Patents Issued in April 29, 2008
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Patent number: 7364521Abstract: The present invention relates to a sucker and an adhesion arrow having the same. More particularly, the present invention provides a sucker that can be attached, instead of a needle, to an arrow for a toy arrow shooter. The sucker of the present invention is formed with an annular projection on an adhesion surface of the sucker. Thus, even when the sucker collides against a target at a high speed, the sucker can be prevented from bouncing back from the target due to a repulsive force generated from the collision and thus securely adhere to the target. Further, even though the sucker of the present invention flies and collides against the target at a certain angle, the sucker can easily adhere to the target. Further, the sucker is made of a soft material so that a repulsive force can be smaller than an adhesion force when the sucker collides against the target.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2003Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Inventor: Tae-Seong Yang
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Patent number: 7364522Abstract: A pulley body 5 is provided at its both sides with power transmission members 6, 6. When a flat belt 3 becomes misaligned relative to the center of the pulley body 5 and comes into contact with one of the power transmission members 6, a running force of the flat belt 3 is utilized to displace the pulley body 5 diagonally relative to the flat belt 3, thus producing a force for returning the flat belt 3 to its original state.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2004Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Assignee: Bando Chemical Industries, Ltd.Inventors: Hirofumi Miyata, Shinichiro Nishikawa
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Patent number: 7364523Abstract: A transmission (1) comprises a gear input shaft (2), a gear output shaft (3), several shift elements (7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 19), at least one planetary gearset (5) and an electrical machine (14). A required gear ratio can be adjusted as a function of the activation of the shift elements (7 to 13, 19) and the electrical machine (14). The electrical machine (14) can be linked to a first shaft (21) of the first planetary gearset (5) by way of a first shift element (12) and to a second shaft (18) of the first planetary gearset (5) by way of a second shift element (13). At least the first shift element (12) or the second shift element (13) is disposed in the axial direction of the gear input shaft (2) adjacent to the electrical machine (14).Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 2006Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AGInventors: Axel Heitmann, Stefan Kilian, Oliver Steffen
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Patent number: 7364524Abstract: A module with an axle assembly, which has a housing, a differential, an input shaft, a pair of shafts and a pair of wheel hubs, and an auxiliary drive unit that includes an electric motor and an overrunning clutch. The differential and the input shaft are disposed in the housing for rotation therein. The differential includes a case and a ring gear that is coupled to the case. The input shaft has a pinion that is meshingly engaged to the ring gear. Each shaft couples the differential to one of the wheel hubs. The overrunning clutch includes an input portion, which is coupled to the output shaft of the electric motor, and an output portion, which is coupled to the input shaft. The output portion is de-coupled from the input portion when a rotational speed of the input portion is not greater than a rotational speed of the output portion.Type: GrantFiled: May 1, 2006Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Assignee: American Axel & Manufacturing, Inc.Inventors: Gregory A. Marsh, Robert J. Degowske, Zugang Huang
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Patent number: 7364525Abstract: A hydraulic control apparatus is improved in reliability during a garage shifting with reducing costs of the apparatus. An electronic control unit controls equalizing the shift pattern (on-off pattern) during a first garage shifting when a manual valve is shifted from the neutral position to a drive position to the shift pattern during a second garage shifting when the manual valve is shifted from the neutral position to the reverse position. A control valve unit controls the hydraulic pressure applied to a first engagement element during the first garage shifting while controlling the hydraulic pressure applied to a second engagement element during the second garage shifting.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2006Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Assignee: Aisin Seiki Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Osamu Sakamoto, Kiyoharu Takagi
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Patent number: 7364526Abstract: A compound planetary gear set converts engine power into four forward-speeds and one reverse-speed, and the gear train provides eight forward-speeds and two reverse-speeds by utilizing the compound planetary gear set. The compound planetary gear set includes a first sun gear, first planetary gears engaged with the first sun gear, a first ring gear engaged with the first planetary gears, a second sun gear, second planetary gears engaged with the second sun gear and integrally formed with the first planetary gears, third planetary gears engaged with the second planetary gears, a second ring gear engaged with the third planetary gears, and a compound planet carrier for supporting the first to third planetary gears. The compound planetary gear set can be controlled by four frictional elements.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2004Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Inventor: Moon-Haeng Cho
