By Hydrophilic Or Hydrophobic Filters Patents (Class 604/126)
  • Patent number: 11878139
    Abstract: The present invention enables the completion of preparation of liquid medicine injection to be easily and quickly checked with the naked eye based on a color change in an endcap for a liquid medicine-injecting tube. As long as a medical staff checks a color change in the endcap with the naked eye, the medical staff can immediately perform an operation of connecting the tube to a catheter (or injection needle) or the like after removal of the endcap without unnecessarily draining off a large amount of the liquid medicine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2024
    Assignee: E-WHA MEDITECH INC.
    Inventor: Yong Hyun Kim
  • Patent number: 11866915
    Abstract: A liquid dosing system is disclosed and can include a cartridge comprising a reservoir configured to store an additive, an output vessel in fluid communication with the reservoir, and a cartridge outlet in fluid communication with the output vessel. The liquid dosing system can include a housing that includes a water passage configured to direct water though the liquid dosing system and a receiving portion configured to at least partially receive the cartridge when the cartridge is connected to the housing. The receiving portion can include a receiving port in fluid communication with the water passage, and the receiving port can be configured to receive at least some of the additive from the cartridge outlet when the cartridge is connected to the housing. The receiving portion can include a motor configured to engage in mechanical communication with the output vessel when the cartridge is connected to the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2024
    Assignee: Rheem Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Taylor Leigh, Jason Lye, Atilhan Manay, Stephen Phelps, Troy Trant, Jon Thomas, Prudhvi Amaravadhi, Edward Holman, Fahira Sangare
  • Patent number: 11491193
    Abstract: In alternative embodiments, the invention provides compositions, e.g., formulations, used for gastric, gastrointestinal and/or colonic treatments or lavage, for inducing the purgation of a gastrointestinal (GI) tract, including a colon; and methods for making and using them. In alternative embodiments, compositions and methods of the invention are used for the stabilization, amelioration, treatment and/or prevention of constipation, for the treatment of abdominal pain, particularly non-specific abdominal pain, and diarrhea, including diarrhea caused by a drug side effect, a psychological condition, a disease or a condition such as Crohn's Disease, a poison, a toxin or an infection, e.g., a toxin-mediated traveler's diarrhea, or C. difficile or the pseudo-membranous colitis associated with this infection. In alternative embodiments, the invention provides pharmaceuticals and products (articles) of manufacture for delivering these compositions and formulations to an individual.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2022
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2022
    Assignee: Finch Therapeutics Holdings LLC
    Inventor: Thomas J. Borody
  • Patent number: 11484643
    Abstract: An ambulatory infusing device including a housing, a reservoir defining an interior volume, a wall associated with the housing and having an inner surface that faces into the reservoir interior volume, and a filter assembly. The filter assembly may include a filter assembly housing with a housing filter portion having a free end associated with the inner surface of the wall and a filter supporting volume that extends to the free end of the housing filter portion, and a filter located within the filter supporting volume that extends to at least the free end of the housing filter portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2022
    Assignee: Medtronic MiniMed, Inc.
    Inventors: Susan McConnell Montalvo, Charles L. Byers, Rudolph A. Montalvo, Milton Stott, Darren Y. K. Yap
  • Patent number: 11426435
    Abstract: In alternative embodiments, the invention provides compositions, e.g., formulations, used for gastric, gastrointestinal and/or colonic treatments or lavage, for inducing the purgation of a gastrointestinal (GI) tract, including a colon; and methods for making and using them. In alternative embodiments, compositions and methods of the invention are used for the stabilization, amelioration, treatment and/or prevention of constipation, for the treatment of abdominal pain, particularly non-specific abdominal pain, and diarrhea, including diarrhea caused by a drug side effect, a psychological condition, a disease or a condition such as Crohn's Disease, a poison, a toxin or an infection, e.g., a toxin-mediated traveler's diarrhea, or C. difficile or the pseudo-membranous colitis associated with this infection. In alternative embodiments, the invention provides pharmaceuticals and products (articles) of manufacture for delivering these compositions and formulations to an individual.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2022
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2022
    Assignee: Finch Therapeutics Holdings LLC
    Inventor: Thomas J. Borody
  • Patent number: 11344480
    Abstract: Disclosed is a system for administrating fluids to a patient, such as an infant. The system comprises a container that defines a drip chamber, a source of nutritive fluid fluidically communicating with the drip chamber, and a tube connecting the drip chamber to the gastric cavity of a patient, the chamber including a membrane that is gas-permeable but that is resistant to fluid passage. The system allows fluids to be introduced to the patient and for gastric gases to be released while they are resistant to the leak and spillage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2022
    Assignee: Medline Industries, LP
    Inventors: Paulina Lowkis, Michael Turturro, Luke Stevens, Lisa Bauer, Morgan Uridil
  • Patent number: 11141512
    Abstract: A surgical drain system for use during and following surgery is provided. A collection reservoir is placed in fluid communication with the body of a user through a collection port. A pump creates a vacuum pressure to urge fluid into the collection reservoir. Fluid exits the collection reservoir through a drain port. A drain mechanism allows air to come into the collection reservoir through an air intake aperture and collected fluid to leave the reservoir simultaneously. The drain system can be worn beneath clothes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2021
    Assignee: Spectrum Spine IP Holdings, LLC
    Inventor: James C Robinson
  • Patent number: 10898899
    Abstract: A phase-separation device and method of use is provided for separating immiscible liquids. The phase-separation device has a porous membrane with a filter surface having a non-planar contour that forms a receiving cavity to receive a liquid mixture. The filter surface is configured to impede flow of a polar liquid into the porous membrane and permit flow of a non-polar liquid into the porous membrane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2021
    Assignee: ILLUMINA, INC.
