Means For Holding Applicator Against Body Tissue Patents (Class 607/149)
  • Patent number: 11903729
    Abstract: A method and an osseointegrated prosthesis system having an osseointegrated prosthesis member are provided having a monitoring system operably coupled to the osseointegrated prosthesis member configured to quantitatively assess the osseointegration of the osseointegrated prosthesis member, a wave-generating element coupled to the osseointegrated prosthesis member and configured to output guided waves along the osseointegrated prosthesis member interrogating an interface between bone and the osseointegrated prosthesis member, and a sensing system configured to sense a condition of the interface between bone and the prosthesis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2023
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2024
    Assignee: THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN
    Inventors: Jerome P. Lynch, Wentao Wang
  • Patent number: 11850425
    Abstract: Fitness apparatus output can be synchronized with media content that features an instructor conducting a workout session. An instructor conducts a workout session while using a recording device to generate media data, and while a computing device executes a client application to generate command data for controlling aspects of output provided by a fitness apparatus. The media data and the command data generated by the instructor can be transmitted to user computing devices over a network. Users may consume the media data on-demand, or as a live stream while the instructor is conducting the workout session. Operations specified in the command data are driven by the timestamps in the media data to synchronize the output provided by a user's fitness apparatus with the visible cues and/or audible cues of the instructor in the media content. The intensity level of the fitness apparatus output may also be customized to the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2023
    Assignee: Katalyst Interactive, Inc.
    Inventor: Björn Erich Woltermann
  • Patent number: 11798272
    Abstract: An activity assistance system includes a video camera arranged to acquire video of a person performing an activity, an output device configured to output human-perceptible prompts, and an electronic processor programmed to execute an activity script. The script comprises a sequence of steps choreographing the activity. The execution of each step includes presenting a prompt via the output device and detecting an event or sequence of events subsequent to the presenting of the prompt. Each event is detected by performing object detection on the video to detect one or more objects depicted in the video and applying one or more object-oriented image analysis functions to detect a spatial or temporal arrangement of one or more of the detected objects. Each event detection triggers an action comprising at least one of presenting a prompt via the output device and and/or going to another step of the activity script.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2021
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2023
    Assignee: BATTELLE MEMORIAL INSTITUTE
    Inventors: Samuel Colachis, Gaurav Sharma, Collin Dunlap, Douglas Boyd, Joshua Branch
  • Patent number: 11759389
    Abstract: A garment with prepositioned, definite sensory stimulating devices attached. These sensory stimulating devices include, but are not limited to, electrical stimulation, audio and physical stimulation such as localised force generation, compression, constriction, vibration, and surround sound. Predetermined and defined actuators allow the wearer to receive tissue, nerve and/or muscle stimulation and/or contraction so that the stimulation is precise as determined by its ability to conform to the scientific methodology of repeatability, reproducibility and reliability; this being due to consistency of actuator positioning in one or multiple locals on the human body. A personal surround sound can also be integrated to the garment to ensure the wearer is always in the optimal position relative the speakers. These actuators can be force generators within the garment for the wearer to feel impact or apparatus or electrodes included in the garment to locally constrict and increase pressure on the wearer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2023
    Assignee: IFTECH INVENTING FUTURE TECHNOLOGY, INC.
    Inventors: Michael Gerald Stanfield, Brodie Myles Stanfield
  • Patent number: 11617879
    Abstract: An implantable medical device (IMD) has a housing enclosing an electronic circuit. The housing includes a first housing portion, a second housing portion and a joint coupling the first housing portion to the second housing portion. A polymer seal is positioned in the joint in various embodiments. Other embodiments of an IMD housing are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2023
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Brad C. Tischendorf, John E. Kast, Thomas P. Miltich, Gordon O. Munns, Randy S. Roles, Craig L. Schmidt, Joseph J. Viavattine, Christian S. Nielsen, Prabhakar A. Tamirisa, Anthony M. Chasensky, Markus W. Réitérer, Chris J. Paidosh, Reginald D. Robinson, Bernard Q. Li, Erik R. Scott, Phillip C. Falkner, Xuan K. Wei, Eric H. Bonde
  • Patent number: 11580877
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a control system for a movement reconstruction and/or restoration system for a patient, comprising a movement model generation module to generate movement model data information, an analysis module receiving and processing data provided at least by the movement model generation module, wherein the control system is configured and arranged to prepare and provide on the basis of data received by the movement model generation module and the analysis module a movement model describing the movement of a patient and providing, on the basis of the movement model, stimulation data for movement reconstruction and/or restoration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2023
    Assignee: Onward Medical N.V.