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Patent number: 7364527Abstract: A multi-speed transmission that achieves nine forward speed ratios and a reverse speed ratio has two planetary gear sets and a plurality of intermeshing gear members which may consist of two additional planetary gear sets or gear members arranged in a countershaft design. A speed ratio of an equal value but with an opposite direction of rotation is achieved at one of the gear members connected with one of the planetary gear members in a reverse ratio as in a first forward speed ratio. Six torque-transmitting mechanisms are employed.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2005Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Assignee: General Motors CorporationInventor: Donald Klemen
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Patent number: 7364528Abstract: An axle system includes an axle shaft offset located within an axle center beam housing. The axle shaft is located in a recess in a top wall of the axle center beam shaped with slopes to maximize clearance to the bottom of the vehicle floor panels. The pneumatic brake cylinders define a cylinder axis angled within an angular range from a generally vertical orientation for enhanced packaging.Type: GrantFiled: May 2, 2003Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Assignee: ArvinMeritor Technology, LLCInventors: Lawrence D. Brill, Corrado A. Conti, Brian D. Hayes, Steven E. Hunter, Fabio Maineri, Tomaz Dopico Varela
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Patent number: 7364529Abstract: A control device for a hydraulic automatic transmission for a vehicle, including start control device for supplying a hydraulic pressure to a first hydraulic engaging element for a low-speed position and a second hydraulic engaging element for a high-speed position in performing in-gear control by a select operation from a nonforward range to a forward range, thereby first setting a shift position to the high-speed position and next switching the high-speed position to the low-speed position; temperature detecting device for detecting the temperature of a power train; and high-speed position setting operation inhibiting device for inhibiting a high-speed position setting operation by the start control device in the case that the temperature detected by the temperature detecting device is greater than or equal to a predetermined value.Type: GrantFiled: October 11, 2005Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Shinichi Nishio, Yoshiyuki Nagayama, Hiroyuki Takeo
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Patent number: 7364530Abstract: A collapsible workout apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus includes a crossbar member with support legs pivotally attached at each end. The supports legs are operable to pivot outward to a trapezoid shape to form a self-standing structure with the crossbar member substantially parallel to the surface. A protrusion is pivotally attached at the base of each of the support legs. When extended outward, the protrusions also are substantially parallel to the surface. The crossbar member and protrusions, when extended, are operable to enable a user to perform push-ups or pull-ups efficiently. The support legs and protrusions can be pivoted to be substantially parallel to the crossbar member for easy storage and portability.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 2004Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Inventor: Leonard P. Lopez
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Patent number: 7364531Abstract: A lateral motion exercising apparatus provides a pair of vertically oriented axles engaged with a frame. A pair of support struts are rotationally engaged with the axles. A rigid link is pivotally joined at its terminal ends with the support struts in a manner for maintaining the support struts in parallel alignment as they rotate about the axles. A pair of platform struts is engaged pivotally at proximal ends of the support struts, the pivots enabling each of the platform struts to rotate vertically about its distal end. The proximal ends of the platform struts are constrained to move in opposing vertical motions in coordination with rotations of the support struts to produce a skating-like motion to a user standing on the platform struts.Type: GrantFiled: August 19, 2004Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Assignee: Fitness Botics, Inc.Inventor: Yong S. Chu
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Patent number: 7364532Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes a rigid connector link having a first portion rotatably connected to a respective crank, a second portion constrained to move in reciprocating fashion, and a third portion connected to a foot support. The resulting assembly links rotation of the crank to movement of the foot support through a generally elliptical path. The connection points may be moved relative to one another and/or a supporting frame to adjust the size, shape, and/or orientation of the path.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2006Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Inventor: Joseph D. Maresh
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Patent number: 7364533Abstract: A unique structure for an indoor exercise bike that provides strength in its design, as well as the flexibility to create an aesthetically appealing frame structure. The monocoque frame design, including two symmetrical halves joined together, forms a very strong, light shell that can take on a variety of shapes and sizes. The seat structure, handlebar structure, drive train and support platforms are all able to be readily attached to the primary frame structure to provide an exercise bicycle that is sturdy, easy to manufacture, and light enough to easily move when necessary.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2004Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Assignee: Nautilus, Inc.Inventor: William A. Baker
