Patents Issued in September 25, 2007
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Patent number: 7273465Abstract: Disclosed are devices and methods for the control of body fluid flow in the extracorporeal treatment of body fluid. Body fluid flow through on of a body fluid flow circuit (10, 50, 60, 100 or 250) is controlled by alternating applying vacuum pressure and positive pressure to the circuit through a pumping chamber (30, 51, 66, 102, or 200) coordinated with flow control valves (40, 42, 44, 62, 114, 116, 118, and 120) to effect a net downstream flow of body fluid through the circuit.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 2001Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Assignee: Renal Solutions, Inc.Inventor: Stephen R. Ash
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Patent number: 7273466Abstract: An apparatus for defoaming blood is described, having a surface which comes into contact with blood, said surface being coated with a defoamer which has a hydrophobic component with lipophobic microdomains.Type: GrantFiled: July 9, 2002Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Assignee: Jostra AGInventor: Viktor I. Sevastianov
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Patent number: 7273467Abstract: A device is described for washing the external audtitory meatus comprising at least ne inlet channel (6) for the washing liquid and one discharge channel (8) which connects the end portion of the inlet channel with the outside environment, the discharge channel being designed to discharge the washing liquid outside if a further channel(9), designed to discharged the liquid and the products of washing (wax, epithelial scales, etc.) outside, is at least partially obstructed by the products of washing. The further channel may consist of the external auditory meatus, of an aural speculum in which the washing device (10) is inserted, or f an outlet channel made in the body of the washing device(10).Type: GrantFiled: July 25, 2000Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Inventor: Giorgio Mezzoli
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Patent number: 7273468Abstract: Devices for and methods of treating afflictions occurring in a body cavity, such as the epidural space. The methods and devices provide for fluoroscopic assisted placement of a fiber optic catheter/scope with a balloon tip. These devices and methods would perform decompression surgery, neuroplasty, and mechanical lysis of adhesions (and other afflictions), as well as allowing small operating and therapeutic instruments under direct visualization.Type: GrantFiled: January 5, 2001Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Inventor: Raymond L. Bedell
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Patent number: 7273469Abstract: Methods and apparatus for delivering a treatment agent through a percutaneous delivery apparatus are herein disclosed. In some embodiments, an apparatus can include an expandable body with at least one delivery cannula having a lumen therethrough coupled to an exterior portion of the expandable body. The expandable body can be coupled to a delivery assembly with a hub. The delivery cannula can house at least one needle with a protuberance on a distal end. A portion of the hub can house at least one needle with a protuberance on a proximal end. In some embodiments, the protuberance (proximal or distal) can direct the orientation of the needle during an application of treatment agent. In some embodiments, the delivery cannula can include at least one stop for controlling the movement of the needle during an application of treatment agent. In some embodiments, a sheath can be disposed around the delivery cannula.Type: GrantFiled: December 31, 2003Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Assignee: Advanced Cardiovascular Systems, Inc.Inventors: Gregory Waimong Chan, Fernando Gonzalez, Thuhuong Thi Phan, Dwight A. Ambat, Manolo Lumauig, Mina W. Chow
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Patent number: 7273470Abstract: A balloon catheter, and preferably to a rapid exchange type balloon catheter, having a proximal shaft section, and a distal shaft section with an inner tubular member and an outer tubular member, the outer tubular member having a section which is bonded as by fusing or otherwise bonding. The bonded section extends along a thickened wall portion of the outer tubular member at the rapid exchange junction. A reinforcing member or tube extends within at least a section of the bonded section of the outer tubular member. In one embodiment, the reinforcing tube extends within at least a section of the thickened wall portion of the outer tubular member. The configuration provides a rapid exchange junction with improved kink resistance and flexibility for excellent trackability, and with a minimal decrease in the size of the inflation lumen at the rapid exchange junction for an improved shortened balloon inflation/deflation time.Type: GrantFiled: August 14, 2003Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Assignee: Advanced Cardiovascular Systems, Inc.Inventor: Kenneth L. Wantink
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Patent number: 7273471Abstract: A balloon catheter having a balloon with a porous polymer layer and one or more filamentary members which are on or in the porous polymer layer and which form ridges protruding outwardly from a surface of the balloon in the inflated configuration. In a presently preferred embodiment, the balloon has a wingless noninflated configuration.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 2003Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Assignee: Advanced Cardiovascular Systems, Inc.Inventors: Edwin Wang, Jon Becker, Florencia Lim