    Inventors: Miroslav Caban, Niek Borgers, Urs Keller, Joachim von Zitzewitz, Jurriaan Bakker, Vincent Delattre, Emmanuel Pignat
  • Patent number: 11540762
    Abstract: A Wearable Cardioverter Defibrillator (WCD) system comprises an electrode assembly with a permeable ECG electrode and a moisture barrier. In some embodiments, the moisture barrier is configured to reduce drying out of the permeable ECG electrode to improve performance of the WCD system. In a further enhancement, some embodiments of the electrode assembly also include a pillow structure positioned on a non-skin-contacting surface of the electrode assembly to comfortably reduce movement artifact or noise in the received ECG signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2023
    Assignee: WEST AFFUM HOLDINGS DAC
    Inventors: Dallas E. Meeker, Kiah Lesher, Douglas K. Medema, Robert R. Buchanan, Zoie R. Engman, Phillip D. Foshee, Jr., David P. Finch
  • Patent number: 11449095
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a display device. The display device includes a display module, a plurality of joint units, and a mesh pattern layer. The display module includes a first non-folding region, a second non-folding region, and a folding region disposed between the first non-folding region and the second non-folding region. The plurality of joint units are disposed under the display module, overlapped with the folding region, and sequentially arranged in a first direction. The mesh pattern layer is disposed between the display module and the plurality of joint units and includes a mesh pattern and a plurality of openings defined by the mesh pattern. Therefore, the display device according to an embodiment of the inventive concept may have excellent visibility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2022
    Assignee: SAMSUNG DISPLAY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Junghun Lee
  • Patent number: 11400277
    Abstract: An effective neuromodulation electrode assembly configured to provide a precise neuromodulation of a desired nerves whilst forming an efficient electro conductive interface between a patient skin and the neuromodulation electrode. The neuromodulation electrode comprising an enclosure having on one side a protrusion extending up to an end having an opening, an electrical interface, an electro conductive electrode piece coupled to the electrical interface on one end and having the opposite end configured to interact with a patient skin. The electrode piece further comprising, an electrically conductive solid element coupled on one side to the electrical interface and an electrically conductive soft deformable element that projects outwards through the opening and which adapted to form an interface between the solid element and the patient skin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2022
    Assignee: Tesla Medical S.R.O
    Inventor: Lukas Doskocil
  • Patent number: 11351361
    Abstract: A system and method are provided for a wireless electrical stimulation. The system generally includes at least two electrical stimulation units. Each electrical stimulation unit includes electrodes connected to the unit. The system also includes a transmitter for remotely, wirelessly controlling each of the electrical stimulation units to selectively apply a time-varying electric potential to the electrodes to provide an electrical stimulation to tissue in electrical contact with the electrodes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2022
    Assignee: HI-DOW IPHC, INC.
    Inventor: Eric Ye Chen
  • Patent number: 11278229
    Abstract: The present invention provides an electrode headset grid adapted to fit on a head of a human subject, the grid comprising a plurality of conductive regions, electrically isolated from each other, wherein the conductive regions are configured to contact at least one electrode, and wherein the configuration of the conductive regions is configured to define an operating electrode unit. There is further provided an integrated system for brain electric stimulation and EEG monitoring, the system comprising the electrode headset grid and a plurality of electrodes. The invention further provides use of the electrode headset grid in an integrated non-invasive brain electrical stimulation and monitoring procedure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2022
    Assignee: QUANTALX NEUROSCIENCE LTD
    Inventors: Iftach Dolev, Hilla Fogel
  • Patent number: 11013910
    Abstract: Disclosed are methods, devices, and systems for treatment of an abnormal wound healing response. The methods, devices, and systems can be used to treat solid ulcerated tissue, such as diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs), arthritic tissue, muscle soreness, joint pain, varicose veins, obesity, and peripheral artery disease. Additionally, the methods, devices, and systems can promote the healing of xenograft, allograft, autograft, or engineered tissue following reconstruction surgery. The methods, devices, and systems include the ability to determine an optimal set of pulse parameters that are specific to wound healing. In embodiments, the methods, devices, and systems include components for guiding the user on electrode placement based on anatomical or electrical measurements, delivering a custom series of electric pulses, applying heat, and using feedback from physiologic measurements to control the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2021
    Assignee: Adlore, Inc.
