Patents Issued in April 10, 2007
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Patent number: 7201742Abstract: A needle assembly includes an elongate needle mount (10), a needle (12), and a sheath (14) mounted on the elongate needle mount (10) for reciprocal axial movement between a forward position whereat the sheath (14) covers the needle (12) and a rearward position whereat the needle (12) is exposed.Type: GrantFiled: May 22, 2003Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Assignee: bioMD LimitedInventor: Frank Popovsky
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Patent number: 7201743Abstract: The invention relates to disposable incontinence diapers for adults. At least two closure means (24, 26) are provided on each respective side section (22, 24) or longitudinal edge section (18, 20) and are distanced from each other in a longitudinal direction (30) in order to adapt the diapers in a more effective manner to the actual requirements made thereof. The invention is characterized in that the respective closure means (26) which is located further away from the edge of the hip (16) and the impact section (34) associated therewith are configured in such a way that the adhesive connection, beginning with the closed state of the diapers, only becomes detached when the force is higher than that of the adhesive connection of the closure means (24) located nearer to the edge of the hip (16) and the impact section (32) associated therewith.Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 2003Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Assignee: Paul Hartmann AGInventor: Wolfgang Röhrl
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Patent number: 7201744Abstract: A refastenable absorbent garment includes a first body panel having a body side and a garment side and a second body panel having a body side and a garment side. A fastener member is attached to the body side of the first body panel and is releasably attached to the body side of the second body panel. A method for assembling a refastenable absorbent garment includes applying a garment side of a first portion of the fastener member to a body side of a first body panel, and releasably applying the body side of the second body panel to a garment side of a second portion of the fastener member. A method of manufacturing and using the absorbent garment is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: December 28, 2001Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.Inventors: Paul T. Van Gompel, Yung H. Huang
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Patent number: 7201745Abstract: A catheter extending from a distal end which, when in an operative position is inserted within a body of a patient, to a proximal end, the catheter comprising a charge holding cavity to which a therapeutic compound is to be supplied and a wall including inner and outer portions, an inner surface of the inner portion surrounding the charge holding cavity with an outer portion surrounding at least a portion of an outer surface of the inner portion, wherein the inner portion is formed so that a first diffusion rate of the therapeutic compound therethrough is different from a second diffusion rate through the outer portion.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2003Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.Inventors: Kristian DiMatteo, Sharon Mi Lyn Tan
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Implantable therapeutic substance delivery device having a piston pump with an anti-cavitation valve
Patent number: 7201746Abstract: A medical device known as an implantable therapeutic substance infusion device is configured for implanting in humans to deliver a therapeutic substance such as pharmaceutical compositions, genetic materials, and biologics to treat a variety of medical conditions such as pain, spastisity, cancer, and many other conditions. The therapeutic substance infusion device has a piston pump with an anti-cavitation valve to reduce gas formation, increase accuracy, improve efficiency and has many other improvements. The therapeutic substance infusion device has a housing, a therapeutic substance reservoir, a power source carried in the housing, electronics, a piston pump, an inlet valve, and anti-cavitation valve. The piston pump is configured for pumping therapeutic substance from the therapeutic substance reservoir through an infusion port at a programmed rate.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 2001Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.Inventor: James M. Olsen -
Patent number: 7201747Abstract: A positioning system for use during surgical procedures comprising a belt assembly adapted to be positioned about a bodily surface of a patient. The belt assembly may comprise a single module, or a first module adapted to be attached to a second module. The modules may be adapted to permit attachment of a surgical instrument thereto. The modules may also include cushioned undersides. The system may also comprise a surgical instrument retention system including a saddle adapted to be positioned on a surgical instrument, straps adapted to secure the saddle to the surgical instrument, and a pulley cord coupled to the saddle so as to selectively position the surgical instrument upon movement of the pulley cord. The modules may also include an accessory adapted to fit securely within shaped openings formed therein. The accessory may comprise a base having a locking apparatus for locking a medical device to the base.Type: GrantFiled: October 21, 2003Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Assignee: Edrich Vascular Devices, Inc.Inventors: John K Edoga, Thierry Richard
