Patents Examined by Melanie J Hand
  • Patent number: 8546639
    Abstract: A urine suction device improved to achieve quick urine which includes a urine receiver unit and a urine detector unit. The urine detector unit includes a pair of electrode assemblies adapted to output a detection signal as soon as it is wetted with urine. The pair of electrode assemblies is sandwiched between a liquid-pervious first sheet and a liquid-pervious second sheet. The first and second sheets are put flat and joined together along joint zones provided outside respective pairs of opposite side edges of the electrode assemblies. Along the respective joint zones, at least one of the first and second sheets has its thickness locally reduced and the first and second sheets are kept in close contact with each other along the joint zones and in the vicinity of the joint zones.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Assignee: Uni-Charm Corporation
    Inventors: Ichiro Wada, Miou Suzuki
  • Patent number: 8439857
    Abstract: A method and a device for recognition of paravasal bleeding upon a supplying of blood to a vascular access via a line and/or upon the removal of blood from a vascular access via a line is provided. A device for extracorporeal blood treatment comprising a device for recognition of paravasal bleeding is also provided. The method and the device are based on the change of arterial pressure in the arterial branch or the venous pressure in the venous branch of the extra-corporeal circuit being registered during the extracorporeal blood treatment. One aspect of the method and the device is that pressure changes that come from a pressure level exhibiting a large difference from a reference value are more strongly considered than those that come from a pressure level that exhibits only a minor difference from the reference value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Assignee: Fresenius Medial Care Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Pascal Kopperschmidt, Malte Gross, Reiner Spickermann
  • Patent number: 8382727
    Abstract: A skin topical applicator apparatus includes an arm that has a first end and a second end. A cavity is positioned in the arm and is adjacent to the first end. A mount is attached to the arm and extends away from the first end of the arm. A roller is rotatably attached to the mount. A canister is removably mounted in the cavity and a nozzle is fluidly coupled to the canister and extends outwardly of the first end. The nozzle is directed toward the roller. The canister is filled with a fluid under pressure. The canister includes a valve that is actuated to release the fluid into the nozzle to coat the roller with the fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Inventor: Chris Martin
  • Patent number: 8257329
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a contraband retrieval device that can be used as a law enforcement tool that allows a law enforcement officer to retrieve items that are ingested or inserted into the body. A pan includes a plurality of apertures in a bottom thereof. Drug use, excrement can be retrieved in the pan and with water or a suitable liquid can be washed away leaving behind contraband substances which was contained in the excrement in the pan. The contraband substances can be retrieved from the pan and placed into evidence in a criminal investigation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Inventor: Myron Jefferson
  • Patent number: 8241262
    Abstract: A flexible unit for collecting and transporting liquid to a collection point or to an area of use, and especially for facilitating management of urinary incontinence is provided which includes a flexible pad adapted to be positioned under an incontinent patient or worn under an undergarment. The pad is provided with an outer liquid permeable polymeric film layer, an outer liquid impermeable polymeric film layer and an intermediate cellular layer made up of a series of individual, spaced, thin wall, liquid impermeable polymeric cells. An aspiration assembly is connected to the pad for removing urine from the interior of the pad, which collects in the spaces between the individual cells. A disposable porous sheet, preferably comprising Dry-Weave® material, is releasably positioned over the outer permeable film layer of the pad. The pad may be sanitized and reused multiple times with only replacement of the Dry-Weave® sheet being required.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Inventor: Michael Mahnensmith
  • Patent number: 8168853
    Abstract: An absorbent article of the present invention may comprise a topsheet, an outer cover, and an absorbent core disposed therebetween. The outer cover may comprise an extrusion bonded laminate. The EBL may comprise a multi-layer coextruded elastomeric film and a nonwoven. The film may comprise a core layer, a first outer layer, and a second outer layer, wherein the core layer is between the first and second outer layers. The nonwoven may comprise fibers and/or filaments. The first outer layer may be non-adhesively joined to the nonwoven via extrusion coating. Further, the outer cover may be elastic to at least about 50% engineering strain. The nonwoven may have high chemical affinity for the first outer layer. The first outer layer may have a low chemical affinity for the core layer; and the multi-layer coextruded elastomeric film may have a basis weight no greater than about 40 gsm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2012
    Assignee: The Proctor & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Jean-Philippe Marie Autran, Iyad Muslet, David G. Bland, Leopoldo V. Cancio, Janet Neton, Todd Leon Mansfield
  • Patent number: 8153856
    Abstract: An absorbent article is defined by a pair of opposing longitudinal edges 20;22 and a pair of opposing transverse edges 24;26. An absorbent core 18 has at least a first 28 and a second 30 region, the average density of the absorbent core 18 in these first and second regions 28, 30 being lower than the average density of the absorbent core 18 surrounding said first and second regions 28;30, the first and second lower density regions 28;30 being arranged symmetrically about the longitudinal center line A of the article such that each of the first and second lower density regions 28;30 extends to the respective longitudinal edge 20;22 of the absorbent core. The distance ax varying along the longitudinal direction of the article. A minimum distance a1 is located at least in the transition 32 between the crotch portion 14 and the front portion 12.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: SCA Hygiene Products AB