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Patent number: 7273472Abstract: A drive arrangement for an injection device, including a first stage, a second stage and a drive for shifting the stages, wherein the drive acts on one of the stages to shift said one of the stages first and wherein the stage which is first shifted encounters a higher resistance than does the other stage, such that the other stage is shifted.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2002Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Assignee: Disetronic Licensing AGInventors: Daniel Peter, Beat Spoerri, Hanspeter Niklaus
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Patent number: 7273473Abstract: The present invention is a catheter having a tube and including mechanisms that provide precision control over insertion and retraction of the catheter tube. The catheter is particularly adapted for introduction into the pulmonary system. The catheter includes an insertion depth control mechanism that acts as a stop and provides a tactile indication to the person inserting the catheter tube that a predetermined position has been reached. The catheter also includes an anti-bunching mechanism to prevent bunching of a protective sleeve disposed around the catheter tube, thereby reducing interference from the sleeve during insertion of the catheter tube.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2004Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Assignee: Alcove Medical Inc.Inventors: Warren D. Owens, William R. Hawes, Cary P. Jenkins, Ken D. Hargett
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Patent number: 7273474Abstract: The present invention is related to a flexible substrate structure for microneedle arrays and its manufacturing method, whose structure mainly comprising: tapered shape objects and flexible substrate. Wherein, structure of the tapered shape object is composed of a tip, sidewalls, and a base. Meanwhile, the flexible substrate winds tightly around sidewalls of tapered shape objects and is set up on, yet covers the base surface of tapered shape object which faces the tip of tapered shape object. Because the structure applies a flexible substrate along with tapered shape objects, hence, the fit-to-body capability is increased and allows thereof more appropriate for backside drug delivery, as well as sufficiently bring the characteristic of large-area manufacturing into full play.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 2003Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Assignee: Industrial Technology Research InstituteInventors: Kai-Cheng Chang, Guang-Chyeng Fan
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Patent number: 7273475Abstract: The invention relates generally medical devices and methods for the treatment of glaucoma in an animal eye and, more particularly, to medical devices and methods for treating tissue of the trabecular meshwork and/or Schlemm's canal of the eye to restore or rejuvenate a portion or all of the normal physiological function of directing aqueous outflow for maintaining a normal intraocular pressure in the eye.Type: GrantFiled: October 21, 2005Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Assignee: Glaukos CorporationInventors: Hosheng Tu, Gregory T. Smedley, Barbara A. Niksch, David S. Haffner
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Patent number: 7273476Abstract: The present invention relates to a disposable absorbent article, e.g. a diaper, having a backsheet, an absorbent core and a topsheet, said absorbent article having a length L, said topsheet having an opening and primary elasticated areas and secondary elasticated areas, the latter being curved or angled, having an overall curvature with a radius of from 0.3 L to 3.2L, wherein the average transverse distance between a primary elasticated area and a secondary elasticated area of a crotch side portion is preferably at least 15 mm.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 2005Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Assignee: The Procter & Gamble CompanyInventors: Joerg Mueller, Cornelia Beate Martynus, Anja Hoffmann, Mattias Schmidt, John Costello, Ann Sullivan, Gregg Flender
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Patent number: 7273477Abstract: A syringe interface or adapter includes a first retaining member that pivots about an axis generally perpendicular to and offset from the axis of an injector piston when the syringe interface is attached to the injector. The first retaining member pivots in a rearward direction to engage a portion of the syringe flange. The syringe interface further includes a second retaining member slideably positioned within a passage in the syringe interface to slide in a direction generally perpendicular to the axis of the piston when the syringe interface is attached to the injector to engage a portion of the syringe flange. The first retaining member and the second retaining member preferably cooperate to engage the syringe flange around the entire perimeter of the syringe flange. The first retaining member is preferably biased toward an open position. The syringe interface can also include a rear portion having an attachment mechanism to attach the syringe interface to the injector.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 2002Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Assignee: Medrad, Inc.Inventors: Michael A. Spohn, James Albert Dedig, Glen P. Williams
