Patents Issued in June 8, 2010
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Patent number: 7731634Abstract: An exercise device includes a frame defining a longitudinal axis. A foot link includes a rearward portion that is constrained to move in an orbital path approximately parallel to the longitudinal axis and a forward portion that reciprocally engages the guide track. A swing arm is a pivotally connected to the frame, the swing arm having an upper portion extending above the pivotal connection and a lower portion disposed below the pivotal connection. An engagement mechanism having a first portion coupled to the lower portion and a second portion coupled to the forward portion of the foot link, such that a rearward force applied to the upper portion will produce a force on the forward portion having a downward component. An arm enabling/disabling mechanism is positioned on the elongate swing arm below the pivotal connection. The arm enabling/disabling mechanism can be effectuated by a user without the user interrupting exercise.Type: GrantFiled: February 9, 2005Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: Precor IncorporatedInventors: Jonathan M. Stewart, David E. Dyer, Robert Silbernagel
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Patent number: 7731635Abstract: An exercise device includes a frame, a pair of foot supports, and at least one four-bar linkage assembly coupled to the frame. The at least one linkage assembly is coupled to at least one of the foot supports. The four-bar linkage assembly directs the foot support in a generally elliptical motion while in use. The generally elliptical motion defines a major dimension extending at an angle from horizontal that is within the range of about thirty degrees (30°) to about seventy-five degrees (75°) and the major dimension having a length that is within the range of about ten inches to about eighteen inches.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2006Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: Precor IncorporatedInventor: David E. Dyer
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Patent number: 7731636Abstract: A resistance system for an exercise device may include: a drive shaft configured to be operably connected to a movable part of an exercise device such that movement of the movable part causes the drive shaft to rotate; and a resistance source operably connected with the drive shaft and configured to resist rotation of the drive shaft. An exercise device may include: a drive shaft rotatably supported by a frame; a resistance source operably connected with the drive shaft and configured to resist rotation of the drive shaft; and first and second treadle assemblies pivotally connected with the frame and including respective moving surfaces. In such an exercise device, the first treadle assembly and the second treadle assembly may be operably connected with the drive shaft such that pivotal movement of the first treadle assembly and pivotal movement of the second treadle assembly cause the drive shaft to rotate.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 2007Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: Nautilus, Inc.Inventors: Andrew P. Lull, Timothy Tetreault, Keith M. Weier, Callan Paul McMahon, Timothy Todd Skarzynski, Zachary David Tyler, Christopher Williams
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Patent number: 7731637Abstract: The present invention relates generally to rowing machines, and, more particularly, to such rowing machines with internal environments that duplicate actual Olympic-class rowing shells in terms of both dimensions and appearance, and simulate the specific rowing motion and technique that occurs on the water.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2008Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Inventor: Michael D'Eredita
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Patent number: 7731638Abstract: An exercise machine has a main frame and a user support frame pivotally mounted relative to the main frame for rotation about a user support pivot axis between start and end positions. The user support frame has at least a primary support and a secondary support for supporting spaced positions on a user's body throughout an exercise movement. The user support pivot axis is spaced below at least one of the supports in at least one of the exercise start and end positions. A user engagement device is movably mounted relative to the frames for engagement by the user in performing exercises, and a multiple part connecting linkage translates movement of the user engagement device to rotational movement of the user support frame. A load resists movement of at least one of the user support, user engagement device, and connecting linkage.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 2008Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: Hoist Fitness Systems, Inc.Inventors: Randall T. Webber, Christopher E. Brennan, Bruce Hockridge, Jeffrey O. Meredith
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Patent number: 7731639Abstract: Weight bench having a frame that rests on the floor, a seat mounted on the frame, a backrest pivotally mounted on the frame to the rear of the seat for movement between horizontal, inclined, and declined positions relative to the seat, a plurality of resilient elements which can be selectively connected between the backrest and the frame for lifting the backrest toward the inclined position, a swinging arm pivotally mounted to the frame in front of the seat for movement between raised and lowered positions, a weight bar extending laterally from a free end of the swinging arm for engagement by the legs of a person doing leg exercises, a handle attached to the swinging arm for engagement by the hands of a person sitting on the seat for doing upper body and arm exercises, and weights stored in holders attached to the frame for attachment to the weight bar and for manual use in doing exercises that do not involve the weight bar.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 2008Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Inventor: Tessema Dosho Shifferaw
