unique current signature. The system can be used in a variety of different applications, including as components of ingestible identifiers, such as may be found in ingestible event markers, e.g., pharma-informatics enabled pharmaceutical compositions. | 03-19-2015 |