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Patent number: 7201748Abstract: This invention is directed to an energy irradiation apparatus including an insertion portion (3) which includes a hollow cylindrical member (14) having a sealed distal end portion and is inserted into a living body, and an energy irradiation portion (20) which applies energy to living tissue through an irradiation window portion (17) which is provided on a side wall of the hollow cylindrical member (14) to extend in the longitudinal direction. This apparatus includes a driving unit which reciprocates with substantially a constant velocity the laser irradiation portion (20) in the direction indicated by an arrow D along the longitudinal direction of the irradiation window portion (17). With this structure, the energy irradiation apparatus can uniformly irradiate a lesion with energy.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 2004Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Assignee: Terumo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Wataru Karino, Akira Sakaguchi, Hiroshi Kizukuri
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Patent number: 7201749Abstract: Apparatus is provided for performing ablation of cardiac tissue using ultrasound. The apparatus includes a beacon, adapted to be placed at a cardiac site in a body of a subject. The apparatus further includes a set of ultrasound transducers, each transducer adapted to detect a respective ultrasound signal coming from the beacon. Each transducer is adapted to output a time-reversed ultrasound signal, reversed in time with respect to a property of at least one of the beacon signals, and configured to ablate the cardiac tissue.Type: GrantFiled: February 19, 2003Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Assignee: Biosense, Inc.Inventors: Assaf Govari, Yitzhack Schwartz
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Patent number: 7201750Abstract: An electrosurgical probe (10) comprises a shaft (13) having an electrode array (58) at its distal end and a connector (19) at its proximal end for coupling the electrode array to a high frequency power supply (28). The shaft includes a return electrode (56) recessed from its distal end and enclosed within an insulating jacket (18). The return electrode defines an inner passage (83) electrically connected to both the return electrode and the electrode array for passage of an electrically conducting liquid (50). By applying high frequency voltage to the electrode array and the return electrode, the electrically conducting liquid generates a current flow path between the return electrode and the electrode array so that target tissue may be cut or ablated. The probe is particularly useful in dry environments, such as the mouth or abdominal cavity, because the electrically conducting liquid provides the necessary return current path between the active and return electrodes.Type: GrantFiled: May 18, 1999Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Assignee: ArthroCare CorporationInventors: Philip E. Eggers, Hira V. Thapliyal
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Patent number: 7201751Abstract: A supplemental spine fixation device and method is used in association with a primary spine fixation device. The supplemental spine fixation device includes a guide and spacer for distracting apart adjacent spinous processes and the device has hook members which hook about the first and second spinous processes. With the spinous processes distracted and the hook members about the spinous processes, the hook members can be rigidly secured to a hub in order to rigidly affix the spinous processes about the spacer. The rigidity between the spinous processes assures that the vertebral bodies will be held rigidly in place in order to promote bone growth and fusion. Further additional freedom of movement between the spacer and hub is accomplished with the spacer being pivotably mounted relative to the hub. The hooks have a tissue distracting lead-in guide for allowing the hooks to be easily urged between spinous processes.Type: GrantFiled: April 26, 2001Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Assignee: St. Francis Medical Technologies, Inc.Inventors: James F. Zucherman, Ken Y. Hsu, Charles J. Winslow, Henry A. Klyce
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Patent number: 7201752Abstract: Systems, including apparatus, methods, and kits, for fusing two or more bones with a bone plate.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 2003Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Assignee: Acumed LLCInventors: Randall J. Huebner, David G. Jensen, Herbert Respess
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Patent number: 7201753Abstract: The invention relates to a bone fixation device which includes a pair of bone plates and a longitudinal carrier. The longitudinal carrier can be used to permit the bone plates to telescope with respect to one another, such as in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the vertebral column. A joint also may be used to permit swivelling of the plates with respect to each other.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2003Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Assignee: Synthes (U.S.A.)Inventors: Fridolin J. Schlåpfer, Martin Hess