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Patent number: 7731640Abstract: An adjustable kettlebell includes a threaded shaft having a narrowed neck segment formed on one end portion and having a base plate attached to the other end portion, two or more weight members each having a slot for receiving the narrowed neck segment of the shaft, and each having an enlarged opening communicating with the slot for receiving the shaft and for retaining the weight members to the shaft when the weight members are offset from the narrowed neck segment of the shaft, and a lock nut is engaged with the shaft for quickly retaining the weight members to the shaft after the weight members have been disengaged from the narrowed neck segment of the shaft.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 2009Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Inventor: Paul Chen
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Patent number: 7731641Abstract: An adjustable dumbbell includes a handle having a narrowed neck segment formed on each end portion and having a base plate attached to each end portion, two or more weight members each having a slot for receiving the narrowed neck segment of the handle, and each having an enlarged opening communicating with the slot for receiving the handle and for retaining the weight members to the handle when the weight members are offset from the narrowed neck segment of the handle, and a lock nut is engaged with the handle for quickly retaining the weight members to the handle after the weight members have been disengaged from the narrowed neck segment of the handle.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 2009Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Inventor: Paul Chen
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Patent number: 7731642Abstract: A training apparatus including an operation part to which a load is applied for performing a training of a front deltoid muscle, a pectoralis major muscle and a triceps brachii muscle. The training apparatus includes a pair of armrests on which trainee's forearms are to be rested, and a pair of grips provided to the operation part and having lower end sections. In the training apparatus, the armrests have surfaces on which the trainee's forearms are to be rested, at a height of the lower end sections of the grips.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 2008Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: Senoh Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Yoshihisa Kashiwaya
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Patent number: 7731643Abstract: An exercise machine for exercising the muscles of the upper body, in which a pushing or pulling movement can be performed in a direction approximately between horizontal and vertical towards or away from the shoulder joint of the user, with the user seated in the same position.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 2008Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Inventor: John James Harrison
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Patent number: 7731644Abstract: A device for loading and unloading a machine-tool with tools, the tools being mounted in a tool store and being transportable via a manipulation device, which is particularly movable along multiple axes to a transfer position on the machine tool or in the machine tool and, after use in the machine tool, being removable therefrom, and the manipulation device having a gripper device for receiving the tools. To save weight and increase the access speed of the manipulation device, the manipulation device has at least one displacement arm movable in a preferably horizontal first movement direction, which is mounted so it is displaceable on a guide element, and the gripper device is mounted so it is displaceable on the displacement arm in this first movement direction.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 2007Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Inventor: Miguel Muser
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Patent number: 7731645Abstract: The preset invention relates to a method, use of the method and a device for making a seal in a portion of a material web. The material web includes a first elongate section with a first number of layers of material and a second elongate section with a second number of layers of material, at least one of the layers of material being included in both the first and the second section, the portion having an extent that intersects a transition from the first section to the second section of the material web, the method including connecting, in the portion, opposite surfaces of the layers of material of the material web to each other. The method including forming ridges and valleys in the portion, and orienting the ridges and valleys in such a manner that they have an extent intersecting the transition.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 2005Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: Eco Lean Research & Development A/SInventors: Per Gustavsson, Bengt Jönsson
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Patent number: 7731646Abstract: A reclosable fastener (10) comprising a two-part body and a single flange (16) is located between two webs (34) of material from which a bag is to be made on a form-fill-seal machine. The fastener is attached initially to the inside of one web (34) by the flange (16). The combination passes between sealing jaws (44) to seal the webs to the fastener at thickened zones (30) at the margins of the body By making the body compact, and by using sealing jaws (44) which are longer than the body, the webs (34) form around the ends of the fastener body.Type: GrantFiled: July 5, 2001Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventor: Murray Edward Bruce Leighton
