Patents Issued in September 14, 2004
  • Patent number: 6790159
    Abstract: A method of controlling the torque transferred across the engaged clutch of a vehicle having a dual clutch transmission to provide predetermined engine acceleration for each gear based on the engine throttle position and subsequent changes of clutch speed that are in response to operatively varying the torque transferred across the engaged clutch as the engine accelerates to a predetermine speed based on the throttle position. The method includes the steps of determining the engine throttle position, determining the currently engaged gear of the transmission, and sensing the speed of the driven member of the engaged clutch. Then, a target engine speed is determined based on the engine throttle position, the currently engaged gear, and the clutch speed. The torque transferred across the engaged clutch is then continuously varied to cause the engine to accelerate toward the target engine speed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: BorgWarner, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Buchanan, Russell Lemon, Melissa Koenig
  • Patent number: 6790160
    Abstract: When a clutch is disengaged in a D-N shift, a duty ratio of a linear solenoid in a stand-by state at a constant pressure is calculated according to the following equation by using the following values: a reference duty ratio in a stand-by state at a constant pressure; a correction value for an AT oil temperature; a correction value for an engine speed; and respective learning correction values in a N-D shift and a 4-3 coast down shift in which the clutch is engaged. In the equation, K is a coefficient and has a constant value predetermined in the range of 0≦K≦1.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Shinji Kato, Toshimitsu Sato, Kazuyuki Watanabe, Naoyuki Sakamoto, Atsushi Ayabe, Hiromichi Kimura, Yasuo Hojo
  • Patent number: 6790161
    Abstract: A coupling means is provided to act to apply a thrust force generated on a helical gear to a stopper for first transmission members and second transmission members to thereby suppress looseness in the stopper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Masaru Yamasaki, Kenichiro Tokuo, Hiroshi Kuroiwa, Naoyuki Ozaki
  • Patent number: 6790162
    Abstract: A recumbent stepper is provided for exercising the lower body and the upper body and includes a frame and a seat attached to the frame. First and second lower body lever arrangements are pivotally coupled to the frame to move in first and second opposite directions and are adapted to be engaged by an exerciser's feet. First and second upper body lever arrangements are pivotally coupled to the frame to move in the first and second directions and are adapted to be engaged by the exerciser's arms. A resistance structure is commonly connected to each of the lever arrangements for resisting pivoting movement of each lever arrangement in one of the first and second directions. Motion transfer structure is mounted on the frame and coupled to each of the lever arrangements and the resistance structure for enabling independent movement of each lever arrangement relative to the remaining lever arrangements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Northland Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Patrick D. Ellis, Fred A. Malicki
  • Patent number: 6790163
    Abstract: A swim stroke exercise device including an adjustable resistance mechanism is provided. The resistance mechanism is attached to one end of the exercise device and includes a roller assembly having a roller clutch and a drive shaft extending from one end and a spring rewind assembly attached opposite the drive shaft. The drive shaft supports a drive pulley including a number of concentric engagement areas having different diameters. Adjustably disposed above the roller assembly, a resistance device includes an output shaft terminating in a mag pulley opposite the resistance device formed similarly to the drive pulley with a number of concentric engagement areas having different diameters that are aligned with the engagement areas on the drive pulley. The concentric engagement areas allow a belt trained about the pulleys to be moved to various positions on both the drive pulley and mag pulley to increase or decrease the amount of resistance provided to the drive shaft by the clutch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Inventors: Keith Van De Laarschot, Mark D. Schaefer
  • Patent number: 6790164
    Abstract: An athletic training system has a user support with a vertical plane extending centrally there through. A pair of similarly configured looped tracks, one track on each side of the vertical plane, each have a common cross sectional configuration throughout and an axial shape corresponding to the intended movement of the hands of a user. A handle is slidably received on each track. Each handle includes a slider and a gripping portion. A user pushes and pulls the handle in a configuration corresponding to the configuration of the track.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Inventor: James Davis
  • Patent number: 6790165
    Abstract: A rehabilitation aid includes a leg sleeve, an adjusting means connected to a front side of the leg sleeve, a spring connected at an end to the adjusting means, and a foot strap connected to another end of the spring. The leg sleeve and the foot strap are designed for adjustably putting around a user's leg close to a lower part thereof and the user's sole close to the toes, respectively. The spring is adapted to generate a pulling stress suitable for the user through control of the adjusting means, so that the user's toes and ball of the foot are raised along with the user's heel via an upward angular pulling force provided by the spring to protect the user from tripping and falling during practicing walking alone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Inventor: Tien-Wang Huang
