Patents Issued in February 8, 2011
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Patent number: 7883520Abstract: Corneal epithelial pocket formation systems include a cutting head and a blade coupled to the cutting head. The blade is coupled to the cutting head at an orientation that is effective in maintaining a viable separated pocket defining portion of corneal epithelium of an eye of a patient during formation of a corneal epithelial pocket of the eye. The blade includes a cutting edge surface at its distal end. The cutting edge surface is effective in separating the corneal epithelium from the underlying Bowman's membrane of the eye without leaving residual corneal epithelial cells in contact with Bowman's membrane that may result in corneal epithelial cell growth between a corneal implant located in the corneal epithelial pocket and the underlying Bowman's membrane. Versions of the present systems include spring loaded blade holders, which may be removable from the cutting head. Versions also can include applanators.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2007Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Assignee: ForSight Labs, LLCInventors: Markus Gaeckle, Helmut Maas, Daniel Wolf, Tanja Riehl
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Patent number: 7883521Abstract: Apparatus for the removal of lens tissue includes a first instrument for inserting into a lens capsule and removing a cataract therein, the first instrument including a lumen for aspiration of cataract tissue and irrigation fluid from the lens capsule and manipulate the cataract until cataract is removed. The second instrument includes an irrigation port for introducing the irrigation fluid into the lens capsule.Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 2004Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Assignee: Abbott Medical Optics Inc.Inventors: Paul W. Rockley, Randall J. Olson
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Patent number: 7883522Abstract: A minimal incision maximal access system allows for maximum desirable exposure along with maximum access to the operative field utilizing a minimum incision as small as the METRx and Endius systems. Instead of multiple insertions of dilating tubes the design is a streamlined single entry device to avoid repetitive skin surface entry. The system offers the capability to expand to optimum exposure size for the surgery utilizing hinged bi-hemispherical or oval working tubes applied over an introducer obturator which is controllably dilated to slowly separate muscle tissue. Deeper end working and visualization areas with maximum proximal access and work dimensions are provided to makes the operative procedure safer in application and shorten the surgeons's learning curve because it most closely approximates the ability to use open microdiskectomy techniques. a dual frame system enables full or partial spreading of a working tube set, while an open frame facilitates a four point retraction system.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2005Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Assignee: K2M, Inc.Inventor: James S. Hamada
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Patent number: 7883523Abstract: The present invention provides a lancet assembly which eliminates the need to remove a resin cover encapsulating a pricking element. Upon inserting a lancet structure into a lancet holder, a force which separates a lancet cover encapsulating the sharp tip portion of the pricking element from a lancet body is generated, and this force is allowed to act on the lancet cover and the lancet body to thereby expose, within the lancet holder, the sharp tip portion of the pricking element encapsulated by the lancet cover and to locate the opening of the lancet holder in front of the sharp tip portion of the pricking element.Type: GrantFiled: May 16, 2005Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Assignee: Izumi-Cosmo Company, LimitedInventors: Teruyuki Abe, Kazuharu Seki
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Patent number: 7883524Abstract: An intragastric member and method of delivery thereof are described. Delivery of the intragastric member is enabled by partitioning the intragastric member into discrete bundles with retaining members that are circumferentially disposed along the longitudinal length of the intragastric member. Formation of the intragastric member into bundles facilitates controlled delivery into the gastric lumen. The use of suture ties enables deployment of the intragastric member into the gastric lumen. The distal ends of the suture ties are affixed to the bundles. Pulling on the proximal free end of each of the suture ties enables the corresponding bundles to be advanced distally along a delivery tube. The suture ties are pulled until each of the bundles slide off from the delivery tube and enter into the gastric lumen.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2007Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Assignee: Wilson-Cook Medical Inc.Inventor: Steve Kaipin Chen
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Patent number: 7883525Abstract: An intragastric catheter provides satiety due to its presence in the stomach cavity. Efficacy is improved by the tactile sensation provided by a plurality of fingers that extend from the device. Normal peristaltic action upon the device moves the fingers relative to the stomach. The structure of the intragastric catheter reduces the level of precision required in placement of the device, and blockage of conduits to and from the stomach by the device is unlikely.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2007Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Inventor: Rebecca DeLegge
