Patents Issued in December 30, 2008
  • Patent number: 7470209
    Abstract: A hybrid powertrain includes an electrically variable transmission and an internal combustion engine. The transmission is operable to provide a continuously variable mode of operation. The engine is capable of variable displacement in that at least half of the cylinders contained therein are deactivatable. Additionally the internal combustion engine operates with a late intake valve closing strategy to increase the peak efficiency of the internal combustion engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Alan G. Holmes, Michael R. Schmidt, Donald Klemen, Anthony H. Heap, Gregory A. Hubbard, Larry T. Nitz
  • Patent number: 7470210
    Abstract: A continuously variable planetary gear set is described having a generally tubular idler, a plurality of balls distributed radially about the idler, each ball having a tiltable axis about which it rotates, a rotatable input disc positioned adjacent to the balls and in contact with each of the balls, a rotatable output disc positioned adjacent to the balls opposite the input disc and in contact with each of the balls such that each of the balls makes three-point contact with the input disc, the output disc and the idler, and a rotatable cage adapted to maintain the axial and radial position of each of the balls, wherein the axes of the balls are oriented by the axial position of the idler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: Fallbrook Technologies Inc.
    Inventors: Donald C Miller, David J Allen, Robert A Smithson
  • Patent number: 7470211
    Abstract: A valve characteristic changing mechanism is supplied with oil discharged from an electric oil pump in addition to oil discharged from a mechanical oil pump that is driven by an operation of an internal combustion engine. Driving of the electric oil pump is controlled such that a work rate of the electric oil pump increases as a temperature of the oil supplied to the valve characteristic changing mechanism increases, or as a viscosity of the oil is reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Hibiki Ueura, Naohide Fuwa
  • Patent number: 7470212
    Abstract: An engine output controller includes a delay timer which measures the period of time elapsed from a timing of a target hydraulic pressure of a release side hydraulic pressure, and control starts a predetermined period of time after a predetermined amount of torque increase is achieved. The engine output control stores maps of the predetermined periods of time and the amounts of torque increase corresponding to normal shifts, such as 3rd to 2nd and 4th to 3rd, and skip-shifts, such as 4th to 2nd, and selects the map corresponding to the type of downshift.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: Aisin Aw Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Nobuaki Inagaki, Eiji Ito
  • Patent number: 7470213
    Abstract: An automatic transmission control device of a vehicle performs a gear change operation based on a deceleration of the vehicle. The automatic transmission control device detects the deceleration of the vehicle and an engine rotational speed. The device also stores a peak value of the engine rotation speed during a period in which a vehicle travels with one predetermined gear step, and includes a relationship map showing the relationship between the deceleration and a shift-down rotational speed. The device performs an automatic shift-down when the engine rotational speed is lowered from the peak value by a predetermined rotational speed which is obtained from the map based on the deceleration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Naotada Matsudaira, Soya Uchida, Go Morita
  • Patent number: 7470214
    Abstract: Electric-motor drive control means controls a clutch engaging/disengaging actuator including two electric motors. When a vehicle starts moving or changes gears, the electric-motor drive control means drives both of the two electric motors in drive modes that require high responsiveness from an automatic clutch device and drives the two electric motors alternately in other drive modes that do not require high responsiveness. Malfunctions of the electric motors are detected during the operation. When one of the electric motors malfunctions, a warning is issued and the actuator is driven with the other electric motor that is normal. When both of the electric motors malfunction, a warning prompting a driver to stop the vehicle is issued.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation
    Inventor: Atsushi Kumazawa
  • Patent number: 7470215
    Abstract: A drivetrain including a primary clutch and a secondary clutch is well-suited for use in a single-speed vehicle. The primary clutch may be automatically-engaging or manually-engaging. The secondary clutch, preferably, is normally engaged and is configured to disengage, or slip, at a threshold torque level. Desirably, the slip torque level of the secondary clutch is configured to be greater than the peak engine torque of the vehicle such that disengagement of the secondary clutch due to engine-supplied torque does not occur.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: Cobra Motorcycle Mfg., Inc.