    Inventors: Eric Hans Vermaas, Matthew Hage
  • Patent number: 10821239
    Abstract: An insertion mechanism having a vented fluid pathway includes an insertion biasing member 210, a hub 212, a needle 214, a retraction biasing member 216, and a manifold 240 having a septum 230 and a cannula 234, wherein the annular space between the septum 230 and the cannula 234 defines a manifold header 242. The manifold and fluid conduit are ventable through the membrane prior to or just after needle 214 and cannula 234 are inserted into the user. Such insertion is caused by the insertion biasing member(s) 210, after which only the needle 214 or another occlusion element is retracted. Such retraction may open a fluid pathway from the manifold header 242 to the body through the cannula 234 and/or needle 214. A drug delivery pump 10 includes such an insertion mechanism 200 having a vented fluid pathway. The drug delivery pump 10 may contain the insertion mechanism 200 having a vented fluid pathway in either an internally i or an externally tethered configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2020
    Assignee: UNL Holdings LLC
    Inventors: Ian B. Hanson, Paul F. Bente, IV, Sean M. O'Connor, Jaimin B. Shah
  • Patent number: 10816141
    Abstract: A chemical solution feeder feeds a chemical solution to a predetermined feed target, and includes: a feed flow path that is connected at its one end to a supply source of a chemical solution at room temperature and at its other end to a feed target, to guide the chemical solution to the feed target from the supply source; a first filter that removes particles in a chemical solution at room temperature injected from the supply source into the feed flow path; a heating unit that heats the chemical solution having passed through the first filter; and a second filter that removes particles in the chemical solution at high temperature heated by the heating unit, flowing through the feed flow path toward the feed target, wherein the first filter is a hydrophilic filter and the second filter is a hydrophobic filter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2020
    Assignee: SCREEN Holdings Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Ayumi Higuchi, Eri Fujita, Shota Iwahata, Masayuki Otsuji, Yoshiyuki Fujitani
  • Patent number: 10786631
    Abstract: A gas elimination apparatus and a method for use in an intravenous delivery system are provided. The apparatus includes a fluid inlet coupling a fluid flow into a liquid chamber, a fluid outlet protruding into the liquid chamber, and a flow diversion member proximal to the fluid outlet. The flow diversion member configured to block a direct flow between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet. The apparatus includes a membrane separating a portion of the liquid chamber from an outer chamber and a gas venting valve fluidically coupling the outer chamber with the atmosphere. The flow diversion member may be mechanically supported by at least one strut or elongate member extending along a flow direction into the liquid chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2020
    Assignee: VITAL SIGNS, INC.
