Patents Examined by Kevin Sirmons
  • Patent number: 6488647
    Abstract: The automated solution injection-discharge system is used as an APDS system to supply and discharge a dialysate and a patient's drain. And an automated solution injection-discharge system provides free of contamination and operation mistakes, and can accurately control the injected dialysate volume and the discharged dwell solution volume even when a patient does not maintain a fixed posture while replacing the solution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2002
    Inventors: Hiromu Miura, Katsuya Yamashita
  • Patent number: 6319233
    Abstract: A medical device is provided which includes a shield system and a syringe which is coupled to the shield system. The shield system includes a syringe holder and a shield which is slidably coupled to the holder. A spring resiliently urges the shield from a retracted position to an extended position. Stop members are provided on the holder and shield for maintaining the shield in the retracted position. The syringe is slidably coupled to the holder, and extends within the shield. Axial movement of the syringe with respect to the holder causes disengagement of the stop members, allowing the spring to move the shield to the extended position. Detents are provided on the holder for maintaining the shield in the extended position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2001
    Assignee: Becton, Dickinson and Company
    Inventors: Hubert Jansen, Samuel Gagnieux
  • Patent number: 6277094
    Abstract: There is disclosed an apparatus and method for dilating the ligamentum flava or other soft tissue in the human body comprising a radially expandable dilator defining a first expandable tube and an offset tubular guide. A second expandable tube having an integral external guide cam is inserted into the opening of the first expandable tube and aligned with the slit in the first tube effecting radial expansion of the expandable dilator, thereby causing dilation of the ligamentum flava or other tissue. The dilation of the ligamentum flava or other tissue allowing insertion of larger medical leads or surgical instruments into the epidural space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2001
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael James Schendel