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Patent number: 7201754Abstract: A device and method for installing an anchor in a bone of a patient which employs an anchor body having expandable side walls in a tapered shape with retention members on their external surfaces, and an expansion member within the anchor body which is pulled to an engaged position. While in the engaged position the expansion member presses on the inside of the side walls to expand them outwardly to engage the retention members with the bone walls. The side walls have containment ring sections at their distal ends for retaining the expansion member inside the anchor body. The expansion member may be formed as a conical plug with a central aperture and tab recesses on its underside for insertion of an elongated scissors-type instrument with movable prongs that engage into the tab recesses of the expansion plug.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2003Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Inventors: Kenneth Stewart, Thomas M. Sweeney, II
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Patent number: 7201755Abstract: An apparatus for the preparation of a femoral condyle for the insertion of monocondylar knee implants. In one embodiment, at least one combined cutting and drilling jig can be fixed to the femoral condyle, when the knee is in flexion, at a desired spacing from a tibia plateau dependent on the thickness of a tibia implant to be inserted. The jig can include a concave side facing the femoral condyle and curved in accordance with a femur implant to be inserted. The jig can further include at least one fixing passage in a drilling section of the jig for a drill and for a fixing element, with the fixing passage being positioned and orientated with respect to a curved side in accordance with the femur implant to be inserted.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2004Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Assignee: Zimmer GmbHInventors: Francisco Faoro, Tom Overes
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Patent number: 7201756Abstract: A surgical assist device and method that can be used to assist a surgeon in site selection and suture placement to re-attach the glenoid labrum to the shoulder's glenoid bone. The device and method includes an arcuate shaped bow arm, an angle guide attached to the bow arm at a selected location along the bow arm, a sleeve guide, and a target tool releasably connected to the angle guide. A tip end of the sleeve guide is extended in surgery and is configured to intersect and pass through an aperture of the target tool. The tip end of the sleeve guide includes at least one tooth that embeds in the glenoid bone and holds the sleeve guide in position. A guide pin such as a suture carrier is extended through the sleeve guide. The sleeve guide is then removed leaving the sutures in the correct repair location.Type: GrantFiled: March 24, 2003Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Inventors: Herbert Earl Ross, Mitchell Theodore Copeland
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Patent number: 7201757Abstract: The method of the invention includes accessing a juncture of an esophagus and a stomach of the patient on a distal side of a diaphragm. The esophagus and a fundus of the stomach intersect at a cardiac notch located at an original cardiac notch position. A reducing element is placed at the junction with the reducing element selected to reposition the cardiac notch to a position more distal to a lower esophageal sphincter of the patient.Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 2003Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Assignee: EnteroMedics Inc.Inventors: Mark B. Knudson, Katherine S. Tweden, Timothy R. Conrad, John P. Sopp
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Patent number: 7201758Abstract: A repairing procedure for treating Superficial and/or Perforant Venous Insufficiency of the lower limbs, by means of the application of Clips, Stoppers and/or Artificial Valves. The procedure consists of the strategic and specific closure of different reflux levels in the internal and/or external saphenous veins and perforants veins, in an extravascular way by means of the use of titanium clips, or in endovascular way by means of the use of stoppers or artificial valves. In the case of using Artificial Valves the vascular function is reestablished.Type: GrantFiled: July 16, 2004Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Inventor: Alejandro Hector Farmache
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Patent number: 7201759Abstract: A cutting blade assembly 20 includes a ceramic blade 22 with a forward cutting edge 24. A lower portion 28 of a blade holder 26 is formed of ceramic and is integral to ceramic blade 22. An upper blade holder portion 30 is attached to the lower blade holder portion 28, such that the upper blade holder portion 30 is structured for engagement with a microkeratome oscillation mechanism 84.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2003Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Assignee: Bausch & Lomb IncorporatedInventors: Michael H. Dobner, Craig A. Barrile-Josephson