    Inventors: Daryl Lawson, Christopher Brian Arena
  • Patent number: 10987508
    Abstract: A garment worn by the patient is provided. The garment has a first module electrically connected to a second module. The first module has a first sub-control unit electrically connected to a first electrode and a second electrode placed at a first muscle of the patient and a third electrode and a fourth electrode placed at a second muscle. The sub-control unit is electrically connected to a master unit. The first muscle is stimulated with a first stimulation signal without shortening the first muscle by sending the first stimulation signal to the first electrode placed at the first muscle. The stimulation of the first muscle relaxes the second muscle. A measuring unit (U1) of the master unit determines a first current value flowing from the first electrode through the first muscle to the second electrode and sends the first current value to a central processing unit (CPU).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2021
    Assignee: INERVENTIONS AB
    Inventors: Lars Dernebo, Fredrik Lundqvist
  • Patent number: 10877865
    Abstract: A compute infrastructure interconnected with a network configured for allotting a benchmark message. The benchmark message comprises program code, or references to program code, to be executed on a reflecting entity. The reflecting entity is able to execute program code. The program code requests capabilities of the reflecting entity when being executed. The compute infrastructure is further configured for sending of the benchmark message to the reflecting entity. The compute infrastructure is further configured for receiving the benchmark message and for executing, in the reflecting entity, the program code. The compute infrastructure is further configured for providing a benchmark reply message. The benchmark reply message comprises execution time and optionally execution result of the execution of said program code. The compute infrastructure is further configured for returning the benchmark reply message from the reflecting entity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2020
    Assignee: Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson (Publ)
    Inventors: Andreas Johnsson, Christofer Flinta, Johan Christer Wilhelm Granath
  • Patent number: 10478250
    Abstract: An electrosurgical return electrode configured for operable association with a transponder detection unit. The return electrode includes a conductive element having an aperture array configured to allow passage of a magnetic, electric, or electromagnetic interrogation signal from the transponder detection unit through the conductive element and through the return electrode. The return electrode is positionable over a transponder detection unit such that the return electrode may be placed upon the transponder detection unit and a patient may be positioned upon the return electrode. The return electrode enables the detection of a transponder located on, within, and/or near the patient without the need for repositioning the patient relative to the return electrode and without the need for positioning an ancillary transponder reader or transmitter above the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2019
    Assignee: Megadyne Medical Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael D. Ehninger, Paul R. Borgmeier, Darcy W. Greep
  • Patent number: 10456573
    Abstract: A device covering for controlling blood flow includes a cuff configured to be mounted to an extremity of a patient. The cuff includes a plurality of electrodes electrically connectible to a stimulation power supply. Upon receipt of power from the stimulation power supply, the electrodes supply electrical impulses to the anatomical site in order to stem or stop blood flow. In some cases, the stimulation power supply is an interferential therapy power supply, and a pair of electrodes supplies electrical impulses at two different frequencies, the electrical impulses provided at two different frequencies giving rise to at least one beat impulse having an interference frequency. The beat impulse activates the sympathetic nerves to induce vasoconstriction in the local blood vessels. Alternatively, the beat impulse can be programmed to target the parasympathetic nerves if vasodilatation is desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2019
    Assignee: Feinstein Patents, LLC
    Inventor: Peter A. Feinstein
  • Patent number: 10420929
    Abstract: A system for electrostimulation therapy includes two or more electrodes of different metals or metal alloys. The electrodes can be optionally provided on a flexible non-conducting substrate with a binder, thereby acting as a bandage or patch. Alternatively, the electrodes can be in the form of a needle, such as acupuncture needle, bracelets, armbands, wristbands, necklaces, or jewelry pieces. A method for electrostimulation therapy includes the steps of attaching a first electrode to a user or soil of a plant at a first location and attaching at least one additional electrode to the user or the plant at other locations for a predetermined period. The electrodes are not connected to a voltage or current source. Because at least two electrodes are of different metals, they cause an electrical current to flow via at least a portion of the user or the soil of the plant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2019
    Assignee: Aganyan Inc.