    Inventors: Bud Maimone, Alexis Uspenski
  • Patent number: 7470216
    Abstract: An intra-repetition exercise system which allows comparison of actual performance of intra-repetition exercise characteristics (2) to pre-established target performance of intra-repetition exercise characteristics (3) by an exerciser (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: Medaview Products LLC
    Inventors: Edward John Farinelli, Kenneth Joseph Sharkey
  • Patent number: 7470217
    Abstract: The grip strength device is configured to gauge the grip strength of contracted muscles or aid in exercising particular muscles by providing resistance against the contracted muscles. The grip strength device is inserted into a user's vagina or held in a user's hand. The user either contracts the pubococcygeal or hand muscles depending on the casing used. The grip strength device has a removable casing containing a first fluid, a first bellows, a second bellows and a pressure gauge. The first bellows has a closed end and a first valve in communication with the casing. The second bellows has a second fluid. The second bellows has a second valve connected to the pressure gauge, and a closed end abutting the closed end of the first bellows. Pressure applied to the removable casing is communicated from the first bellows to the second bellows and measured by the pressure gauge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Inventor: Danielle E. Jones-Glaser
  • Patent number: 7470218
    Abstract: A device is disclosed that enables a user to perform a simulation of walking and running. The device comprises a locomotion platform which is has a concave upward facing surface. The platform and or the user's footwear incorporate a means to reduce friction to allow their feet to move freely.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Inventor: Julian David Williams
  • Patent number: 7470219
    Abstract: A training apparatus configured for skating-type sports whereon a user can perform training, exercising, strengthening and conditioning while wearing footgear designed for use in skating-type sports. The training apparatus comprises a pair of interconnected opposed matching elongate platforms extending backward and away from each other preferably at an angle equal to or less than 90°. Each platform is provided with an abrasion-resistant exercise surface assembly configured to slidingly communicate with and to controllably engage and disengage a user's footgear. Each platform is provided with a controllably pivotable and lockable foot stop assembly. The training apparatus is provided with an electronic device configured to measure, monitor, record and report at least one of a user's vital signs and a physical performance criterion associated with skating-type motions and activities. The training apparatus is optionally provided with a vertically adjustable knee brace apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Inventor: Cadmar Larson
  • Patent number: 7470220
    Abstract: A bicycle trainer is a bicycle-mounted apparatus used to produce friction to resist the turning of a wheel of a bicycle, thereby requiring the rider to exert more energy than would otherwise be necessary. The bicycle trainer is adjustable by the rider while riding, and can simulate hill or mountain climbing at any positive grade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Inventor: Ricardo Hernandez
  • Patent number: 7470221
    Abstract: A portable exercise machine for performing upper extremity exercises including seated chest press, seated-row, seated triceps pull down, and modified seated abdominal crunches. It has two adjacent vertical pieces and one opposing taller vertical piece, each attached to a base member. It also has a pivoting member oriented in an operator-selected direction and an adjustable articulated arm bar with holes at various locations for handgrip attachment and adjustment according to operator stature for optimal user comfort during exercises. Mass resistance is secured by a filamentous member to the pivoting member and moved via pulley systems. The portable exercise machine provides functional body alignment and mimics the range of motion and type of movement needed for daily living, in activities such as but not limited to feeding and dressing. Most importantly, the present invention maximizes the productivity and efficiency of the user and the therapist in a rehabilitation setting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Inventor: Ryan Bangoy Ramos
  • Patent number: 7470222
    Abstract: A muscle building tool for providing an effective upper body workout. The present invention includes a circular ring having substantially planar upper and lower surfaces, and a handle portion that extends perpendicularly from the circular ring. The handle portion is held within a hand of the user and is rotated to exercise the muscles of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Inventor: Rafik Mkrtchyan
  • Patent number: 7470223
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus provides variable resistance and includes a high drag fan which includes a plurality of fan blades radially mounted on an axle. A multi-ratio pulley system is operably mounted to the axle with the differing ratios providing variable resistance. A cord is wound on a cord reel which is operably engaged with the multi-ratio pulley system. Thus, pulling the cord turns the cord reel which then rotates the multi-ratio pulley system and the high drag fan via the axle. The distal end of the cord opposing the cord reel has an apparatus attachment point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Inventor: Douglas Haese