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Patent number: 7883526Abstract: A coil device is provided with a stretch resistant feature. The device includes a wound coil defining a lumen and a stretch resistant member at least partially received within the lumen. A headpiece is formed by a joining of the coil and a restrictor member, typically by plasma welding. The restrictor member is also at least partially received within the lumen and defines an aperture adapted to movably receive a portion of the stretch resistant member to allow the wound coil to stretch and elongate. The stretch resistant member includes an enlarged portion that is larger than the aperture and adapted to engage the restrictor member to prevent or resist stretching of the wound coil. The restrictor member may be provided as a separate element fixedly secured to the coil wire, or the coil wire may include one or more minor turns adapted to perform the function of the restrictor member.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 2007Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Assignee: Codman & Shurtleff, Inc.Inventors: Donald K. Jones, Vladimir Mitelberg, William W. Sowers
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Patent number: 7883527Abstract: A system for sealing a hole in a body, comprising a generally cylindrical mesh formed from a plurality of helical strands which is inserted into the hole, with at least one end of the cylindrical mesh being moved least partially through an interior portion of the cylindrical shaped mesh such that the mesh expands radially outwards against sides of the hole.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2007Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Assignee: NuVasive, Inc.Inventors: David G. Matsuura, Walter D. Gillespie, James F. Marino, Selise M. Pastore
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Patent number: 7883528Abstract: A fully threaded, bioabsorbable suture anchor with a suture loop that is disposed internally within the suture anchor. The suture loop is insert-molded into the anchor. The fully threaded design provides improved fixation, while the insert-molded internal suture loop serves as a recessed eyelet for a second (knot-tying) suture.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 2003Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Assignee: Arthrex, Inc.Inventors: R. Donald Grafton, Stephen S. Burkhart
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Patent number: 7883529Abstract: A suture anchor includes an elongated shaft having an exterior sidewall extending between a proximal end and an opposing distal end. A helical first thread is wound about and outwardly projects from the exterior sidewall of the shaft so as to extend between the proximal end and the distal end of the shaft. A first suture port transversely extends through at least a portion of the first thread at the proximal end of the shaft. The suture port is configured to receive a suture line.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 2003Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Assignee: Stryker OrthopaedicsInventors: M. Mary Sinnott, Alan Chervitz
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Patent number: 7883530Abstract: A nipple appliance having a base portion, a bulb portion having an integrated internal mechanical device that expands as the child sucks on the bulb, and a neck portion connecting the base portion and bulb portion. A sucking force by a child activates the mechanical device by compression of a front of the nipple to redirect force outward and upward by expansion of lateral walls of the bulb, thereby conveying pressure against the palate, alveolar ridge, and/or the teeth.Type: GrantFiled: May 30, 2007Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Assignee: TW Innovations, LLCInventors: David A. Tesini, Joshua Wiesman
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Patent number: 7883531Abstract: An orthopedic bone plate system having a bone plate for placement adjacent one or more vertebral bodies. The system further includes a locking element including a compression member and a fixation member wherein the compression member includes an aperture and at least one deformable portion. A bone fastener is also included in the present system which includes a bone engaging portion and a stem portion. The stem is capable of being slidably received within the aperture of the compression member while the locking member is capable of being received within an aperture of the bone plate. As the compression member is brought into proximity of a vertebral body along the longitudinal axis of the bone fastener, an increasing force is exerted against the fixation member and translated to the bone plate. The resultant force translated back to the fixation member to the compression member which causes the deformable portion of the compression member to clamp the bone fastener relative to the bone plate.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 2005Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Assignee: Stryker SpineInventor: Cédric de Coninck
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Patent number: 7883532Abstract: An improve spinal surgical implant used primarily in the posterior aspect of the spinal column for spinal reconstruction; revision surgery; deformity correction; and/or tumor surgery and/or trauma surgery of the cervical, thoracic and/or and lumbo-sacral spine.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 2006Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Assignee: Spineco, Inc.Inventors: Robert S. Biscup, Clayton G. Leroux