    Inventors: Christopher Varga, Jason Anthony Mohr, Megan Danielle Friedlander
  • Patent number: 10744066
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an overcap intended for a pharmaceutical container, in particular a container for an infusion solution or an injection solution, having a receptacle containing at least one preproduced closure stopper accommodated therein, the stopper consisting of a soft plastic material, optionally after pulling off a protective covering, for insertion of a withdrawal cannula, a spike and/or a transfer set.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2020
    Assignee: B. Braun Melsungen AG
    Inventors: Michel Pittet, Raphael Vallotton, Volker Lamprecht
  • Patent number: 10639193
    Abstract: An apparatus has a first fluid conduit, a second fluid conduit, a connector member, an first tubular member, a second tubular member, and an inner cannula. The connector member has first and second passageways in which the first and second fluid conduits are positioned, respectively. A portion of the second tubular member is positioned within the lumen of the first tubular member. A proximal portion of the inner cannula is fixedly secured within the lumen of the first tubular member. The inner cannula lumen is in fluid communication with the first and second fluid conduits via the lumen of the first tubular member and the lumen of the second tubular member. The inner cannula may be inserted into the subretinal space of a human eye to deliver a leading bleb of fluid and then deliver a therapeutic agent, without having to withdraw the inner cannula from the subretinal space between the acts of delivering the leading bleb delivering the therapeutic agent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2020
    Assignee: ORBIT BIOMEDICAL LIMITED
    Inventors: Joseph H. Contiliano, Thomas E. Meyer, Daniel J. Abbott, Michael F. Keane, Allen C. Ho, Mark C. Tsai, Isaac J. Khan
  • Patent number: 10493244
    Abstract: An integrated vascular access device can include strain relief features to minimize the likelihood of the extension tubing becoming kinked during use. These strain relief features can be configured at both ends of the extension tubing to minimize the likelihood of kinking at the interfaces to the catheter adapter and luer adapter. To provide strain relief at the catheter adapter end of the extension tubing, an interface formed of a flexible material can be aligned with an extension of the catheter adapter into which the extension tubing inserts. The interface can be integrated into a stabilization platform or formed separately from a stabilization platform. To provide strain relief at the luer adapter end of the extension tubing, a flexible spacer can be coupled to a distal end of the adapter and have a distal portion that is positioned around the extension tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2019
    Assignee: Becton, Dickinson and Company
    Inventors: Bart D. Peterson, Jonathan Karl Burkholz, Bryan Fred Bihlmaier
  • Patent number: 10434299
    Abstract: This disclosure relates to fluid line sets and related methods. In certain aspects, the fluid line sets include a vial adapter connected to a first end of a fluid line, and a cap removably attached to a second end of the fluid line such that the cap seals the second end of the fluid line. The vial adapter includes a base, a spike extending from a central region of the base, and a sidewall extending from the base and substantially surrounding the spike. The base and the side wall at least partially define a cavity configured to receive a portion of a vial. The cap includes a deformable portion at least partially defining a gas chamber, and the cap is configured so that deformation of the deformable portion causes gas to be forced from the gas chamber to the vial adapter via the fluid line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2019
    Assignee: Fresenius Medical Care Holdings, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael James Beiriger
  • Patent number: 10265645
    Abstract: Provided is a method for producing an electrode paste capable of readily and reliably removing bubbles from the produced electrode paste. A method includes a step for performing vacuum-defoaming of bubbles present in an electrode paste (8) by vacuuming the inside of a defoaming tank (6) while introducing the electrode paste (8) to the defoaming tank (6). In the step for performing vacuum-defoaming of bubbles present in an electrode paste (8), a rising velocity (fluid surface rising velocity VL) of the fluid surface of the electrode paste (8) in the defoaming tank (6) is made smaller than a rising velocity (reference bubble rising velocity VGa) of the bubbles in the electrode paste (8) by adjusting a flow rate (supply flow rate Q) of the electrode paste (8) introduced to the defoaming tank (6).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2019
    Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Katsushi Enokihara
  • Patent number: 10258783
    Abstract: Fluid communication devices and supporting structures may be provided for use with intraosseous devices. Apparatus and methods may also be provided to communicate fluids with an intraosseous device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2019
    Assignee: TELEFLEX MEDICAL DEVICES S.À R.L.
    Inventors: Larry J. Miller, David S. Bolleter, Robert W. Titkemeyer, Joseph J. Manno, Matthew T. Harmon, Bruce J. Richardson, Gary Emerson Hart
  • Patent number: 10251992
    Abstract: A chamber for a blood treatment system having a blood inlet and a blood outlet, a filter element for air separation which is arranged at the head side with respect to the position of the chamber in the operating state, and which can be decoupled from the blood present in the chamber in the operating state via a further liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2019
    Assignee: FRESENIUS MEDICAL CARE DEUTSCHLAND GMBH
    Inventors: Reiner Spickermann, Gerhard Wiesen
  • Patent number: 10010663
    Abstract: A flow loop for hemodialysis, hemodiafiltration and hemofiltration for the treatment of pathological conditions such as End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) that has a controlled compliant flow path for preparing fluids required for a hemodialysis therapy session from water. The controlled compliant flow path modifies water into any one of a solution for priming a hemodialysis system, a physiologically compatible solution for contacting blood, a physiologically compatible solution for infusion to a subject, and a solution for blood rinse back to a subject. The controlled compliant flow path has a means for selectively metering in and metering out fluid from the flow path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2018
    Assignee: MEDTRONIC, INC.