  • Patent number: 7470224
    Abstract: A combined resistance/magnetic exercise apparatus which uses both adjustable resistance and magnetic forces to improve mind and body in a variety of chosen exercises. Magnets are provided in the handle grips of the cross bar an in the platform upon which a user stands. The portable apparatus provides a curved upward extension to which the cross bar is mounted, via a flex joint. A plurality of eyelets and loops are also provided for use with included elastic cables with handles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Inventor: Roy J. Everett
  • Patent number: 7470225
    Abstract: A paper board blank is formed into a tray having a double glued side wall construction for providing a desirable strength to the tray. A platen drives the blank through forming rails which fold the blank into a partially formed tray having bottom, end and side walls, and inside corner supports formed about the platen. After the platen is retracted, a first folding arm folds a top wall portion to a position generally parallel to the bottom panel. A second folding arm then folds end fold portions of outside corner supports into a passage formed between a compression plate and a fixed guide plate, wherein the fixed guide plate provides a guiding surface. The compression plate is then biased against each of the side fold portions for compressing the side fold portions against the side panels to form the tray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: R&L Manufacturing
    Inventor: Robert M. Herrin
  • Patent number: 7470226
    Abstract: An apparatus automatically forms a paperboard blank into a container having a double glued side wall construction for providing an enhanced strength to the container. A platen drives the blank through mechanically powered forming rails for an initial folding of the blank into a partially formed container having a bottom, end and side walls, and inside corner supports. A compression plate and folding arms are biased against adhesive portions of the partially formed container for forming a fully formed container having a double glued side wall construction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: R & L Manufacturing
    Inventor: Robert M Herrin
  • Patent number: 7470227
    Abstract: A paper folding apparatus which is used as a finisher equipment of an image forming apparatus. The paper folding apparatus can securely fold a sheet of paper, optionally change the starting position for folding a leading edge of the paper, and can produce a thin sheaf of papers even after the papers are folded, without causing the shape of the folded end section fluctuate even in the case of strong paper such as heavy paper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: Ricoh Company, Ltd.
    Inventors: Noriaki Sekine, Takamichi Fujitate, Satoshi Hirata, Wataru Kurita
  • Patent number: 7470228
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are methods of treating a patient with benign hypertrophy of the prostate, comprising providing a compressible attenuation device that is moveable from a first, introduction configuration to a second, implanted configuration and attenuating a pressure change within the bladder by reversibly changing the volume of the attenuation device in response to the pressure change. In one embodiment, the attenuation device is advanced transurethrally into the bladder. In another embodiment, the attenuation device is positioned within the bladder to inhibit a decrease in compliance of the bladder wall as a consequence of the benign hypertrophy of the prostate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: AttenueX Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin G. Connors, William L. Pintauro, Sheila K. Wallin, John T. Kilcoyne, Hung H. Cao, Khoi M. Nguyen, Matthew T. Yurek
  • Patent number: 7470229
    Abstract: This endoscope apparatus comprises an insertion section to be inserted into a space to be inspected, a light emitting device for illuminating inside of the space, a fluorescent member provided at a tip-end of the insertion section and emitting fluorescent light with light from the light emitting device as excitation light, a light guide transmitting the light from the light emitting device to the fluorescent member, a light branching member for branching a part of the fluorescent light returned from the fluorescent member, and an optical sensor for detecting light from the light branching member, and when the illumination light becomes dark due to a failure or removal of the tip-end section of the endoscope, an image with low luminance is not displayed, glare at replacement of the tip-end section can be reduced to improve workability and the diameter of the insertion section can be thinned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: Olympus Corporation
    Inventors: Kiyotomi Ogawa, Yutaka Konomura
  • Patent number: 7470230