    Inventors: Hakop Aganyan, Suren Manukyan, Vagarshak Pilossyan, Silvia Aganyan
  • Patent number: 10391306
    Abstract: An implantable medical device is disclosed herein and can be in the form of an implantable medical lead or a leadless pulse generator. The implantable medical device includes a body, at least one electrode and a tube-cut helical fixation anchor. The body includes a distal end and a proximal end opposite the distal end. The at least one electrode is supported on the body. The tube-cut helical fixation anchor distally extends from the distal end. The tube-cut helical fixation anchor may be fixed or extendable/retractable relative to the distal end. The tube-cut helical fixation anchor may be a result of a manufacturing process comprising cutting the tube-cut helical fixation anchor from a thin-walled tubular body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: Pacesetter, Inc.
    Inventors: Ivan Ma, Bruce Weir, Matthew G. Fishler, Ott Khouengboua
  • Patent number: 10363410
    Abstract: Systems and methods of providing life support are provided. A life support system includes a first life support device that has a control unit and is configured to apply a life support protocol to a subject. The first life support device also includes a memory unit that can store life support protocol information, and the control unit can provide the life support protocol information to a second life support device. The control unit can also receive operating instructions from the second life support device based on the life support protocol information, and can implement the operating instructions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2019
    Assignee: ZOLL Medical Corporation
    Inventors: Frederick J. Geheb, Gary A. Freeman
  • Patent number: 10258788
    Abstract: Electrodes having an active region formed of a plurality of layers in which one or more conductive layers is formed of a pattern having a plurality of branches and/or holes (e.g. a grid pattern, a snowflake pattern, etc.) to provide a greater density of edges, so that the ratio of edges in the patterned conductive layer to the perimeter of the active region is greater than a minimum value (e.g., 1.5, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, etc.). The multiple layers may include the patterned conductive layer and a second conductive layer, which may also be patterned, with a less conductive layer sandwiched between them to achieve a more even charge distribution across the face of the active region than in addition to the greater current density provided by the large number of edges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2019
    Assignee: Thync Global, Inc.
    Inventor: Douglas Jeffery
  • Patent number: 10232169
    Abstract: A burr hole plug includes a first plug base defining a burr hole aperture and including first grooves; a second plug base to be disposed around the first plug base and including second grooves to receive a portion of an electrical stimulation lead; a cover to be disposed on the second plug base; a cap to be disposed over the burr hole aperture and coupled to the first plug base; and an extension coupled to, and extending away from, the cover. The extension includes conductors and the second plug base and the cover include conductive elements to electrically couple the terminals of the electrical stimulation lead, when disposed in the second grooves, to the conductors of the extension. An alternative burr hole plug includes a lead connector disposed on the cap and having a connector aperture to receive the proximal end of the electrical stimulation lead.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2019
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation Corporation
    Inventors: Michael X. Govea, Joshua Dale Howard, David Ernest Wechter
  • Patent number: 9907947
    Abstract: Systems and methods of providing life support are provided. A life support system includes a first life support device that has a control unit and is configured to apply a life support protocol to a subject. The first life support device also includes a memory unit that can store life support protocol information, and the control unit can provide the life support protocol information to a second life support device. The control unit can also receive operating instructions from the second life support device based on the life support protocol information, and can implement the operating instructions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2018
    Assignee: ZOLL Medical Corporation
    Inventors: Frederick J. Geheb, Gary A. Freeman
  • Patent number: 9793742
    Abstract: There is provided a wireless charging device including: a case part including at least two case portions which are configured to be overlapped with each other; and a power supply part including power supply units disposed in the case portions, respectively, wherein when the case portions are overlapped with each other, power supply electrodes of the power supply units are disposed to be overlapped with each other in the same direction, so as to charge at least one target object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2017
    Assignee: Samsung Electro-Mechanics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: In Wha Jeong, Jong Heum Park, Hugh Kim
  • Patent number: 9675802
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for stimulating the lower back and abdominal muscles in a patient comprising applying a first electrode A1/A2 substantially centrally to the lower lumbar region of the patient's body, and applying second and third electrodes B, C respectively to opposite side flanks of the patient's body. The electrodes are energized to apply a first group of muscular stimulation current pulses which flow between the second and third electrodes and a second group of muscular stimulation current pulses which flow between the first electrode and the second and third electrodes alternately.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2017
    Assignees: University College Dublin, National University of Ireland, Dublin, Bio-Medical Research Ltd.