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Patent number: 7273478Abstract: An endovascular laser treatment device designed to be used with an optical fiber to treat venous diseases such as varicose veins is provided. The device includes a spacer that positions the distal end of the optical fiber away from the inner wall of the blood vessel during delivery of laser energy to provide an even distribution of thermal energy around the vessel, thereby avoiding vessel perforation and incomplete vessel collapse.Type: GrantFiled: July 3, 2003Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Assignee: AngioDynamics, Inc.Inventors: William M. Appling, Eamonn Hobbs
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Patent number: 7273479Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for cooling an object with a cryogen having a critical point defined by a critical-point pressure and a critical-point temperature. A pressure of the cryogen is raised above a pressure value determined to provide the cryogen at a reduced molar volume that prevents vapor lock. Thereafter, the cryogen is placed in thermal communication with the object to increase a temperature of the cryogen along a thermodynamic path that maintains the pressure greater than the critical-point pressure for a duration that the cryogen and object are in thermal communication.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2004Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Assignee: Cryodynamics, LLCInventors: Peter J. Littrup, Alexei V. Babkin, Robert Duncan, Sergey Boldarev
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Patent number: 7273480Abstract: A tissue penetrating probe includes a distal tissue piercing end; a first electrode; a second electrode; and a dielectric element. A proximal end of the dielectric element is bonded to a distal end of the first electrode and a distal end of the dielectric element is bonded to a proximal end of the second electrode. The dielectric element is formed of a composite material including a fiber braid within a polymeric material.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2006Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.Inventors: Kimbolt Young, Gerald M. Hubbs
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Patent number: 7273481Abstract: One embodiment of the present invention is directed to a bone plate assembly that includes a bone plate, bone screw(s) received in aperture(s) in the bone plate, and screw fixation member(s). The screw fixation member(s) may, alone or in conjunction with the bone plate, fix the bone screw(s) in place when such bone screw(s) are inserted in the aperture(s) in the bone plate. In one example (which example is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive) when the bone screw(s) have been received by the bone plate and inserted into bone and/or tissue, the bone plate assembly can be used to fuse anatomical structures together (such as adjoining bones) and/or to heal a fracture in bone.Type: GrantFiled: October 1, 2003Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Assignee: Blackstone Medical, Inc.Inventors: Alan Lombardo, David Edgar Evans
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Patent number: 7273483Abstract: The present invention provides a system for surgery which includes an ultrasonic hand piece having a end-effector, a console having a digital signal processor (DSP) for controlling the hand piece, and a memory disposed in the end-effector. The generator console sends a drive current to drive the hand piece which imparts ultrasonic longitudinal movement to the blade. As the generator console reads the memory, the hand piece is authenticated for use with the generator console if a copyrighted data string is present in the memory. In a particular embodiment, the data string is an encrypted code, where the hand piece is authenticated for use with the console by decoding a corresponding encryption algorithm resident in the generator console and providing a responding data pattern.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 2001Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.Inventors: Eitan T. Wiener, William T. Donofrio, Richard F. Schwemberger, Robert P. Gill
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Patent number: 7273484Abstract: The present invention generally relates to a blood withdrawal system for withdrawing blood for diagnostic purposes. The blood withdrawal system includes housing with a lancet, which can be moved within the housing. The housing also includes a lancet drive with a drive spring and a cocking mechanism that includes an actuation element. The blood withdrawal system of the present invention also includes a lancet ejection mechanism that can be moved from an active position to remove the lancet to a passive position where such removal of the lancet is not possible.Type: GrantFiled: August 6, 2004Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Assignee: Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc.Inventors: Bruno Robert Thoes, Michael Schabbach, Hans Kintzig, Peter Ruschke, Hans Kuhr