    Abstract: An optical obturator apparatus includes an obturator sleeve defining a longitudinal axis and having a longitudinal bore for receiving surgical instrumentation and a transparent window mounted to the obturator sleeve and being dimensioned and configured to pass through tissue. The transparent window is mounted for movement between a first position in general alignment with the longitudinal axis of the obturator sleeve and a second position radially displaced from the longitudinal axis to thereby expose the longitudinal bore of the obturator sleeve to permit passage of the surgical instrumentation. The transparent window may include a cutting blade, or alternatively two cutting blades, adapted to penetrate tissue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: Tyco Healthcare Group LP
    Inventors: Robert C. Smith, Thomas Wenchell
  • Patent number: 7470231
    Abstract: A fatigue degree measurement device includes a living body signal peak value detecting step to detect the peak values of respective cycles of the original waveform of the living body signal data; a power value calculating step to calculate the difference between a peak value on the upper limit side and a peak value on the lower limit side for every prescribed time period from respective peak values obtained by the living body signal peak value detecting step to set the difference as a power value; and a power value inclination calculating step to determine the inclination of the power value, to calculate an integral value by absolute value treatment of the time series signals of the inclination of the power values to determine the integral value as the degree of fatigue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: Delta Tooling Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Etsunori Fujita, Shigehiko Kaneko
  • Patent number: 7470232
    Abstract: A continuous, non-invasive fetal heart rate measurement is produced using one or more ultrasonic transducer array patches that are adhered or attached to the mother. Each ultrasound transducer array is operated in an autonomous mode by a digital signal processor to obtain data from which fetal heart rate information can be derived. Each ultrasonic transducer array patch comprises a multiplicity of subelements that are switchably reconfigurable to form elements having different shapes, e.g., annular rings. Each subelement comprises a plurality of interconnected cMUT cells that are not switchably disconnectable. The use of cMUT patches will provide the ability to interrogate a three-dimensional space electronically (i.e. without mechanical beam steering) with ultrasound, using a transducer device that is thin and lightweight enough to stick to the patient's skin like an EKG electrode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Ralph T. Hoctor, Kai E. Thomenius
  • Patent number: 7470233
    Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus and method for monitoring muscle function based on an index derived from a pressure or force signal. The muscle function index is derived from an instantaneous muscle stiffness ratio computed as the ratio of the first time derivative of the pressure or force waveform to the corresponding instantaneous pressure or force. The instantaneous stiffness ratio, ?/E(t), is in units of 1/sec and relates to the rate of strong bond formation and will be influenced by calcium handling properties of the muscle fibers and the intracellular calcium concentration. As such, an index derived from ?/E(t) provides a measure of the inotropic status of the muscle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Mustafa Karamanoglu, Vincent E. Splett, Tommy D. Bennett
  • Patent number: 7470234
    Abstract: A monitoring device (20) for monitoring the vital signs of a user is disclosed herein. The monitoring device (20) is preferably an article (25) having an optical sensor (30) and a circuitry assembly (35). The monitoring device (20) preferably provides for the display of the following information about the user: pulse rate; blood oxygenation levels; calories expended by the user of a pre-set time period; target zones of activity; time; distance traveled; and/or dynamic blood pressure. The article (25) is preferably a band worn on a user's wrist, arm or ankle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: Impact Sports Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Sammy I Elhag, Nikolai Rulkov, Mark Hunt, Donald Brady, Steve Lui
  • Patent number: 7470235
    Abstract: A pulse wave measuring apparatus can determine an optimum combination of a pair of light-emitting element and light-receiving element out of plural light-emitting elements and plural light-receiving elements on a real time basis according to a difference of signal intensity of a pulse wave signal from the light-receiving element and always measure an stable pulse wave of a wrist artery robustly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventors: Akihisa Moriya, Takuji Suzuki, Kazushige Ouchi
  • Patent number: 7470236
    Abstract: A method for detecting the presence of a nerve adjacent the distal end of at least one probe, comprising: determining relative neuro-muscular response onset values for a plurality of spinal nerves; emitting a stimulus pulse from a probe or surgical tool; detecting neuro-muscular responses to the stimulus pulse in each of the plurality of spinal nerves; and concluding that the electrode disposed on the distal end of the at least one probe is positioned adjacent to a first spinal nerve when the neuro-muscular response detected in the first spinal nerve is detected as a current intensity level less than or equal to a corresponding neuro-muscular response onset value of the first spinal nerve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: NuVasive, Inc.