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Patent number: 7883533Abstract: A device and method for increasing the number and type of ions in a hydrotherapy treatment to assist in removing unwanted chemicals from the body. A battery-powered array is submerged into a liquid foot bath to generate ions through electrolysis. The array has at least two electrodes, one containing copper and/or zinc, the other steel. The device can be run in two modes, thereby creating different types of ions and enabling the removal of different types of chemicals. The device uses a current and voltage regulator to deliver a regulated amount of current into the array regardless of the conductivity of the liquid, and electrical circuitry is used to control the duration and mode of the treatment. Excessive heat is dissipated with a heat sink.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 2008Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Assignee: Erchonia CorporationInventor: Kevin B Tucek
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Patent number: 7883534Abstract: Handheld flashlight type vibratory therapeutic treatment invention, devices, and methods that can house a small piezoelectric crystal adjacent to a bulb in the emitting chamber portion of a flashlight housing, where the crystal is located next to or between light source, or off-axis to the light emitting beam of the flashlight. The crystal can generate a fixed output of approximately 7 to approximately 8 Hertz while the flashlight body is positioned up to approximately 18 inches over the body part being treated with a light beam from the bulb being aimed at the area to be treated. Treatment effectiveness can occur within approximately 2 minutes of being treated. The flashlight invention can be used for treating a variety of ailments such as inflammations, nerve problems, joint pain, muscle pain, as well as gall bladder type problems.Type: GrantFiled: May 26, 2006Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Assignee: CAMS Medical Instruments, Inc.Inventor: Charles Crosby
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Patent number: 7883535Abstract: The present invention concerns a device and method for transmitting multiple optically-encoded stimulation signals to multiple stimulation sites, especially cell locations. The device uses a primary optical fiber to transmit specific wavelength components of an encoded light signal to output positions along the fiber where they are coupled out of the primary fiber to stimulation sites via electrodes for electrical stimulation of the sites or optical windows and/or secondary optical fibers for photo-stimulation of sites.Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 2005Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Assignee: Institut National D'OptiqueInventors: Daniel Cantin, Alain Cournoyer, Pierre Galarneau, Chiara Meneghini
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Patent number: 7883536Abstract: An optical-signal vestibular-nerve stimulation device and method that provides different nerve stimulation signals to a plurality of different vestibular nerves, including at least some of the three semicircular canal nerves and the two otolith organ nerves. In some embodiments, balance conditions of the person are sensed by the implanted device, and based on the sensed balance conditions, varying infrared (IR) nerve-stimulation signals are sent to a plurality of the different vestibular nerves.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 2008Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Assignee: Lockheed Martin CorporationInventors: Mark P. Bendett, James S. Webb
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Patent number: 7883537Abstract: A balloon having one or more stiffeners is used to configure an expandable device. Methods of configuring and reconfiguring an expandable device with a balloon having a stiffener attached at its perimeter by orienting the stiffener with the expandable device and expanding the balloon to cause the stiffener to exert radial force against the expandable device are provided. Methods of delivering an expandable device carried on a balloon having a stiffener attached are also provided. Reference to radio-opaque portions of the stiffener facilitate orientation of the stiffener with the expandable device.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2004Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Inventors: Jeffrey Grayzel, Joseph Grayzel
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Patent number: 7883538Abstract: Devices and methods used in termination of a tissue tightening procedure are described. Termination includes the cinching of a tether to tighten the tissue, locking the tether to maintain tension, and cutting excess tether. In procedures involving anchors secured to the tissue, the tether is coupled to the anchors and the tissue is tightened via tension applied to the anchors by cinching the tether. In general, the devices and methods can be used in minimally invasive surgical procedures, and can be applied through small incisions or intravascularly. A method for tightening tissue by fixedly coupling a first anchor to a tether and slidably coupling a second anchor to the tether, securing both anchors to the tissue, applying tension to the tether intravascularly, fixedly coupling the tether to the second anchor, and cutting the tether is described. The tissue to be tightened can comprise heart tissue, in particular heart valve annulus tissue.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 2005Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Assignee: Guided Delivery Systems Inc.Inventors: John To, Niel F. Starksen, Tenny C. Calhoun