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Patent number: 7273485Abstract: A catheter having an elongated shaft and a balloon on a distal shaft section, the elongated shaft comprising an outer tubular member, and an inner tubular member which has a bonded portion along which an outer surface of the inner tubular member is bonded to an inner surface of the outer tubular member. The inner tubular member has a proximal portion proximal to the bonded portion, and a distal portion distal to the bonded portion with higher axial compression stiffness and column strength than the proximal portion thereof. The catheter has improved traceability, axial collapse resistance, pushability, and crossability, for improved ability to position the balloon at a desired location in a patient's body lumen.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 2003Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Assignee: Advanced Cardiovascular Systems, Inc.Inventors: John A. Simpson, Jessie Delgado, Bruce Wilson, Lenny Barbod, Ramon Torres, Devon Brown, Quan Ritchie, William S. Chin
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Patent number: 7273486Abstract: A balloon catheter includes an inflation shaft and an elongated guidewire shaft. A relatively short, distal portion of the guidewire shaft is attached to, or enveloped within, a distal portion of the inflation shaft. A proximal portion of the guidewire shaft is detached from and independent of a proximal portion of the inflation shaft. The detached portion of the guidewire shaft contains perforations at pre-determined points along its length that define removable segments thereof. The removable segments remain attached to the guidewire shaft under normal conditions, but may be torn away from the guidewire shaft to provide access to a guidewire within a guidewire lumen thereof.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 2003Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Assignee: Medtronic Vascular, Inc.Inventors: Noel Coyle, Patrick Duane
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Patent number: 7273487Abstract: A balloon catheter having a multilayered shaft with variable flexibility along the length of the shaft. In a presently preferred embodiment, the multilayered shaft has a multilayered outer tubular member and an inner tubular member, both the inner and outer tubular members having sections along which the flexibility and/or diameter of the tubular members decrease. These diameter and flexibility transition sections along the outer tubular member are preferably aligned with transitions along the inner tubular member, to provide improved catheter performance.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2003Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Assignee: Advanced Cardiovascular Systems, Inc.Inventors: Jacky G. Duchamp, Keith G. Sanders
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Patent number: 7273488Abstract: Provided is a forceps tip assembly capable of supporting a forceps tip with high rigidity in order to realize a laparoscopic surgery requiring a significant power with the forceps tip, such as an organ removal surgery which has been heretofore difficult to be performed by a robot for medical use.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2003Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Assignee: The University of TokyoInventors: Yoshihiko Nakamura, Masafumi Okada, Shingo Chiyoda
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Patent number: 7273489Abstract: The device includes a solid disk (1) whose diameter is larger than the diameter of a hole (2) to be treated and which is formed by a peripheral deformable thread (6) made of a shape memory material and a flexible membrane (6) which is made of biocompatible material and connected to the thread; and at least an attachment (15) separated from the disk (1) which makes it possible to fix the disk (1) to the body wall. Each attachment (15) is provided with an area (16) for linking to the disk and an area (16) for linking to the body wall (3) and is embodied such that it is deformable and can be introduced into a hollow needle (28).Type: GrantFiled: July 28, 2003Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Inventor: Younes Boudjemline
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Patent number: 7273490Abstract: Steady-state cooling of the skin is achieved by a support surface without requiring external power or circulation of air. Heat is transferred from via a thermally conductive layer or layers of material(s) that are soft, pliable, and comfortable to sit or lie on. The layer is connected to conductive materials that transport heat and diffuse the heat to a cooler environment.Type: GrantFiled: June 8, 2005Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Inventor: Charles Arthur Lachenbruch
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Patent number: 7273491Abstract: The present invention is a “rescue” catheter that is designed to be placed over a fixed wire stent delivery catheter after angiography reveals that an intimal dissection has occurred typically as an edge dissection either just proximal or just distal to the stent.Type: GrantFiled: May 30, 2002Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Assignee: Cordis CorporationInventors: Robert E. Fischell, David R. Fischell