    Inventors: Louis Crowe, Brian Caulfield, Conor Minogue
  • Patent number: 9616224
    Abstract: A functional electrical stimulation method for rehabilitating, treating, retraining, and/or otherwise improving upper extremity mobility and control in persons having impaired or disabled upper extremities due to stroke or spinal cord injury, comprising stimulation of the lumbricalis muscles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2017
    Assignee: MyndTec Inc.
    Inventors: Abudulkadir Bulsen, Naaz Ankur Desai, Milos Popovic
  • Patent number: 9440069
    Abstract: The invention includes an electro-acupuncture stimulation system for in vivo and in situ analgesia and tissue repair and regeneration. Electrodes, which can be acupuncture needles, are percutaneously implanted that deliver a pulsed electrical current that creates an electrical field, which envelopes the targeted tissue and restores cell-generating homeostasis to the affected tissue and thereby promotes analgesia and tissue re-growth in otherwise debilitated or deteriorating tissue. Methods and apparatuses are also disclosed that may include a needle locking system and acupuncture-needle assemblies for long-term in situ electrical stimulation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Inventor: Y. King Liu
  • Patent number: 9433781
    Abstract: Disclosed are a method and apparatus for improving electrode-skin contact. The electrode is a segmented electrode having an array of energy applying surfaces mounted on a substrate via at least one electro-mechanical energy converting element to a segment of skin. The electrode is coupled to the skin and a mechanism monitors the quality of electrode-skin contact under the energy applying surfaces. Activation of the electro-mechanical energy converting elements effects mechanical movement of the skin and energy applying surfaces and redistributes the skin surface coupled to the electrodes conforming it to the topography of the RF energy applying surfaces to optimize electrode-skin contact. The segmented electrode is operative to be disposable while enabling reuse of costly components of the electrode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2016
    Assignee: SYNERON MEDICAL LTD.
    Inventors: Shimon Eckhous, Lion Flyash
  • Patent number: 9393437
    Abstract: A conductive fluid reservoir can be used to dispense conductive fluid to increase electrical connectivity between an electrode of a defibrillator and a patient. The reservoir includes a container that holds the conductive fluid, one or more outlets on the container, and an inflatable pouch located at least partially within the container. The inflatable pouch is capable of being inflated from a deflated state to an inflated state. In the deflated state, a free end of the inflatable pouch covers the one or more outlets. In the inflated state, the free end of the inflatable pouch is removed from the one or more outlets such that the conductive fluid is allowed to flow out of the container via the one or more outlets. Inflating the inflatable pouch causes the conductive fluid to be dispensed from the reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2016
    Assignee: WEST AFFUM HOLDINGS CORP.
    Inventor: Dallas Meeker
  • Patent number: 9248286
    Abstract: Devices, systems and methods are disclosed that allow a patient to self-treat a medical condition, such as migraine headache, by electrical noninvasive stimulation of a vagus nerve. The system comprises a stimulator that is applied to the surface of the patient's neck, as well as a docking station that is used to charge a rechargeable battery within the stimulator. The docking station and stimulator housing transmit data to one another regarding the status of a stimulation session, as well as to a computer program in a patient interface device such as a mobile phone or computer. The interface device in turn communicates with medical record and billing databases contained within other computers, via the internet. The system is designed to address problems that arise particularly during self-treatment, when a medical professional is not present.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2016
    Assignee: Electrocore, LLC
    Inventors: Bruce J. Simon, Joseph P. Errico, John T. Raffle
  • Patent number: 9198792
    Abstract: According to various embodiments of the invention, an electrode for an orthotic device, includes: a conductive layer for receiving and distributing electrical current, the conductive layer formed to have a connection portion, the connection portion configured to receive an electrical current from at least one contact disposed on an orthotic device, according to an electrophysical modality; and, an interface layer attached to the conductive layer, the interface layer configured to conform to a wearer's anatomy and to conduct electrical current from the conductive layer to the wearer's anatomy. The connection portion is configured to be electrically connected to the at least one contact disposed on the orthotic device when applied by the wearer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2015
    Assignee: VISION QUEST INDUSTRIES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Michael Skahan, Kevin Lunau, Timothy Stoltenburg, Robert Gilmour
  • Patent number: 9174066
    Abstract: A non-invasive electrical stimulation device shapes an elongated electric field of effect that can be oriented parallel to a long nerve, such as a vagus nerve in a patient's neck, producing a desired physiological response in the patient. The stimulator comprises a source of electrical power, at least one electrode and a continuous electrically conducting medium in which the electrode(s) are in contact. The stimulation device is configured to produce a peak pulse voltage that is sufficient to produce a physiologically effective electric field in the vicinity of a target nerve, but not to substantially stimulate other nerves and muscles that lie between the vicinity of the target nerve and patient's skin. Current is passed through the electrodes in bursts of preferably five sinusoidal pulses, wherein each pulse within a burst has a duration of preferably 200 microseconds, and bursts repeat at preferably at 15-50 bursts per second.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2015
    Assignee: Electrocore, LLC
    Inventors: Bruce Simon, Joseph Errico, John T. Raffle
  • Patent number: 9168001
    Abstract: The invention comprises an apparatus for determining the contextual or physiological status of the individual wearing the apparatus. The apparatus is designed to be consumable or disposable. In most embodiments the invention comprises an adhesive housing. In some embodiments, two different sensors are secured to the housing. The apparatus is in electronic communication with a processing unit that can derive analytical status data by using the data received from the two sensors. In some embodiments, the processing unit is programmed to control other devices, or is programmed to trigger an event. In still other embodiments, the apparatus is in electronic communication with a separate computing device, which may contain the processing unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2015
    Assignee: BodyMedia, Inc.