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Patent number: 7883539Abstract: Devices and methods for treatment of a failing heart by reducing the heart wall stress. The device can be one which reduces wall stress throughout the cardiac cycle or only a portion of the cardiac cycle.Type: GrantFiled: April 23, 2002Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Assignee: Edwards Lifesciences LLCInventors: Cyril J. Schweich, Jr., Robert M. Vidlund, Todd J. Mortier
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Patent number: 7883540Abstract: An intraocular lens of novel structure exhibiting an excellent focus adjusting power. A hollow capsule structure is filled with a transparent liquid-like or gel-like filler (32). A front wall of the capsule structure is composed of a flexible lens front film (16), and a rear wall of the capsule structure is composed of an optical lens (18) having a diameter larger than that of the flexible lens front film (16). Under a state inserted into and attached to a capsula lentis, pressure variation of a corpus vitreum acts on the optical lens (18) to enable focal refraction power to be adjusted by utilizing swelling deformation of the lens front film (16).Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 2006Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Assignee: Kowa Company, Ltd.Inventors: Kazuharu Niwa, Atsushi Kobayashi, Kosuke Satake
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Patent number: 7883541Abstract: The present invention is directed to a composition comprising a matrix suitable for implantation in humans, comprising defatted, shredded, allogeneic human muscle tissue that has been combined with an aqueous carrier and dried in a predetermined shape. Also disclosed is a tissue graft or implant comprising a matrix suitable for implantation in humans, comprising defatted, shredded, allogeneic human muscle tissue that has been combined with an aqueous carrier and dried in a predetermined shape. The composition and/or tissue graft or implant of the invention is usable in combination with seeded cells, a tissue growth factor, and/or a chemotactic agent to attract a desired cell.Type: GrantFiled: December 3, 2007Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Assignee: RTI Biologics, Inc.Inventors: C. Randal Mills, John R. Bianchi, Michael R. Roberts, David T. Cheung, Chandrasekaran Nataraj, John W. Howell, Jr.
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Patent number: 7883542Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided to manipulate and revitalize a spinal column disc while minimizing or preventing the removal of material comprising the disc. The method allows a device to be inserted in the disc either through a pre-existing rupture or through an opening formed in the front, back, or sides of the disc. Increasing the space between the vertebra bounding the disc or removing disc material often is not necessary to insert the device in the disc. The device generates internal traction or other forces acting on the disc to alter the shape of the disc. The shape of the disc is altered to relieve pressure on nerves adjacent the disc. The shape of the disc is also altered to draw nuclear hernias back into the interior of the disc and to produce a disc shape that improves functioning of the disc.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2006Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Inventor: Richard I. Zipnick
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Patent number: 7883543Abstract: A vertebral prosthesis and spinal fixation system includes a vertebral prosthesis having a height adjustable shaft and an anchoring mechanism coupled to the shaft. The system further includes a spinal fixation device and a number of bone screws. The bone screws attach the fixation device to the vertebral prosthesis via the anchoring mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: October 1, 2004Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Assignee: Spinal Generations, LLCInventor: Patrick J. Sweeney
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Patent number: 7883544Abstract: The present invention generally relates to mandibular prostheses. More particularly, the invention relates to a condylar-head replacement for reconstruction of the temporomandibular joint after resection of the condyloid process. The present invention provides a condylar-head replacement comprising a condylar-head attachment that may be adjustably positioned on a reconstruction plate to achieve various condylar-head heights. The condylar-head height adjustment allows the condylar-head replacement to be fit to a particular patient. The condylar-head replacement of the present invention obviates the need for custom fabrication of a condylar-head replacement for a patient.Type: GrantFiled: October 9, 2009Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Assignee: Sythes USA, LLCInventors: Gregor Feigenwinter, Andre Furrer
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Patent number: 7883545Abstract: A method is provided for determining a dimensional change in a first object, wherein in an initial state said first object is connected to a second object via a joint, and wherein a first reference system is rigidly connected to the second object.Type: GrantFiled: September 19, 2007Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Assignee: BrainLAB AGInventor: Gregor Tuma