    Inventors: Thomas E. Meyer, David B. Lura, Bryant J. Pudil, Martin T. Gerber
  • Patent number: 10004835
    Abstract: A portable system for subatmospheric pressure therapy in connection with healing a surgical wound includes a wound dressing dimensioned for positioning relative to a wound bed of a subject and a collection canister in fluid communication with the wound dressing. The canister includes a first vacuum chamber for drawing a vacuum and a second fluid chamber for collecting fluids removed from the wound dressing under the vacuum. The vacuum chamber may have a vacuum and a power source. The canister further includes a hydrophobic membrane separating the first and the second fluid vacuum chambers. The hydrophobic membrane is dimensioned to span a major portion of the cross-sectional area of the canister. The hydrophobic membrane may be dimensioned to substantially span an internal dimension of the collection canister. The hydrophobic membrane may include one or more outwardly extending lobes. The outwardly extending lobes may be arranged in staggered relation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2018
    Assignee: Smith & Nephew, Inc.
    Inventor: Joel D. Wiesner
  • Patent number: 9949874
    Abstract: An apparatus has a first fluid conduit, a second fluid conduit, a connector member, an first tubular member, a second tubular member, and an inner cannula. The connector member has first and second passageways in which the first and second fluid conduits are positioned, respectively. A portion of the second tubular member is positioned within the lumen of the first tubular member. A proximal portion of the inner cannula is fixedly secured within the lumen of the first tubular member. The inner cannula lumen is in fluid communication with the first and second fluid conduits via the lumen of the first tubular member and the lumen of the second tubular member. The inner cannula may be inserted into the subretinal space of a human eye to deliver a leading bleb of fluid and then deliver a therapeutic agent, without having to withdraw the inner cannula from the subretinal space between the acts of delivering the leading bleb delivering the therapeutic agent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2018
    Assignee: Janssen Biotech, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph H. Contiliano, Thomas E. Meyer, Daniel J. Abbott, Michael F. Keane, Allen C. Ho, Mark C. Tsai, Isaac J. Khan
  • Patent number: 9919095
    Abstract: An intravenous (IV) set system comprising a primary IV set defining a primary flow line of the IV set system. The primary flow line can include multiple access points along its length and feeds to a merging fluid pathway proximate to the distal terminus of the primary IV set. At least one secondary IV set with corresponding flow lines can be separably joined to the primary IV set to cause the secondary flow lines to be in fluid communication with the primary flow line. At least one of the IV sets can have a unique set of uniform marking indicia to facilitate rapid identification of the IV sets from other IV sets within the IV set system. Such marked and identified primary and/or secondary IV sets can be allocated to specific medical functions and/or can be for use by specific medical personnel to thereby minimize risk of error in administration of an IV to a patient. The IV set system can further comprise a merging fluid pathway about a primary IV set.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Assignee: Somnus Medical, LLC
    Inventors: Lucas Reichert, Edwin T. Bulloch, Anthony Clark Harward
  • Patent number: 9833560
    Abstract: An intravenous (IV) set system comprising a primary IV set defining a primary flow line of the IV set system. The primary flow line can include multiple access points along its length and feeds to a merging fluid pathway proximate to the distal terminus of the primary IV set. At least one secondary IV set with corresponding flow lines can be separably joined to the primary IV set to cause the secondary flow lines to be in fluid communication with the primary flow line. At least one of the IV sets can have a unique set of uniform marking indicia to facilitate rapid identification of the IV sets from other IV sets within the IV set system. Such marked and identified primary and/or secondary IV sets can be allocated to specific medical functions and/or can be for use by specific medical personnel to thereby minimize risk of error in administration of an IV to a patient. The IV set system can further comprise a merging fluid pathway about a primary IV set.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2017
    Assignee: Somnus Medical, LLC
    Inventors: Lucas Reichert, Edwin T. Bulloch, Anthony Clark Harward
  • Patent number: 9782548
    Abstract: This invention is an air block for industrial, medical, and non-medical uses. For example, the air block is connected to the proximal end of a vascular access catheter. The air block is either removably connected to the proximal end of the catheter or it is integral to the proximal end of the catheter. The air block permits introduction of other catheters or instrumentation through its central lumen and on into a lumen of the catheter while minimizing fluid loss or gain into the catheter. The air block further prevents air from entering the catheter and provides for removal of the air or other gas from the central lumen before it can enter the catheter where it could cause harm to the patient. The air block can be attached to various standard proximal catheter terminations including Luer fittings and hemostasis valve outer barrels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2017