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Patent number: 7364534Abstract: An exercise device for providing resisted movement of the ankle through the full range of motion thereof to exercise the muscles in the ankle, foot, lower leg and especially shin area. This exercise device comprises: (a) a base; and (b) a foot receiving member having an ankle section. The foot receiving member is mounted on the base for resisted pivotal movement about: (1) a substantially horizontal axis extending transversely and underneath the ankle section of the foot receiving member; and (2) a substantially vertical axis extending from the base and through the ankle section of the foot receiving member.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 2003Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Inventors: Robert Gregory Zoller, Anthony Joseph Honerkamp
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Patent number: 7364535Abstract: Exercise apparatus has a biased tolerance-compensating engagement system between a seat-supporting carriage and a tubular support column to provide zero clearance between adjustment rollers and the support column, to minimize wobble during user adjustment.Type: GrantFiled: February 24, 2006Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Assignee: Brunswick CorporationInventors: Charles J. Rosenow, Lon L. Monsrud
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Patent number: 7364536Abstract: A weight bar for use with a dumbbell having an externally-threaded end is provided that includes a substantially cylindrical elongated bar having a longitudinal axis, first and second axial ends and an intermediate section extending between the axial ends. The first and second axial ends each comprise internally-threaded sections disposed substantially along the longitudinal axis of the weight bar for threadably receiving an externally-threaded end of a dumbbell. The internally-threaded sections of the first and second axial ends each comprise threads having substantially flat thread ends.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 2004Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Assignee: Bell Foundry CompanyInventors: Cesar A. Cappellini, Vu T. Dang
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Patent number: 7364537Abstract: A wind resistance mechanism for an exercise apparatus is provided which includes a plurality of bendable blades for changing the form of the wind-facing side thereof or adjusting the wind-facing angle. A movable clamping device includes a hub supported on an output shaft of an exercise apparatus. A first and a second disc are mounted on the hub. At least one of both discs performs a reciprocating movement in axial direction. An external force is applied to the discs for changing the form of the wind-facing side of the blades or adjusting the wind-facing angle, thereby adjusting the wind resistance.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 2004Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Inventors: Leao Wang, Peter Wu
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Patent number: 7364538Abstract: An exercise device includes a pair of formed handles including openings through which ends of a rope or cord are passed. The rope to one handle is knotted and the rope to the other handle is adjustable but becomes fixed when the rope and the handle are firmly grasped. The base is a platform in which part of the user's body maintains contact with during an exercise. The base includes a channel through which the rope passes. Pulleys are positioned on either side of the platform at either end of the channel.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2006Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Inventor: Fredrick P. Aucamp
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Patent number: 7364539Abstract: An infant warming apparatus for supporting an infant upon an infant bed. The apparatus has a sensor that is affixed to the skin of the infant to detect one or more physiological functions of the infant. A transmitter is located within the enclosure of the sensor and which transmit the information detected by the physiological sensor to a receiver that is located on the infant care apparatus and which can then convert that information into a recognizable or usable medium. An alternative embodiment includes the transmitter located proximate to the infant within an infant scale located beneath the infant. The sensor is hardwired to the transmitter in the infant scale and signals relating to weight and/or a condition of the infant are transmitted by wireless telemetry to a monitor or other display device to display that information to the caregiver.Type: GrantFiled: October 21, 2003Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Michael H. Mackin, Lynn E. Lynam
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Patent number: 7364540Abstract: An implantable device and method for adjustably restricting a selected body lumen such as the urethra of a patient to treat urinary incontinence. The device includes an expandable element or membrane such as a balloon attached pressure-tightly to a flexible conduit at its forward end and includes a rear port portion containing an elastic septum and flow connected to the expandable element by a first passageway. The conduit contains a second passageway which allows it to be slid along an elongated guide probe initially inserted surgically into a patient's body adjacent the body lumen which is to be adjustably restricted. A suitable flowable material is injected from a syringe source into the device rear port sufficient to expand the membrane element and restrict the body lumen to the desired degree. The syringe and guide probe are removed and the skin incision is closed over the rear port end of the implanted device.Type: GrantFiled: January 5, 2000Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Assignee: Uromedica, Inc.Inventors: John H. Burton, Timothy C. Cook