  • Patent number: 6790166
    Abstract: A method for improving balance and coordination associated with the performance of a sport motion. The method comprises the initial step of providing a training apparatus, the latter comprising a stationary base member having first and second platforms rotationally mounted. The first and second are adapted to receive, respectively, a foot of an individual to enable the individual to stand thereon such that each foot can rotate independently about a separate axis. While standing upon the device, an individual may perform a variety of movements, such as a tennis stroke, golf swing, and the like, and, by virtue of imparting rotational movement to the feet, enable an individual to optimally perform proper rotational movements. The training method maybe incorporated into a sports instruction regimen applicable to a wide-variety of sports, including skiing, surfing, and martial arts, as well as many activities, in addition to tennis, golf and baseball.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Inventor: Jack Broudy
  • Patent number: 6790167
    Abstract: A striking bag apparatus which is easy to manufacture, assemble, transport or move, and adjust in height, and which is effectively self-supported such that no sparring partner is needed. The striking bag apparatus is composed of a hollow base, hollow cylindrical column, and striking pad. The striking pad is preferably a foam sleeve covered by a smooth striking surface installed around the upper portion of the cylindrical column which is held in a substantially vertical position by the base. Both the column and base may be filled with water, sand, metal shot, or other suitable weighting substance to provide for increased stability and support, via easily accessible fill apertures in the column and base. The height of the striking surface may be easily adjusted, without disassembly, by rotating the column within the base, in a simple “corkscrew” fashion. The base is provided with wheels to aid in moving the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Technical Knockout, Inc.
    Inventors: Mitch Carlin, Richard Tarozzi
  • Patent number: 6790168
    Abstract: An automated cup making system is provided for forming a two stage cup having an upper cup disposed upon a lower cup. An upper cup making machine is provided for forming an upper cup having an upper cup sidewall and an upper cup bottom wall disposed generally transversely to the upper cup sidewall and punched out to define a bottom wall annular border extending radially inwardly from the upper cup sidewall, the upper cup sidewall having an outwardly curled top edge. A lower cup making machine is provided for forming a lower cup having a lower cup sidewall and a bottom cup wall disposed generally transversely to the lower cup sidewall, the lower cup sidewall having a curled top edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Paper Machinery Corporation
    Inventor: Dale L. Sand
  • Patent number: 6790169
    Abstract: Centrifuges and conveyor apparatuses for centrifuges, the conveyor apparatus, in one aspect, having a plurality of spaced-apart flight members spaced apart along the length of the conveyor apparatus, a plurality of support members extending between, and connected to the spaced-apart flight members, the support members spaced-apart around the plurality of spaced-apart flight members, a nose member with a target end within the plurality of support members, and a feed tube for feeding fluid having a fluid exit end within the conveyor, fluid exiting the fluid exit end flowable to the target end of the nose member; a centrifuge with such a conveyor apparatus; in one aspect the conveyor apparatus also having at least one wear protector on at least one flight member of the spaced-apart flight members and/or the conveyor apparatus having fluid accelerating apparatus and at least one wear protector positioned adjacent the accelerating apparatus to protect a flight or a support member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Varco I/P, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard James Koch, Kenneth Wayne Seyffert, John Patrick Wright, Subrata Mitra
  • Patent number: 6790170
    Abstract: A dual lumen catheter system for the positioning of a radioactive material for therapeutic radiation treatment of the body is disclosed. The dual lumen catheter includes a guidewire lumen and a blind lumen provided for introduction of a radiation source wire. The dual lumen catheter provides the advantage that the radiation source wire does not contact body tissue thereby eliminating the need for sterilization of the wire for reuse. Also disclosed are a radiation source wire having a tapered distal end of the wire core such that radioactive material and other components of the source wire can be applied to the outer surface thereof without exceeding a predetermined maximum outside diameter. Also disclosed is a source train cask for use with the catheter system and radiation source wire of the invention. The source train cask permits convenient handling and feeding of the radiation source wire without exposure of the medical personnel to radiation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Theragenics Corporation
    Inventors: Michael R. Moody, Anthony D. Coon, Richard A. Brauckman, Jack C. White
  • Patent number: 6790171