    Assignee: THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA
    Inventors: Kalyanam Shivkumar, David A. Cesario
  • Patent number: 9585691
    Abstract: The present application includes a sheath that is suitable for use in a variety of medical procedures. In one or more implementations, the sheath includes a shunt member, and a curvable portion. The curvable portion may be configured in various orientations to facilitate an intervention, such as a hemodialysis intervention, or the like, by an operator. The curvable portion may be configured to bend between a substantially straight configuration and a curved configuration. In implementations, the sheath may be configured to have detachable and/or interchangeable components (e.g., shunt member, curvable portion, etc.).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: Board of Regents of the University of Nebraska
    Inventor: Gregory Gordon
  • Patent number: 9565853
    Abstract: An apparatus for separating gas bubbles that may be entrained in perfusate flow prevents such bubbles from continuing downstream and entering an organ or tissue. The apparatus may include a chamber having a top wall, a bottom wall and side walls. The chamber may include an inlet configured to allow at least one of gas and liquid to enter the chamber, an air opening configured to allow at least gas to exit the chamber and a first liquid opening configured to allow at least liquid to exit the chamber. The apparatus may function as an accumulator that reduces or eliminates pulsatility of the liquid flow and pressure. The apparatus may include a minimum volume of gas, initially or through the accumulation of gas, such that flow and pressure fluctuations in the liquid are dampened or eliminated. The apparatus may include a sampling port in a wall of the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2017
    Assignee: LIFELINE SCIENTIFIC, INC.
    Inventors: Christopher P. Steinman, Jeffrey S. Louis, Rick W. Walker, Evan D. Shapiro, Aaron R. Ferber, Rodney H. Monson, John Stark, Ross Lockwood
  • Patent number: 9463419
    Abstract: An assembly of immersed filtering membrane modules on the order of a cassette or larger are aerated in a series of air-on or high flow rate periods, each in the range of 0.5 to 20 seconds long, separated by longer air-off or low flow rate periods, each in the range of 5 to 40 seconds long. A manifold is in fluid communication with one or more aerators. The manifold and aerators are located in association with the modules. The assembly of immersed filtering membrane modules are provided with a burst of air from the plurality of aerators. The aerators may be fed with a continuous supply of air. The modules may be connected together in a cassette or rack. Bubbles from the aerators may be redirected or dissipated with a deflector before they contact the modules.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2016
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: Joseph Breitner
  • Patent number: 9320839
    Abstract: A small manually operable pump which may be of the squeeze-bulb type, arranged to reduce fluid pressure and receive a fluid at a first end and to discharge a flow from an opposite end, and provided with a connector at each end so that it can be connected to various articles of emergency medical equipment to provide increased pressure or suction as required. A collection bag is arranged to use both the suction and the pressurized flow of the pump to suck materials from a wound or a patient's airway into the collection bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: The Seaberg Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Lance D. Hopman, Lane M. Johnson, Eric E. Batdorf
  • Patent number: 8974414
    Abstract: A drip chamber having an upper reservoir that is separated from a lower reservoir via a filter assembly, wherein a distance between the filter assembly and a bottom surface of the drip chamber is selected to prevent dislodged air bubbles of the filter assembly from being drawn into an intravenous fluid line that is coupled to the bottom surface of the drip chamber, during an infusion procedure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Assignee: Becton, Dickinson and Company
    Inventors: Darius Alisantoso, Kiat Jin Cheng, Kevin Neo
  • Publication number: 20150018765
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an infusion set (10) that provides for continuous air free delivery of liquid to patients undergoing infusion procedures. In particular, the invention provides for an infusion set (10) that prevents air entering the infusion tubing (40) through the drip chamber (20) by using a hydrophilic membrane (21) having a defined wetting time and a defined mean pore size that will provide a defined bubble pressure point under gravitational pull to permit continuous air free infusion liquid flow there-through. The invention further provides for a clip (50) that once closed, no air bubble is able to pass through the hydrophilic membrane (21) due to the adjustment of the roller clamp (60) along the infusion tubing (40) thereby ensuring safe replacement of the infusion bottle during multiple infusion procedures, thus preventing the occurrence of air embolism in patients especially when the drip chamber (20) is empty.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2014
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Inventors: Thean Fook WONG, Wen Wvei WONG
  • Publication number: 20140350511