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Patent number: 7273492Abstract: An intravascular stent assembly for implantation in a body lumen, such as a coronary artery, is designed to treat a lesion with vulnerable plaque by reducing the fibrous cap stresses. The stent includes distal, proximal, and center sections where the center section is configured to treat the vulnerable plaque. The stent consists of radially expandable cylindrical rings generally aligned on a common longitudinal stent axis and either directly connected or interconnected by one or more interconnecting links placed so that the stent is flexible in the longitudinal direction while providing high degrees of radial strength and vessel scaffolding.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 2003Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Assignee: Advanced Cardiovascular Systems Inc.Inventors: E Tina Cheng, Daniel L. Cox
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Patent number: 7273493Abstract: The present invention provides for reinforced and drug eluting stent-grafts and related methods of implanting and manufacturing the stent-grafts. A stent-graft of the present invention may include a tubular stent, a biocompatible covering surrounding the stent, and a supporting collar coupled to the proximal end of the stent-graft. A drug agent may be applied to a textured external surface layer of the biocompatible covering, or alternatively to a space between the textured external surface layer and a smooth luminal surface layer of the biocompatible covering, and allowed to elute over time into a wall of a body lumen after the stent-graft is deployed. The collar of the stent-graft absorbs pressure exerted on the stent-graft by fluid flow within the body lumen in order to minimize potential damage to the stent-graft, and may also include barbs to further secure the stent-graft to the body lumen.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 2006Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Inventor: Walter J. Ledergerber
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Patent number: 7273494Abstract: This invention is a stent having a substantially tubular body defining a longitudinal axis comprising first and second adjacent annular segments, each segment defining a substantially sinusoidal shape having a plurality of peaks and valleys, the peaks of the first segment extending toward the second segment and being aligned longitudinally with the valleys of the second segment. The stent has a plurality of bridge elements having a U-shaped portion between first and second connector arms, the first connector arm of one bridge element being connected between a first peak and a first valley of the first segment and the second connector arm being connected between a first peak and a first valley of the second segment.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2002Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Assignee: Sorin Biomedica Cardio S.r.l.Inventors: Giovanni Rolando, Paolo Gaschino
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Patent number: 7273495Abstract: An expandable stent is implanted in a body lumen, such as a coronary artery, peripheral artery, or other body lumen for treating an area of vulnerable plaque. The invention provides for a an intravascular stent having a plurality of cylindrical rings connected by undulating links. The stent has a high degree of flexibility in the longitudinal direction, yet has adequate vessel wall coverage and radial strength sufficient to hold open an artery or other body lumen. A central section is positioned between distal and proximal sections and is aligned with the area of vulnerable plaque to enhance growth of endothelial cells over the fibrous cap of the vulnerable plaque to reinforce the area and reduce the likelihood of rupture.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 2004Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Assignee: Advanced Cardiovascular Systems, Inc.Inventor: Timothy A. Limon
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Patent number: 7273496Abstract: The present invention is directed to a device with that can be placed between two vertebrae. The implant is characterized by having a first plate and a second plates with a crossbar therebetween. The crossbar fits within cavities on each of the first and second plate and allows for pivotal or rotational motion and also for twisting motion.Type: GrantFiled: October 14, 2003Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Assignee: St. Francis Medical Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Steve Mitchell
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Patent number: 7273497Abstract: Methods and apparatus for treating disc herniation provide a conformable device which assumes a first shape associated with insertion and a second shape or expanded shape to occlude the defect which typically follows partial discectomy. The device may take different forms, including patches sized to cover the defect, plugs adapted to fill the defect, or a mesh screen collapsed into an elongated form for the purposes of insertion, thereby minimizing the size of the requisite incision while avoiding delicate surrounding nerves. Such a configuration also permits the use of instrumentation to install the device, including, for example, a hollow tube or sheath adapted to hold the collapsed screen and a push rod to expel the collapsed device out of the sheath for use in occluding the disc defect. A device may further include one or more anchors to assist in permanently affixing the device with respect to the defect.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2003Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Assignee: Anova Corp.Inventor: Bret A. Ferree