    Inventors: John M. Stivoric, Scott K. Boehmke, Eric Teller, Christopher Kasabach
  • Patent number: 9132267
    Abstract: An electrode assembly includes a first surface to be placed adjacent a person's skin and a second surface including a plurality of reservoirs of conductive gel. The plurality of reservoirs of conductive gel are disposed on sections of the electrode assembly that are at least partially physically separated and may move at least partially independently of one another to conform to contours of a body of a patient. The electrode assembly is configured to dispense an amount of the electrically conductive gel onto the first surface in response to an activation signal and to provide for a defibrillating shock to be applied to the patient through the amount of the electrically conductive gel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2015
    Assignee: ZOLL MEDICAL CORPORATION
    Inventor: Thomas E. Kaib
  • Patent number: 9043001
    Abstract: Non-invasive electrical nerve stimulation devices and magnetic stimulation devices are disclosed, along with methods of treating medical disorders using energy that is delivered noninvasively by such devices. The disorders comprise migraine and other primary headaches such as cluster headaches, including sinus symptoms that resemble an immune-mediated response (“sinus” headaches), irrespective of whether those symptoms arise from an allergy that is co-morbid with the headache. The disclosed methods may also be used to treat other disorders that may be co-morbid with migraine headaches, such as anxiety disorders. In preferred embodiments of the disclosed methods, one or both of the patient's vagus nerves are stimulated non-invasively. In other embodiments, parts of the sympathetic nervous system and/or the adrenal glands are stimulated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2015
    Assignee: Electrocore, LLC
    Inventors: Bruce J. Simon, Joseph P. Errico, John T. Raffle
  • Publication number: 20150126846
    Abstract: Electrodes providing excellent recording and physical stability. Electrodes are disclosed that may include a plurality of small teeth that possess a novel design shape and orientation. The shallow and relatively long teeth run parallel to the rim of the electrode that presses against the patient's skin. When the electrode is twisted onto skin, the tiny teeth penetrate the stratum corneum and move nearly horizontally under the stratum corneum, thus anchoring the electrode securely to the skin. The electrodes cause minimal discomfort to the patient since the small teeth do not extend to the pain fibers which are located in deeper layers of the skin. The electrodes may be fabricated in a variety of geometries including cylindrical, disk, and blunt bullet or top shapes. In some instances, the electrodes may be connected to detachable leads having magnetic properties.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2012
    Publication date: May 7, 2015
    Applicant: University of Pittsburgh - of the Commonwealth System of Higher Education
    Inventors: Wenyan Jia, Mingui Sun, Robert Joseph Sclabassi
  • Patent number: 9020598
    Abstract: Non-invasive electrical nerve stimulation devices and magnetic stimulation devices are disclosed, along with methods of treating medical disorders using energy that is delivered noninvasively by such devices. The disorders comprise migraine and other primary headaches such as cluster headaches, including sinus symptoms that resemble an immune-mediated response (“sinus” headaches), irrespective of whether those symptoms arise from an allergy that is co-morbid with the headache. The disclosed methods may also be used to treat other disorders that may be co-morbid with migraine headaches, such as anxiety disorders. In preferred embodiments of the disclosed methods, one or both of the patient's vagus nerves are stimulated non-invasively. In other embodiments, parts of the sympathetic nervous system and/or the adrenal glands are stimulated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Assignee: ElectroCore, LLC
    Inventors: Bruce J. Simon, Joseph P. Errico, John T. Raffle
  • Patent number: 9014824
    Abstract: A bandage having at least one support element and at least two electrodes that are spaced apart from one another, characterized in that at least two pads that are finable with a fluid are arranged on the at least one support element, and at least one electrode is fastened to each pad, wherein the at least two pads are connected to each other via at least one fluid connection in such a manner that an internal pressure compensation can take place between at least two of the pads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: Otto Bock Healthcare GmbH
    Inventors: Olaf Kroll-Orywahl, Holger Reinhardt, Erik Albrecht-Laatsch
  • Patent number: 9014821