    Abstract: A fluid control system for delivery of a liquid includes a pneumatic drive that incorporates a linear actuator to effect known volume changes in a gas reservoir. The gas reservoir is in fluid communication with a gas-side reservoir that is separated from a fluid-side reservoir by a flexible membrane. Movement of the linear actuator effects positive or negative volume differences on the gas in the gas-side reservoir, resulting in a decrease or increase in pressure of the gas that is transmitted to the fluid-side reservoir to draw fluid, primarily liquid, in from a source or deliver liquid out to a sink. In another aspect, a mechanism is provided for the detection and elimination of air bubbles in the fluid path.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2014
    Publication date: November 27, 2014
    Applicant: LEVERAGED DEVELOPMENTS LLC
    Inventors: Jeffrey A. Carlisle, Lawrence M. Kuba
  • Patent number: 8870846
    Abstract: A device for priming and venting a hazardous drug within an intravenous administration set. The device includes various access ports and fluid channels to permit direct injection of a hazardous drug into the fluid reservoir, while eliminating the possibility of undesirable exposure to the hazardous drug. The device further includes priming and flushing ports to enable flushing of a hazardous drug from the system following an infusion procedure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: Becton, Dickinson and Company
    Inventors: Bryan G. Davis, Minh Quang Hoang
  • Publication number: 20140249477
    Abstract: A cap assembly for a self-priming IV set valve includes a body portion that is configured to be removably connected to the IV set valve; a hydrophobic filter that is mounted to the body portion; and an actuator having a free end that is configured to either puncture, move or displace a valve element of the IV set valve. A fluid passageway is disposed either in or along the actuator. When the cap assembly is mounted to the IV set valve, the actuator either punctures, moves or displaces the valve element of the IV set valve such that air and liquid within the IV set valve can flow through the fluid passageway and onto the hydrophobic filter, whereupon the hydrophobic filter of the cap assembly prevents the passage of liquid through the hydrophobic filter while the hydrophobic filter permits the passage of air there-through and into the atmosphere.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2014
    Publication date: September 4, 2014
    Applicant: B. Braun Medical Inc.
    Inventors: John D. Grimm, Joel M. Bartholomew, Kenneth C. Raines, Martin Unverdorben
  • Publication number: 20140249476
    Abstract: A self-priming IV set valve includes a connector including a valve element that is positioned inside of the connector, and a cap that is removably connected to the connector. When the cap is mounted to the connector a passageway is formed in the connector such that air and liquid are permitted to pass through the connector and into the cap whereupon a hydrophobic filter of the cap prevents the passage of liquid there through while the hydrophobic filter permits the passage of air out of the cap and into the atmosphere. When the cap is not mounted to the connector, the valve element of the connector is configured to open under pressure and close when pressure ceases. Also disclosed is a method of priming the IV set, a cap assembly for a self-priming IV set valve, and a connector for a self-priming IV set valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2014
    Publication date: September 4, 2014
    Applicant: B. Braun Medical Inc.
    Inventors: John D. Grimm, Joel M. Bartholomew, Kenneth C. Raines, Martin Unverdorben
  • Publication number: 20140228806
    Abstract: A drip chamber having an upper reservoir that is separated from a lower reservoir via a filter assembly, wherein a distance between the filter assembly and a bottom surface of the drip chamber is selected to prevent dislodged air bubbles of the filter assembly from being drawn into an intravenous fluid line that is coupled to the bottom surface of the drip chamber, during an infusion procedure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2013
    Publication date: August 14, 2014
    Applicant: BECTON, DICKINSON AND COMPANY
    Inventors: Darius Alisantoso, Kiat Jin Cheng, Kevin Neo
  • Patent number: 8696626
    Abstract: A device for removal of a gas from a liquid in a medical infusion line has a housing containing a plurality of hollow fiber membranes. Preferably liquid passes on the exterior of the membranes and gas bubbles in the liquid pass into the lumens of the hollow fiber membranes. This is for removal by a vacuum. The device can include its own vacuum chamber. When the device has its own vacuum chamber, it can include a warning system to alert a user to replace the device when the provided vacuum is no longer sufficient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Inventor: Claudia F. E. Kirsch
  • Patent number: 8663160
    Abstract: A priming indicator for a fluid infusion system includes a luer cap or other component of the infusion system having an indicator surface covered by a membrane. The membrane exhibits a first visual characteristic, such as being opaque, when dry and exhibits a second characteristic, such as becoming less opaque, when wet. Once the membrane becomes wet, indicia on the surface, which may be provided on a rod at least partially covered by the membrane, becomes visible, thereby indicating an intravenous tube to which the luer cap is secured has been primed or is nearly primed. The indicator may alternately be employed at an upstream end of an infusion set, such as at the port of a medical bag providing a supply of fluid, to indicate a low level of fluid in the medical bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignees: Baxter International Inc., Baxter Healthcare S.A.