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Patent number: 7201760Abstract: Disclosed is a single-use surgical scalpel having two molded plastic elements, and a surgical blade. The first molded plastic element is a housing. The housing has an upper and a lower radiused edge, and ribbed interior wall surfaces. The ribbed interior wall surfaces of the molded plastic housing define a channel for slidable engagement of the second molded plastic element which is referred to as a blade carrier. The channel has one open end through which a surgical blade is extended during use, a slot through the lower radiused edge for slidable engagement of an actuator/locking fin, a single-use indicator window, and a retaining element for engaging a distal end of a leaf spring. The molded plastic blade carrier has a first end adapted for engaging the surgical blade, a second end having a leaf spring to assist in blade retraction, the leaf spring having a proximal and a distal end, and a central portion having the actuator/locking fin and a single-use indicator. A single-mold embodiment is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2003Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Inventors: David H. Masury, Edward P. Thompson
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Patent number: 7201761Abstract: Apparatus for resecting a diseased heart valve, the apparatus comprising: a body portion; a first handle and a second handle; a cutting blade; a set of retaining arms; a pass-off tool having a first attachment device configured to selectively engage the first handle attached to the body portion so as to allow placement of the second handle of the body portion adjacent to the diseased heart valve; and a controller tool having a second attachment device at the distal end thereof, the second attachment device configured to selectively engage the second handle attached to the body portion so as to allow positioning of the body portion adjacent to the diseased heart valve, a cutting blade actuator configured to cause the cutting blade to selectively rotate, and a retaining arm actuator configured to selectively position the set of retaining arms from a contracted state to an expanded state.Type: GrantFiled: April 16, 2003Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.Inventors: Steven B. Woolfson, Richard B. Streeter, Daniel C. Taylor, William E. Cohn
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Patent number: 7201762Abstract: A vascular implant formed of a compressible foam material has a compressed configuration from which it is expansible into a configuration substantially conforming to the shape and size of a vascular site to be embolized. Preferably, the implant is formed of a hydrophilic, macroporous foam material, having an initial configuration of a scaled-down model of the vascular site, from which it is compressible into the compressed configuration. The implant is made by scanning the vascular site to create a digitized scan data set; using the scan data set to create a three-dimensional digitized virtual model of the vascular site; using the virtual model to create a scaled-down physical mold of the vascular site; and using the mold to create a vascular implant in the form of a scaled-down model of the vascular site. To embolize a vascular site, the implant is compressed and passed through a microcatheter, the distal end of which has been passed into a vascular site.Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 2002Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Assignee: Microvention, Inc.Inventors: George R. Greene, Jr., Robert F. Rosenbluth, Brian J. Cox
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Patent number: 7201763Abstract: A balloon catheter having an improved balloon waist design in which material is removed prior to thermal processing. In one embodiment, a series of patterned voids are formed in the balloon waist to reduce the amount of polymeric material and to better control flowing polymeric material during thermal processing.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2001Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.Inventor: Matthew Heidner
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Patent number: 7201764Abstract: A hand-held laser device that stimulates hair growth. The device provides distributed laser light to the scalp while simultaneously parting the individual's hair to ensure that the laser light contacts the individual's scalp. A unique beam splitting reflector splits a single laser beam to ensure that energy from the laser beam is evenly distributed. The reflector is mechanically aligned with the laser source and has a zigzag structure which mechanically deflects portions of the beam as it passes over the peaks of the reflector. The portions of the laser beam form a line of laser beams that project toward the individual's scalp. Parallel rows of teeth are aligned with a central row of individual laser beams and part the individual's hair to form furrows in the individual's hair as the device is combed through the individual's hair. The furrows create an unobstructed path for the laser beam to reach the scalp of the individual.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 2002Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Assignee: Lexington Lasercomb IP AGInventors: Henry Pearl, David Sinofsky
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Patent number: 7201765Abstract: Disclosed is a system and method for treatment of skin disorders. More particularly, the disclosed invention is directed toward the treatment of acne and acne scarring by treating sebaceous oil glands and the surrounding tissue with an exogenous chromophore composition and then exposing the target tissue to visible, infrared, or ultraviolet light to inhibit the activity of the oil gland and eliminate acne bacteria. The treatment method of the present invention may be futher augmented by enhancing the penetration of the topical composition into the oil gland and surrounding tissue through the use of procedures including enzyme peeling, microderm abrasion, or ultrasound.Type: GrantFiled: May 2, 2005Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Assignee: Light Bioscience LLCInventor: David H. McDaniel