    Abstract: Invention relates to a cannula and a screw pump for use in a mechanical circulatory support device, in particular a transventricular circulatory support device. The cannula according to the present invention comprises a tubular member made of a flexible, collapsible material having a diameter between 0.5 cm and 3 cm, preferably between 1 cm and 2.5 cm. The invention also relates to an inflatable screw pump for use in circulatory support system which comprises a flexible central drive shaft and an inflatable body having a free edge defining a spiral shaped contour around the central drive shaft and an inner edge connected to the drive shaft. The Archimedes type screw pump may be used in conjunction with the flexible cannula.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Universitair Medisch Cenrum Utrecht
    Inventors: Paul Frederik Gründeman, Cornelis Wilhelmus Jozef Verlaan, Cornelius Borst, Hendricus Jacobus Mansvelt Beck
  • Patent number: 6790172
    Abstract: A resection device and method permits safe and efficient encapsulation, isolation and resection of body tissue. The device includes a sheath of flexible and severable material configured to receive the body tissue to be resectioned as it is drawn therein. The sheath may be expandable and held in an expanded condition as the body tissue to be resectioned is drawn into the sheath. Thereafter, the sheath is permitted to collapse about the body tissue to contain and constrict the body tissue. Once the body tissue to be resectioned is disposed in the sheath, the sheath is severed to resection the body tissue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Spiration, Inc.
    Inventors: Clifton A. Alferness, Hugo X. Gonzalez
  • Patent number: 6790173
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods are provided for placing and advancing a diagnostic or therapeutic instrument in a hollow body organ of a tortuous or unsupported anatomy, comprising a handle, an overtube, a distal region having an atraumatic tip. The overtube may be removable from the handle, and have a longitudinal axis disposed at an angle relative to the handle. The overtube may be selectively stiffened to reduce distension of the organ caused by advancement of the diagnostic or therapeutic instrument. The distal region permits passive steering of the overtube caused by deflection of the diagnostic or therapeutic instrument while the atraumatic tip prevents the wall of the organ from becoming caught or pinched during manipulation of the diagnostic or therapeutic instrument.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: USGI Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Vahid Saadat, Richard C. Ewers, Eugene G. Chen
  • Patent number: 6790174
    Abstract: An imaging system for use with an endoscope, including a light source which emits white light and excitation light which will produce a fluorescence response by an object under inspection, an imaging camera including separate paths for processing images produced by white light and excitation light, a selection device that causes the imaging device to operate in a white light mode or an excitation light mode, and a protective device that prevents damage to high-sensitivity imaging components from exposure to excessive light input. Fluorescent image data are separated into at least red and green color bands which are separately processed to produced a video display in which normal tissue is displayed in predetermined specific color, and abnormal tissue in one or more distinctly different colors. In one embodiment, an image color interpretation guide is provided in the form of multiple color bars which are superimposed on a single video display device with the image display. of different kinds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Olympus Corporation
    Inventors: Mamoru Kaneko, Hitoshi Ueno, Sakae Takehana, Isami Hirao, Nobuyuki Doguchi, Takeshi Ozawa, Takefumi Uesugi, Katsuichi Imaizumi, Yasukazu Kogen, Makoto Tomioka, Tadashi Hirata, Masahiro Kawauchi
  • Patent number: 6790175
    Abstract: An endoscope system is provided with a light guide including a plurality of optical paths, and a low-coherent light source that emits a low-coherent light beams. The low-coherent light source is provided at a proximal end side of the light guide. The light beams emitted by the low-coherent light source are incident on the plurality of optical paths, respectively. The endoscope system is further provided with an interferometer unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: PENTAX Corporation
    Inventors: Koichi Furusawa, Masaru Eguchi, Tetsuya Utsui, Tetsuya Nakamura, Ryo Ozawa, Shinsuke Okada
  • Patent number: 6790176
    Abstract: A probe of an endoscope comprises a light guide fiber bundle and an image guide fiber bundle. The light guide fiber bundle supplies illumination light to the distal end of the probe, to illuminate the observed object. The illumination light is reflected by the observed object, and enters the end surface of the image guide fiber bundle. A ratio of an illumination sectional area of the light guide fiber bundle to a light receiving sectional area of the image guide fiber bundle is made equal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Asahi Kogaku Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Teruo Ouchi
  • Patent number: 6790177
    Abstract: Surgical retractor apparatus is shown having at least two independently operable clamping locations for receiving pivot balls therein. These two clamping locations lock and unlock their respective pivot balls independent of locking of the other pivot ball. Furthermore, the locking mechanisms utilized to lock the pivot balls also utilize the lock the angular position of the extension rod relative to the clamp. An adjuster intermediate the clamping positions allows for the movement of the clamping location relative to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Boss Instruments, Ltd.