    Inventors: Shmuel Sternberg, Siddharth B. Desai, Larry Black, Robin G. Pauley
  • Publication number: 20130338588
    Abstract: A self-priming IV set valve includes a connector including a valve element that is positioned inside of the connector, and a cap that is removably connected to the connector. When the cap is mounted to the connector a passageway is formed in the connector such that air and liquid are permitted to pass through the connector and into the cap whereupon a hydrophobic filter of the cap prevents the passage of liquid there through while the hydrophobic filter permits the passage of air out of the cap and into the atmosphere. When the cap is not mounted to the connector, the valve element of the connector is configured to open under pressure and close when pressure ceases. Also disclosed is a method of priming the IV set, a cap assembly for a self-priming IV set valve, and a connector for a self-priming IV set valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2012
    Publication date: December 19, 2013
    Applicant: B.Braun Medical Inc.
    Inventors: John D. Grimm, Joel M. Bartholomew, Kenneth C. Raines, Martin Unverdorben
  • Publication number: 20130331787
    Abstract: A bacteria-retaining medical valve including a housing defining a liquid inlet and a liquid outlet, a valve located within the housing downstream of the liquid inlet and a bacterial filter assembly located within the housing downstream of the valve and upstream of the liquid outlet, the bacterial filter assembly including hydrophilic bacterial impermeable passageways which are configured to permit liquid passage therethrough and prevent bacterial passage therethrough and air passage therethrough and hydrophobic bacterial impermeable passageways which are configured to permit air passage therethrough and prevent bacterial passage therethrough and liquid passage therethrough.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 2, 2012
    Publication date: December 12, 2013
    Inventor: Menahem Kraus
  • Patent number: 8597243
    Abstract: Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to limiting a presence of air bubbles in a fluidic medium expelled from a reservoir. In various embodiments, a reservoir is shaped so as to limit a presence of air bubbles in a fluidic medium expelled from the reservoir. Also, in various embodiments, a plunger head within a reservoir is shaped so as to limit a presence of air bubbles in a fluidic medium expelled from the reservoir. In some embodiments, both a reservoir and a plunger head within the reservoir are shaped so as to limit a presence of air bubbles in a fluidic medium expelled from the reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: Medtronic MiniMed, Inc.
    Inventors: Julian D. Kavazov, Sheldon B. Moberg, Ian B. Hanson, Colin A. Chong, Eric M. Lorenzen, Rafael Bikovsky, Truong Gia Luan
  • Patent number: 8523829
    Abstract: An intravenous system includes an assembly for coupling a solution container to a delivery system drip chamber used for regulating the flow rate of solution in a patient intravenous line. In one embodiment, the solution delivery system includes a drip chamber having an opening formed in a side wall, and a vent plug disposed in the opening for providing a self-priming function to the IV system. A termination end of the patient intravenous line includes an end cap with a vent and a seal for allowing air in the intravenous line to escape through the end cap while preventing leakage of solution from the termination end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Becton, Dickinson and Company
    Inventors: Tom Minh Miner, Peter Hartl, Angelika Christoph
  • Patent number: 8419685
    Abstract: This invention is an air block for industrial, medical, and non-medical uses. For example, the air block is connected to the proximal end of a vascular access catheter. The air block is either removably connected to the proximal end of the catheter or it is integral to the proximal end of the catheter. The air block permits introduction of other catheters or instrumentation through its central lumen and on into a lumen of the catheter while minimizing fluid loss or gain into the catheter. The air block further prevents air from entering the catheter and provides for removal of the air or other gas from the central lumen before it can enter the catheter where it could cause harm to the patient. The air block can be attached to various standard proximal catheter terminations including Luer fittings and hemostasis valve outer barrels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: The Regents of the University of California
    Inventors: Kalyanam Shivkumar, David A. Cesario
  • Patent number: 8398590
    Abstract: A priming indicator for a fluid infusion system includes a luer cap or other component of the infusion system having an indicator surface covered by a membrane. The membrane exhibits a first visual characteristic, such as being opaque, when dry and exhibits a second characteristic, such as becoming less opaque, when wet. Once the membrane becomes wet, indicia on the surface, which may be provided on a rod at least partially covered by the membrane, becomes visible, thereby indicating an intravenous tube to which the luer cap is secured has been primed or is nearly primed. The indicator may alternately be employed at an upstream end of an infusion set, such as at the port of a medical bag providing a supply of fluid, to indicate a low level of fluid in the medical bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignees: Baxter International Inc., Baxter Healthcare S.A.
