Abstract: A sensor assembly supported on a horizontal directional drilling machine adjacent a magazine. The magazine includes a plurality of vertical columns configured to store a plurality of pipe sections. The sensor assembly comprises an elongate tower that suspends a rigid support structure above the plurality of columns. The rigid support structure includes a sensor housing that carries a plurality of proximity sensors. The proximity sensors correspond with the columns in one-to-one relationship. The proximity sensors measure values indicative of the number of pipe sections contained within each column and transmit the measured values to a processor included in the drilling machine.

Abstract: A sensor assembly supported on a horizontal directional drilling machine adjacent a magazine. The magazine includes a plurality of vertical columns configured to store a plurality of pipe sections. The sensor assembly comprises an elongate tower that suspends a rigid support structure above the plurality of columns. The rigid support structure includes a sensor housing that carries a plurality of proximity sensors. The proximity sensors correspond with the columns in one-to-one relationship. The proximity sensors measure values indicative of the number of pipe sections contained within each column and transmit the measured values to a processor included in the drilling machine.

Abstract: The present invention provides a panel assembly comprising a plurality of panels arranged in edge-to-edge format having joints between each pair of adjacent panels in the assembly. A copper-containing material, such as copper tape with adhesive backing, is provided in or near the joints in the assembly to render the joints less susceptible to bacterial contamination.

Abstract: An overhead equipment support system for a patient treatment zone, such as an operating room. The support system may comprise an assembly of service hubs interconnected by runway segments to partially or completely circumscribe the treatment zone at the ceiling level while leaving the area immediately above the treatment zone open for other services, such as laminar flow air-handling equipment. An extreme load extension arm may be supported on one or more of the hubs; each such arm is capable of supporting even the heaviest types of medical equipment commonly demanded in surgical suites, especially those supported on booms or articulating arms, thereby greatly increasing the potential operating sphere of each such device. Trolleys are supported on the runway for movement between service hubs. Each trolley can support a medical device in a range of positions around the periphery of the zone as needed by the surgical team.

Abstract: The present invention provides a panel assembly comprising a plurality of panels arranged in edge-to-edge format having joints between each pair of adjacent panels in the assembly. A copper-containing material, such as copper tape with adhesive backing, is provided in or near the joints in the assembly to render the joints less susceptible to bacterial contamination.

Abstract: A modular headwall system with multiple interlocking sections. The studs in each frame section include hooks and slots that ensure secure attachment of one section to each adjacent section while maintaining proper alignment. For floor-mounted applications, a self-leveling base assembly provides a level support track even on uneven floors. An adjustable crown molding assembly provides an attractive architectural feature while concealing an irregular ceiling line. The cover panels forming the front of the headwall float on a hanger system that allows slight lateral and vertical movement while holding the entire matrix of panels firmly against the frame behind it; this allows the panels to maintain proper alignment in the assembled headwall even where the supporting wall and floor surfaces are irregular. The side trim assembly includes a cable management recess. Some panels include a floating equipment track that is aesthetically pleasing and less likely to harbor microorganisms.

Abstract: A modular ceiling-mounted medical services system including a vertical column supported by an articulating arm assembly. Rotational joints connect the column to the lower arm, the lower arm to the upper arm, and the upper arm to the ceiling mount. Rotational movement at each of the joints is controlled by an electrically-released electromagnetic brake, and all of the brakes may be controlled by a switch panel on the column. Thus, the entire assembly is held in place until the switch is activated. Slight hand pressure is sufficient to operate the switch while simultaneously pushing or pulling the column into the desired position. The service lines that supply the outlets in the column all pass through large central openings in the brakes.

Abstract: Antimicrobial devices such as molded components can include surfaces which have a microbial field disruptive hyper-conductive layer covered by a dielectric surface layer, to continuously disinfect said surfaces. Also, the present invention relates to generally antimicrobial dressings and more particularly to dermal dressings and bandages providing antiseptic disinfection, comprising typical modern dressings and bandages stratified in close proximity to microbial field disruptive hyper-conductive elements or alloys which deactivate microbes by disrupting the electric field generated by and used by the microbes, and isolated the wound or surgical site tissue from said conductors with a layer or layers of dielectric film.

Abstract: A medical services unit for use in health care facilities where high security is required, such as in prison and psychiatric hospitals. The unit comprises a floor-to-ceiling column with an internal medical services section to provide a plurality of medical services. The medical services section is protected by a rotating steel door that prevents access to the enclosed services. The medical services section also includes a sub-door made of a transparent, shatterproof polymer, such as polycarbonate. Thus, the clear cover panel permits visual access to the gauges and controls for the services, but prevents unauthorized physical access to them. The column is entirely enclosed in a protective casing made out of rolled steel. Doors are provided in the casing for providing access b authorized personnel only to the internal medical services section.

Abstract: A medical services unit for use in health care facilities where high security is required, such as in prison and psychiatric hospitals. The unit comprises a floor-to-ceiling column with an internal medical services section to provide a plurality of medical services. The medical services section is protected by a rotating steel door that prevents access to the enclosed services. The medical services section also includes a sub-door made of a transparent, shatterproof polymer, such as polycarbonate. Thus, the clear cover panel permits visual access to the gauges and controls for the services, but prevents unauthorized physical access to them. The column is entirely enclosed in a protective casing made out of rolled steel. Doors are provided in the casing for providing access b authorized personnel only to the internal medical services section.