    Inventors: Burns Phillips, Larry Griffith
  • Patent number: 6790178
    Abstract: Various physiological monitor modules are provided for use with computing devices such as personal digital assistants (PDAs). In some embodiments, the personal digital assistant provides the controls, display, and processing circuitry for the physiological monitor module. The personal digital assistant stores data from the physiological monitors so that the data may be used in various software applications. In other embodiments, the physiological monitor and the personal digital assistant include accessory slots sized to accept memory modules which may be used to transfer data therebetween. In yet other embodiments, the physiological monitors include data storage but do not include onboard processing capability, and data is transferred to a personal digital assistant either during or after use of the physiological monitor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Healthetech, Inc.
    Inventors: James R. Mault, Noel Johnson, John Sanderson
  • Patent number: 6790179
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of examining skin health in a subject, the method including the steps of: accessing a sample of interstitial fluid from the skin of the subject; and measuring the amount of a skin analyte in the sample.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Johnson & Johnson Consumer Companies, Inc.
    Inventor: Gregory Skover
  • Patent number: 6790180
    Abstract: Apparatus, systems, and methods are provided for measuring the power of acoustic energy transmitted by an ultrasound transducer. The apparatus includes a container including a liquid therein, and a buoyant body floating at a first level in the liquid. When acoustic energy is transmitted by the ultrasound transducer towards the buoyant body, the buoyant body floats at a second, different level in the liquid. The displaced volume of the buoyant body from the first level to the second level is directly related to the power of the acoustic energy transmitted by the ultrasound transducer. The apparatus may output signals corresponding to the level at which the buoyant body floats. The signal may be routed to a controller for adjusting the power output by the ultrasound transducer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Insightec-TxSonics Ltd.
    Inventor: Shuki Vitek
  • Patent number: 6790181
    Abstract: An image formed from compounded frames of ultrasound data acquired with different steering angles is displayed. Each component frame is associated with a scan of the entire displayed region. A majority of scan lines for each component frame are pointed in one direction or the same relative direction, and a minority of the scan lines are steered at different angles within each component frame to scan the rest of the display region, but with a different steering angle for the majority of scan lines of each of the component frames. As a result, the benefits of spatial compounding component frames associated with different steering angles are provided without having to apply filtering to reduce line artifacts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Acuson Corporation
    Inventors: Anming He Cai, Rickard C. Loftman
  • Patent number: 6790182
    Abstract: An ultrasound imaging system for imaging ultrasound scatterers, comprising a probe (208) for transmitting ultrasound waves and detecting ultrasound echoes reflected by said ultrasound scatterers, wherein said probe comprises a first group of transducer elements, labeled transmitting group (T), to transmit ultrasound waves, and a distinct second group of transducer elements, labeled receiving group (R), to detect ultrasound echoes reflected by said ultrasound scatterers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.
    Inventors: Kai Eck, Georg Schmitz
  • Patent number: 6790183
    Abstract: A lung sound diagnostic system for use in collecting, organizing and analyzing lung sounds associated with the inspiration(s) and expiration(s) of a patient. The system includes a plurality of transducers that may be placed at various sites around the patient's chest. The microphones are coupled to signal processing circuitry and A/D converters which digitize the data and preferably provides the digital data to a computer station. A data collection and organization program, executing on the computer station, organizes and formats the data into a combination display for display or printing. The combinational display includes at least two display elements. In a first display element, the data is shown for both inspiration and expiration combined in a first time scale. In a second display element, the data for inspiration and expiration are shown individually in a second time scale that is time-expanded relative to the first time scale.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Inventor: Raymond L. H. Murphy
  • Patent number: 6790184
    Abstract: A mechanical tapper clips onto the end of a stethoscope. The device is operated by pressing a small plunger with the index finger of the hand holding the end of the stethoscope onto the patient's body to aid the percussion portion of a physical exam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Sure-Shot Medical Device, Inc.
