Patents by Inventor Stephen B. Carter

Stephen B. Carter has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 8080004
    Abstract: A laparoscopic surgical instrument configured to be ergonomic and anthropometrically correct, the laparoscopic surgical instrument comprising: (a) an ergonomic handle configured to orient a hand of a surgeon in a functional position, the handle comprising a handle grip; (b) an actuating mechanism actuatable by a finger and supported by the handle, the actuating mechanism comprising an actuator shaft and a gearing assembly operable to displace the actuator shaft with a mechanical advantage upon actuation of a trigger by the surgeon; (c) a locking mechanism configured to lock the actuating mechanism in one of a plurality of positions, the locking mechanism comprising a release located in an anthropometrically correct position; and (d) a working shaft having a proximal end coupled to and operable with the actuator shaft, the working shaft having an elongate configuration and a distal working end configured to couple a surgical tool to be manipulated by the surgeon via the handle and the actuating mechanism to pe
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2011
    Inventors: Earl Downey, Stephen B. Carter, Kenneth A. Gross, Darrin I. Schmuckle, Robson L. Splane, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20090299141
    Abstract: A laparoscopic surgical instrument configured to be ergonomic and anthropometrically correct, comprising: a) an ergonomic handle configured to orient a hand of a surgeon in a functional position, the handle comprising a wall structure defining an interior portion, and adapted to contain at least a portion of one or more working mechanisms; b) an actuating mechanism actuatable by the surgeon and supported within the interior portion of the handle; c) a working shaft having a proximal end coupled to and operable with the actuating mechanism, the working shaft having an elongate configuration and a distal working end configured to couple a surgical tool to be manipulated by the surgeon; and d) means for accessing the interior portion of the handle to expose an inner side of the wall structure and at least a portion of each of the working mechanisms for cleaning, sterilization and maintenance purposes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2009
    Publication date: December 3, 2009
    Inventors: Earl C. Downey, Stephen B. Carter, Kenneth A. Gross, Darrin I. Schmuckle, Robson L. Splane, JR.
  • Patent number: 4335115
    Abstract: Compositions for topical application of erythromycin and derivatives or erythromycin comprising ethanol, isopropyl myristate, glycerol monooleate and the erythromycin compounds are especially useful as a treatment for acne.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 1977
    Date of Patent: June 15, 1982
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Edward D. Thompson, Stephen B. Carter, Gary L. Manring