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Patent number: 7273498Abstract: Open chambered spacers, implanting tools and methods are provided. The spacers 500? include a body 505? having a wall 506? which defines a chamber 530? and an opening 531? in communication with the chamber 530?. In one embodiment the wall 506? includes a pair of arms 520?, 521? facing one another and forming a mouth 525? to the chamber 530?. Preferably, one of the arms 520? is truncated relative to the other, forming a channel 526. In one aspect the body 505? is a bone dowel comprising an off-center plug from the diaphysis of a long bone. The tools 800 include spacer engaging means for engaging a spacer and occlusion means for blocking an opening defined in the spacer. In some embodiments, the occlusion means 820 includes a plate 821 extendable from the housing 805. In one specific embodiment the plate 821 defines a groove 822 which is disposed around a fastener 830 attached to the housing 805 so that the plate 821 is slideable relative to the housing 805.Type: GrantFiled: January 13, 2004Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Assignee: Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.Inventors: John R. Bianchi, Kevin C. Carter, Bradley T. Estes, Larry Boyd, John A. Pafford
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Patent number: 7273499Abstract: A prosthetic trial for a joint prosthesis includes a stem having a proximal section and a distal section for implantation in a bone. A body includes a channel receiving at least the proximal section of the stem. A locking mechanism is at least partially disposed within the body. The locking mechanism is biased into a locking position in which the mechanism locks the stem within the first channel of the body. The locking mechanism is accessible outside said body to be pulled into a releasing position to unlock the stem from the body.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2002Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Assignee: DePuy Products, Inc.Inventors: Larry G. McCleary, Farid Bruce Khalili-Araghi, Marc Weissman
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Patent number: 7273500Abstract: A system and method for aligning a patient's leg, for establishing the ultimate alignment of the leg prior to making a horizontal femoral cut or a horizontal tibial cut, for preparing the distal femur for receiving a femoral implant, and for making the horizontal, femoral and tibial cuts. The system and method incorporate a spacer, a cutting guide, and a template. The spacer is insertable between a distal femur and a proximal tibia to rotate the tibia with respect to the femur into the desired alignment. The cutting guide is engageable with the spacer, and can be fixed to the proximal tibia and the distal femur. The cutting guide has openings sized and shaped to guide a surgical saw to make the horizontal femoral cut and the horizontal tibial cut. The template is shaped to closely conform with the distal femur to allow the leg to be extended and to allow the procedure to be performed without dislocating a patella.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 2004Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Inventor: Richard V. Williamson
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Patent number: 7273501Abstract: A highly white and highly moisture absorptive and desorptive fibrous structure where a moisture absorptive and desorptive synthetic fiber having a saturated index of moisture absorption of 10% by weight or more at 20° C. and 65% RH is blended, characterised in that, degree of whiteness of said fibrous structure in terms of indication method described in JIS Z 8729 is that L* is 90 or more, a* is within a range of ±2 and b* is within a range of ±10 and durability of whiteness degree against washing after washing for ten times is class 3-4 or higher.Type: GrantFiled: July 15, 2002Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Assignee: Japan Exlan Company, LimitedInventors: Shigeru Nakashima, Jo Mizobe
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Patent number: 7273502Abstract: A capacitor and a method for manufacturing the same provide a branched capacitor with a large capacitance and a super-slim structure. The method includes sintering a ceramic substrate; forming a plurality of troughs in the sintered ceramic substrate, the plurality of troughs including first and second sets of troughs corresponding to opposing electrodes; and filling the troughs with metal to form a plurality of metal lines arranged alternately in the plurality of troughs.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2005Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Assignee: Dongbu Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventor: Kee Joon Choi
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Patent number: 7273503Abstract: A lithium polymer secondary cell having a negative electrode, a positive electrode and, arranged between the electrodes, a polymer electrolyte layer, characterized in that the cell has been subjected to a heat treatment at a temperature of 40 to 60° C. after the assembly thereof. The polymer cell is freed of or is reduced in the adverse effect of a residual monomer and initiator on the performance of the cell. The polymer electrolyte is formed by cross-linking polymerization of a precursor monomer for an ion conducting polymer in a non-aqueous electrolyte, and the residual monomer and initiator contained therein is consumed by the heat treatment.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 2001Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Assignee: Sharp CorporationInventors: Tsutomu Sada, Kazunari Takeda, Yumiko Takashima, Naoto Nishimura, Takehito Mitate, Kazuo Yamada, Motoaki Nishijima, Naoto Torata