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Patent number: 7201766Abstract: In a first aspect, a therapy device is provided. The therapy device includes (1) a hyperbaric chamber adapted to expose at least a target tissue area of a patient to a hyperbaric environment; and (2) a light therapy device adapted to expose the target tissue area of the patient to one or more doses of light energy while the target tissue area is within the hyperbaric chamber. Numerous other aspects are provided.Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 2003Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Assignee: Life Support Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Glenn Butler
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Patent number: 7201767Abstract: The device for ultraviolet radiation treatment of body tissues includes a UV light source, a halogen light source and a viewing mechanism all connected to a trifurcation joint by fiber optic cables. All three fiber optics cables are bundled together and exit the trifurcation joint and form a flexible shaft having a distal tip. The distal tip is polished to radiate collimated light. The device allows a user to illuminate the target area in or on the human body via the halogen light, to view the target area via the viewing mechanism, and to treat the body tissue via the UV light source. For destroying pathogens the UV light is calibrated to 253.7 nanometers, a germicidal UV wavelength, by selection of a specific light bulb. The UV light source may be a mercury light bulb and it is maintained at a constant wavelength using a fan to regulate the temperature within the UV light housing.Type: GrantFiled: May 27, 2004Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Inventor: Tarseam S. Bhullar
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Patent number: 7201768Abstract: A method and device are disclosed for retrieving embolic coils used for treating an aneurysm of a patient. The method comprises the steps of providing a wire device that is pushable through a microcatheter and has a flexible distal portion comprising distal collapsible arms with a latch member carried by one of the arms. The microcatheter is introduced into a patient's vessel leading to the aneurysm. The wire device, distal end first, is introduced into the microcatheter whereby the arms collapse while they are within the microcatheter. The distal end of the wire device is pushed through the microcatheter whereby the arms open when they extend out of the distal end of the microcatheter. The latch member is manipulated so that it engages an embolic coil to be retrieved. The latch-engaged embolic coil and wire device are withdrawn through the catheter, whereby the arms become collapsed as the arm is withdrawn through the catheter, securing the latch and the embolic coil.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2003Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Assignee: Cordis Neurovascular, Inc.Inventors: Roberto Diaz, Vladimir Mitelberg
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Patent number: 7201769Abstract: An expandable stent and delivery system is provided for enhancing luminal dilation of a blood vessel. The delivery system includes proximal, intermediate and distal cylindrical members disposed on and spaced apart along an elongated core member such that first and second gaps are formed. The expandable stent includes proximal and distal anchor members which align with the gaps. The expandable stent is mounted on the intermediate cylindrical member, and the anchor members are disposed within the gaps thereby locking the stent onto the core member.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 2004Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Assignee: Cordis Neurovascular, Inc.Inventors: Donald K. Jones, Vladimir Mitelberg
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Patent number: 7201770Abstract: A stent delivery catheter includes at least an inner and outer body, and a specially shaped balloon affixed near one end of both of the inner and outer bodies. At least the outer body is tubular, and the space between the outer and inner bodies defines an inflation lumen for inflating and deflating the balloon. The balloon is designed to surround and hold a compressed self-expanding stent in a small initial size. An inner portion of the cylindrical balloon extends from where it is affixed to the inner body of the catheter shaft at a point proximal to the stent to a distal leading edge at a point distal to the stent. At this leading edge, the balloon is folded back upon itself, and an outer portion of the balloon extends proximally from the leading edge to a point proximal of the stent where it is affixed to the outer body of the catheter shaft. When the outer body is retracted in the proximal direction, the balloon progressively peels back or everts, to progressively release the stent.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 2002Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Assignee: Cordis CorporationInventors: Kirk L. Johnson, Melissa Querns, legal representative, Stephen J. Querns, deceased
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Patent number: 7201771Abstract: A trileaflet biological prosthetic heart valve (11, 41) comprising a thin, rigid annular outer frame (25, 43) which supports three elastic, laminated spring inner frames (18, 57) which in turn provide consistent geometric form and structure for attachment of tissue leaflets (15, 71).Type: GrantFiled: December 26, 2002Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Assignee: Arbor Surgical Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Ernest Lane
