Abstract: An ultrasound probe for diagnostic medical ultrasound imaging, including an ultrasound transducer and a circuit having a plurality of states to limit the use of the ultrasound probe. Ultrasound probe use can be limited based on a unique identification number (e.g., selected by means of electrically programmable fuses) assigned to each ultrasound probe. Alternatively, the ultrasound system software monitors and updates the number of times that the ultrasound probe has been used. Another aspect of the invention is directed to an ultrasound system, including an ultrasound probe with multiple states, a circuit to program and to receive state data from the ultrasound probe and interpret the state data, and a cable to communicate state data between the ultrasound probe and the processor.

Abstract: A convertible medical appliance support apparatus includes a box-shaped hollow main body portion A suspended from overhead by a support apparatus B. A horizontal support table C extends forward from the front face of the vertical main body column to form a platform for supporting associated medical equipment. Multiple gas connections D are provided the main body portion together with a manual handle E near the bottom of the main column on a side of the column opposite from the support table to provide a convenient point to grip and move the body column into a desired position. Manually actuatable controls are provided at the handle, including brake release pushbuttons I and a motorized height adjustment toggle switch J. Multiple electrical connections F are included on the main body together with optional shelves G selectively attachable below the main platform.

Abstract: A system and method for tracking the position and orientation of a movable medical imaging device using a first and second sensor disposed on the device. The second sensor is of a different type than the first sensor and measures a P/O parameter different from that of the first sensor. The system and method also include techniques for recalibrating sensors using measurements from other sensors and improving the measurements made by some sensors using measurements from other sensors. The system and method also include measuring the position of a medical implement relative to a movable medical imaging device by providing a first and second subsystem on the medical implement and a third and fourth subsystem on the movable medical imaging device. The first subsystem has a sensor of a first type and the second subsystem has a sensor of a second type different from the sensor of the first type.

Abstract: An electronic device placed in series with the probe ground-to-chassis connection. The device comprises a current-detecting element such as a resistor or RC network and may employ frequency-discriminating circuitry to limit only ground current signals below a certain frequency. The detector element triggers either a current limiter or a latching switch to prevent currents exceeding about 20 .mu.A rms from flowing between the probe and the patient. This is achieved by limiting such currents dynamically or by latching the transducer-probe-ground/system-chassis connection in an "open" state. In normal operation, the limiting/latching function is inactive, i.e. it is transparent to the system and the device shunts noise signals to the system chassis to prevent image degradation. The resistance of the device in normal operation may be in the range of about 0.1 to 10 ohms for effective noise reduction (shielding) at operating frequencies at and above 100 kHz.

Abstract: A transducer array control system for use with a transducer housing and a transducer array that includes a sensing mechanism that generates a sensor signal having a first state indicative of the use of the transducer array. A control mechanism generates a transducer disabling signal when the sensor signal fails to enter the first state within a selected time period. Methods for disabling a transducer array are also provided.

Abstract: A connector is provided for preventing damage to contacts between components of an electrical system which is particularly useful when electrical energy is stored in at least one of the components. The connector includes a mechanically operated latching member for activating and deactivating an electrical interface between the components. In one embodiment, a sensor determines when the connector is being disconnected from one of the components and provides a signal used by one of the components for disabling a power source providing the energy. In another embodiment, the sensor derived disconnect signal controls dissipating the stored energy away from the contacts between the components before the contacts are physically disengaged.

Abstract: A bi-directional snap-action register mechanism for an odometer-type mechanical register display. The mechanism includes at least one register display wheel and a bi-directional cam mounted coaxially along a common shaft with the register display wheel. The bi-directional cam engages a helical groove formed along the shaft to allow lateral displacement of the bi-directional cam in a direction parallel to a rotational axis of the shaft. A pin is biased by a spring into contact with the bi-directional cam. Rotation of the shaft causes the bi-directional cam to be moved with respect to the pin. The cam abruptly rotates through a predetermined angular distance when the point of contact of the biased pin with the cam moved from a smooth portion to a step transition portion of the cam. The abrupt rotation of the cam is communicated to the register display wheel to cause a new display position to be moved into view.

Abstract: A domestic reverse osmosis water purification system utilizing few parts in the controller valve mechanism enhances reliability and economic feasibility. All surfaces of the controller valve mechanism in contact with water are non-metallic and are constructed of FDA approved materials. In addition to its normal function of metering the reject water flow, the controller valve mechanism allows the homeowner to easily rinse the reverse osmosis membrane and conserves water by automatically stopping influent water flow when the product storage tank is full.