Patents by Inventor Merton J. Vanderhoof

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

  • Patent number: 4846811
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods of utilizing the same to prevent accidental medical needle sticks are disclosed, characterized by use of a raised locking member coaxially mounted upon the needle approximately midway between a body member mounting the needle and the needle tip which presents an exterior contour to engage complementary features within the interior channel of a tubular sleeve which slides coaxially along the needle. The slidable sleeve is held at a first position proximate the body member and exposing the needle tip by a mechanical detent formed from frictional engagement of complementary surfaces upon the sleeve and the locking member and/or the body member. After medical use, the spent and contaminated needle is sheathed by sliding the tubular sleeve to a second position wherein it is securely held by a detent resultant from engagement with the locking member. The sheathing guards against accidental needle sticks transmitting disease.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 1987
    Date of Patent: July 11, 1989
    Assignee: International Medical Innovators, Inc.
    Inventor: Merton J. Vanderhoof