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Patent number: 7731647Abstract: A device for placing a paper bag bottom produces score lines on the ends of tubular segments which are used for producing bags, applies glue layers to the folded bottoms on the extremities of the tubular segments and/or to sheets for gluing them with the bottoms with the aid of gluers and connects and glues the folded bottoms and the sheets. The device has at least one gluer which includes at least one glue reservoir or at least one glue duct, the glue contained in the reservoir or in the duct being exposed to a pressure higher than ambient pressure. The glue reservoir or the glue duct is provided with at least one output orifice for applying the glue to the sheets and/or to the folded bottoms.Type: GrantFiled: August 29, 2003Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: Windmoeller & Hoelscher KGInventors: Ruediger Duwendag, Marco Daher
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Patent number: 7731648Abstract: Disclosed are thermotherapeutic compositions for treating disease material, and methods of targeted therapy utilizing such compositions. These compositions comprise a) stable single domain magnetic particles; b) magnetic nanoparticles comprising aggregates of superparamagnetic grains; or c) magnetic nanoparticles comprising aggregates of stable single magnetic domain crystals and superparamagnetic grains. These compositions may also comprise a radio isotope, potential radioactive isotope, chemotherapeutic agent. These methods comprise the administration to a patient's body, body part, body fluid, or tissue of bioprobes (energy susceptive materials attached to a target-specific ligand), and the application of energy to the bioprobes so as to destroy, rupture, or inactivate the target in the patient. Energy forms, such as AMF, are utilized to provide the energy.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2005Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: Aduro BiotechInventor: Robert Ivkov
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Patent number: 7731649Abstract: The invention consists in a device that concerns the optimization of the cardiac geometry in patients with heart failure. The device comprises one or more elastic elements in the radial direction towards the inside of the ventricle and plastic deformation in a direction that is transversal to the said ventricle, the element being equipped with means for attaching it to the internal wall of the ventricle.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2001Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: Cube S.R.L.Inventor: Paolo Ferrazzi
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Patent number: 7731650Abstract: A system and method for capturing and placing a cardiac assist device on a heart. A cardiac assist device is delivered to a chest cavity of a being through an opening provided in a chest wall. A magnetically charged tether is provided at each corner or extremity of the cardiac assist device. Capture instruments magnetically couple with a corresponding tether. The magnetically coupled instruments and tethers then maneuver the cardiac assist device to a desired position about the heart. The cardiac assist device is then secured directly to the heart or to anchoring devices separately provided and secured to the heart.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2004Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: Ethicon, Inc.Inventors: Stephanie Kute, Steven Zung-Hong Wu
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Patent number: 7731651Abstract: The preferred embodiment of the invention contemplates a device configured to prepare and deploy a resilient sleeve on to a portion of body tissue. The device expands the resilient sleeve, uses a vacuum system to draw the body tissue in to the resilient sleeve, and releases the resilient sleeve from the expanded state so that it captures and constricts the body tissue.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2006Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: Spiration, Inc.Inventors: Joseph R. Pearce, David J. Reddy
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Patent number: 7731652Abstract: A medical device for allowing a physician to unhand a scope or other instruments while maintaining control of the scope or other instruments during a medical procedure. The medical device includes at least one docks and a harness for attaching the dock to the physician's body. The harness can be adjustable, or sized to fit a specific physician. During a procedure, a physician outfitted with the medical device can place a scope and/or other instrument in the dock(s). Once the scope and/or other instrument is placed in the dock(s), the physicians hands are free to perform other procedures, while the physician continually controls the relative position of the scope with respect to the physician or the patient.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2005Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: Wilson-Cook Medical Inc.Inventors: Vihar C. Surti, Eric Young, Kenneth C. Kennedy, II, Frederick B. Haller, Matthew P. Carter, Antoine Clark, Stephen E. Deal
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Patent number: 7731653Abstract: The present invention provides delivery systems for and methods of delivering conduction protein genetic material to cardiac cells in localized areas of the heart to improve the conductance therein. More specifically, there is provided a system and method for delivering connexin proteins or nucleic acid molecules encoding connexin proteins to a site in the heart which has been determined by mapping procedures to have a conduction disturbance. For cases where conduction is impaired, selected genetic material is delivered to cells around the disturbance area, in order to enhance overall conductivity patterns; in other cases, genetic material is selected to slow conduction in affected areas, so as to prevent, e.g., brady-tachy syndrome.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2006Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.Inventors: Kenneth B. Stokes, Josée Morissette