    Inventor: Jonathan S. Thierman
  • Patent number: 6790185
    Abstract: A bioabsorbable sealant plug that expands in response to contact with moisture in a mammalian body is optimally positioned in a biopsy tract to seal the biopsy tract when a biopsy procedure is completed. In a first method, the leading end of the sealant plug is advanced through the lumen of a coaxial needle by a plunger until a leading end of a supporting leg abuts the patient's skin surface. A second method is performed with a pistol-shaped tool having a trigger that enables adjustment of the plunger. A third embodiment includes a plunger having a bifurcated end that grasps the plug. A fourth embodiment has a turning nut that causes compression of a gasket that clamps down on the plug. A supporting rod and coaxial needle are in parallel relation to one another in a fifth embodiment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Biopsy Sciences, LLC
    Inventors: John S. Fisher, Frederick Ahari
  • Patent number: 6790186
    Abstract: A device (10) for evaluating dynamic, mechanical properties of materials includes an elongate cylindrical housing (12) projecting from a handle (14). The housing (12) defines a passage (16). One end of the passage (16) is closed off by a plug (18) with an opposed end of the passage (16) having an end cap (20). A resiliently flexible beam (22) is arranged in a cantilevered manner in the passage (16). A probe (24) is arranged at a free end of the beam (22). A strain gauge array (28) is mounted on the beam (22) for monitoring the deflection of the beam (22) and for generating an output signal representative of the movement of the beam (22). A method for evaluating dynamic, mechanical properties of materials is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: University of Sydney
    Inventors: John Sugden Field, Michael Vincent Swain, Richard Charles Appleyard
  • Patent number: 6790187
    Abstract: Systems and methods for applying ultrasound energy to a body region. The systems and methods provide an ultrasound applicator including a housing, an ultrasound transducer carried by the housing, and a chamber sized to hold an acoustic coupling media subject to a pressure in acoustic communication with the ultrasound transducer. The systems and methods generate electrical signals to operate the ultrasound transducer to output acoustic energy at a selected intensity level. The systems and methods sense at least one system parameter and compare the sensed system parameter to a desired level. The systems and methods vary the pressure in the chamber based, at least in part, upon the comparison.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: TIMI 3 Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Todd A Thompson, Veijo Suorsa, Michael J Howzewski
  • Patent number: 6790188
    Abstract: A foot-immersing massaging machine includes a body and an immersing vessel combined on the body. The body has a housing, a motor, a switch, a power cord, and a vibrator. The vibrator is fixed on an upper end of the shaft of the motor, and produces vibration when rotated by the motor. The immersing vessel has a vessel body and a soft massage cushion. The vessel body has a through hole in the bottom center for an upper portion of the vibrator to extend through upward, and the massage cushion is placed on the bottom of the vessel body and closes up the through hole, covering the vibrator with a gap between itself and the vibrator. Then a user can put the feet in the immersing vessel and receive massage performed by the vibrator at the same time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Inventor: Chao Yang Chen
  • Patent number: 6790189
    Abstract: An erection support ring includes a ring body, fabricated of soft rubber such as copolymerized rubber, swollen elastomer, or silicone rubber, and having an insert hole that elastically constricts a penis, and a cavity into which a small vibrator is removably placed. The ring body has a projection integrally formed therewith projecting in a direction in parallel with the center axis of the insert hole of the ring body. The small vibrator housed in the cavity vibrates, thereby providing stimulation at a comfortable level to the penis, leading the penis to erection, maintaining the erection of the penis, and finally inducing the penis to ejaculation. The vibration of the small vibrator is transferred to female sexual organs, thereby contributing to enhancing sexually pleasurable sensation to both of the male and the female.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Jex Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Katsuyoshi Kobayashi, Yasuo Morifuji
  • Patent number: 6790190
    Abstract: Massage device for an item of furniture for sitting and/or lying on, having a first shaft and a second shaft which are supported parallel with one another in a frame, and having at least one arm which carries at least one massage body, the arm being coupled to the two shafts in such a manner that a rotation of the shafts brings about a massage movement of the massage body in a first and/or second direction. Elements are also provided for displacing the massage body relative to the frame and they are formed by a mechanism for changing the distance between the two shafts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Ciar S.P.A.