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Patent number: 7273504Abstract: A battery having a single cell, an outer paper package covering the single cell, and a water-repellent layer included in the outer paper package.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2003Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Assignee: Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd.Inventors: Tatsuya Nagai, Masanori Asano
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Patent number: 7273505Abstract: A hydrogen generator comprises therein a reformer, a Shifter, a material flow passage with first evaporator through which a material is supplied to the reformer, a reformed gas flow passage for leading the reformed gas derived from the reformer to the Shifter, a shifted gas flow passage through which a shifted gas derived from the Shifter is taken out, and second steam flow passage formed adjacent to the reformed gas flow passage to be located at upstream side of the Shifter. The second evaporator is provided within the second steam flow passage. A part of heat of the reformed gas is recovered as latent heat by the second evaporator. Thereby, temperature of the Shifter is controlled.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2004Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., LtdInventors: Motohiro Suzuki, Tomonori Asou, Yuji Mukai, Kunihiro Ukai, Akira Maenishi, Yoshio Tamura
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Patent number: 7273506Abstract: A cyclone dust-collecting apparatus comprises a cyclone body having a first cyclone part and a second cyclone part comprising a plurality of cones, a cover unit connected with the upper portion of the cyclone body for guiding air movement between the first cyclone part and the second cyclone part, and a contaminant receptacle connected with the lower portion of the cyclone body for collecting contaminants separated from the first and second cyclone parts.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 2004Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Assignee: Samsung Gwangju Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventors: Jang-keun Oh, Jung-gyun Han
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Patent number: 7273507Abstract: An on-board inert gas generation system provides first and second compressors in fluid communication with one another. The second compressor includes an inlet and an outlet. The inlet is in fluid communication with the first compressor. The second compressor is the final compressor stage of the system. An air separation module is fluidly connected to the outlet of the second compressor by a passageway. A vent passage is arranged between the outlet and the air separation module for venting fluid between the outlet and air separation module. The vent passage enables the flow from the second compressor to be increased thereby increasing compressor efficiency and increasing the inlet pressure to the air separation module, which enables use of a smaller air separation module.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 2004Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Assignee: Hamilton Sundstrand CorporationInventor: Gregory K. Schwalm
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Patent number: 7273508Abstract: An iron-based sintered alloy material for a valve seat having improved wear resistance and reduced opposite aggressibility to a mating valve. The iron-based sintered alloy material contains 10% to 20% by area of first hard particles and 15% to 35% by area of second hard particles dispersed in a base matrix phase, the first and the second hard particles accounting for 25% to 55% by area in total. The first hard particles are composed of a cobalt-based intermetallic compound and have a size of 10 to 150 ?m and a hardness of at least 500HV0.1 and less than 800HV0.1. The second hard particles are composed of a cobalt-based intermetallic compound and have a size of 10 to 150 ?m and a hardness of at least 800HV0.1 and less than 1100HV0.1. Solid lubricant particles may also be dispersed in the base matrix phase.Type: GrantFiled: March 3, 2005Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Assignees: Nippon Piston Ring Co., Ltd., Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Kenichi Sato, Arata Kakiuchi, Teruo Takahashi, Tomoki Okita, Masahiro Takehana
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Patent number: 7273509Abstract: A process of making metal nanoparticles comprising the steps of: providing a precursor composition comprising at least one metallic compound and at least one organic compound; wherein the organic compound is selected from the group consisting of an ethynyl compound, a metal-ethynyl complex, and combinations thereof; wherein the precursor composition is a liquid or a solid at room temperature; and heating the precursor composition under conditions effective to produce metal nanoparticles. A metal nanoparticle composition comprising metal nanoparticles dispersed homogenously in a matrix selected from the group consisting of ethynyl polymer, crosslinked ethynyl polymer, amorphous carbon, carbon nanotubes, carbon nanoparticles, graphite, and combinations thereof.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2004Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Assignee: The United States of America as of of America as represented by the Secretary of the NavyInventors: Teddy M. Keller, Syed B. Qadri