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Patent number: 7731654Abstract: A delivery device for positioning and deploying an implantable device within a lumen is provided. The device includes an inner tube positioned within an outer tube and capable of sliding therein, wherein the inner and outer tubes have proximal and distal ends. A side opening is defined in each of the inner and outer tubes, wherein each side opening is defined proximate to the implantable device and is capable of substantially aligning with the other side opening. The device includes an optical device capable of viewing at least a portion of the lumen prior to deploying the implantable device when the side openings are aligned with each other. A mechanism is coupled to at least one of the inner and outer tubes and is operable to deploy the implantable device within the lumen.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2005Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: Merit Medical Systems, Inc.Inventors: Eric K. Mangiardi, Jason M. Reynolds, Jeff Reuther
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Patent number: 7731655Abstract: A tissue retractor includes a body having proximal and distal ends. The retractor also includes a retraction device having a head connected to the distal end of the body and defining two opposing openings, a connector movably disposed in the body, and two flexible needles of a shape memory material having a memory shape. The needles are fixedly connected to the connector for traveling through a respective one of the openings. The memory shape of the needles includes a portion with an arcuate shape. A one-handed actuation device is connected to the proximal end of the body and is operatively connected to the connector through the body. Upon actuation of the actuation device, the connector can be moved to selectively extend the needles out of the head and withdraw the needles into the head. Methods for using the tissue retractor, in particular for the treatment of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, are also provided.Type: GrantFiled: December 5, 2003Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: ID, LLCInventors: Kevin Smith, Matthew Palmer, Juergen Kortenbach, Jose Francese
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Patent number: 7731656Abstract: In an image display system that displays the condition of a person under measurement in a visible form, the person carries a PDA (10). The PDA (10) includes a bio-sensor (11) to detect bio-information on the person and an environmental information sensor (12) to acquire information on the environment around the person. The PDA (10) sends the acquired information to an image display device (20) which is connected to the PDA (10) via a network (100). The image display device (20) includes a CPU (29) that judges the condition of the person on the basis of bio-information and environmental information, generates an image representing the condition of the person and displays the image on a display unit (23).Type: GrantFiled: August 13, 2004Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: Sony CorporationInventors: Yasushi Miyajima, Yoichiro Sako, Toshiro Terauchi, Makoto Inoue, Katsuya Shirai, Motoyuki Takai, Kenichi Makino, Akiko Inoue, Masamichi Asukai
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Patent number: 7731657Abstract: Method and apparatus for providing an introducer for transcutaneous placement of at least a portion of an analyte sensor through the skin of a patient is provided.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2005Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: Abbott Diabetes Care Inc.Inventor: Gary Ashley Stafford
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Patent number: 7731658Abstract: An apparatus for monitoring a patient's blood glucose level. The apparatus includes an implantable medical device having a controller and an implantable heart sounds sensor configured to transmit signals to the controller of the implantable medical device. The controller is configured to determine if a patient is hypoglycemic or hyperglycemic based on the signals from the heart sounds sensor. A method is also disclosed that includes sensing the patient's heart sounds, determining the amplitude of the S2 heart sound, determining the length of the interval from the S1 heart sound to the S2max heart sound, determining the length of the interval from the S1 heart sound to the S2end heart sound, and determining the patient's blood glucose status based on the patient's heart sounds.Type: GrantFiled: August 16, 2007Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: Cardiac Pacemakers, Inc.Inventors: Yousufali H. Dalal, Haresh G. Sachanandani, Gerrard M. Carlson
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Patent number: 7731659Abstract: A method for predicting a user's future glycemic state includes measuring a user's glucose concentration at intervals over a time duration, thereby generating a plurality of glucose concentrations as a function of time. First and second glucose prediction equations that are fits to the plurality of glucose concentrations based on first and second non-identical mathematical models, respectively, are then derived. The method also includes calculating first and second predicted glucose concentrations at a future time using the first and second glucose prediction equations, respectively. Thereafter, an average predicted glucose concentration and a merit index are calculated based on the first and second predicted glucose calculations. The plurality of glucose concentrations as a function of time, the merit index and average predicted glucose concentration are input into a trained model (for example, a Hidden Markov Model) that outputs a set of glucose concentration probabilities.Type: GrantFiled: October 18, 2007Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: Lifescan Scotland LimitedInventor: Michael Malecha