Abstract: A modular in-wall medical services unit for medical care facilities. A frame supports a cabinet with a cover panel providing electrical and/or gas outlets. Built-in electrical and gas conduits are included. A junction box and ends of the gas conduits near the top of the frame are accessible after wallboard is applied. Thus, wallboard can be installed before or after wiring is completed and gas connections are made. The self-aligning cover panel is “floatingly” supported on the frame so that a bead of sealant can be applied around the edge before the cover panel is “snugged up” to the wall and secured. The trim flanges on the cover panel include vertical equipment mounting tracks. Manufacturing is simplified by making the height of the frame adjustable; the same frame elements can be used to assemble units for different ceiling heights, decreasing the number of required parts in inventory and expediting assembly.

Abstract: A medical equipment transport system for supporting medical equipment while a patient is transported. The system comprises an equipment rack, such as an IV stand. While in the hospital room, the rack is mounted on a bracket supported on a mobile tower. When the patient is moved, the rack is transferred to a similar bracket on the bed. Transfer of the rack between bed and tower brackets is accomplished using a lift mechanism in the tower. The lift mechanism includes a bogie stabilized by radially-arranged bearings, enabling the tower to accept omni directional loading and moment forces. The rack is supported on each of the brackets by two vertically-aligned conical pins nested in tapered bushings, providing additional stability. A self-locking, self-releasing latch assembly prevents inadvertent dislocation of the rack. A customized adapter enables attachment of the bracket to any model bed without structurally altering it, simplifying installation and preserving warranties.

Abstract: A modular in-wall medical services unit for medical care facilities. A frame supports a cabinet with a cover panel providing electrical and/or gas outlets. Built-in electrical and gas conduits are included. A junction box and ends of the gas conduits near the top of the frame are accessible after wallboard is applied. Thus, wallboard can be installed before or after wiring is completed and gas connections are made. The self-aligning cover panel is “floatingly” supported on the frame so that a bead of sealant can be applied around the edge before the cover panel is “snugged up” to the wall and secured. The trim flanges on the cover panel include vertical equipment mounting tracks. Manufacturing is simplified by making the height of the frame adjustable; the same frame elements can be used to assemble units for different ceiling heights, decreasing the number of required parts in inventory and expediting assembly.

Abstract: A modular ceiling-mounted medical services system including a vertical column supported by an articulating arm assembly. Rotational joints connect the column to the lower arm, the lower arm to the upper arm, and the upper arm to the ceiling mount. Rotational movement at each of the joints is controlled by an electrically-released electromagnetic brake, and all of the brakes may be controlled by a switch panel on the column. Thus, the entire assembly is held in place until the switch is activated. Slight hand pressure is sufficient to operate the switch while simultaneously pushing or pulling the column into the desired position. The service lines that supply the outlets in the column all pass through large central openings in the brakes. In this way, the brake mechanism is stronger and more reliable, and the profile and footprint of the entire assembly can be minimized.

Abstract: A modular in-wall medical services outlet system comprising separate standardized vertical units that can be shipped separately and assembled on site to form a consolidated horizontal system. The system includes a self-aligning feature that allows the units to be leveled as a single whole and eliminates the need to level each unit separately. The alignment system may be combined with connectors which secure the units to each other. Racks of medical service outlets are included. The racks may be horizontally aligned, vertically aligned, or both. Substantially continuous trim and cover plate assemblies extend entirely across the face of the system around the outlets giving the system the appearance of an in-wall horizontal unit. The trim is attachable to the wall structure, receives the wall board, supports the service outlets, and provides horizontal equipment tracks. The frame provides the system with load bearing capacity to support equipment in the horizontal tracks.

Abstract: A modular in-wall medical services outlet system comprising separate standardized vertical units that can be shipped separately and assembled on site to form a consolidated horizontal system. The system includes a self-aligning feature that allows the units to be leveled as a single whole and eliminates the need to level each unit separately. The alignment system may be combined with connectors which secure the units to each other. Racks of medical service outlets are included. The racks may be horizontally aligned, vertically aligned, or both. Substantially continuous trim and cover plate assemblies extend entirely across the face of the system around the outlets giving the system the appearance of an in-wall horizontal unit. The trim is attachable to the wall structure, receives the wall board, supports the service outlets, and provides horizontal equipment tracks. The frame provides the system with load bearing capacity to support equipment in the horizontal tracks.

Abstract: A modular in-wall medical services unit for medical care facilities. A frame supports a cabinet with a cover panel providing electrical and/or gas outlets. Built-in electrical and gas conduits are included. A junction box and ends of the gas conduits near the top of the frame are accessible after wallboard is applied. Thus, wallboard can be installed before or after wiring is completed and gas connections are made. The self-aligning cover panel is “floatingly” supported on the frame so that a bead of sealant can be applied around the edge before the cover panel is “snugged up” to the wall and secured. The trim flanges on the cover panel include vertical equipment mounting tracks. Manufacturing is simplified by making the height of the frame adjustable; the same frame elements can be used to assemble units for different ceiling heights, decreasing the number of required parts in inventory and expediting assembly.

Abstract: A concealed services module comprising a frame, service outlets mounted on the frame and a picture assembly. The frame preferably is installed inside a wall so that only the service outlets are exposed, and the picture assembly is mounted over the outlets to conceal them. The picture assembly also may be mounted over existing service outlets in a wall. The picture assembly is slidably mounted for up and down movement, and includes a device such as a counterbalancing mechanism to retain it in the up position.