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Patent number: 7273510Abstract: The invention relates to an arrangement (1, 12, 16) for continuously tapping a molten phase, such as matte, from a smelting furnace, such as a flash smelting furnace, said arrangement comprising a matte tapping hole (5) provided in the furnace wall for discharging the molten phase from the furnace, an overflow tank (6) for receiving the molten phase (4), and an overflow edge (8) provided in the overflow tank for discharging the molten phase, so that in the smelting furnace, in the vicinity of the matte tapping hole (5), there can be arranged at least one heat-producing element (9, 15) in order to prevent the molten phase from being solidified.Type: GrantFiled: April 26, 2004Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Assignee: Outokumpu OyjInventor: Risto Saarinen
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Patent number: 7273511Abstract: A method and an apparatus for enriching a combustible gas. The gas mixture is initially flowing in a distribution line at a set pressure. Part of the mixture is bypassed to a separate line where it is then compressed. This compressed stream is then treated in a gas separation unit and is injected back into the distribution system at about the set pressure.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2003Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Assignee: L'Air Liquide, Societe Anonyme a Directoire et Conseil de Surveillance pour l'Etude et l'Exploitation des Procedes Georges ClaudeInventors: Guillaume De Souza, Pascal Tromeur
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Patent number: 7273512Abstract: Process for drying wet F32, which comprises placing a stream of the said F32 in continuous contact with a feed stock of a composition comprising a molecular sieve chosen from a 3A type sieve, at a temperature of between 5 and 78° C. and at a pressure of between 0.5 and 25 atm.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 2002Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Assignee: Elf Atochem S.A.Inventor: Rene Bertocchio
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Patent number: 7273513Abstract: The use of turbulent contactors to simultaneously absorb selected acid gas components from a gas stream and flash off hydrocarbons entrained in a liquid stream which include a solvent or reagent for the selected gas component. In particular, the method comprises feeding the gas stream and liquid stream into a first contactor where they are contacted co-currently and subjected to turbulent mixing conditions, and passing the multi-phase flow from the first contactor to a second contactor. The multi-phase flow from the second contactor is subsequently separated into a gas phase and a liquid phase.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2002Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Assignee: Statoil ASAInventors: Harald Linga, Inge Sverre Lund Nilsen, Finn Patrick Nilsen, Trond Olav Høyland
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Patent number: 7273514Abstract: An apparatus and method for filtering particulate from an internal combustion engine by use of monolithic particulate trap systems having porous walls (2c, 24c). The porous walls (2c, 24c) filter the particulate. The filtered particulate on inner surfaces of the porous walls is periodically removed or regenerated via back flow of previously filtered exhaust gas. The back flow is caused by creating a pressure difference across the porous walls. The back flow of the previously filtered exhaust gas is simultaneously or sequentially coupled with high velocity through flow of exhaust gas in the channels. In addition, the particulate trap system can be an adsorber-catalyst particulate trap system for filtering particulate and reducing NOx via an adsorber-catalyst trap systems to achieve the EPA 2007 standards.Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 2005Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Assignee: Illinois Valley Holding CompanyInventors: John M. Bailey, Marianne F. Waldman, legal representative, Donald J. Waldman, deceased
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Patent number: 7273515Abstract: A 4-in-1 photo-electronic air purifying and conditioning system, which utilizes alternating current suitable for use in all weather conditions has activated carbon filters used in the first stage to eliminate impurities, germs and bacteria in the air drawn into the system. The bacteria and germs which are capable of passing through the activated carbon filter are then eliminated by extreme-UV light emitted by extreme-UV light tubes. A negative ion generator is used to boost the level of anions in the air before being discharged. These two modes operate in the following manner: the first mode involves high-voltage cathodic output that is discharged via carbonized fibers. The ionized air is then expelled by a fan. The second mode eliminates bacteria, germs and mould from air as it passes extreme-UV light tubes by exposure to extreme-UV light emitted by these extreme-UV light tubes.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2005Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Assignee: John Manufacturing LimitedInventor: John Se-Kit Yuen