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Patent number: 7731660Abstract: In one embodiment, at least one visual characteristic from a selected image is used to automatically select an ultrasound image from a set of images from a plurality of heart cycles. In another embodiment, motion correction is performed on ultrasound images that are automatically selected from a plurality of ultrasound images associated with the same phase of the heart cycle. In yet another embodiment, ultrasound images are automatically selected from a set of images based on a time interval that is within a tolerance range from a reference phase of the heart cycle. In another embodiment, a stored user-preference of a phase of the heart cycle is used to automatically select an ultrasound image from a set of images. In yet another embodiment, a user-defined region of interest is placed on an ultrasound image associated with a selected phase of a heart cycle.Type: GrantFiled: February 13, 2004Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: Siemens Medical Solutions USA, Inc.Inventors: Edward A. Gardner, Michael N. Woelmer
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Patent number: 7731661Abstract: An imaging system comprises a device to excite mechanical waves in elastic tissue, a device for measuring the resulting tissue motion at a plurality of locations interior to the tissue at a number of time instances, a computing device to calculate the mechanical properties of tissue from the measurements, and a display to show the properties according to their location. A parameter identification method for calculating the mechanical properties is based on fitting a lumped dynamic parametric model of the tissue dynamics to their measurements. Alternatively, the mechanical properties are calculated from transfer functions computed from measurements at adjacent locations in the tissue. The excitation can be produced by mechanical vibrators, medical needles or structures supporting the patient. The measurements may be performed by a conventional ultrasound imaging system and the resulting properties displayed as semi-transparent overlays on the ultrasound images.Type: GrantFiled: October 14, 2004Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: The University of British ColumbiaInventors: Septimiu E. Salcudean, Robert N. Rohling, Emre Turgay
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Patent number: 7731662Abstract: An apparatus and related methods for ultrasonically scanning a tissue sample are described, the apparatus comprising an ultrasound transducer and a taut fabric sheet compressing the tissue sample, the ultrasound transducer contacting the taut fabric sheet and ultrasonically scanning the tissue sample therethrough. Preferably, the taut fabric sheet is substantially porous with respect to an acoustic couplant. In another embodiment, an ultrasound transducer and a vented membrane are provided, the vented membrane having a first surface contacting the tissue surface and a second surface opposite the first surface, the ultrasound transducer contacting the second surface and being translated across the second surface for ultrasonically scanning the tissue volume. An acoustic couplant is applied to one of the tissue surface, the first surface, and the second surface, the vented membrane being provided with a void pattern such that it is substantially porous with respect to the acoustic coupling agent.Type: GrantFiled: July 25, 2006Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: U-Systems, Inc.Inventors: Tor C. Anderson, Jiayu Chen, Shih-Ping Wang
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Patent number: 7731663Abstract: Systems and methods provide for assessing the heart failure status of a patient and, more particularly, to generating a trend parameter based on a distribution of the patient's respiration rate. Systems and methods provide for detecting, using an implantable device or a patient-external device, patient respiration and computing a respiration rate based on the detected patient respiration. A distribution of the respiration rate is calculated, and a trend parameter based on the respiration rate distribution is generated. The trend parameter is indicative of a patient's heart failure status. An output signal indicative of the patient's heart failure status may be generated based on the trend parameter.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2006Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: Cardiac Pacemakers, Inc.Inventors: Viktoria A. Averina, Yi Zhang, Yousufali H. Dalal
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Patent number: 7731664Abstract: The present invention relates to a pressure sensor module for use in catheters having a pressure sensor operable to provide a signal representative of pressure. The pressure sensor includes a sensing side and a pressure reference side. At least one signal transmission media is coupled to the sensor for transmitting the signal representative of pressure. A convex-shaped carrier is provided having a slot formed to expose the sensing side of the sensor. The convex-shaped carrier is adapted for receiving the sensor such that the sensing side of the sensor is adjacent the slot. A bonding material is provided for mounting the sensor to the carrier. The pressure sensing module provides ease of installation and manufacture because the module may easily be bonded and installed within a catheter.Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 2005Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: Millar Instruments, Inc.Inventor: Huntly Millar