    Inventors: Shmuel Sternberg, Siddarth B. Desai, Larry Black, Robin G. Pauley
  • Publication number: 20130066272
    Abstract: A medical infusion filter including a box body defined by at least two half shells coupled to define an internal cavity divided into at least two chambers by at least one hydrophilic filtering membrane. These chambers include at least one first or entry chamber and at least one second or exit chamber. The at least one first or entry chamber connected to an entry conduit for the medical fluid originating from a corresponding container. The at least one second or exit chamber connected to an exit conduit. At least the first or entry chamber is within a first half shell presenting at least one aperture within which a corresponding hydrophobic membrane is positioned. The at least one aperture enables a differential air flow rate to pass towards the exterior of the box casing as a function of distance of the casing air exit zone from the entry conduit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: GVS S.p.A
    Inventor: Massimo SCAGLIARINI
  • Patent number: 8382712
    Abstract: A filter device of the present invention includes a hydrophilic filter located in a vertical space in a filter housing to filter off solid impurities in an introduced liquid, at least one hydrophobic filter located corresponding to at least one gas discharge hole provided in the filter housing, the hydrophobic filter allowing gas in the introduced liquid to be discharged to the outside before and/or after the liquid passes through the hydrophilic filter, and a blocking member for preventing gas in the liquid passing through the hydrophilic filter from flowing into the outlet tube, the blocking member being installed in the filter housing to block the outlet tube, the blocking member having a longitudinal passage formed in a center portion thereof so that the liquid is introduced into the outlet tube through the passage and discharged therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: E-Wha Fresenius Kabi Inc.
    Inventor: Yong-Nyun Kim
  • Publication number: 20130030407
    Abstract: Fluidic components, systems, and methods for use in ophthalmic surgeries are disclosed. In some embodiments, a fluidics cassette for use with an ophthalmic surgical console system is provided. The fluidics cassette includes a housing, a fluid passageway extending through the housing, a membrane positioned in fluid communication with the fluid passageway such that a fluid passing through the fluid passageway contacts the membrane, and an opening extending at least partially through the housing such that the opening is in communication with the membrane and is configured to be coupled to a vacuum source. When the vacuum source is coupled to the opening, fluid passing through the passageway is subjected to the vacuum generated by the vacuum source through the membrane to remove dissolved gasses from the fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventor: John M. Bourne
  • Publication number: 20120232524
    Abstract: A multi-purpose syringe that may be used both for gravity feeding and syringe pump assisted feeding of a neonate is disclosed. The multi-purpose syringe includes a cap and a plunger. The cap and plunger may be selectively engaged to the barrel depending on whether the neonate is fed by gravity or syringe pump. The cap seals the top of the barrel but allows gas to pass between the inside of the barrel and the environment and traps liquid within the barrel. To this end, the cap has an aperture covered by a hydrophobic member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2011
    Publication date: September 13, 2012
    Inventors: Dongchul D. Hyun, Michael T. Fleury
  • Publication number: 20120226236
    Abstract: For the administering of medicaments, an adapter is provided for connection to a haemodialysis tube set, which makes possible the direct connection of a standard injection vial to the extracorporeal circuit, avoiding the introduction of air into the circuit. The adapter has two conduit pathways. The conduit pathway for the application of medicament contains a gas-blocking element. The second conduit pathway serves for the aeration of the injection vial.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 3, 2010
    Publication date: September 6, 2012
    Inventors: Massimo Fini, Stefan Weiss, Andreas Terpin, Alain Veneroni
  • Patent number: 8257308
    Abstract: The invention relates to a drug delivery device (1, 100), in particular for the delivery of drugs comprising molecules tending to spontaneously form nucleation seeds leading to fibrils, comprising a drug reservoir (2, 102) having a reservoir outlet (107) connected to a device outlet, adapted to deliver a drug fluid to a patient's body, through a pathway (5) including a fluid flow controlling system (4, 104). The pathway further includes a filtration module (6, 106) adapted to retain the nucleation seeds, preferably by forcing them through a filtering membrane pores and on the basis of hydrophobic interaction with the membrane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Assignee: Debiotech S.A.
    Inventors: François Bianchi, Christophe Conan
  • Patent number: 8216184
    Abstract: A removable clamp, for supporting a membrane filter, includes connected and opposing walls. A locking feature, which may be connected to an end of one of the walls, engages and disengages a terminal end of the other wall. When the filter is inserted between the opposing walls of the clamp, and the locking feature engages the terminal end of the other wall, an inner surface of each of the opposing walls is secured against corresponding major surfaces of the inserted filter, in order to support the filter without extending over vent holes of the filter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Bracco Diagnostics, Inc.
    Inventor: Ernest Balestracci