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Patent number: 7201772Abstract: A prosthetic device including a valve-orifice attachment member attachable to a valve in a blood vessel and including a fluid inlet, and a diverging member that extends from the fluid inlet, the diverging member including a proximal end near the fluid inlet and a distal end distanced from the proximal end, wherein a distal portion of the diverging member has a larger cross-sectional area for fluid flow therethrough than a proximal portion thereof. The diverging member may have a diverging taper that causes fluid to flow therethrough with pressure recovery at the distal end thereof.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 2004Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Assignee: Ventor Technologies, Ltd.Inventors: Ehud Schwammenthal, Yosi Tuval, Raphael Benary
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Patent number: 7201773Abstract: The invention is directed toward a bone block, a bone-tendon-bone assembly and method of tendon reconstruction in which at least one tendon replacement is extended between two bone blocks and fixed within each of two bone tunnels in the bones of a joint using interference screws. Each bone block has a central through going bore and at least one substantially parallel channel longitudinally cut in the exterior of the bone block body in which the ligament replacements are seated. One end of each bone block has a rounded recess leading from the central bore to the exterior parallel channel.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 2005Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Assignee: Musculoskeletal Transplant FoundationInventors: Anton J. Steiner, Arthur A. Gertzman
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Patent number: 7201774Abstract: An Artificial Disc Replacement (ADR) includes a body and/or outer wall that is fortified, reinforced, stiffened or otherwise strengthened with a higher durometer, for example, where it rests against a weakened or deficient area of the annulus fibrosis (AF). The “less stiff” portions facilitate the transfer of load to the healthier portion of the AF. A hydrogel or other compressible and/or resilient material may be used within the center of the ADR to selectively transfer the forces to the outer wall. The outer wall may constructed of an elastomer, and may include a radial ply, bias ply, and/or belted construction. Methods of determining a properly sized ADR are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 2003Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Inventor: Bret A. Ferree
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Patent number: 7201775Abstract: An implantable device for stabilizing joints is provided. The stabilizing device, or implant, includes an elongated body and at least two bone cutting surfaces. The bone cutting surfaces are adapted to cut bone upon rotation of the body about its longitudinal axis between two bones. The device is adapted to promote bone fusion. In one embodiment, a device to initiate bony fusion between two adjacent vertebral bodies in the spine is provided. Methods of stabilizing joints and promoting bone fusion are also provided.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 2003Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Inventors: Bogomir Gorensek, Sean Kavanaugh
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Patent number: 7201776Abstract: An artificial disc replacement (ADR) includes a pair of opposing endplate components, each attached to one of the upper and lower vertebrae, a cushioning component disposed between the endplate components; and a filler material contained within the cushioning component. The filler material may be a gas, liquid, foam, or gel, including a hydrogel. In a preferred embodiment, the ADR may further include one or more opposing, spaced-apart projections configured to impinge if the endplate components are subjected to an excessive force. Such projections may allow for unrestricted motion between the endplates until impingement, or may restrict translation between the endplates until a greater excessive force is reached. One or both of the endplate components may include a modified surface to increase adherence to the respective vertebral endplates.Type: GrantFiled: November 25, 2002Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Inventors: Bret A. Ferree, David Tompkins
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Patent number: 7201777Abstract: The present invention relates to a nonwoven fabric having a relatively low level of ionic contaminates which is achieved by exposing the fabric to a deionized water wash, preferably, in-line with the nonwoven production process, thereby eliminating, or at least reducing, the need for an expensive and time consuming cleanroom laundering. The fabric is primarily comprised of continuous filament fibers and may be manufactured into such end-use products as cleaning wipes and protective clothing for cleanrooms and surface coating operations, such as automotive paintrooms. Also encompassed within this invention is a method for producing a nonwoven fabric having a relatively low level of ionic contaminates.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2002Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Inventor: Archer E. D. Booker, Jr.
