Abstract: An atmospheric data measurement system comprises an atmospheric sensor, personal digital assistant, link, power system, and enclosure. The atmospheric sensor measures an atmospheric parameter and generates data indicating the atmospheric parameter. The link transfers the data from the atmospheric sensor to the personal digital assistant. The personal digital assistant receives, stores, and transfers the data. The power system provides power to the atmospheric sensor and the personal digital assistant. The enclosure houses the atmospheric sensor, the personal digital assistant, the link, and the power system.

Abstract: The instrument package mounting apparatus comprises an axle that serves to eliminate the need to wrap a tether line about the axle. In particular, the axle comprises a cylindrical solid configured with a slot extending from the outer surface of the axle to a substantially central axis thereof, the slot being capable of receiving the tether line. Juxtaposed to this slot and located substantially centered about the substantially central axis of the axle is a rectangular shaped interior channel that functions to receive a pinch bar comprising a substantially rectangular shaped tapered bar. The tapered pinch bar is inserted into the channel formed in the axle and operates to frictionally secure the tether line and the axle. The friction to secure the tether line in the slot, as held in place by the tapered pinch bar is generated by a compression fit formed as the tapered pinch bar is inserted into the interior channel of the axle.

Abstract: An apparatus (10) for measuring a predetermined penile rigidity or hardness in a penile tumescent event. The apparatus (10) includes a band-like structure (12) for releasably engaging a penis (11). Suitably attached and associated with band-like structure (12) are releasable fasteners (15) for detecting a predetermined force in a penile tumescent event whereby penile rigidity or hardness can be measured.

Abstract: An apparatus (10) for measuring a predetermined penile rigidity or hardness in a penile tumescent event. The apparatus (10) includes a band-like structure (12) for releasably engaging a penis (11). Suitably attached and associated with band-like structure (12) are releasable fasteners (15) for detecting a predetermined force in a penile tumescent event whereby penile rigidity or hardness can be measured.

Abstract: An apparatus (10) for measuring a predetermined penile rigidity or hardness in a penile tumescent event. The apparatus (10) includes a band-like structure (12) for releasably engaging a penis (11). Suitably attached and associated with band-like structure (12) are releasable fasteners (15) for detecting a predetermined force in a penile tumescent event whereby penile rigidity or hardness can be measured.

Abstract: The urethral catheter puller described in this application provides a convenient apparatus for performing urological diagnostic procedures such as urethral pressure profilometry and urethral electromyographic profilometry. In practice, a urethral catheter is mounted on catheter supports attached to the boom of the puller. The boom is equipped with positioning apparatus so that the catheter supports may be positioned in close proximity to the patient. The puller allows the catheter to be pulled in a horizontal or vertical direction, thus allowing the patient to stand or lie in a bed during the diagnostic procedure. The catheter supports are equipped with suitable structures to control the motion of the catheter as it is withdrawn from the urethra of the patient. A variable speed drive is provided to control the rate at which the catheter is withdrawn.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for diagnostic evaluation of the urinary tract. The method comprises the steps of generating a urethral pressure profile and simultaneously monitoring and recording electrical signals derived from the urinary tract thereby generating an electrical or electromyographic profile. As fluid is inputted into the urethra the catheter is mechanically withdrawn therefrom at a constant velocity. Fluid pressure within the urethra is derived and recorded thereby providing a urethral pressure profile. Simultaneously, urethral electrical signals derived from one or more electrodes mounted on the catheter are amplified and graphically displayed, thereby plotting urethral electrical activity and urethral fluid pressure at given points along the urethra. The apparatus comprises an interface unit for withdrawing the catheter and for enabling measurement of the various diagnostic parameters.

Abstract: A catheter for performing urethral profilometry, and a method of making same, are provided herein. The catheter preferably comprises an elongated tubular body portion provided with a plurality of circumferentially spaced apart orifices for discharging fluid and a pair of flushly mounted flexible electrodes for sensing urethral electrical signals. A pair of electrical conductors connected to the electrodes deliver urethral signals externally of the catheter.A method disclosed herein for providing a catheter with flexible electrodes comprises the steps of mixing powdered silver with a medical grade adhesive and a solvent, and afterwards forming the electrodes in the desired shape. Evaporation of the solvent concurrently with curing of the adhesive yields a permanently affixed flexible electrode.