    Inventors: Leif Wallström, Camilla Elfsberg, Solgun Drevik
  • Patent number: 8137331
    Abstract: A tampon showing improved leakage protection through improved expansion characteristics is disclosed. The tampons disclosed demonstrate these improved expansion characteristics particularly in the width dimension without introducing new drawbacks. Preferred tampons are described which are compressed to an initial size comparable to current tampons, but which expand to a width exceeding that achieved by current tampons. Such increased expansion is preferably accomplished without an increase in the total absorbency of the tampon. Tampons of various absorbencies are disclosed having increased total expansion in the width direction compared to current tampons. Additionally, tampons of various absorbencies which expand to a greater degree in the width direction under pressure are also disclosed. Tampons of various absorbencies which expand at a rate exceeding that achieved previously are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Assignee: The Procter and Gamble Company
    Inventors: Raymond Kusi Agyapong, Roberto Hollander, David Joseph Caracci, Susan Rachelle Hill, Bruce Leslie Hayes, Fiona Marie Taylor, James Arthur Keighley, Kevin Charles Strong
  • Patent number: 8048054
    Abstract: The invention relates to a disposable article and method relating to attachment tabs on a disposable article. The disposable article typically comprises a non-woven layer, an absorbent layer, and an outer film-wrapping layer associated with an attachment tab. The tabs are adhered to the polymer film and can be used to close the absorbent garment when in use. The invention also relates to a method of attaching the tabs to the polymer film using an adhesive having improved adhesive properties.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: Adherent Laboratories, Inc.
    Inventor: William L. Bunnelle
  • Patent number: 8016816
    Abstract: The end of the elongated tubular element of the appliance that is designed to be inserted into a body cavity or vessel is formed entirely of soft, compliant material. That end carries an inflatable balloon formed in its fully inflated shape. The balloon is inflated to a predetermined low pressure level to prevent pressure necrosis in the adjacent tissue. A method and apparatus for introducing the soft end of the appliance into the body cavity are also provided. The introducer apparatus includes rigid core surrounded by a soft, compliant sleeve. The sleeve extends beyond the rigid core to form an invertable section. The soft end of the appliance is situated adjacent the apparatus, the balloon is wrapped around the apparatus, and the sleeve section is inverted over the appliance, compressing the balloon and forming a soft, rounded insertion tip. The unit is then introduced into the body cavity. After the appliance is separated from the apparatus, the apparatus is withdrawn.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Assignee: Convatec Technologies Inc.
    Inventor: Christopher C. Gregory
  • Patent number: 8016802
    Abstract: A manifold for ostomy bag irrigation, including an inlet member having a channel defined therein, a T-member having a channel defined therein and in fluid communication with the inlet member, a left tube having a plurality of apertures defined therein and having one end coupled to the T-member, a right tube having a plurality of apertures defined therein and having one end coupled to the T-member, a left cap having a channel defined therein and coupled to the second end of the left tube, and a right cap having a channel defined therein and coupled to the second end of the right tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Inventor: Kenneth R. Schena
  • Patent number: 8012142
    Abstract: The embodiments of the present invention relate to an endoscopic system and accessories. In particular, the various embodiments relate to endoscopic systems in which an accessory comprises a multi-lumen device that is capable of quantitatively delivering at least a catheter, a balloon, and a needle to a site. The accessory is configured to allow for individual, independent control of its components. For example, in some embodiments, the needle and guidewire can be independently controlled. In addition, the needle may be retracted back into an inner lumen of the catheter body. Accordingly, during use, the accessory of the embodiments allows the user to maintain access to an incision site without having to exchange or remove accessories for various parts of the procedure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2011
    Assignee: Medivity, LLC
    Inventors: Abhitabh Patil, Michael Gadaleta, Karan Raturi, Ashish Patil, Nikhil Dewan
  • Patent number: 8012137
    Abstract: In a packaged feminine care absorbent article and method of applying such an article to a wearer, an absorbent article includes an absorbent structure and a shell, with the absorbent structure configured for disposition adjacent a female wearer's vaginal region. The shell is configured for supporting the absorbent structure and has adhesive on a body-facing surface thereof for adhering the shell directly to the wearer. The absorbent article has a packaged configuration and a use configuration, at least a portion of the absorbent article being in overlapping relationship with another portion of the absorbent article in the packaged configuration, and with these respective portions being free from overlapping relationship in the use configuration. The article may be adhered to the wearer while in its packaged configuration and then converted to its use configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2011
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Carmen Lira, Deborah Snell Hannah, Adrienne Rae Loyd, Channon Lee B Arteman
  • Patent number: 8007484
    Abstract: A pants type disposable undergarment is provided which is equipped with an elasticized side panel. The side panel is elasticized with elastic film. The elastic film is attached to a nonwoven layer. The elasticized nonwoven layer is then split into two sections. A portion of the elasticized nonwoven layer is then ultrasonically cut to the desired configuration. The elastic film does not traverse the crotch region. Also provided are methods for producing such disposable undergarments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Curt G. Joa, Inc.