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Patent number: 7201778Abstract: A process for producing an ionic crosslinked fibrous material, such as a cellulosic fabric, paper, or other substrate, wherein the ionic crosslinked fiber exhibits an increased wrinkle resistance angle. A process for producing a cationized chitosan, wherein the cationized chitosan exhibits cationization at the C6 and ring hydroxyl sites and the reactivity of the ring NH2 sites is preserved. A process for applying a polycation to an anionic fibrous material to form an ionic crosslinked fibrous material. A process for producing a cationized fibrous material, wherein the process is performed as a pad-batch process, an exhaust fixation process, a pad-steam process, or a pad-dry-cure process.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 2005Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Assignee: North Carolina State UniversityInventors: Carl Brent Smith, Mustafa Bilgen, Peter J. Hauser
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Patent number: 7201779Abstract: The invention relates to a dye composition comprising a direct dye consisting of different chromophores, the dye having a particular L*a*b* value. The invention also relates to the dyeing process using this composition and to the use of this composition for dyeing keratin fibers. These compositions in particular make it possible to obtain particularly fast colorations.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 2004Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Assignee: L'Oreal S.A.Inventors: Henri Samain, Grégory Plos, Leila Hercouet, Andrew Greaves
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Patent number: 7201780Abstract: A method for dyeing textiles with reducible dyes in the presence of borohydride and bisulfite.Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 2006Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Assignee: Rohm and Haas CompanyInventor: Harrie Peter Schoots
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Patent number: 7201781Abstract: A fuel mixture containing a suspension in air at a concentration of about 200 mg of fuel per liter of air, of a solid fuel including at least one of a cereal flour, a cotton flour, a soybean flour, a potato flour, a cassava flour, a dehydrated chocolate powder and a dehydrated milk powder, the solid fuel being in the form of a powder having an average particle diameter and median particle diameter at least 150 ?m.Type: GrantFiled: June 19, 2001Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Inventor: Guillaume Pourtout
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Patent number: 7201782Abstract: A gas generation system includes a chemical reactor configured to produce a gas from a continuous flow of aqueous solution, and includes a pump configured to control the flow of the aqueous solution through the chemical reactor to control a production rate of the gas.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 2002Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.Inventor: John A Devos
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Patent number: 7201783Abstract: An improved feedstock for fuel processing systems, and fuel processing systems incorporating the same. The fuel processing system includes a fuel processor adapted to produce a product hydrogen stream from a carbon-containing feedstock. The fuel processing system may also include a fuel cell stack adapted to produce an electric current from the product hydrogen stream. The feedstock is at least substantially formed of a hydrocarbon or alcohol. In an exemplary embodiment, the feedstock includes methanol. The feedstock also includes at least one odorant adapted to produce a strong and characteristic odor, even when present in only low concentrations. The odorant, or odorants, are selected to be free or at least sufficiently free from compounds that will poison the catalyst used in the fuel processor.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2001Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Assignee: IdaTech, LLCInventor: David J. Edlund
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Patent number: 7201784Abstract: Slurries and methods for the chemical mechanical polishing of high density copper interconnects in a low k ILD are presented. In a particular embodiment of the present invention, a slurry for polishing copper is formed by combining a surfactant comprising an alkyl ethoxy organic acid such as glycolic acid ethoxylate lauryl ether (GAELE), an abrasive such as silica, an oxidizing agent such as hydrogen peroxide, and a chelating buffer system such as citric acid and potassium citrate dissolved in the mixture. This slurry provides a very low incidence of bent line defects, a low erosion rate, and a low dishing rate on a substrate comprising high density copper interconnects in a low k ILD. Embodiments of methods of the present invention use the disclosed slurries.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2003Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Assignee: Intel CorporationInventors: Anne E. Miller, Charles Poutasse
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Patent number: 7201785Abstract: A dust collector includes a base, a cover, and a barrel disposed between the base and the cover. The barrel includes a lower frame, an upper frame, one or more intermediate frames, and one or more telescopic tubes selectively secured to the frames, to form a spatial structure for the barrel, and the barrel is collapsible to a collapsed structure when the telescopic tube is disengaged from the lower and the upper and the intermediate frames. The intermediate frames may be received within the upper frame, and the lower frame may be received in the intermediate frames. The dust bag may be attached to the barrel with hooks or catches or clamping rings.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 2004Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Inventor: Kun Yi Lin