    Inventor: Egidio Marcantoni
  • Patent number: 6790191
    Abstract: A hyperextension back brace system is a cruciform structure with an upper and lower vertical arms, left and right horizontal arms, and an extender arm for each of the arms. A pubic pad has an inwardly facing resilient foam fixedly coupled to the lower end of the extender arm of the lower vertical arm. A V-shaped intermediate plate is secured at its central extent to the upper end of the extender arm of the upper vertical arm with a pair of pectoral pads. The V-shaped plate has upwardly extending arms. A pair of rigid side pads have an inwardly facing resilient foam fixedly coupled to the exterior end of the horizontal extender arms. A belt of a pile material is attached at one end of one of the side pads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Inventor: David J. Hendricks
  • Patent number: 6790192
    Abstract: A brace is adapted to be wrapped around the wrist and hand of a patient. The brace includes a flexible sheet that comprises a central palmar section, a first flap section connected to and disposed on one side of the palmar section, and second flap section connected to and disposed on the opposite side of the palmar section from the first flap. Fasteners are attached to each of the first and second flap sections. Written indicia are printed onto one of the first or second flap sections, wherein the written indicia correspond to predetermined brace sizes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Medical Products Marketing, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul K. Robinson
  • Patent number: 6790193
    Abstract: A foot lifter orthosis including a dorsal leg shell, extending over the rear foot, which can be fixed by a strapping means to the calf of the orthosis wearer and which has a forefoot shell section constructed in one piece which extends to a point below the foot sole region, wherein the leg shell exhibits a low resistance in dorsal foot bending and a high resistance compensating for the foot and shoe mass in plantar foot bending with at least one resilient inlay, which extends approximately parallel to and at a short distance from an edge of the leg shell from the calf region thereof to a point below the forefoot shell section. An associated method of formation is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Otto Bock Healthcare GmbH
    Inventors: Ulf Wellershaus, Matthias Vollbrecht
  • Patent number: 6790194
    Abstract: Health equipment for dragging the lumbar with the trunk of the human body securely supported is provided. The trunk support is bendable only inwardly, and holds and supports the trunk of the human body. Since the trunk support is placed around the human body and enfolds from the area below the costae to above the pelvis, the human body is securely supported, whereby lumbago treatment can be carried out with the patient suspended in the air. Since the lumbar is dragged with the weight of the lower part of the patient's body, there is no possibility that the lumbar is dragged with excessive weight The leg hanging unit is a device to hang the legs of the patient. By using this leg hanging unit, so called mobilization may be carried out with the lower back portion suspended in the air, thereby increasing effectiveness of lumbago treatment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Protec House Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Fumio Katane, Hideaki Sakitsu
  • Patent number: 6790195
    Abstract: An extracorporeal blood processing system is disclosed which includes a variety of novel components and which may be operated in accordance with a variety of novel methodologies. For instance, the system includes a graphical operator interface which directs the operator through various aspects of the apheresis procedure. Moreover, the system also includes a variety of features relating to loading a blood processing vessel into a blood processing channel and removing the same after completion of the procedure. Furthermore, the system also includes a variety of features relating to utilizing a blood priming of at least portions of the apheresis sytem in preparation for the procedure. In addition, the system includes a variety of features enhancing the performance of the apheresis system, including the interrelationship between the blood processing vessel and the blood processing channel and the utilization of high packing factors for the procedure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Gambro Inc
    Inventors: Chad C. Steele, Marlene Adele Bainbridge, Denise C. Garrison, Terry R. Wahl
  • Patent number: 6790196
    Abstract: Methods and devices for treating vulnerable plaque deposits within a blood vessel, having an inner surface and one or more plaque deposits containing a core material are disclosed. A device in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes an elongate shaft having a proximal end and a distal end, a balloon disposed about the elongate shaft for engaging one or more plaque deposits and extracting the core material therefrom, a first venturi section disposed proximally of the balloon, and a second venturi section disposed distally of the balloon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: SciMed Life Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Jaydeep Y. Kokate, Eric M. DoBrava
  • Patent number: 6790197