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Patent number: 7731665Abstract: An apparatus and method for precisely measuring various biological information of a user's body by using a single measuring apparatus enable precisely and effectively measuring biological information including body fat, pulse and a blood vessel aging degree. By measuring an infrared absorbance or infrared rays irradiated to a measurement target according to a modulation and tuning method and obtaining the information with reference to supplementary biological information obtained from a user, the plurality of biological information can be precisely measured at a low driving voltage through the modulation and tuning method by using a single infrared light source. Also, the measuring apparatus can be reduced in size by simplifying its construction and can be effectively integrated into various device.Type: GrantFiled: September 5, 2006Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: LG Electronics, Inc.Inventors: Kwy-Ro Lee, Hyun-Ho Oh, Min-Jae Jung, Hyung-Ki Hong, Seong-Moon Cho, Youn-Jae Lee
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Patent number: 7731666Abstract: An apparatus for measuring lung ventilation, comprising: a pressure device to measure volume of air flow; an aerosol-generating device that provides aerosol particles to be released at a determined point in a breathing cycle; a mouthpiece with a detector that measures the concentration of aerosol particles for a given volume during the breathing cycle; and a computing device configured to provide lung ventilation data as a function of time constants.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2007Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: Respiratory Management TechnologyInventors: Michael McCawley, Gary Ganser, Ian Christie, Tal Gottesman, James Dalton
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Patent number: 7731667Abstract: A biopsy needle for removal of tissue from a patient including an outer tube; an inner tube within the outer tube; and a snare connected to the inner tube and to the outer tube. The outer tube has an outer surface that has a first region that terminates in the distal end and is the distalmost section of the outer tube and a second region adjacent the first region. The first region represents a tip transition region and has a frustoconical shape that is defined by an outer surface area (A) and is defined by a cross-sectional area (Ba) at the interface between the first and second regions in a direction that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the needle, the interface representing a base of the frustoconical first region, wherein a ratio R=(A)/(Ba) is approximately 1 for a predetermined needle type, such as an 8 gauge needle.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 2008Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Inventor: Alec S. Goldenberg
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Patent number: 7731668Abstract: A sampling device for sampling body fluid includes a lancet for making an incision, a capillary tube for drawing-up body fluid from the incision, and a test strip affixed to an upper end of the capillary tube for receiving the fluid. An absorbent pad can be disposed between the test strip and capillary tube for spreading-out the fluid being transferred to the test strip. An on-site analyzer such as an optical analyzer and/or an electrochemical analyzer can be mounted in the device for analyzing the fluid. Alternatively, a test strip can be slid through a slot formed in the bottom end of the device so that by passing the device against the skin after an incision has been formed, the test strip will directly contact body fluid emanating from the incision.Type: GrantFiled: July 16, 2007Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc.Inventors: Joel S. Douglas, Jeffrey N. Roe, Ryszard Radwanski, Brent G. Duchon
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Patent number: 7731669Abstract: A composite guidewire comprising a proximal wire segment having a proximal end, a distal end and a longitudinal axis extending therebetween, the distal end being formed with a first flat planar bonding face which extends parallel to the longitudinal axis, the proximal wire segment having a first elasticity; a distal wire segment having a proximal end, a distal end and a longitudinal axis extending therebetween, the proximal end being formed with a second flat planar bonding face which extends parallel to the longitudinal axis, the distal wire segment having a second elasticity; wherein the first and second flat planar bonding faces of the proximal wire segment are formed complementary to one another; and further wherein the proximal and distal wire segments are joined together by bonding the first flat planar bonding face to the second flat planar bonding face in an overlapping manner and a method for forming a composite guidewire.Type: GrantFiled: May 10, 2007Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: Concert Medical, LLCInventors: Eric D. Mathews, Andrew M. Whitehead, John R. Panicci
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Patent number: 7731670Abstract: A system and method are presented to provide assist to a user by means of an exoskeleton with a controller capable of making the exoskeleton display active impedance. The exoskeleton assists the user by reducing the muscle effort required by the user to move his or her extremities. In one embodiment, a single-degree-of-freedom (1-DOF) exoskeleton assists a user with single-joint movement using an active impedance controller. In another embodiment, a multiple-degree-of-freedom (multi-DOF) exoskeleton assists a user with multiple-joint movement using an active impedance controller.Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 2007Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignees: Honda Motor Co., Ltd., Northwestern UniversityInventors: Gabriel Aguirre-Ollinger, Ambarish Goswami, J. Edward Colgate, Michael A. Peshkin