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Patent number: 7883546Abstract: A power generating leg, configurable to be coupled to a person's lower limb, comprising a thigh link, a shank link, a knee mechanism, a torque generator, and a power unit. The knee mechanism is connected to said thigh link and said shank link, and configured to allow flexion and extension movements of said thigh link and said shank link relative to each other. The torque generator is configured to generate torque between said shank link and said thigh link. The power unit is coupled to said torque generator, and configured to cause said torque generator to generate torque.Type: GrantFiled: March 9, 2007Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Assignee: The Regents of the University of CaliforniaInventors: Homayoon Kazerooni, Adam Zoss, Nathan H. Harding, Russdon Angold
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Patent number: 7883547Abstract: An anchoring system for a transtibial or transfemoral (above or below the knee) prosthesis. The anchoring system includes a liner for enveloping an amputee limb. The liner has a first strap attached toward an upper end, and a corresponding strap fixedly attached to the distal bottom end of the liner. The anchoring system also includes a containment socket for seating the liner. The containment socket has a pair of slots there through at positions corresponding to the two straps of the liner, respectively. To apply the anchoring system, the patient first applies the liner to his/her limb. The liner is then inserted into the socket with the two fastening straps protruding out through the respective slots. The patient pulls down on the lower strap thereby drawing the liner down into the socket until the liner is securely seated in the socket. When fully seated, the two fastening straps are overlayed and secured to themselves by Velcro™. The foregoing forms a suspension which holds the prosthesis on.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2009Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Inventor: H Lee Mantelmacher
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Patent number: 7883548Abstract: A prosthetic knee joint mechanism has an hydraulic load-activated knee-stabilizing device for resisting joint flexion. A rotary piston (34) connected to one part of the mechanism is rotatable within a fluid-filled fluid displacement chamber (18) associated with another part of the mechanism to drive fluid through a fluid passage which contains a main valve (38) which restricts or allows joint flexion according to the position of a valve member within the valve. The valve member is movable towards an open position in response to fluid pressure in the fluid passage upstream of the valve member caused by application of a flexion torque to the knee joint mechanism, movement of the valve member in the direction of the open position being at least resisted by a valve control arrangement actuated by application of the wearer's weight. The weight-responsive valve control arrangement is preferably a weight-responsive pilot valve (32) for hydraulically resisting movement of the valve member of the main valve.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 2004Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Assignee: Chas. A. Blatchford & Sons LimitedInventor: Stephen Terry Lang
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Patent number: 7883549Abstract: An aqueous liquid laundry detergent containing methylcarboxymethyl cellulose having a degree of methylation in the range from 0.01 to 0.3, surfactant, and at least one typical ingredient of laundry detergents. The detergent inhibits graying of textile fabrics during the washing of the fabrics.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 2008Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Assignee: Henkel AG & Co. KGaAInventors: Josef Penninger, Nadine Warkotsch
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Patent number: 7883550Abstract: A new and improved hair dye formula which is completely oleic acid free and has a high percentage water base including sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium lauryl sulfoacetate and disodium laureth sulfosuccinate along with a low percentage peroxide content for protecting consumers during the hair dye process.Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 2009Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Inventor: Jack Siracusa
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Patent number: 7883551Abstract: The present invention is directed to a crystallization process and apparatuses for such processes. In a first aspect, the process of the invention comprises a step wherein a liquid comprising a solvent and material dissolved therein, is subjected to crystallization conditions in the presence of Dean vortices, which Dean vortices result from said liquid flowing through a channel having at least one curvature. In a second aspect, the invention is directed to a crystallization process, which comprises a step wherein a liquid comprising a solvent, material dissolved therein and heterogeneous particles is subjected to crystallization conditions in the presence of Dean vortices, which Dean vortices result from said liquid flowing through a channel having at least one curvature, wherein said material crystallizes on solid surfaces, in particular on surfaces of the heterogeneous particles present in the feed.Type: GrantFiled: September 2, 2005Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Assignee: Nederlandse Organisatie voor toegepast-natuurwetenschappelijk Onderzoek TNOInventors: Dirk Verdoes, Earl Lawrence Vincent Goetheer, Zhuo Hornstra-Xu, Jan Izaak Walpot