    Inventors: Brian S. Kelleher, James F. Marino, Corbett W. Stone, Robin H. Vaughn, Jeffrey H. Owens
  • Patent number: 7470237
    Abstract: The present invention provides a biopsy instrument with improved needle penetration for piercing dense tissue. The device may comprise a needle slidably retained in a housing. The device may further comprise an actuation member that may be adapted to communicate longitudinal motion to the needle in a first direction. The device may further include a propulsion element that provides the needle with return motion in a second direction. The device may be fired multiple times to create repeating reciprocal motion. In one version, the device may reciprocate several times as a result of a single engagement of the actuation member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew T. Beckman, Thomas E. Albrecht, Lee Reichel, Gwendolyn Ruth Perez
  • Patent number: 7470238
    Abstract: A lancing unit (U1) includes a lancing member (2), an auxiliary part (3) which is separate from the lancing member (2), and a supporter (1) detachably supporting these. Preferably, the lancing unit (U1) further includes a cap (29) which covers a needle (21) of the lancing member (2) and which is detachable from the lancing member (2), and the lancing member (2) is supported by the supporter (1) via the cap (29).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: Arkray, Inc.
    Inventors: Tetsuya Sakata, Daisuke Matsumoto
  • Patent number: 7470239
    Abstract: A high performance coil over-core guide wire. The guide wire incorporates a nickel-titanium core with a stainless steel coil to provide a wire with improved kink resistance and good pushability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: Scimed Life Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Maura Rooney, Joseph Richard, Andy Kapravy, Clifford M. Liu, Michael S. H. Chu, Tom Mirarchi
  • Patent number: 7470240
    Abstract: The method of stimulating a substance is disclosed. The method has the steps of activating an acoustic shock wave generator or source to emit acoustic shock waves; and subjecting the substance to the acoustic shock waves stimulating said substance wherein the substance is positioned within a path of the emitted shock waves and away from a geometric focal volume or point of the emitted shock waves. In one embodiment the emitted shock waves are divergent or near planar. In another embodiment the emitted shock waves are convergent having a geometric focal volume of point at a distance of at least X from the source, the method further comprising positioning the substance at a distance less than the distance X from the source. The substance is a tissue having cells. The tissue can be an organ of a mammal. The mammal may be a human or an animal. The organ may be a heart, a brain, skin, a liver or a kidney or any other organ. The tissue may be muscle, cartilage, tendon, bone, teeth or gums.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: General Patent, LLC
    Inventors: Reiner Schultheiss, Wolfgang Schaden, John Warlick
  • Patent number: 7470241
    Abstract: An ultrasound system used for both imaging and delivery high intensity ultrasound energy therapy to treatment sites and a method for treating tumors and other undesired tissue within a patient's body with an ultrasound device. The ultrasound device has an ultrasound transducer array disposed on a distal end of an elongate, relatively thin shaft. In one form of the invention, the transducer array is disposed within a liquid-filled elastomeric material that more effectively couples ultrasound energy into the tumor, that is directly contacted with the device. Using the device in a continuous wave mode, a necrotic zone of tissue having a desired size and shape (e.g., a necrotic volume selected to interrupt a blood supply to a tumor) can be created by controlling at least one of the f-number, duration, intensity, and direction of the ultrasound energy administered. This method speeds the therapy and avoids continuously pausing to enable intervening normal tissue to cool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: Therus Corporation
    Inventors: Lee Weng, David M. Perozek, Jimin Zhang
  • Patent number: 7470242
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a body massager comprising a portable housing including a backrest and a seat support. A longitudinal guide is provided in the backrest cooperating with a carriage for translation of the carriage within the backrest and a motor drives the carriage along the guide. A pair of massage members are supported by the carriage and extend from the backrest for imparting a rolling massage effect upon the back of the user. A second motor drives the massage members for generating a rotary kneading massage effect or for adjusting a width of the rolling massage effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: FKA Distributing Co.