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Patent number: 7731671Abstract: A massaging device particularly for a chair is provided. Owing to the provision of the rotative arms, the relative distance between the upper and lower massaging element pairs in the massaging device can be adjusted, and thus a massaging action imitating a human-made massaging action can be generated by the massaging device. Further, a relative protruding extent between the upper and lower massaging element pairs may be selected, and thus the foul-wheel or dual-wheel based pressing, rubbing and tapping actions can be provided when these massaging elements are operated with cooperation of a displacement mechanism and a control device. In addition, the provided massaging force can be adjusted to achieve a good massaging effect on the acupuncture points and strained muscles of the user.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 2006Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: Industrial Technology Research InstituteInventors: Chuan-Chien Ting, Yung-Feng Nien, Shyuan Yueh Lin, Fei-Hsu Chen
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Patent number: 7731672Abstract: A massage device of the invention includes a base cover, a guiding device formed in the base cover and a moving base movably engaged with the guiding device. The moving base includes a bottom and a shield covered thereon to form a compartment therebetween. The moving base includes a massage system rotatably placed on the shield of the moving base; a first transmission system adapted for moving the moving base along the guiding device and a second transmission system adapted for driving the massage system, both the first and second transmission systems being contained in the compartment and driven individually.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 2007Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Inventor: Chi Wu Chiang
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Patent number: 7731673Abstract: A compact and easy-to-use walking assisting device capable of reducing constrained feeling given to a user and allowing a free swing of the arms of the user in walking. The walking assisting device comprises one or more leg links to which ground contact members are connected at their lower ends respectively and a load transfer portion connected to the upper ends of the leg links, in which at least a part of the weight of the user is supported by the leg links via the load transfer portion, wherein the load transfer portion includes a seat member for the user to sit astride, wherein connecting portions with the upper ends of the leg links connected thereto are attached to the undersurface of the seat member, and wherein the connecting portions have a degree of freedom allowing the forward/backward and lateral swings of the leg links.Type: GrantFiled: May 29, 2006Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventor: Yutaka Hiki
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Patent number: 7731674Abstract: A walking assistance device having a leg link connected to a load transmit portion via a first joint and to a foot attachment portion via a second joint, and having an intermediate third joint moving such that a distance between the first joint and the second joint is variable; a drive source for the third joint; and a battery for the drive source. When in an upstanding position, force in the forward-backward direction is prevented from acting on the load transmit portion to enhance stability. Also, a moment of inertia of the leg link is decreased to curtail a load applied to the leg of the user. The drive source and the battery are located at positions higher than the third joint, and when the user is in an upstanding position, a plane passing through the second joint lies between the drive source and the battery.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 2007Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Jun Ashihara, Yutaka Hiki, Hiroshi Kudoh, Tatsuya Noda, Yasushi Ikeuchi
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Patent number: 7731675Abstract: An improved intravascular blood pump and related methods involving the broad inventive concept of equipping the intravascular blood pump with guiding features such that the intravascular blood pump can be selectively positioned at a predetermined location within the circulatory system of a patient.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2006Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: Maquet Cardiovascular LLCInventors: Walid N Aboul-Hosn, William R Kanz, Bruce A. Baker
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Patent number: 7731676Abstract: A ureter stent designed for assisting the draining of urine with calculus fragments. The ureter stent includes a first holding portion, a second holding portion and a junction portion. The first holding portion has a pigtail shape for holding itself in a kidney. The second holding portion has a pigtail shape for holding itself in a bladder. The junction portion joins the first holding portion and the second holding portion and placed in a ureter. The junction portion is made of a metal round wire having no internal flow path. Urine flows outside the ureter stent.Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 2006Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Inventor: Toru Maeda