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Patent number: 7201786Abstract: A detachable dust bin for a vacuum cleaner. A container is provided with a removable sidewall which has an outlet opening which is adapted to be coupled to a source of vacuum. The container includes an inlet for connecting to a passageway which is connected to a vacuum nozzle. A duct extends vertically from the inlet within the container, and then laterally toward the removable sidewall. A filter is supported along the removable sidewall having a front surface facing the outlet of the duct, and a rear surface facing the outlet opening in the removable sidewall. Dirt laden air is drawn through the filter, duct, and vacuum nozzle. Dirt is separated from the air and collected within the container.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2003Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Assignee: The Hoover CompanyInventors: Jackson Wegelin, Ron Stephens, Chuck Damman
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Patent number: 7201787Abstract: An air cleaner and method of controlling an operation of the same is disclosed. The air cleaner includes a cabinet having an inlet and an outlet; a filter assembly removing dust and smell particles from a room air; a fan; a sensor assembly sensing the composition of the room air; a supplier assembly providing at least one of insufficient components of the room air to a cleaned air; and a controller controlling the supplier assembly on the basis of data regarding the composition of the room air. In another aspect, the method of controlling the operation of the air cleaner includes steps of sensing a room air; measuring insufficient components of the room air and the amount thereof; and providing at least one of the insufficient components of the room air to a cleaned air.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 2004Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.Inventors: Ho Seon Choi, Ju-Yeon Lee
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Patent number: 7201788Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for the production of potassium octoborate hydrate which comprises the dissolution of boric acid and caustic potash in an aqueous solution brought to a temperature of 95° C., the drying of the product obtained and its grinding into an amorphous powder. Potassium octoborate and its polyhydrate forms obtained are specifically suitable for use in the agronomic field.Type: GrantFiled: October 21, 2002Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Assignee: Societa Chimica Larderello S.p.A.Inventors: Sergio Miele, Enrica Bargiacchi, Giuseppe Giorgis, Paolo Bonini
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Patent number: 7201789Abstract: The invention concerns a method for preparing a nanocomposite based on magnesium and another element or compound known to absorb hydrogen and hardly miscible when ground with magnesium or its hydride, such as vanadium, titanium or niobium. The method is characterised in that it consists in submitting magnesium or a compound based on magnesium known to absorb hydrogen to hydrogenation to obtain the corresponding hydride in powder form. Said resulting powder hydride is then mixed with the other element or compound or a hydride of said other element or compound and the resulting mixture is subjected to intense mechanical grinding until the corresponding nanocomposite is obtained in the form of a hydride. Finally, if necessary, the resulting nanocomposite is subjected to hydrogen desorption.Type: GrantFiled: October 21, 1998Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Assignee: Hydro-QuebecInventors: Robert Schulz, Guoxiang Liang, Guy Lalande, Jacques Huot, Sabin Boily, André Van Neste
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Patent number: 7201790Abstract: The present invention provides a coating composition comprising zinc particles and a binder wherein the zinc particles contain at least 80% by weight of zinc flake and wherein the zinc particle to binder weight ratio is between 2:1 to 9:1. The coating composition may be an anti-corrosive composition or an antifouling composition. The coating composition may also inhibit or galvanize rust formation. The coating composition is of particular use in the marine industry.Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 2005Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Inventor: Ronald R. Savin
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Patent number: 7201791Abstract: There is provided an ink jet light-color ink which is excellent in color developability and is capable of achieving compatibility between environmental gas resistance and bronze resistance. The ink jet light-color ink to be used in combination with ink jet deep-color ink has a relatively large coloring material content, and comprises at least water, a water-soluble organic solvent, and a coloring material. The ink jet deep-color ink and the ink jet light-color ink satisfy specific conditions.Type: GrantFiled: January 26, 2006Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Assignee: Canon Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Daiji Okamura, Yoshihisa Takizawa, Shin-ichi Sato, Jun Yoshizawa, Kunihiko Nakamura, Yoshihide Aikawa, Tomohiro Yamashita, Masanori Jinnou