    Abstract: This invention provides a method of using a catheter for mapping parasympathetic or sympathetic renal nerve for treatment of disease caused by systemic renal nerve hyperactivity, wherein the catheter comprises a shaft having a proximal end configured to be connected to an energy source, and a distal end (catheter tip) which is in the form of a single helix, double helix or multiple prongs having one or more electrodes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: Symap Holding Limited
    Inventor: Jie Wang
  • Patent number: 9007216
    Abstract: A wearable therapeutic device is provided. The wearable therapeutic device includes a garment, and the garment includes an electrode and a conductive thread. A control unit is coupled to the conductive thread and identifies an electrical connection between a conductive surface of the electrode and the conductive thread, and an alarm module can provide information about the positioning of the electrode in the garment based on the electrical connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Zoll Medical Corporation
    Inventors: Emil Oskin, Philip C. Skalos, Thomas E. Kaib
  • Patent number: 9002479
    Abstract: A handheld apparatus (100) provides a treatment level current to an outer conductive surface of the human body and includes an electrically conductive polyvinyl case (105) that provides a handhold to a user and an electrical ground to an apparatus circuit contained therein, the electrically conductive polyvinyl case (105) being electrically connected to a metal probe tip (170) which is electrically connected to a microchip (210) which provides the treatment level current to the metal probe tip, the treatment level current traveling through the outer conductive surface of the human body with the electrically conductive polyvinyl case (105) completing the apparatus circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Inventor: Teodoro A Unarce, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8989875
    Abstract: An electrode apparatus may be configured to provide electro-stimulation. The apparatus may include a current spreader and a spongeless volume disposed adjacent to the current spreader. The current spreader may be configured to spatially distribute electrical current across a stimulation area of a subject's skin. The spongeless volume may be configured to carry liquid gel or other fluent conductive substance that is configured to conduct electrical current between the current spreader and the stimulation area of the subject's skin to provide electro-stimulation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips N.V.
    Inventors: Timon Rutger Grob, Sima Asvadi, Antonius Wilhelmus Maria De Laat, Judith Petra Huurdeman, Dido Van Klinken
  • Patent number: 8977364
    Abstract: An external, head worn electrical nerve stimulation device, including a power source and a head band configured to fit around a patient's head, the patient's head including a front portion, a rear portion opposite the front portion, a first lateral side, and a second lateral side opposite the first lateral side. The device further includes a plurality of electrical electrodes circumferentially disposed along the head band, wherein the plurality of electrodes contacts each of the front portion, the rear portion, the first lateral side, and the second lateral side. The plurality of electrical electrodes is configured to stimulate, with electrical current, at least one of the greater occipital nerve, the lesser occipital nerve, the supraorbital nerve, the supratrochlear nerve, zygomatotemporal nerve, and the auriculotemporal nerve when the electrodes are energized by the power source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Inventors: Ioannis Mihail Skaribas, Christopher Atkinson Durst
  • Publication number: 20150057735
    Abstract: According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a wound dressing system is presented. The wound dressing system includes a fluid permeable support layer, the support layer configured for positioning within a wound and adapted to generally conform to a topography of the wound, and to permit exudates from the wound to pass therethrough. The wound dressing system further includes a plurality of beads supported by the support layer, the beads defining an insulated inter-connected elongate member and an electrode embedded within and extending through at least a portion of the elongate member. Also, a current is generated by an external energy source that electrically flows through the electrode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2014
    Publication date: February 26, 2015
    Inventor: Arnaz Malhi
  • Publication number: 20150057734
    Abstract: An apparatus and method of using same for preventing pressure ulcers is provided. More specifically, the present apparatus and method may be used in individuals having compromised mobility and/or lack of sensation to prevent pressure ulcers by electrically stimulating pressure-loaded or compressed muscles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2013
    Publication date: February 26, 2015
    Inventors: Vivian Mushahwar, Glen Isaacson, Alisa Ahmetovic, Ryan Sommer
  • Patent number: 8965535