    Abstract: A single use syringe and a plunger rod locking device for such a syringe are provided. The locking device and plunger rod include features that cause the plunger rod to be locked with respect to the syringe barrel upon completion of an injection stroke. A cutting member is provided at the distal end of the locking device. The cutting member will penetrate, and thereby disable the stopper affixed to the plunger rod in an attempt to retract the plunger rod following the injection stroke. The locking device includes barbs for engaging the syringe barrel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Becton Dickinson and Company
    Inventors: Anthony J. Kosinski, Gene Fleischer, Marcos Calucho
  • Patent number: 6790198
    Abstract: A wireless communication system from an IV medication infusion pump to a hospital information management system (HIMS) is disclosed. The system includes an IV pump having pump operation circuitry for monitoring preselected characteristics of pump operation indicative of IV administration of medication to a patient. A transmitter is connected to the pump operation circuitry for transmitting a wireless pump signal representing the preselected pump operation characteristics. The wireless pump transmitter communicates with a hospital information management system (HIMS). The HIMS includes a receiver capable of receiving the pump signal representing the pump operation characteristics and also includes a computer capable of storing and displaying the pump operation characteristics represented by the received wireless pump signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: B-Braun Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Gale White, Roger Hill, Michael J. Zakrewski, Ruth Kummerlen, Martyn Stuart Abbott, Robert C. Brooks
  • Patent number: 6790199
    Abstract: A needle protective assembly in which a slidable sheath is mounted over a barrel which, in turn, encircles a needle. The sheath is adapted to slide along the barrel, and cover the needle after use, protecting against accidental needlesticks. The inner barrel is integrally formed with a hub in which the needle is mounted, and which may be used to attach the inventive protective assembly to a blood collection vial holder, or a hypodermic syringe, depending upon the application. In some embodiments, the protective assembly may also be formed integrally with either the blood collection vial holder, or the hypodermic syringe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: North American Medical Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Art Gianakos
  • Patent number: 6790200
    Abstract: An ostomy appliance and a mounting disc include an ostomy pouch having a stoma receiving portal. The mounting disc is sealed about the portal and includes a flexible plastic disc having a convex central body portion and a surrounding annular rim. A first foam disc having an outer diameter corresponding to the outer diameter of the rim is adhesively adhered to the plastic disc. A second foam disc is adhered to an adhesive face of the first foam disc and has an outer diameter greater than the plastic disc. A hydrocolloid skin shield disc having an outer diameter corresponding to the outer diameter of the second foam disc is adhesively adhered to an adhesive face of the second disc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Marlen Manufacturing and Development Co., Inc.
    Inventor: Gary H. Fenton
  • Patent number: 6790201
    Abstract: The present invention relates to strap assemblies. More specifically, the present invention relates to strap assemblies for supporting one or more devices mountable on an individual or patient, such as a drainage reservoir or other medical devices. Furthermore, the strap assemblies of the present invention are designed to alleviate some of the discomfort in wearing such an assembly. The strap assemblies of the present invention generally comprise a waist strap, a shoulder strap device and one or more front straps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Inventor: Helen B. Meyer
  • Patent number: 6790202
    Abstract: A disposable absorbent article defined by a pair of longitudinally extending side edges and a pair of end edges extending between the side edges, has a front waist region, a back waist region, and a crotch region located between the waist regions. The disposable absorbent article also includes a topsheet, a backsheet, and an absorbent core disposed between the topsheet and the backsheet. The topsheet is provided with a plurality of openings which direct bodily exudates received into or by the crotch region to a storage space disposed below the topsheet. The topsheet is spaced generally upward from the core such that the storage space is disposed between the topsheet and the core. The disposable absorbent article further includes at least one or more elongated elastic strands which are attached to the topsheet so as to space or urge the topsheet generally upwardly from the core.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Associated Hygienic Products LLC
    Inventors: Walter V. Klemp, Paul M. Ducker, Daniel D. Gardner, Jr., Scott W. Sneed
  • Patent number: 6790203