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Patent number: 7883552Abstract: Highly compactable granulations and methods for preparing highly compactable granulations are disclosed. More particularly, highly compactable calcium carbonate granulations are disclosed. The granulations comprise powdered materials such as calcium carbonate that have small median particle sizes. The disclosed granulations are useful in pharmaceutical and nutraceutical tableting and provide smaller tablet sizes upon compression than previously available.Type: GrantFiled: February 15, 2007Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Assignee: Delavau LLCInventors: Kevin W. Lang, Raya Levin, James W. Dibble, Gregory B. Murphy
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Patent number: 7883553Abstract: A deformable and compressible active electrode dry film is manufactured from dry mixed dry active electrode material and dry binder powder. The electrode film and a current collector with a first surface may be stacked such that the first surface of the current collector is in contact with the dry film. The active electrode dry film and current collector may then be processed in a laminating device, such as a calendar. Lamination both densifies the active electrode film and bonds the film to the current collector.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 2008Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Assignee: Maxwell Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Porter Mitchell, Xiaomei Xi, Linda Zhong
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Patent number: 7883554Abstract: Provided are a lithium secondary battery with suppressed decomposition of an electrolytic solution, and a preparation method thereof. The lithium secondary battery includes a current collector, a cathode and an anode having each active material layer formed on the current collector, and a polymer electrolyte interposed between the cathode and the anode. In the lithium secondary battery, a fluorine resin film is formed on at least one surface of the active material layers of the cathode and the anode. A fluorine resin exists in pores between constituents contained in at least one active material layer of the cathode and the anode. The polymer electrolyte is a polymerized product of a crosslinking monomer and an electrolytic solution including a lithium salt and an organic solvent. Also, a porous membrane made of an insulating resin is interposed between the cathode and the anode.Type: GrantFiled: September 11, 2007Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Assignee: Samsung SDI Co., Ltd.Inventors: Myung-dong Cho, Ju-yup Kim
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Patent number: 7883555Abstract: A fuel reforming system, process, and device including a catalytic chamber and a heating chamber. The catalytic chamber, further including a fluid fuel intake and a gaseous fluid exit port and at least one heat exchanger for distributing heat between the heating chamber and the catalytic chamber. The catalytic chamber further including a screen member having a surface, wherein the member includes a catalytic deposit made from a combination of platinum and rhodium alloy. A catalytic conversion of converting liquid fuel to gaseous fuel occurs within the catalytic chamber. Fuel exits the fuel reforming device through a gaseous fluid exit port.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 2010Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Inventor: Robert R. Penman
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Patent number: 7883556Abstract: The present invention or dual fuel slagging gasifier provides the equipment, devices, process and methods for increasing the efficiency, commercialization potential and economy of coal/coke gasification. Entrained, fixed bed and water gasification aspects are combined to generate chemically clean high temperature gases from volatile carbonaceous fuels. A charge body of material including particulate solid low volatile carbonaceous material, quartzite, and a flux can be introduced into an upper portion of a slagging gasifier. Further, a finely divided carbonaceous material can be entrained, gasified at a high temperature and injected into a lower portion of the slagging gasifier. This high temperature heat can then be utilized to convert a stack injected steam and the low volatile carbonaceous fuels to additional fuel gas which enhances calorific value and flow rate of the entrained gas to increase energy conversion efficiency of the dual fuel slagging gasifier above that for all known commercial gasifiers.Type: GrantFiled: November 17, 2006Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Inventor: Reginald Wintrell
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Patent number: 7883557Abstract: Taught herein is an aqueous chemical-mechanical polishing slurry, a method for manufacturing the same, and a method for using the same in the preparation of high precision finishing of a sapphire surface. The slurry comprises a chelating agent having 13 chelate rings, a strong propensity for complexation with aluminum ions and for forming a water-soluble chelate product. The removal rate can reach 10-16 ?m/h, and the roughness can be reduced to 0.1 nm. The slurry components and their weight percentages are as follows: silica sol from about 1 wt. % to about 90 wt. %, alkali modifier from about 0.25 wt. % to about 5 wt. %, ether-alcohol activator from 0.5 wt. % to about 10 wt. %, chelating agent from about 1.25 wt. % to about 15 wt. %, and deionized water. Using such a slurry, high precision finishing of a sapphire surface can be achieved under relevant polishing conditions, which can satisfy the finishing requirements for industrial sapphire substrate.Type: GrantFiled: May 24, 2007Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Inventors: Yuling Liu, Bomei Tan, Jianwei Zhou, Xinhuan Niu, Shengli Wang, Jingye Kang, Wei Zhang
