Patents by Inventor Todd Olson

Todd Olson 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).

  • Linear stapling mechanism with cutting means
    Patent number: 5332142
    Abstract: A stapler mechanism is described which contains a stapling assembly, and anvil assembly, firing means and knife means. These means are activated by a firing trigger. The anvil assembly is closed upon the stapling assembly by means of a closure trigger. The firing trigger is inoperable until the closure trigger has been activated. Another mechanism in the stapler is capable of locking the closure trigger after use so it does not spring open inadvertently before actuation of the firing trigger. Additionally, the stapler mechanism allows forward motion of both triggers and also is capable of allowing reverse motion of the closure trigger to open the mechanism. Furthermore, the stapler mechanism contains means for obstructing the flow of insufflation gasses or bodily fluid from the surgical site through the instrument during endoscopic surgery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 26, 1994
    Assignee: Ethicon, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen C. Robinson, Todd Olson, Dan Meiser, Gary Steed, Eric Huffman, Matthew Otten, Ronald VanOverloop, Darrel Powell, Thomas Knodell, Edward Rhad, Ralph Chen, Robert Cook
  • Linear stapling mechanism with cutting means
    Patent number: 5307976
    Abstract: A stapler mechanism is described which contains a stapling assembly, and anvil assembly, firing means and knife means. These means are activated by a firing trigger. The anvil assembly is closed upon the stapling assembly by means of a closure trigger. The firing trigger is inoperable until the closure trigger has been activated. Another mechanism in the stapler is capable of locking the closure trigger after use so it does not spring open inadvertently before use of the firing trigger. Additionally, the stapler mechanism allows forward motion of both triggers and also is capable of allowing reverse motion of the closure trigger to open the mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 3, 1994
    Assignee: Ethicon, Inc.
    Inventors: Todd Olson, Dan Meiser, Gary Steed, Eric Huffman, Matthew Otten, Ronald VanOverloop, Darrel Powell, Thomas Knodell, Edward Rhad, Ralph Chen, Robert Cook