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Patent number: 7364541Abstract: Implant delivery systems are disclosed. In general overview, an exemplary system includes any number of the following: a delivery device, a sling assembly, guide members, and connectors that interconnect the above. Embodiments of all the above components and their combinations are disclosed. Methods of using the above system in suprapubic, prepubic, transvaginal, trans-obturator and other approaches are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: August 14, 2003Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.Inventors: Michael S. H. Chu, Joseph John Raneri, Michael Frank Weiser, Armand Morin
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Patent number: 7364542Abstract: A removable suture tab extender for a gastric band is shaped and dimensioned for selective attachment to a first end of the gastric band, the gastric band including a latching mechanism composed of a first latching member positioned at the first end of the gastric band and a second latching member positioned at a second end of the gastric band. The gastric band extender includes an elongated body member having a first end and a second end. The first end of the elongated body member is shaped and dimensioned for coupling with the first latching member. The second end of the elongated body member includes a gripping section shaped and dimensioned to facilitate gripping thereof as the gastric band extender is passed through the second latching member.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2006Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.Inventors: Kristin L. Jambor, Jeffrey P. Wiley, Lauren S. Weaner, Dustin R. Jensen, Patrick J. Swindon, Christopher W. Widenhouse
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Patent number: 7364543Abstract: Probes, and systems and methods for optically scanning a conical volume in front of a probe, for use with an imaging modality, such as Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT). A probe includes an optical fiber having a proximal end and a distal end and defining an axis, with the proximal end of the optical fiber being proximate a light source, and the distal end having a first angled surface. A refractive lens element is positioned proximate the distal end of the optical fiber. The lens element and the fiber end are both configured to separately rotate about the axis so as to image a conical scan volume when light is provided by the source. Reflected light from a sample under investigation is collected by the fiber and analyzed by an imaging system. Such probes may be very compact, e.g., having a diameter 1 mm or less, and are advantageous for use in minimally invasive surgical procedures.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2006Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Assignee: California Institute of TechnologyInventors: Changhuei Yang, Jigang Wu
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Patent number: 7364544Abstract: Systems and software for treating vascular disease in humans and generating data representing treatment plans are disclosed. A first set of clinical vascular health data from a healthcare provider and representing a vascular health condition of a patient is received at a data center server that is communicatively coupled to a public data network. One or more vascular disease analysis algorithms are applied to the first set of vascular health data, to result in creating and storing an initial treatment plan for the patient. A second set of vascular health data is received from a monitoring device that is associated with the patient and that is communicatively coupled to the data network; the second set of data include Doppler monitor data obtained from the peripheral vascular system of the patient. One or more vascular analysis algorithms are applied to result in creating one or more supplementary treatment plans for the patient. At least one of the treatment plans includes a biofeedback interaction.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2006Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Inventor: Alexander F. Castellanos
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Patent number: 7364545Abstract: A method of measuring blood clotting ability of a patient. A known volume of blood is dispensed on a reference disc of blotter paper, such that at least one reference blotch is formed on the reference disc. The surface area of the reference blotch formed on the reference disc, such that a relationship between the volume of blood and the surface area of the reference blotch can be obtained. An incision is made at the patient. A piece of blotter paper to the incision is applied to the incision to collect blood flowing therefrom, such that at least one blotch is formed on the piece of blotter paper. The surface area of the blotch formed on the piece of blotter paper is measured. The volume of the blood absorbed blood by the blotter paper is calculated according to the relationship between the blood volume and the surface area of the blotch.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 2005Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Inventor: Jeffrey A. Klein
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Patent number: 7364546Abstract: The present invention provides multi-functional medical catheters, systems and methods for their use. In one particular embodiment, a medical catheter (100) includes a flexible elongate body (105) having a proximal end (110) and a distal end (120). A plurality of spaced apart electrodes (130-136) are operably attached to the flexible body near the distal end. At least some of the electrodes are adapted for mapping a tissue and, in some embodiments, at least one of the electrodes is adapted for ablating a desired portion of the tissue. The catheter includes a plurality of tissue orientation detectors (140-146) disposed between at least some of the electrodes. In this manner, the medical catheter is capable of tissue mapping, tissue imaging, tissue orientation, and/or tissue treatment functions.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 2007Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Assignee: Boston Scientific SciMed, Inc.Inventors: Dorin Panescu, David K. Swanson
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Patent number: 7364547Abstract: Methods and systems provide an integrated approach to respiratory and cardiac monitoring, diagnosis and/or therapy. A medical system includes one or more cardiac electrodes coupled to an external respiratory therapy device. The cardiac electrodes sense cardiac electrical activity that is used to generate an electrocardiogram (ECG) signal. Cardiac events, such as arrhythmia, myocardial infarction and/or ischemia, may be detected based on the sensed cardiac electrical activity.Type: GrantFiled: August 19, 2004Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Assignee: Cardiac Pacemakers, Inc.Inventors: Jeffrey E. Stahmann, Jesse W. Hartley, Kent Lee, Quan Ni
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Patent number: 7364548Abstract: A blood pressure measurement unit measures the blood pressure and a CPU accordingly stores, in a blood pressure storage unit, measurement data as well as time information regarding the time at which the blood pressure is measured. The CPU calculates, as representative measurement data, the average of a plurality of measurement data stored in the blood pressure storage unit and correlated with the time information indicating a time in the range between nine weeks ago and ten weeks ago, correlates the representative measurement data with time information representing the corresponding week and stores the data with the time information in the blood pressure storage unit. At this time, the CPU deletes from the blood pressure storage unit those measurement data based on which the representative measurement data is calculated.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 2005Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Assignees: Omron Healthcare Co., Ltd.Inventors: Osamu Shirasaki, Takahide Tanaka, Kenji Eda, Kazuomi Kario
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Patent number: 7364549Abstract: A pulse wave measuring apparatus is disclosed which is capable of measuring the pulse wave accurately in stable fashion and which can be reduced in size and integrated for an improved convenience. The pulse wave measuring apparatus comprises a sensor unit having a plurality of semiconductor pressure sensors, a fixing stand for fixing a living organism in position, a pressure cuff for pressing the semiconductor pressure sensors against the living organism, and a press operation control unit for controlling the press operation of the pressure cuff. The press operation control unit is arranged in the fixing stand.Type: GrantFiled: January 15, 2004Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Assignee: Omron Healthcare Co., Ltd.Inventors: Masao Hashimoto, Kazunobu Itonaga, Tomoki Kitawaki, Kazuhisa Tanabe, Ryo Fukui, Hironori Sato
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Patent number: 7364550Abstract: A method and device, such as an implantable cardiac device, for motion and noise immunity in hemodynamic measurement is presented. The method includes obtaining a template waveform representing hemodynamic performance of a heart during a first hemodynamic state and obtaining an autocharacterization measure from an autocharacterization (e.g., autocorrelation) of the template waveform. The method further includes obtaining a test waveform during a second hemodynamic state, performing a cross-characterization (e.g., cross-correlation) of the template waveform and test waveform to identify a cross-characterization measure, and comparing the autocharacterization measure with the cross-characterization measure as a measurement of hemodynamic status of the second hemodynamic state. The device includes hardware and/or software for performing the described method.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 2004Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Assignee: Pacesetter, Inc.Inventor: Robert G. Turcott
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Patent number: 7364551Abstract: The subject invention provides a hand-held medical apparatus (10) for detecting a predetermined component of user breath and producing a breath-component signal over a measurement time. Such breath-component signal may be correlated to a user fat metabolism indicator.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 2002Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Assignee: Kamata, LLCInventors: Jeffrey R. Allen, Paul E. Cranley, Kristine L. Danowski, James A. McIntyre, Reed A. Schick, Larry Sun, Bettina M. Rosner
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Patent number: 7364552Abstract: A rapid measuring system for the determination of the concentration of propofol in the respiratory flow, which can be designed in a compact form, has the features of a breathing gas line (1) including a breathing gas sensor (2) detecting the respiration, wherein the breathing gas sensor (2) is connected to an evaluating unit (3), a propofol sensor (5) with a downstream pump (6) is in gas flow connection with the breathing gas line (1), wherein the evaluating unit (3) is connected with the propofol sensor (5) and the pump (6), so that the evaluating unit (3) actuates the pump (6) for breathing gas sampling depending on the signal of the breathing gas sensor (2), and the propofol sensor (5) sends a measured signal for the concentration of propofol in the breathing gas to the evaluating unit (3).Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 2004Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Assignee: Drägerwerk AktiengesellschaftInventors: Herbert Kiesele, Andreas Hengstenberg, Alex Martin Zbinden, Rolf Lauber
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Patent number: 7364553Abstract: Aerosol collectors 10, 120 include pre-collection filters 100, 126, aerosol collection chambers 30, 130, and other exhaled breath conditioning and control features for providing not only accurate and efficient, but also reliable and reproducible aerosol collections that can be used in standardizations and can be compared in meaningful ways to other exhaled breath aerosol collections from the same test subject and from different test subjects. The aerosol collector 10 example includes electrostatic collection components 34, 40, and the aerosol collector 120 includes nucleating condensation components 168, 172 and vortex collection components 132, 138. Both include analyte extraction apparatus 50, 124.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2003Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Assignee: Amidex, Inc.Inventors: Frederick Mark Paz, David Howson, Michael V Wiernicki
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Patent number: 7364554Abstract: A medical device is described, which comprises a basic device and at least one replaceable component connected therewith, said component having an item belonging to the device that is subjected to high wear or consumption. A storage medium is connected to the component, which stores component-specific data and can be read independently of the basic device.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2002Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Assignee: SanuWave, Inc.Inventors: Rüdiger Bolze, Norbert Brill
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Patent number: 7364555Abstract: A self-assisted shoulder passive range of motion (SA-PROM) apparatus. The apparatus includes a forearm support adapted to receive the forearm of the affected arm, a double pulley assembly, a single pulley connectable to an elevated support such as an upper door edge, and a main support rope, one end of which is attached to the double pulley, the other end having an enlarged handle. A central portion of the main support rope is engagable over the single pulley. A secondary rope arrangement which is preferably formed of a single length of rope, is attached to each of a plurality of holes formed through said forearm support in proximity to each end and each side margin of the forearm support and arranged over the secondary pulleys to self-regulate pitch and roll movement of the forearm support. The affected arm may be passively raised and lowered through a range of motion by pulling on the handle with the unaffected arm.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 2005Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Inventor: John Davidson
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Patent number: 7364556Abstract: A wrist brace of the present invention for supporting a wrist of the wearer. The wrist brace includes a sheet of flexible material that overlies and supports a wearer's wrist. Defined in the sheet is an opening between a pair of lateral edges, wherein the opening is sized to accommodate a thumb of a wearer. A thumb strap of the wrist brace is defined by a break extending between a distal edge of the sheet of material and the thumb opening. A fastener on one end of the thumb strap allows the thumb strap to be extended between a thumb and index finger so as to secure the wrist brace. Optionally, the thumb opening can have a non-circular shape, such as a triangular shape, with an axis extending in the proximal-distal direction when the wrist brace is worn to promote a better fit around a base of the thumb.Type: GrantFiled: November 4, 2003Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Assignee: Beiersdorf, Inc.Inventor: Edward L. Weaver, II
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Patent number: 7364557Abstract: A compact joint coupling for a prosthetic brace can maintain a fixed state and can accommodate bending motion of the brace. A rotor having a recessed groove formed therein is rotatably mounted on a central shaft between a first coupling base and a second coupling base. Protruding pieces on the second coupling base are adapted to fit slidably within the groove. In addition, the surface of the second coupling base is covered with a cover for operating an operation pin. The groove is adapted to hold a plurality of spheres. The spheres can be manually introduced into, and removed from, the groove. The spheres are adapted to slide within the groove as the brace is bent. A purpose of the spheres is to prevent the brace from being bent by more than a predetermined amount.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 2004Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Assignee: Izumi Gishi Sougu Seisakusho Co., Ltd.Inventor: Yuji Yumikino
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Patent number: 7364558Abstract: A back brace for supporting a lower back region of a wearer that includes a strapping system that supports a lumbar support panel at the lower back region of the wearer. The lumbar support panel includes an inner surface adjacent to the wearer's back defining a pair of raised support regions that have convexly curved outer surfaces and medial edges spaced apart from each other. Advantageously, the spacing between the medial edges provides clearance for the lower spine of the wearer to prevent discomfort. In addition, the convexly curved medial edges improve the support panel's fit to the contours of the wearer's back and avoid pressure points on the wearer's erector spinae musculature through a relatively even pressure distribution on the musculature. The lumbar support panel also may include a plurality of ventilation holes and may be constructed of “skin-friendly” materials that wick moisture away and allow air in for additional comfort.Type: GrantFiled: October 18, 2002Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Assignee: Beiersdorf, Inc.Inventors: Edward L. Weaver, II, Sherry A. Hinds
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Patent number: 7364559Abstract: The present invention provides an orthotic appliance for the carpus of a human hand for the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome using co-dynamic, rather than traditional static or dynamic, techniques. The appliance may apply a 2 pound dorsally directed force about the region of the pisiform bone in the neutral carpal position of a human hand upon co-contraction of the hand and up to 8 pounds dorsally directed during arc of motion in carpal flexion, as the wrist and hand is encouraged to actively move in all planes of motion without negatively affecting the normal activities of daily living. The appliance may comprise a biasing structure for applying the dorsally directed force and a base structure for maintaining the biasing structure in its proper configuration during normal hand motion.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 2003Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Inventor: George Roger Willliams
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Patent number: 7364560Abstract: An ambulatory hip fixation-traction splint frame includes a supporting frame having an upper end arranged for positioning below an armpit of a treated patient and a lower end arranged for positioning below a hip portion of the treated patient, and a side splint assembly for supporting a side body of the treated patient. The side splint assembly includes a flexible guiding frame having first and second ends, and a curved guiding surface, having a predetermined curvature, defining between the first and second ends for biasing against the side body of the treated patient, and two coupling joints adjustably mounted on the supporting frame to connect with the first and second ends of the guiding frame respectively so as to retain the curvature of the guiding surface of the guiding frame for fitting on the side body of the treated patient.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 2004Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Inventor: Ming-Hua Wang
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Patent number: 7364561Abstract: An ankle brace with a removable plate comprising a stirrup having a bottom portion and an inner and outer upright leg depending upward therefrom. An inner pivot leg is pivotally attached to an upper end of the inner upright leg of the stirrup and an outer pivot leg is pivotally attached to an upper end of the outer upright leg of the stirrup. An exterior plate is removeably attached to an outer side of the outer pivot leg.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2005Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Assignee: Active Ankle Systems, Inc.Inventor: Scott T. Morton
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Patent number: 7364562Abstract: A method for maintaining clear passageways in an extracorporeal blood flow system. The method comprises intermittently providing one or more anti-clotting agents to a passageway of the extracorporeal blood flow system. Also disclosed is an extracorporeal blood flow system. The system comprises a passageway, and a device operatively connected to provide one or more anti-clotting agents to a least a portion of said passageway.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2005Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Assignee: OptiScan Biomedical Corp.Inventors: James R. Braig, Richard Keenan
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Patent number: 7364563Abstract: A continuous volume detection system for a flexible venous reservoir in a cardiopulmonary bypass circuit is described. The volume detection system is based on a pressure measurement that is manipulated via application of fluid mechanics. Next-generation cardiopulmonary bypass system controllers may use this data to control the volume contained in the flexible venous reservoir.Type: GrantFiled: October 1, 2004Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Assignee: Minnetronix, Inc.Inventors: Lori E. Lucke, Matthew J. Cunningham, Richard A. Nazarian
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Patent number: 7364564Abstract: Various embodiments of MEMS flow modules that may be disposed in a flow path (296) of a shunt (290) are disclosed, where the shunt (290) may be used to control a flow out of an anterior chamber (284) of an eye (266). One such MEMS flow module (58) has a tuning element (78) and a lower plate (70). A plurality of springs or spring-like structures (82) interconnect the tuning element (78) with the lower plate (70) in a manner that allows the tuning element (78) to move either toward or away from the lower plate (70), depending upon the pressure being exerted on the tuning element (78) by a flow through a lower flow port (74) on the lower plate (70). The tuning element (78) is disposed over this lower flow port (74) to induce a flow through the MEMS flow module (58) along a non-linear (geometrically) flow path.Type: GrantFiled: December 24, 2004Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Assignee: Becton, Dickinson and CompanyInventors: Jeffry J. Sniegowski, Paul J. McWhorter, M. Steven Rodgers