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Patent number: 7883558Abstract: An emission treatment system includes a separation device having a vessel that includes an inlet for receiving an emission stream having entrained solid particles. A first outlet from the vessel discharges captured solid particles from the emission stream and a second outlet from the vessel discharges a clean stream having fewer entrained solid particles than the emission stream received into the separation device. A particle collector is fluidly connected with the separation device and includes a collection portion for capturing solid particles from the emission stream.Type: GrantFiled: May 7, 2008Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Assignee: United Technologies CorporationInventors: Eric J. Gottung, Bruce H. Easom, Sergei F. Burlatsky, Leo A. Smolensky, Luca Bertuccioli
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Patent number: 7883559Abstract: A system for gas cleaning has at least one casing (1) with a first chamber (31) into which the gas to be cleaned can be flowed and with a second chamber (33) from which the cleaned gas exits. A filter device (35) can have the gas flow through it and can be arranged between the chambers. The filter device has filter media both for the separation of solid particles and for dehumidifying the gas by separating out coalesced liquid. The system has, upstream of the filter device (35), an arrangement (11, 37) for preliminary dehumidification of the gas.Type: GrantFiled: September 9, 2006Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Assignee: Hydac Process Technology GmbHInventors: Knut Herges, Ralf Wnuk
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Patent number: 7883560Abstract: A dust separating apparatus of a vacuum cleaner, includes a housing, a first cyclone separator integrated within the housing, and second cyclone separators arranged around the first cyclone separator, wherein the second cyclone separators are removably mounted into the housing. The first and second cyclone separators respectively have a separate dust receiving cavity and separate dust collecting chambers.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2008Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Assignee: Kingclean Electric Co., Ltd.Inventor: Zugen Ni
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Patent number: 7883561Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus for the tangential introduction of a gas-loaded liquid stream into the top of a column in which gas and liquid are separated. Entry into the column top proceeds through a conventional radially arranged port, to which, however, a special tube construction connects which ensures as smooth as possible non-turbulent flow and its tangential exit into the column top.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 2006Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Assignee: BASF SEInventors: Volker Schuda, Rupert Wagner
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Patent number: 7883562Abstract: Various high performance, high efficiency filter media are provided that are cost effective and easy to manufacture. In particular, various filter media are provided having at least one layer with a waved configuration that results in an increased surface area, thereby enhancing various properties of the filter media. The filter media can be used to form a variety of filter elements for use in various applications.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2008Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Assignee: Hollingsworth & Vose CompanyInventors: David Thomas Healey, Richard E. Gahan
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Patent number: 7883563Abstract: A composite honeycomb structure in which the honeycomb structure is highly functionalized and adapted to have catalytic function, considering pressure loss is provided. A honeycomb structure having average pore diameter of 5 to 200 ?m and specific surface area of 100 to 1500 m2/g is provided. Further, a translucent honeycomb structure and a photocatalyst-carrying translucent honeycomb structure having a photocatalyst carried on a surface of the translucent honeycomb structure and/or contained in the translucent honeycomb structure are provided. Further, an air cleaner and a water purifier using the honeycomb structure and the photocatalyst-carrying translucent honeycomb structure are provided.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2006Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Assignees: Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha, Kyoto UniversityInventors: Tomohisa Kawata, Mikihiro Yamanaka, Jun Kudo, Hajime Tamon, Shin Mukai