    Abstract: An electrode for use in applying neuromuscular electrical stimulation to the pharyngeal region of a patient includes a connector to which a lead wire may be attached, a conductive film that is in electrical contact with the connector and an adhesive and conductive gel layer that is attached to the conductive film and adapted to be attached to the skin of the pharyngeal region of the patient. The electrode is sized and configured to conduct current at a density no greater than about 0.1244 mA/mM2 to the skin of the pharyngeal region for treatment of an oropharyngeal disorder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignee: ESD Limited Liability Company
    Inventors: Ed Dunlay, Tim Kretschmer
  • Patent number: 8938303
    Abstract: A therapeutic device for treating symptoms related to restless leg syndrome comprises a remote, a pair of pads, a plurality of electrodes, and a fastener assembly. The remote comprises a power source and an interface further comprising an ON/OFF switch and a method for providing variable power to the plurality of electrodes. Each pad comprises a brace-type fitting which fits around a user's afflicted area in a comfortable but secure manner. The plurality of electrodes comprises a number of electrodes affixed to the interior of each pad. A plurality of wires connects each electrode to the power source in the remote. The fastener assembly comprises a plurality of straps permanently attached to each pad, each disposed with fasteners to allow for the secure and comfortable affixation of the pads and electrodes to a user's desired area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2015
    Inventor: Brandie Matsen
  • Patent number: 8938304
    Abstract: A cochlear implant system has an implantable portion that includes a stimulator module for producing for the auditory system of a user an electrical stimulation signal representative of an acoustic signal. The implantable portion further includes a battery for supplying power to the stimulator module, a receiver module for receiving an electrical power signal across the skin of a user, and a recharge module that uses the electrical power signal to recharge the battery. The recharge module recharges the battery at less than the maximum recharge rate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2015
    Assignee: MED-EL Elektromedizinische Geraete GmbH
    Inventors: Clemens M. Zierhofer, Ingeborg J. Hochmair
  • Publication number: 20150012079
    Abstract: Various aspects of this disclosure relate to a patch for treating a patient for chronic pain and for cosmetic treatment. As consistent with one or more embodiments, neurostimulation is carried out via stimulating electrodes and one or more reference electrodes applied externally to a region of pain (e.g., by applying current between 0.2 and 60 mA to skin). The area to be treated is located either by a stimulating device, or by using at least one of the stimulating electrodes on the device itself to locate the pain prior to treatment. The electrodes are applied to the patient's skin as located using firm pressure while a stimulating pulse is applied as treatment. This action produces a remarkable and unexpected level of pain relief over a wide area. Aspects of the disclosure extend to a method for the treatment of chronic pain using the above-mentioned parameters and procedures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2014
    Publication date: January 8, 2015
    Inventor: Teodor Goroszeniuk
  • Patent number: 8886339
    Abstract: An extravascular nerve cuff that is configured to hold a leadless, integral, implantable microstimulator. The nerve cuff may include a cuff body having a pocket or pouch for removably receiving the implantable device within. The nerve cuff can be secured around the nerve such that the electrodes of the device are stably positioned relative to the nerve. Furthermore, the nerve cuff drives the majority of the current from the stimulation device into the nerve, while shielding surrounding tissues from unwanted stimulation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2014
    Assignee: SetPoint Medical Corporation
    Inventors: Michael A. Faltys, Roy C. Martin, Steven E. Scott, Gerald E. Loeb
  • Patent number: 8880196
    Abstract: An electrode assembly includes a first surface to be placed adjacent a person's skin and a second surface including a plurality of reservoirs of conductive gel. The plurality of reservoirs of conductive gel are disposed on sections of the electrode assembly that are at least partially physically separated and may move at least partially independently of one another to conform to contours of a body of a patient. The electrode assembly is configured to dispense an amount of the electrically conductive gel onto the first surface in response to an activation signal and to provide for a defibrillating shock to be applied to the patient through the amount of the to electrically conductive gel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: Zoll Medical Corporation
    Inventor: Thomas E. Kaid