    Inventors: Roman Ferber, Stephen Chung
  • Patent number: 7470243
    Abstract: The orthotic device for the restraint of a portion of the human body has flexible tabs at the edges of its principal panel. The flexible tabs are substantially rectangular in outline to maximize support area, but are tapered in cross-section substantially between the base and tip or otherwise configured to increase the flexibility of the tabs toward the tip to aid in comfort at the transition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Inventor: Geoffrey C. Garth
  • Patent number: 7470244
    Abstract: Disclosed is a wrist-wearable electronic interface movably mounted on an arm-attachment mechanism. Interface moves from under-sleeve wrist-adjacent position to palm-adjacent position where it can be manipulated by the hand of the arm wearing the device. Alternately adaptable to telephones, audio recorders, remote controls, auto ID equipment, telephone call-blocking, and more. Alternative embodiment provides a wrist-mounted docking station. Another alternative embodiment includes a superior carpal tunnel syndrome therapy device. The system also includes novel battery chargers: (1) window-mounted, solar-powered; (2) mounted in an automobile that also includes an improved odometer, license plate, and cabin air filtration system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Inventor: Shelton E. Harrison, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7470245
    Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus system and methods for treatment of virus-infected or pathogen-loaded human blood components separated from normal components comprising a separation apparatus and treatment apparatus system that inactivate pathogens in an extracorporeal blood system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: XEPMED, Inc.
    Inventors: Hosheng Tu, Hun-Chi Lin, Yu-An Chang
  • Patent number: 7470246
    Abstract: A centrifugal blood pump apparatus has a centrifugal pump section including an impeller having a first magnetic material therein and rotating inside the housing to feed a fluid by a centrifugal force generated during a rotation thereof; an impeller rotational torque generation section having a rotor having a magnet for attracting the first magnetic material of the impeller thereto, and a motor for rotating the rotor; and a dynamic pressure groove formed at a portion, of an inner surface of the housing, located at a rotor-disposed side thereof. The centrifugal blood pump apparatus further includes an electromagnet for attracting the impeller in a direction opposite to a direction in which the magnet of the rotor attracts the impeller and helping the impeller levitate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignees: Terumo Kabushiki Kaisha, NTN Corporation
    Inventors: Takehisa Mori, Mitsutoshi Yaegashi, Takayoshi Ozaki
  • Patent number: 7470247
    Abstract: A ureteral stent comprising an elongated tubular member having a body portion and opposed distal end portion and proximal end portion, the elongated tubular member defining a lumen therein; a retention disk comprising a plurality of generally axial, spaced-apart collapsable struts interconnected with a membrane to form a generalized tube with a retention disk lumen therein, the retention disk lumen in fluid communication with the lumen of the body portion, the struts and the membrane couple to the body portion proximal end at a retention disk distal end and terminate at a retention disk proximal end, each strut having a widthwise folding hinge substantially dividing the length of the strut, the struts adapted to have an expanded state wherein the struts are unfolded and substantially straight, as well as a free-resting state wherein each strut folds in upon itself at the folding hinge to form an inverted umbrella-like disk-shaped configuration; and a valve, wherein the inverted umbrella-like configuration pro
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: Gyrus ACMI, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter Aliski, Vasu Nishtala, Benedict Shia, Anthony Tremaglio
  • Patent number: 7470248
    Abstract: A shunt includes a first occlusion assembly and a second occlusion assembly. The first occlusion assembly includes a first occlusion fluid conduit that carries an inflation fluid from a fluid source to a first balloon of the shunt. The second occlusion assembly includes a second occlusion fluid conduit that carries an inflation fluid from a fluid source to a second balloon of the shunt. The first occlusion assembly includes a first color and the second fluid assembly includes a second color, distinct from the first color. The distinctive colorings of the first and second occlusion fluid conduits remain visible within an operative field during an endarterectomy procedure and allow a user to distinguish the first occlusion assembly from the second occlusion assembly during the procedure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: LeMaitre Vascular, Inc.
    Inventors: Ryan H. Connelly, Stephen McCartin, David McDonald
  • Patent number: 7470249
    Abstract: An aspiration and flushing needle assembly having separable flushing and aspiration assemblies. The flushing assembly (2) has a flushing needle (27) extending from a handle (25) and a flushing fluid line (35) which can be connected to a source of flushing liquid. The aspiration assembly (1) has an aspiration needle (5) with a connector (9) which connects into the rear of the handle and an aspiration line (13) which can be connected to an aspiration arrangement. The flushing and aspiration needle assemblies are joined for use with the aspiration needle extending coaxially within the flushing needle to the distal end (29) of the flushing needle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignees: William A. Cook Australia Pty. Ltd., Cook Incorporated
    Inventor: Michael Carl Junger
  • Patent number: 7470250
    Abstract: An apparatus for insertion of a medicine peg (3) into the skin (4) has a barrel (2) wherein the medicine peg (2) is stored and in which a plunger (8) behind said peg (2) can be moved to press the peg out through an end of the barrel (2) pressed against the skin (4) where it is intended to insert the peg (3), The plunger (8) is a part of a flexible rod construction (6, 7, 8) which can be passed from a first non rectilinear constellation, by which the plunger (8) is withdrawn in the barrel (2) to a position leaving space for the medicine peg (3) in front of the plunger (8), to a rectilinear constellation by which the plunger (8) projects from the end of the barrel (2) and further to a new non rectilinear position in which the end of the plunger (8) is withdrawn in the barrel (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: Novo Nordisk A/S
    Inventor: Mads Christian Sabra
  • Patent number: 7470251
    Abstract: A gastro-occlusive device, comprising a balloon disposable in a stomach cavity of a patient, and inflatable therein to occlude a portion of the volume of the stomach cavity, a gas flow tube coupled at a distal end thereof with the balloon and extending outwardly through a stomach wall for coupling with a gas source for selectively inflating the balloon, to occlude at least a portion of the volume of the stomach cavity. The gastro-occlusive device may be employed in combination with a feeding tube unit, a drain unit or other ancillary apparatus, and is useful for treatment of morbid obesity and various eating disorders.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Inventor: Tilak M. Shah
  • Patent number: 7470252
    Abstract: The present invention provides a systems that delivers therapeutic to the inner lumens, chambers, cavities, and vessels of the body. A therapeutic delivery device for delivery of therapeutic to a target site within the body of a patient is provided. This device may include a catheter, an expandable multi-port housing fluidly coupled to the catheter and a sheath. The multi-port housing in this device may be sized to travel within a lumen of a patient and may be adapted to expand from a first configuration to a second configuration. The multi-port housing may also contain at least two ejection ports coupled to an internal lumen of the multi-port housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy J. Mickley, Maria Palasis, Toby Freyman
  • Patent number: 7470253
    Abstract: A compact fluid dispenser for use in controllably dispensing fluid medicaments, such as, antibiotics, analgesics, and like medicinal agents from the device reservoir. The fluid dispenser includes a unique stored energy mechanism which takes the form of a constant force spring member of novel design that provides the force necessary to continuously and substantially uniformly expel fluid from the device reservoir. The device also includes novel adjustable flow rate control assembly that is disposed intermediate the fluid reservoir outlet and the outlet port of the device for precisely controlling the rate of fluid flow from the outlet port toward the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: BioQuiddity, Inc.
    Inventors: Marshall S. Kriesel, Joshua W. Kriesel
  • Patent number: 7470254
    Abstract: A needle assembly (100) having a hollow needle (110) with a pointed distal end (112) and a proximal end (114). The assembly also includes a needle hub (120) having a distal hub end (122) fixedly connected to the needle (110), a proximal hub end (124) having an opening, and a passageway (126) extending therethrough between the distal end and the proximal end. A valve (140) is disposed within the passageway (126), wherein the valve comprises a sealing member (142) having at least one through-opening (150) disposed therein and a plunger (146) disposed proximate the sealing member (142) and slidable between a first position wherein the at least one through-opening (150) is closed such that the hollow needle (110) and the proximal hub end (124) are not in fluid communication with each other and a second position wherein the plunger (146) biases the at least one through-opening (150) to an open position, such that the hollow needle and the proximal hub end are in fluid communication with each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: Medical Components, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Basta, Kevin Sanford, Earl W. Voorhees, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7470255
    Abstract: A surgical access apparatus includes an access member dimensioned for insertion within tissue and having a longitudinal opening to permit introduction of a surgical object through the access member to perform a procedure on underlying tissue. A seal member is mounted across the longitudinal opening of the access member and has an internal portion defining an aperture for forming a substantial seal about the surgical object introduced through the longitudinal opening of the access member. The seal member includes a first seal portion extending from the internal portion and being mounted in suspended relation to the access member, and a second seal portion extending from the internal portion and disposed radially outward of the first seal portion, and being attached to the access member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: Tyco Healthcare Group LP
    Inventors: Ralph A. Stearns, David C. Racenet, Gene A. Stellon
  • Patent number: 7470256
    Abstract: A self-suturing anchor device includes rotatable ring adapted to automatically deploy sutures to secure a catheter. The rotatable ring is utilized in connection with a ratchet mechanism which allows movement of the rotatable ring in a first direction while preventing movement of the rotatable ring in the opposite direction. The rotatable ring is also utilized in connection with a bearing member to facilitate smooth and efficient rotation of the rotatable ring. An extension saddle is utilized to provide a desired amount of displacement between suture securement points to minimize pivotal movement of the catheter. The rotatable ring is wider than its height to minimize kinking of the catheter tube and to relieve pressure when pressed between the patient and a support surface. In another embodiment, a plurality of scallops or other gripping members are utilized to facilitate easy gripping and rotation of the rotatable ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: Merit Medical Systems, Inc.,
    Inventors: Fred P. Lampropoulos, Arlin Dale Nelson, D. Kent Backman, Gregory R. McArthur, Thomas D. Stout, Brian Stevens
  • Patent number: 7470257
    Abstract: A syringe safety device coupling between a vial and a syringe, including a tubular connector having a first axial end receiving the vial and a second, opposing axial end releasably receiving a syringe. The tubular connector encloses a sliding joint having opposing open axial ends and a passageway between the ends. A first sliding joint end is adapted to engage a syringe needle. A second sliding joint end is configured to releasably engage a needle receiver. The syringe is releasably removable from the sliding joint after fluid coupling with the vial through the sliding joint, without removal of the needle or the sliding joint from the connector, which captures the needle with the sliding joint in the connector. The first end of a joint includes a receiver, adapted to releasably receive a removable syringe needle, and a mount, adapted to releasably receive a releasable needle receiver of a syringe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: West Pharmaceutical Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul H. Norton, John R. Wolfe
  • Patent number: 7470258
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for injecting medicine from a pre-filled container into a patient through an injection needle. After use, the needle is automatically shielded to prevent inadvertent contact with the needle. The device operates by pumping medicine out of the vial and into a transfer chamber. The medicine is then expelled from the transfer chamber into a patient during an injection stroke. At the end of the injection stroke, the needle is released for retraction, and the spring retracts the needle for shielding. The device can include an injector assembly and a vial holder assembly. The injector assembly has a needle retainer for releasably retaining the needle in a projecting position against the bias of a spring. The vial holder assembly is attachable with the injector assembly and is operable to transfer fluid from the vial and into the transfer chamber for an injection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: MDC Investment Holdings, Inc.
    Inventors: John M Barker, Thor R. Halseth, Joseph Kovalski, Robert T. McWethy, Bernardo Challiol