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Patent number: 7883564Abstract: The invention relates to systems and methods for making fertilizer compositions out of potassium phosphate brine solutions recovered from meat processing operations. In an embodiment, the invention includes a method for making a fertilizer composition including filtering a meat-processing waste solution, and measuring the concentration of a salt in the meat-processing waste solution. In an embodiment, the invention includes a method for disposing of a meat-processing brine solution including filtering the meat-processing brine solution, and measuring the concentration of a salt in the meat-processing brine solution.Type: GrantFiled: July 15, 2005Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Assignee: Hawkins, Inc.Inventors: Patrick Howard Hawkins, Ted Stern
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Patent number: 7883565Abstract: An economically efficient agricultural pellet of enhanced structural integrity comprises up to about 15% by weight of non-crystalline silica fibers blended with one or more other nutrient substances, such as calcium silicate and/or magnesium sulfite, such that the silica fibers to form an interlaced matrix dispersed throughout the body of the pellet. Fragmentation agent(s) and/or soil amendments may also be included. The silica fiber matrix provides both structural reinforcement and a source of bio-available silicon. In embodiments including calcium silicate, additional structural integrity is gained through pozzolonic bonding.Type: GrantFiled: October 13, 2008Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Inventors: Mark Conley Elizer, Ronald Walter Reed
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Patent number: 7883566Abstract: A method of using scrap rubber and other scrap materials, such as tires or parts or pieces of tires, to manufacture or melt steel and other metals in a furnace is disclosed. The scrap rubber may be used as a carbon source for the manufacture of steel and other metals, and may be used as an energy source to melt the scrap metal used to make the steel and other metals. The net benefit of this method includes reducing the amount of scrap rubber, such as tires, to be sent to a waste disposal facility or landfill, thereby improving the environment. In addition, by increasing the use of scrap rubber as a source of energy for steel or metal production, less energy is required from other sources.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 2010Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Assignee: Rex Enterprises, LLCInventor: Franklin Leroy Stebbing
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Patent number: 7883567Abstract: The deaerating and dissolving apparatus or the deaerating and dissolving method includes: a pipe which is configured to feed a liquid; a flow rate control section which is provided to a middle portion of the pipe and is configured to feed the liquid at a predetermined flow rate to a downstream side; a cavity forming section which is provided to a middle portion of the pipe downstream of the flow rate control section and is configured to produce a stationary cavity which is in contact with the liquid, and a pressurization or depressurization section which pressurizes or depressurizes the inside of the cavity, wherein the liquid is deaerated when the inside of the cavity is depressurized with the pressurization or depressurization section, and a gas is dissolved into the liquid when the inside of the cavity is pressurized with the gas supplied through the pressurization or depressurization section.Type: GrantFiled: February 15, 2007Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Assignee: National University Corporation Okayama UniversityInventor: Seiichi Washio
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Patent number: 7883568Abstract: A process is provided for separating one or more light gases from bromine or chlorine using one or more physical separations and contact with a chemical scrubber to recover additional halogen. In one aspect, the process comprises (a) providing a feed of halogen containing one or more light gases to a distillation column or flash vaporizer; (b) operating the distillation column or flash vaporizer to separate the feed into (i) a first liquid containing a major amount of halogen and no more than a minor amount of light gas(es), and (ii) a first vapor containing a major amount of light gas(es) and no more than a minor amount of halogen; and (c) providing the vapor to a chemical scrubber to recover halogen from the vapor.Type: GrantFiled: February 5, 2007Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Assignee: GRT, Inc.Inventors: Sagar B. Gadewar, Peter K. Stoimenov, Philip Grosso, Eric W. McFarland, Ashley W. Breed, Michael J. Weiss, Michael D. Wyrsta
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Patent number: 7883569Abstract: Produced natural gas containing carbon dioxide is dehydrated and chilled to liquefy the carbon dioxide and then fractionated to produce a waste stream of liquid carbon dioxide and hydrogen sulfide. Natural gas liquids may be first separated and removed before fractionation. After fractionation, the waste stream is pressurized and transmitted to a remote injection well for injection either for disposal of the waste stream and preferably to urge hydrocarbons toward the producing well. A hydrocarbon stream proceeds from fractionation to a methanol absorber system which removes carbon dioxide gas. The hydrocarbon stream is thereafter separated into at least hydrocarbon gas, nitrogen and helium. Some of the nitrogen is reintroduced into a fractionation tower to enhance the recovery of hydrocarbons. A methanol recovery system is provided to recover and reuse the methanol. The hydrocarbons are sold as natural gas; and the helium is recovered and sold. Excess nitrogen is vented.Type: GrantFiled: February 12, 2007Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Inventor: Donald Leo Stinson