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Patent number: 7731677Abstract: An ultrasonic surgical system enables connection of a hand switch as well as a foot switch, which is used to operate a driving signal generator, without the necessity of retrofitting a main unit including the driving signal generator used to drive an ultrasonic transducer incorporated in a connected handpiece. An extension unit is included for connecting the foot switch and hand switch to the main unit. The foot switch and hand switch are connected to the main unit via the extension unit.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 2004Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: Olympus CorporationInventor: Tomohisa Sakurai
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Patent number: 7731678Abstract: The invention includes a device having a chamber within a syringe. A fluid passageway extends through a syringe piston. A valve is associated with the passageway controlling fluid passage through the piston. The invention includes a piercing structure having a head segment and a body portion, with a channel through the body portion and through at least one surface of the head without passing through the tip. In another aspect the invention encompasses a method of preparing an agent for administration to an individual. A first component is provided within a syringe and a second component is provided within a vial. A closed valve is associated with a fluid passageway between the vial and the syringe barrel through a piston. Valve repositioning allows fluid passage and sliding of the piston joins the first and second components. Repeated sliding of the piston mixes the components to produce the medication agent.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 2005Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: Hyprotek, Inc.Inventors: Patrick O. Tennican, Russell A. Michaelsen, L. Myles Phipps
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Patent number: 7731679Abstract: The invention includes a device having a chamber within a syringe. A fluid passageway extends through a syringe piston. A valve is associated with the passageway controlling fluid passage through the piston. The invention includes a piercing structure having a head segment and a body portion, with a channel through the body portion and through at least one surface of the head without passing through the tip. In another aspect the invention encompasses a method of preparing an agent for administration to an individual. A first component is provided within a syringe and a second component is provided within a vial. A closed valve is associated with a fluid passageway between the vial and the syringe barrel through a piston. Valve repositioning allows fluid passage and sliding of the piston joins the first and second components. Repeated sliding of the piston mixes the components to produce the medication agent.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 2007Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: Hyprotek, Inc.Inventors: Patrick O. Tennican, Russell A. Michaelsen, L. Myles Phipps
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Patent number: 7731680Abstract: The disclosures made herein relate to an infusion device specifically adapted for syringe injections. In one embodiment of the disclosures made herein, an infusion device comprises a body including an accessible surface having a single inlet port therein, an engagement surface having a single outlet port therein, a medication delivery channel extending between the single inlet port and the single outlet port, and an identification feature on the accessible surface of the body adjacent to the single inlet port. The single inlet port of the medication delivery channel is tapered thereby forming a funnel-shaped entry into the medication delivery channel. A cannula is coupled to the body at the single outlet port and is adapted for receiving medication from the single outlet port and transmitting the medication therethrough.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 2006Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: Patton Medical Devices, LPInventor: Catherine C. Patton
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Patent number: 7731681Abstract: The present invention relates to a system adapted to position a medical device, such as an ablation catheter, at a location where a pulmonary vein extends from an atrium. The system optimally includes a deflectable catheter and a sheath. An ablation member is disclosed for use with the positioning system, wherein the deflectable catheter and the sheath cooperate so as to facilitate positioning of the ablation member at the location.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2004Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: Atrionix, Inc.Inventors: Alan K. Schaer, Michael D. Lesh
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Patent number: 7731682Abstract: An apparatus including an elongate body having a lumen extending therethrough and a steering wire, having a distal portion defining a non-circular cross-section, associated with the distal portion of the elongate body.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2007Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.Inventors: Robert F. Bencini, Bernard J. Durman, Peter Franklin Campbell, Brandon Shuman, Russell B. Thompson
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Patent number: 7731683Abstract: A catheter system comprising a guidewire, an endovascular catheter, and an aspiration catheter. The guidewire has an expandable occluder mounted on a distal end. The guidewire and the endovascular catheter are insertable into a lumen of the aspiration catheter. The aspiration catheter also includes infusion and aspiration lumen(s) and port(s). Methods of using the catheter system for treating a vascular lesion and removing embolic material during the procedure are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: September 6, 2005Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.Inventors: Yue-Teh Jang, Ross S. Tsugita, Bruce S. Addis, Tracy D. Maahs, Jean C. Chang