    Inventors: John A. McCabe, Robert E. Andrews, James H. Rhines
  • Patent number: 8007482
    Abstract: An ostomy bag with a filter assembly having a gas filter and a pre-filter for preventing or delaying solid/semisolid matter and liquid from reaching the gas filter. The pre-filter is at least substantially flat and comprises a number of constrictions, such as ribs extending along and between two inner surface parts of the channel. These constrictions/ribs form narrower and wider passages where the gas may more quickly pass a narrow passage and where the wider passages tend to receive and hold the liquid, solid matter and semisolid matter. At least a part of the constrictions may be provided in a random pattern.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Coloplast A/S
    Inventor: Bjarne Worsoee
  • Patent number: 8007483
    Abstract: An ostomy bag with a filter assembly having a gas filter and a pre-filter for preventing or delaying solid/semisolid matter and liquid from reaching the gas filter. The pre-filter is at least substantially flat and comprises a number of constrictions, such as ribs extending along and between two inner surface parts of the channel. These constrictions/ribs form narrower and wider passages where the gas may more quickly pass a narrow passage and where the wider passages tend to receive and hold the liquid, solid matter and semisolid matter. At least a part of one of the surfaces may comprise an interactive agent adapted to interact with the fluid passing through the gas channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Coloplast A/S
    Inventor: Bjarne Worsoee
  • Patent number: 8007257
    Abstract: A manually-activated reduced pressure treatment system includes a substantially rigid housing, and an end cap slidingly received by the housing. An inner chamber is disposed between the end cap and housing, and a volume of the inner chamber is variable in amount depending on the position of the end cap within the housing. The end cap is slidingly movable between an uncompressed position at which the volume of the inner chamber is at a maximum value and a compressed position at which the volume of the inner chamber is at a minimum value. A position indicating member is associated with the end cap and housing to indicate the position of the end cap relative to the housing at predetermined positions between the uncompressed position and the compressed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: KCI Licensing Inc.
    Inventors: Keith Patrick Heaton, Ian Hardman
  • Patent number: 8002728
    Abstract: One disclosed embodiment comprises a method for treating lesions in the carotid artery of a mammalian body. The method comprises transcervical access and blocking of blood flow through the common carotid artery (with or without blocking of blood flow through the external carotid artery), shunting blood from the internal carotid artery and treating the lesion in the carotid artery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Assignee: Silk Road Medical, Inc.
    Inventor: David W. Chang
  • Patent number: 7998104
    Abstract: One disclosed embodiment comprises a method for treating lesions in the carotid artery of a mammalian body. The method comprises transcervical access and blocking of blood flow through the common carotid artery (with or without blocking of blood flow through the external carotid artery), shunting blood from the internal carotid artery and treating the lesion in the carotid artery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Assignee: Silk Road Medical, Inc.
    Inventor: David W. Chang
  • Patent number: RE42834
    Abstract: The vacuum desiccator low pressure vacuum pump and trap and is transportable upon a user's person. The device is especially useful to remove excess fluids from wounds and incisions as they heal. The device includes a desiccator cartridge containing a fluid trapping agent. The desiccator cartridge is connected to a vacuum pump member providing a low vacuum pressure to the interior chamber of the desiccator cartridge. A small battery powered, electric motor drives the pump member. An electrical control circuit, including the battery power source, controls the operation of the electric motor. A single passage, one-way, gas/liquid flow pathway connects the inlet port of the desiccator cartridge to an occlusive dressing covering the wound to be drained. The control circuit includes one or more ancillary circuits for controlling operation of the device, such as: a power circuit, a moisture sensor, a timer circuit, a vacuum pressure sensor, and a pressure differential sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: KCI Licensing Inc.
    Inventor: Richard Watson