Patents Issued in February 14, 2012
  • Patent number: 8113990
    Abstract: A method for controlling an exercise apparatus via a control interface of an exercise apparatus, including steps of controlling a touch screen to display an information field, and then monitoring the touch screen to detect whether a touch has occurred on the surface of the touch screen and whether the touch is located in an input zone which has a plurality of sensing areas in the information field. A user can use one of specific actions, such as drag, to move a first tag in the input zone from a first sensing area to a second sensing area. And one of the steps of the method relocates the first tag proximate to the second sensing area to have a portion of the first tag to point at the second sensing area. Then, the final step of the method operates the exercise apparatus from a first condition using a first value corresponding to the first sensing area to a second condition using a second value corresponding to the second sensing area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Johnson Health Tech Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Andrew J Kolman, Matthew D Wittenberg, Timothy E Bank, Mark J Van Handel, Shanan Galligan
  • Patent number: 8113991
    Abstract: A system and method of providing an interactive training program by monitoring a user's actions is disclosed. A user is prompted through the interactive training program to perform certain movements, the user's movements are monitored relative to the prompted movements, and feedback is provided to the user through the program.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Omek Interactive, Ltd.
    Inventor: Gershom Kutliroff
  • Patent number: 8113992
    Abstract: The invention relates to a rope-tensioning device for rope networks. The object of the invention is to develop a tensioning device, in particular for rope networks, with a tensioning mechanism which is arranged outside of areas accessible to players and which is covered completely or to a significant part. Maintenance of the tensioning device and operation of the tensioning mechanism should not be limited. The rope tensioning device for rope networks of the invention is characterized by a rope tensioner for rope networks arranged to the greatest extent possible inside a short section of pipe (pipe section). Advantageously, a pipe element with the rope tensioner can be combined with different framework elements, such as support masts, center masts, framework nodes and mounting devices located close to the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Berliner Seilfabrik GmbH & Co.
    Inventor: Karl-Heinz Koehler
  • Patent number: 8113993
    Abstract: An exercise grip and method for performing a low cable pectoral muscle development exercise is disclosed wherein the exercise grip is attachable to a cable weight system. The exercise grip includes a body substantially formed to receive thereon the palmer side of a human hand. The body has an upturned flange formed at an outer edge of the body to bear against the ulnar border of a human hand. An elongate finger grip extends from and is oriented substantially perpendicular to the upturned flange and is formed to accommodate the curled fingers of a human hand therearound. A thumb recess is adjacent to the finger grip opposite from the upturned flange for allowing a human thumb to bear thereagainst. A hook is affixed to the body proximate to the thumb recess to facilitate attachment to the cable of the cable weight system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Perfect Pecs, LLC
    Inventor: Michael McVan
  • Patent number: 8113994
    Abstract: An exercise device employing side-by-side pivotally supported moving surfaces. In one particular example, an exercise device employs a first belt deployed about a front roller and a rear roller and an adjacent second belt deployed about a front roller and a rear roller. The rear of the belts in the area of the rear rollers are pivotally secured and the front of the belts in the area of the front roller are adapted to reciprocate in an up and down motion during use. In some implementations, the moving surfaces include an interconnection structure such that a generally downward movement of one surface is coordinated with a generally upward movement of the other surface. In other implementations, the moving surfaces are operably associated with one or more resistance elements that effect the amount of force required to pivot or actuate the moving surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Nautilus, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary Piaget, Douglas A. Crawford, Edward L. Flick, Bradley J. Smith, Matthew Rauwerdink, Patrick A. