Patents Issued in July 22, 2008
-
Patent number: 7402099Abstract: An apparatus for crushing a bird's head includes a first member and a second member that are pivotally attached and which are adapted to pivot about an axis. An inner arcuate recessed area is provided on an interior side of each member intermediate a second end and a first end. The arcuate recessed area is adapted to receive a bird's head with a bill or beak of the bird extending beyond the arcuate area. A ridge or protrusion protrudes from at least one member so that it initially makes contact with the bird's head when the first and second members are urged together. This concentrates the force that is applied to the head and also prevents the bird from moving out of the apparatus. The members are then urged together and the bird's head is crushed thereby instantly killing the bird.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2005Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Inventor: David Allen Parvin
-
Patent number: 7402100Abstract: A hand held electronic device that includes a main body with a connector adapted to electrically and mechanically connect the main body to an electronic game separate from the device, and a method for using the same. First and second ports of the main body are sized to receive first and second game cartridges of the electronic game, respectively. Each of the first and second ports have an electrical connection that is electrically connectable to the respective first and second game cartridges. The device includes a processor adapted to electrically connect the electronic game to the first and second game cartridges through the first and second ports of the main body.Type: GrantFiled: October 21, 2003Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Assignee: Mattel, Inc.Inventors: Michael Hammond, Kevin D. Brase
-
Patent number: 7402101Abstract: A method of conducting a wagering game on a gaming machine is disclosed. The wagering game includes winning symbol combinations that provide respective awards when arranged according to one or more predefined arrangements. After a player makes a wager, a plurality of symbol-bearing reels are rotated and stopped to place symbols on the reels in a symbol array. If the symbol array includes an activation symbol in a predefined location within the symbol array, the game activates an additional arrangement distinct from the predefined arrangements. The additional arrangement may, for example, be a scatter pay or a right-to-left pay along an active pay line. The game provides an award if the additional arrangement includes one of the winning symbol combinations.Type: GrantFiled: May 29, 2003Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Assignee: WMS Gaming Inc.Inventor: Michael P. Casey
-
Patent number: 7402102Abstract: A gaming device including a plurality of reels having a plurality of symbols including at least one replicator symbol. The replicator symbol includes at least two of the same symbols in a single symbol position on the reels. The replicator symbol may include any suitable number of the same symbols. The replicator symbol thereby increases the likelihood that a player will obtain a winning symbol combination on the reels and also an award in a game. In one embodiment, a winning symbol combination includes at least one replicator symbol and at least one other symbol at a plurality of symbol positions on a payline associated with the reels. In another embodiment, the winning symbol combination at least one replicator symbol and at least one other symbol at a plurality of symbol position in at least one symbol position on a plurality of paylines associated with the reels.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 2003Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Assignee: IGTInventors: Howard Marks, Anthony M. Singer, Daniel Marks
-
Patent number: 7402103Abstract: A gaming device including a free spins game displaying a plurality of reels including a plurality of symbols where the symbols include a plurality of award symbols and at least one target symbol. A plurality of selections including at least one game function are displayed to a player. In a game, the gaming device provides the player with a plurality of free spins of the reels. In each free spin, the gaming device provides the player with an award or awards for any award symbols or combinations of award symbols indicated on the reels. In addition, the gaming device provides the player with one or more picks of the selections for each target symbol indicated on the reels. The gaming device then determines the game function or game functions associated with the picked selections in each free spin. A total award based on the awards and game functions is provided to the player.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 2006Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Assignee: IGTInventor: Anthony J. Baerlocher
-
Patent number: 7402104Abstract: A game performing method for executing a game by arranging a plurality of objects comprising a plurality of objects to be stuck and an operation object, in a virtual space, controlling rolling and movement of the operation object according to a player's input, and rolling and moving the operation object while sticking the objects which the operation object comes in contact with, comprises: setting a plurality of first displacement points capable of displacing only in predetermined radial directions different from each other, from a reference point respectively; displacing the first displacement point adjacent to a contact position, in the predetermined radial direction when the operation object comes in contact with the object to be stuck; setting a second displacement point in a position which meets a predetermined distance condition; and controlling the rolling of the operation object based on rolling surface reference points comprising the first and second displacement points.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 2004Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Assignee: NAMCO BANDAI Games Inc.Inventors: Masatoshi Ogita, Kazumi Yamabe, Keita Takahashi
-
Patent number: 7402105Abstract: A massively multiplayer educational online game presents a computer generated gameplay world where acquiring and demonstrating mastery of educational skills is a requirement for survival and advancement of a learner's game character. The game provides a method for effectively teaching a set of target educational skills by motivating the learner to improved understanding of the skills by having to demonstrate the skills as part of the game. The skills become immediately meaningful and relevant to the learner within the game itself, as feedback on skill understanding is provided directly, indirectly, or both directly and indirectly through game performance, motivating the learner to improve understanding of the skills.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 2007Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Inventors: Robert J Hutter, Thomas Devaney
-
Patent number: 7402106Abstract: A computer controlled toy car racing game that can be played by a plurality of players. If less than a maximum number of players is present at the beginning of a race, a computer controller operates the remaining race cars such that each race includes all of the race cars. The racing game includes numerous sensors positioned above the racing course that relay control commands to each of the race cars. If a race car is computer controlled or computer assisted, the control commands are created by the computer controller. If the race car is controlled by a player, the control commands include information from a throttle and steering wheel used by the player. Upon completion of a race, the computer controller controls each of the race cars to bring the race cars back to a point on the race course near the start/finish line.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2005Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Assignee: Bay Tek Games, Inc.Inventors: Charles W. Weisel, Jr., David A. Myus, Randolph A. Lasee, James H. Pagel, Sr.
-
Patent number: 7402107Abstract: A bent portion is protrusively formed at one side of each hole of a crank position sensor-wheel plate that is coupled to the rim of a drive plate, thereby facilitating the observation of misalignment in rotational positions of the drive plate and front cover as well as the alignment of bolt coupling holes of the drive plate and bolt coupling holes of the front cover during the attachment of the drive plate to the front cover.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2005Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Assignee: Hyundai Motor CompanyInventors: Sung-Kwang Kim, Byoung-Chul Lee
-
Patent number: 7402108Abstract: A flexible shaft coupling has first and second hubs, each of which is provided with flanges and connected to a transmission shaft. The flange of the first hub has spring holes extended therethrough. A cover is fixed to the second hub so that the flange of the first hub is held between the cover and the flange of the second hub, and the cylindrical part of the first hub extends through the cover. A plurality of coil spring sets each comprises multiple barrel-shaped coil springs. Each of the coil springs is supported in the spring hole so that the adjoining end faces thereof are in contact and in series with each other.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2005Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Assignees: Kyushu Hasec Co., Ltd., Shoyo Engineering Co., Ltd.Inventors: Tetsuya Miyakawa, Hitoshi Terado, Kazuichi Fukuda
-
Patent number: 7402109Abstract: A self-tapping screw includes a head, a shaft, a tapered end and a rounded distal tip. A thread includes a thread start on the tapered end. The axial position of the thread start and a first full thread, the radius of the round distal tip and the diameter of the tapered end at the thread start are controlled in relation to the screw size for consistent, improved screw performance.Type: GrantFiled: March 9, 2007Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventors: Frank W. Bechtel, Jr., Timothy L. Day, Joseph F. Downey, Michael P. Glynn
-
Patent number: 7402110Abstract: A gimbaled wheel video amusement ride is disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 2006Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Inventor: Thomas P. Casey
-
Patent number: 7402111Abstract: A rocking horse has a stand that includes a base portion with four tubular columns. The columns each have a tubular wall defining an interior. The wall has a top end with a top rim defining a top opening to the interior. An anchor pin extends through the wall and into the interior so that the pin engages two separated locations on the tubular wall. An S-shaped hook has a first end directly attached to the pin within the interior of the tubular wall and a second end extending out of the top opening on each column. The rocking horse also has four resilient members with outer ends connected to the second ends of the hooks, and inner ends connected to the toy horse for suspending the toy horse from the columns.Type: GrantFiled: April 26, 2006Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Assignee: Radio Flyer Inc.Inventors: Frederick Michelau, Thomas Schlegel
-
Patent number: 7402112Abstract: A golf club (40) having a club head (42) with a face component (60), an aft body (61), and a sound modifying component (59) is disclosed herein. The face component (60) has a striking plate portion (72) and a return portion (74). The aft-body (61) is composed of a crown portion (62), a sole portion (64) and optionally a ribbon section (90). The face component (60) is composed of a metal material, and the aft-body (61) is composed of a non-metal material such as a composite material or a thermoplastic material. The sound modifying component (59), which is attached to the metallic face component (60), alters the sound of the golf club head (42) when it impacts a golf ball.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2007Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Assignee: Callaway Golf CompanyInventor: J. Andrew Galloway
-
Patent number: 7402113Abstract: A golf club head and a golf club provided with the golf club head. The head has outer shell structure portions including a hosel portion, a face portion, a sole portion, a crown portion, and a side portion and a joining portion where a crown member used in the crown portion is bonded to a member used in another outer shell structure portion. The member to be used as the crown member has an equivalent rigidity not more than 0.8 times as high as that of a sole member used in the sole portion where the equivalent rigidity of a member used in any one of the outer shell structure portions is defined as the product of the thickness of the relevant member and the elastic modulus of the member in a direction in which a golf ball-striking surface of the face portion is oriented.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 2003Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Assignee: The Yokohama Rubber Co., Ltd.Inventors: Tomoaki Mori, Norihiko Nakahara, Hiroshi Saegusa, Yoh Nishizawa
-
Patent number: 7402114Abstract: Disclosed herein is novel thermoplastic material and a golf ball utilizing the thermoplastic material. The golf ball (10) preferably comprises a core (12), a cover (16) and optionally a boundary layer (14). At least one of the core (12), cover (16) or boundary layer (14) of the golf ball (10) comprises the thermoplastic material. The thermoplastic material comprises a partially to highly neutralized blend of copolymers additionally comprising a fatty acid or fatty acid salt, and a heavy mass filler in an amount ranging from 10 parts by weight to 50 parts by weight of the material, with the heavy mass filler having a density greater than the copolymer. The golf ball component of the invention has soft feel and resilience that is maintained or improved.Type: GrantFiled: January 15, 2007Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Assignee: Callaway Golf CompanyInventors: Mark L. Binette, Thomas J. Kennedy, III
-
Patent number: 7402115Abstract: A combination golf and dice game for a golf foursome comprising a first die and a second dice. The first die has different indica defining specified pairings of the foursome while the second die has different indicia defining at least one of a skill challenge(s) and scoring rules for the game. A player rolls the pair of dice to obtain both the specified pairing of the foursome being dictated by the first die such that a first team competes against a second team under one of the specified skill challenges and scoring rules of the game dictated by the second dice. A method of playing the game for a golf foursome is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: August 29, 2007Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Assignee: Inside Touch Inc.Inventor: Jesse Moussa
-
Patent number: 7402116Abstract: A basketball goal system is provided which helps improve the shooting skills of a use. The system includes a rim which is expandable and contractable in diameter. The rim has a pair of free ends which are caused to be moved relative to each other to change the rim diameter. Attached to each of the free ends is a device for causing such relative movement and thereby the expansion and contraction of the rim.Type: GrantFiled: February 9, 2005Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Inventors: Daniel P. Zuccarini, Steven J. Gordon
-
Patent number: 7402117Abstract: A racket is described, with a center of gravity thereof being approximate to a center of a rubber sheet of the racket, and a center of gravity that moves approximately to the center of rubber sheet and is located in a high ball-strike area. The racket has a substantially triangular blade. The blade comprises a head, a neck and a handle. The head becomes gradually narrower from front to back of the head, and the handle can further be lightened. The center of gravity of the racket can thereby move forward to the center of the rubber sheet to enhance attack and defense abilities of the racket, and reduce shock.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 2004Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Inventor: Kai-Ping Wang
-
Patent number: 7402118Abstract: A control device for controlling a continuously variable transmission (5) is disclosed. The control device has an oil pressure control unit (100) which supplies an oil pressure to a primary pulley (10) and secondary pulley (11) based on a command signal indicative of a target speed-reduction ratio, a sensor (26) which detects a rotation speed (Np1) of the primary pulley (26), and a controller (20) which transmits the command signal indicative of the target speed-reduction ratio to the oil pressure control unit (100).Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2004Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Assignee: Jatco LtdInventors: Yusuke Kimura, Tatsuo Ochiai, Kenji Yoneda, Tateki Jozaki, Takeshi Chibahara, Jun Shiomi
-
Patent number: 7402119Abstract: A transmission can be provided which achieves multiple speeds while maintaining good balance of gear ratio steps between gears by having a first clutch which selectively connects a first intermediate output member and a fourth rotating element RE4 together, a second clutch which selectively connects an input shaft and a second rotating element RE2 together, a third clutch which selectively connects the first intermediate output member and a first rotating element RE1 together, a fourth clutch which selectively connects the input shaft and the first rotating element RE1 together, a fifth clutch which selectively connects a second intermediate output member and the first rotating element RE1 together, a first brake which selectively holds the first rotating element RE1 to a transmission case, and a second brake which selectively holds the second rotating element RE2 to the transmission case.Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 2005Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Atsushi Kamada, Atsushi Honda, Akiharu Abe, Atsushi Tabata, Kazutoshi Nozaki, Yuji Inoue, Hirofumi Ota
-
Patent number: 7402120Abstract: A planet transmission (1) for a land vehicle including a planet carrier (7), which is designed for rotation and has at least one journal (8) for supporting a planet wheel (6), and a brake (2), a first set of brake discs (10) being rotationally locked to the planet carrier (7). The brake discs (10) in the first set comprise means (17) for rotationally locking the brake discs (10) directly to the planet wheel journal. A drive device for a wheel of a vehicle is also disclosed that includes the planet transmission (1), as is a brake disc (10) for the planet transmission (1).Type: GrantFiled: December 29, 2006Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Assignee: Volvo Construction EquipmentInventors: Thomas Andersson, Timothy Kingston
-
Patent number: 7402121Abstract: A power transmitting system suitable for use with a hybrid vehicle is provided and preferably may comprise: (i) a first shaft and a second shaft; (ii) a planetary gear set; (iii) a power receiving apparatus that can receive power from the planetary gear set; (iv) a power transmitting member preferably in communication with the power receiving device and the second shaft to transmit power from the power receiving device to the second shaft. Because in preferred systems tension of a chain of a power transmitting system of a hybrid vehicle is not transmitted to a simple planetary gear set, damage to the simple planetary gear set may be prevented and the power transmitting system of the hybrid vehicle may be applied to many kinds of vehicles.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 2005Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Assignee: Hyundai Motor CompanyInventors: Joo Woong Youn, Yeon Ho Kim
-
Patent number: 7402122Abstract: A continuously variable transmission is disclosed for use in rotationally or linearly powered machines and vehicles. The single axle transmission provides a simple manual shifting method for the user. An additional embodiment is disclosed which shifts automatically dependent upon the rotational speed of the wheel. Further, the practical commercialization of traction roller transmissions requires improvements in the reliability, ease of shifting, function and simplicity of the transmission. The disclosed transmission may be used in vehicles such as automobiles, motorcycles, and bicycles. The transmission may, for example, be driven by a power transfer mechanism such as a sprocket, gear, pulley or lever, optionally driving a one way clutch attached at one end of the main shaft.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 2007Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Assignee: Fallbrook Technologies Inc.Inventor: Donald C Miller
-
Patent number: 7402123Abstract: In an automatic transmission control system and method, an electronic control unit is programmed to output a command to establish another gear stage different from the gear stage at the time of occurrence of fault-induced disengagement by combination of engagements of the friction elements other than the friction elements to be engaged at the time of occurrence of fault-induced disengagement, and simultaneously output a plurality of commands to establish a plurality of gear stages corresponding to combination of engagements of the friction elements to be engaged and disengaged, respectively, at the gear stage at the time of occurrence of fault-induced disengagement, when the gear stage at the time of occurrence of the fault-induced disengagement is a predetermined gear stage and the friction element undergoing the fault-induced disengagement is not determined.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2006Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Assignee: Jatco LtdInventors: Hiroyuki Kobayashi, Hajime Tasaka, Hirofumi Michioka
-
Patent number: 7402124Abstract: A more efficient method for maintaining the hydraulic actuation of a selectively engageable torque transmitting device in a vehicle. The method includes generating a predetermined pressure level of a hydraulic fluid such as, for example, with a pump. The pressurized hydraulic fluid is transferred through an open valve and to a selectively engageable torque transmitting device such that the selectively engageable torque transmitting device is engaged. Thereafter, the valve is closed so that the predetermined pressure level of hydraulic fluid at the selectively engageable torque transmitting device remains relatively constant. Accordingly, the selectively engageable torque transmitting device remains engaged without continuously generating additional pressure such that the fuel economy of the vehicle is improved. A corresponding apparatus is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2006Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.Inventors: Paul D. Stevenson, Hamid Vahabzadeh
-
Patent number: 7402125Abstract: An electronic console with a system for indicating the motion power having one large indicating area with light color change and one setting/comparing area. Judging from the change of light color in the indicating area, the observer (operator himself and other related persons) can easily acquire the relevant information of the current dynamic status of this exercise apparatus or the current physical status of the operator. Meanwhile, in the setting mode, the user can define a specific light color of the LED in this setting/comparing area to make a simple visual comparison with the light color in the indicating area to judge whether the current exercise or physical status of the user corresponds to that of the “setting color”.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2005Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Inventor: Leao Wang
-
Patent number: 7402126Abstract: An elliptical exerciser includes two side tubes on two sides of the base and two guiding rails are pivotably connected to the two side tubes respectively. Two connection rods are connected to two ends of the crank on the wheel and each connection rod has a roller which is movably engaged with one of the guiding rails. Two pedals are connected to the two connection rods. The angle between the two guiding rails can be adjusted so that the users may operate the elliptical exerciser in a skiing or twisting way.Type: GrantFiled: October 14, 2004Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Inventor: Huang-Tung Chang
-
Patent number: 7402127Abstract: The present invention involves a method of securing an exercise device having an elongated base member with a linear track on a topside of the elongated base member to conventional exercise machine in order to exercise multiple muscle groups at once. A slidable body moves within the one or more linear tracks of the exercise device. The slidable body is attached to a pole to be gripped while exercising.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 2006Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Inventor: Peter A. Rizzo
-
Patent number: 7402128Abstract: An exercise machine has a motion arm with a handle with two hand grips and an optional support pad contacted by the forearms, chest, back or side of the user and pivotable 180 degrees up and down and 180 degrees to the sides used by an exerciser in a standing position. Pushing the motion arm and leaning forward in a straight body position stretches the abs, shoulders, arms and back muscles. Pulling the motion arm and leaning back to the straight standing position contracts the abs, shoulders, arms, and back muscles. Legs, hip and butt exercises may preformed by standing at a slight angle and leaning the chest, forearms or back against the optional support pad and bending the legs at the knees or at the ankles. A base may have a fixed or an adjustable by length and angle foot platform. The motion arm is connected to a lower or upper motion arm support by a pivot, roller or slider.Type: GrantFiled: August 29, 2003Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Inventor: Lawrence W. Thonn, Jr.
-
Patent number: 7402129Abstract: A machine for folding and gluing folding boxes has a first folding station and at least one second folding station that follows downstream. Machine components are provided which can be positioned transversely and which contain conveying elements for blanks for the folding boxes and at least one adhesive application unit. The machine further has actuating drives for positioning the machine components, and a rotary station which is disposed downstream of the first folding station and upstream of the second folding station. The rotary station has a fixedly disposed transport device for the blanks. A controller controls the actuating drives of the machine components which are provided in front of and behind the rotary station and which can be positioned transversely, as a function of the type of folding boxes that is to be produced.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 2005Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Assignee: Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AGInventor: Wolfgang Diehr
-
Patent number: 7402130Abstract: This invention provides a system and method for separating, folding, stacking and transporting a continuous web that allows stacks of web that are relatively large (four-feet-high or more) to be generated at high speed directly beneath the folding mechanism and to be transferred as complete, discrete stacks to downstream locations and stack utilization devices without interrupting the ongoing, upstream stack-folding and stack-formation process. A zigzag folded web passes by a pair of opposing front and rear compression plate assemblies, with fingers that are extended to selectively project into the folding area, onto a stack supported by a vertically moving supporting mechanism. The supporting mechanism cycles between an ever-lower position in which upper, loose pages of the folded web pass by plate fingers (when retracted) and an upper position in which the stack engages and presses upwardly against the now-extended plate fingers to compress the stack.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2006Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Assignee: Roll Systems, Inc.Inventors: Richard A. Sjostedt, Steven P. Lewalski, Bruce J. Taylor, John M. Fiske
-
Patent number: 7402131Abstract: The invention provides a method, apparatus and system for separating blood and other types of cellular components, and can be combined with holographic optical trapping manipulation or other forms of optical tweezing. One of the exemplary methods includes providing a first flow having a plurality of blood components; providing a second flow; contacting the first flow with the second flow to provide a first separation region; and differentially sedimenting a first blood cellular component of the plurality of blood components into the second flow while concurrently maintaining a second blood cellular component of the plurality of blood components in the first flow. The second flow having the first blood cellular component is then differentially removed from the first flow having the second blood cellular component. Holographic optical traps may also be utilized in conjunction with the various flows to move selected components from one flow to another, as part of or in addition to a separation stage.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 2006Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Assignee: Arryx, Inc.Inventors: Daniel Mueth, Joseph Plewa, Jessica Shireman, Amy Anderson, Lewis Gruber, Neil Harris Rosenbaum
-
Patent number: 7402132Abstract: Methods of treating hazardous materials, such as, for example, contaminated soils, are disclosed. In one aspect, a method may include treating a contaminated soil with a hazardous material treatment composition to form a resulting material. In one aspect, the hazardous material treatment composition may include mostly salt, and from 0.5 to 15 wt % sorbent. The method may further include treating the resulting material with one or more inorganic binding agents. Other methods of treating hazardous materials are also disclosed, as well as compositions for treating hazardous materials.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2006Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Inventor: Jack W. Matthews
-
Patent number: 7402133Abstract: The invention features systems, methods, and devices relating to delivering a sling to an anatomical site in the body of a patient.Type: GrantFiled: August 14, 2003Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.Inventors: Michael S. H. Chu, Alfred P. Intoccia, Jr., Michael G. McGrath
-
Patent number: 7402134Abstract: Systems, methods and devices are provided for treating heart failure patients suffering from various levels of heart dilation. Heart dilation treated by reshaping the heart anatomy with the use of magnetic forces. Such reshaping changes the geometry of portions of the heart, particularly the right or left ventricles, to increase contractibility of the ventricles thereby increasing the stroke volume which in turn increases the cardiac output of the heart. The magnetic forces are applied with the use of one or more magnetic elements which are implanted within the heart tissue or attached externally and/or internally to a surface of the heart. The various charges of the magnetic forces interact causing the associated heart tissue areas to readjust position, such as to decrease the width of the ventricles. Such repositioning is maintained over time by the force of the magnetic elements, allowing the damaging effects of heart dilation to slow in progression or reverse.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2005Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Assignee: MiCardia CorporationInventors: Shahram Moaddeb, Samuel M. Shaolian, Emanuel Shaoulian, Richard Rhee, Steven C. Anderson
-
Patent number: 7402135Abstract: An apparatus enabling a person to evaluate the hydration of a region of the skin or the mucous membranes. The apparatus includes a sensor including an array of non-optical detection cells and processor apparatus arranged to deliver at least one piece of information relating to the hydration of the region on the basis of signals coming from the sensor. A method for evaluation of hydration is also provided. The apparatus and method can also be used for evaluating, e.g., aging or the effectiveness of a treatment regimen.Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 2004Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Assignee: L'OrealInventors: Jean-Luc Leveque, Bernard Querleux, Franck Giron
-
Patent number: 7402136Abstract: An ultrasound system and related method for forming 2D C-scan images and/or collecting 3D image data from 2D transducer arrays. The system including in part a 2D transducer array of elements, transmit voltage generation means for each element, a memory buffer with or part of channels for each element, and a receive beamformer. On a time serial or sequential basis, several times for each line of firing, the contents of the per element memory buffer are read into the beamformer with different focusing values for each buffer reading cycle. In this way, the beamformer can calculate beamformed image values for multiple points per line firing cycle—or per each line of signals between the transducer array and receive beamformer.Type: GrantFiled: January 15, 2004Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Assignee: University of Virginia Patent FoundationInventors: John A. Hossack, William F. Walker, Travis N. Blalock
-
Patent number: 7402137Abstract: A plethysmograph is constructed with a base including parallel, horizontal guide rails; an open-ended, moveable enclosure section having a horizontal central axis slidable on the guide rails between open and closed positions; a fixed enclosure section mounted on the base transverse to the horizontal pathway, the fixed enclosure section including an inner face toward the open end of the enclosure section adapted for sealing engagement with the open end of the moveable enclosure section when the moveable enclosure section is in its closed position; and a support table attached to the fixed section, the table projecting into the moveable enclosure section when the moveable enclosure section is in the closed position, the table being vertically adjustable and having an angularly adjustable longitudinal axis.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 2004Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Assignee: Buxco Electronics, Inc.Inventors: Joseph Lomask, Steve Karpinski
-
Patent number: 7402138Abstract: A first member is adapted to measure an electrocardiogram of a patient. A second member is adapted to measure a peripheral pulse wave of the patient. A first calculator calculates a pulse wave propagation time (PWTT) and a heart rate (HR) of the patient based on the electrocardiogram and the peripheral pulse wave. A second calculator calculates a cardiac output (CO) of the patient with an equation of CO=(?K·PWTT+?K)·HR, where ?, ? and K are coefficients inherent to the patient.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2005Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Assignee: Nihon Kohden CorporationInventors: Yoshihiro Sugo, Takeshi Akiyama, Keisuke Uchida, Sunao Takeda
-
Patent number: 7402139Abstract: An apparatus for determining the impedance (Zaw) of a patient's respiratory tract, by measuring the alternating pressure (dp) in the region of the patient's mouth after producing an oscillating air pressure signal, includes a mouthpiece, an electroacoustic transducer having a mechanical oscillation system for generating the oscillating air pressure signal, a tube for connecting the electroacoustic transducer to the mouthpiece, a reference resistance for determining the reference impedance (Zref), and a computing device for calculating the impedance (Zaw) of the respiratory tract on the basis of the reference impedance (Zref) of the reference resistance, the entire impedance (Zges) and the entire phase angle (Phi). The change in the deflection of the mechanical oscillation system on the electroacoustic transducer, caused by the alternating pressure (dp) of the breathing of the patient, can be measured in a contactless manner using at least one measuring device.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 2005Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Inventor: Peter Ganshorn
-
Patent number: 7402140Abstract: A device for biopsy of body tissue. The device is driven by liquid CO2, and is provided with a control system to control various components to effectuate rotating core biopsies.Type: GrantFiled: February 12, 2004Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Assignee: Sanarus Medical, Inc.Inventors: Richard K. Spero, Christopher D. Owen, Daniel V. Van Buskirk, Stephen L. Daleo, Russell L. DeLonzor
-
Patent number: 7402141Abstract: A catheterization guidewire system provides a first wire for percutaneous insertion in a blood vessel. The first wire may include a lumen running from one end to the other, and a handle adjacent the proximal end for manipulation of the first wire about and along a central axis. A second wire may be inserted in the blood vessel over the first wire, and may have a handle adjacent a proximal end. With the first and second wires coupled together, either of the handles of the first and second wires may be used to manipulate both wires. The wires may be manipulated relative to one another by simultaneous use of both handles. The first wire may have a rigidity selected to allow crossing of a bifurcation in the blood vessel. A third wire, which may also have a handle, may be inserted in the blood vessel over the second wire. A catheter for insertion over at least one of the first, second, and third wires may be provided with a balloon and a stent placement apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: August 25, 2004Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Inventor: Richard R. Heuser
-
Patent number: 7402142Abstract: A method and processor for obtaining torques to be applied to joints of a leg of a biped walking system include obtaining moments acting around the joints of the leg, using the vertical component of the ground reaction force acting on the leg at the point of application of the ground reaction force and incorporating the attitude of the leg and the vertical component of acceleration of the center of gravity of the whole body including the leg.Type: GrantFiled: August 15, 2003Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Masakazu Kawai, Yasushi Ikeuchi, Behzad Dariush
-
Patent number: 7402143Abstract: The present invention facilitates the detection of an occurrence of a physiological action imparting a displacement to a body part at a natural frequency signature by virtue of a bio-filter pad including a viscoelastic interior for intimate juxtapositioning against the body part, and having a mechanical resonance frequency midway in the range of the frequency signature associated with the physiological action.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 2003Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Assignee: Biopad LtdInventors: Avraham Berger, Ben Zion Haim, Baruch Meirovich, Avri Hazan
-
Patent number: 7402144Abstract: A non-invasive method and apparatus are provided for treating orthostatic hypotension and for reducing the effects caused there from. An increase in blood and fluid flow in the lower extremities is achieved by vibrating the lower body of the individual at a frequency in the range of 10-120 Hz. The apparatus includes a strap for being secured to a body part of the individual's lower extremities, e.g., the sole of one's foot, and a displacement sensor which senses any movement of the body part. The displacement sensor continuously sends signals to a processor of the apparatus which indicate whether there was any movement of the body part. If the displacement sensor did not sense any substantial movement of the body part for a predetermined period of time the processor sends a signal to a vibrating mechanism. The signal activates the vibrating mechanism causing vibration of the body part for increasing blood and fluid flow in the lower extremities.Type: GrantFiled: October 9, 2002Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Inventor: Kenneth J. McLeod
-
Patent number: 7402145Abstract: In combination, vertically percussive vibration and non-symmetrical forces are applied to a patient. The non-symmetrical forces may be generated by a variety of unevenly applied weights that are supported at appropriate body locations in a manner that upsets normal body load symmetry. The non-symmetrical forces in combination with vertically percussive vibrations induce neuromusculoskeletal proprioceptive re-education and development within a living body to correct musculo-skeletal disorders including but not limited to scoliosis. A special posture modifying chair and head-orienting glasses may be used instead of or in addition to unevenly applied weights. An additional force concentrating treatment apparatus is also presented.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 2004Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Inventors: Dennis A. Woggon, A. Joshua Woggon, John D. Carlson, Donald D. Winkels
-
Patent number: 7402146Abstract: A furniture includes an inflatable body and a plurality of vibrating units. Each of the vibrating units is mounted on the inflatable body, and includes a vibrating plate that is spaced apart from the inflatable body and that is formed with protrusions thereon, and a driving member for driving vibration of the vibrating plate.Type: GrantFiled: August 5, 2005Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Inventor: Hsin-Tsai Wu
-
Patent number: 7402147Abstract: A body limb movement limiter restrains the movement of a person's arm so as to protect the person's shoulder or restrains the movement of a person's lower leg with respect to the upper leg so as to protect the person's knee. The device uses a housing having a reel disposed therein with a tether attached thereto and a shear thickening non-Newtonian fluid disposed within the housing so that the fluid acts on the reel during a payout procedure of the tether. The housing is attached to a strap secured about the torso of the person while the free end of the tether is secured about the person's arm. Alternately, a pair of arms are pivotally secured to each other within a housing having the non-Newtonian fluid therein for limiting movement of one arm with respect to the other.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 2005Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Inventor: Susan Davis Allen
-
Patent number: 7402148Abstract: An orthotic protective device collectively including a base unit connected to a metacarpal unit by a hinge system designed to protect and prevent hyperextension and hyperflexion movements of the metacarpal, carpal, radius and ulna regions. The base unit and metacarpal unit includes a longitudinal support member and a casing, respectively, lined with at least one pad having a tongue. At least one releasable fastener is mated to the support member and casing and extends to the tongue of the pad. Apertures of the base unit are mated and connected to apertures of the hinge system which form an articulated joint allowing the hinge system to move in an upward manner allowing for natural extension of the user's wrist and in a downward fashion for unlimited flexion motion. The base unit and the hinge system may both have at least one stop formed thereon; and as these stops come into contact with one another, it limits the flexion, extension and radial-ulnar deviation.Type: GrantFiled: July 15, 2003Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Assignee: Allsport Dynamics, Inc.Inventor: Jeffrey L. Brewer