    Abstract: An absorbent product has an absorption body with a generally oblong shape with two longitudinal sides, two transverse sides, a longitudinal center line, and also includes a first, liquid-permeable surface layer and a second, essentially liquid-impermeable surface layer, an essentially liquid-impermeable backing layer, an absorption body positioned between the liquid-permeable surface layer and the backing layer, two leakage barriers made of flexible material in the longitudinal direction on each side of the longitudinal center line. Each leakage barrier has a first edge permanently fastened along the first, liquid-permeable surface layer and a second edge which extends in the direction of the longitudinal center line of the absorbent product. The first surface and/or the second surface of each leakage barrier is fastened to or near to the first, liquid-permeable surface layer and/or the second, liquid-impermeable surface layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: SCA Hygiene Products AB
    Inventor: Hans Eén
  • Patent number: 6790204
    Abstract: A method for the treatment of a stenosis or an occlusion in a blood vessel is disclosed in which a main catheter is first delivered to a site proximal to the occlusion. The main catheter may include an occlusive device at its distal end. An inner catheter or elongate member (e.g., a guidewire) having an occlusive device at its distal end is delivered to the site of the occlusion, and the occlusive device is activated at a site distal to the occlusion. A therapy catheter is then introduced to treat the occlusion. Next, a catheter is delivered just proximal to the occlusive device, and this catheter is used to aspirate and/or irrigate the area removing particles and debris. The aspiration and irrigation steps are preferably repeated until the particles and debris are removed. Perfusion may be performed by using a perfusion-filter distal of the lesion to be treated or a hypotube which extends beyond the occlusive device attached to the guidewire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Medtronic Vascular, Inc.
    Inventors: Gholam-Reza Zadno-Azizi, Mukund R. Patel, Ketan P. Muni, Celso J. Bagaosian, Hung V. Ha
  • Patent number: 6790205
    Abstract: A laser beam projector equipped with a CCD camera for taking a picture of a spot for treatment, thus permitting observation of the spot by sight. The laser beam projector has an annular projection formed around a circular hole made on the front of its casing, and a trapezoid heat sink is fitted in the circular hole with its base caught by the circumference of the annular projection. The annular projection has threads formed on its outer circumference. A tapered cap has a laser beam throwing aperture made on its top end. The tapered cap is screwed and fixed to the annular projection, and the tapered head is applied to the spot with the laser beam aperture closed with the skin. The heat sink has a through hole made at its center, and a magnifying lens is placed deep in the through hole, and is directed to the laser beam throwing aperture. The CCD camera is placed behind the magnifying lens with its focal plan aligned with the lens.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Ya-Man Ltd.
    Inventors: Iwao Yamazaki, Yoshihiro Izawa
  • Patent number: 6790206
    Abstract: A method and system for delivering power over a patient cable to a therapeutic device, in which a variable that depends on the delivered power is sensed or measured near a distal end of the patient cable, and a feedback signal is generated based on the sensed or measured value. The delivered power is adjusted based at least in part on the feedback signal to compensate for power variance along the patient cable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: SciMed Life Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Dorin Panescu
  • Patent number: 6790207
    Abstract: Systems and methods that treat disorders of the gastrointestinal tract by applying one or more treatment agents to tissue at or near the region where abnormal neurological symptoms or abnormal tissue conditions exist. The treatment agent is selected to either disrupt the abnormal nerve pathways and/or to alleviate the abnormal tissue conditions. The treatment agent can include at least one cytokine and/or at least one vanilloid compound to evoke a desired tissue response. The systems and methods can be used a primary treatment modality, or as a neoadjuvent or adjuvant treatment modality.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Curon Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: David S. Utley, John W Gaiser, Rachel Croft
  • Patent number: 6790208
    Abstract: A slider 37 having a rod-pressing portion 35 for pressing a rod 23 into a rod-engaging recess 25 is movably provided on a holder body 27 having the rod-engaging recess 25. The holder body 27 includes a pressing state holding mechanism for relatively moving the slider 37 with respect to the holder body 27 to hold the rod 23 in a state in which the rod 23 is pressed against the rod-engaging recess 25 by the rod-pressing portion 35. The pressing state holding mechanism includes a screw rod movably, detachably and threadedly engaged with a screw hole formed in the holder body 27. A tip end of the screw rod 45 and the slider 37 connected to each other such that they permit rotation of the screw rod 45 with respect to the slider 37 but move integrally with respect to the holder body 27, and the slider 37 can be attached to and detached from the slider 37.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Showa Ika Kohgyo Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kazuya Oribe, Masato Tomita, Hiroshi Takamido, Noriyuki Ina