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Patent number: 7364565Abstract: Method and device, including a uniquely operative applicator, and pharmaceutical compositions, for the controlled, non-surgical removal and retrieval of cells from a variety of skin lesions and tissue surfaces are disclosed. A synergistic effect of proteolytic digestion of the intracellular matrix and “stripping” flow is achieved by treating a defined area with a controlled, continuous stream of proteolytic enzyme solution, causing gentle but effective tissue erosion. Isolated cells from the skin lesion and/or tissue surface may be collected from the protease solution stream for histological analysis and/or cell culture, affording a method of “enzymatic biopsy”. The protease solution may be supplemented with anesthetics, coagulants, anticoagulants and antibiotics to decrease the discomfort, erythema, bleeding, risk of infection and scarring traditionally associated with surgical treatment of skin lesions.Type: GrantFiled: January 27, 2004Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Assignee: Ramot at Tel Aviv University Ltd.Inventor: Amihay Freeman
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Patent number: 7364566Abstract: A renal flow system injects a volume of fluid agent into a location within an abdominal aorta in a manner that flows bi-laterally into each of two renal arteries via their respectively spaced ostia along the abdominal aorta wall. A local injection assembly includes two injection members, each having an injection port that couples to a source of fluid agent externally of the patient. The injection ports may be positioned with an outer region of blood flow along the abdominal aorta wall perfusing the two renal arteries. A flow isolation assembly may isolate flow of the injected agent within the outer region and into the renals. The injection members are delivered to the location in a first radially collapsed condition, and bifurcate across the aorta to inject into the spaced renal ostia. A delivery catheter for upstream interventions is used as a chassis to deliver a bilateral local renal injection assembly to the location within the abdominal aorta.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 2005Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Assignee: FlowMedica, Inc.Inventors: Jeffrey M. Elkins, Aurelio Valencia, Samir R. Patel, Ricardo Aboytes, Harry B. Goodson, Craig A. Ball
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Patent number: 7364567Abstract: Systems and methods for determining tissue contact and penetration depth are provided. In one aspect, the system includes a needle and a pressure measurement assembly. The needle, in one exemplary embodiment, includes a first end and a second end with at least one aperture located a predetermined distance from the first end. The pressure measurement assembly is connected with a portion of the needle to measure pressure of fluid flowing through the needle. The pressure measurement assembly measures a first pressure when the needle contacts tissue and a second difference in pressure when the needle penetrates the tissue and the aperture becomes occluded. In an alternative aspect, the system includes a needle and a sensor. The sensor, in another exemplary embodiment, is coupled with a portion of the needle to detect tissue contact pressure on the sensor as the needle penetrates tissue and makes contact with the sensor. The sensor is located a predetermined distance from the first end of the needle.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 2002Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Assignee: Abbott Cardiovascular Systems Inc.Inventor: Dagmar Beyerlein
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Patent number: 7364568Abstract: A transdermal transport device includes a reservoir for holding a formulation of an active principle, and a needle with a bore extending along the length of the needle from a first end of the needle to a second end of the needle. The second end is substantially aligned to a plane parallel to a body surface of a biological body when the device is placed on the body surface. The device also includes an actuator which pumps the formulation through the bore of the needle between a target area of the body and the reservoir.Type: GrantFiled: October 21, 2002Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Assignee: Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyInventors: Aimee B. Angel, Ian W. Hunter
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Patent number: 7364569Abstract: A retractable safety syringe includes a needle set, a barrel and a plunger. The needle set is attached to the barrel, and has a first engaging portion at one end. The plunger is mounted with a compressive piston and terminates in a second engaging portion. The piston contacts with a shoulder of the barrel as the plunger is pushed forward. To withdraw the need set inside the barrel, the plunger is pushed forward while the piston contacts with the shoulder of the barrel so as to engage the first and second engaging portion. The plunger is thereby locked with the needle set for withdrawal inside the barrel.Type: GrantFiled: December 27, 2004Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Inventor: Chao-Hua Shih
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Patent number: 7364570Abstract: A controlled volume injection/aspiration device includes a syringe having a body for containing a medicament, a needle and a piston slidably disposed within the body. A shell is provided for receiving the syringe body and a plunger rack is disposed within the shell. A manually operated control is disposed in an operative relationship with the plunger rack for moving the plunger rack in a stepwise forward direction causing the piston to eject discrete doses of medication from the syringe body through the needle. The manual operated control is also operative for moving the piston in a stepwise reverse direction causing the piston to aspirate fluid into the syringe body through the needle.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 2004Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Assignee: Allergan, Inc.Inventors: Scott J. Gerondale, Steven D. Kimmell, Jeffrey Field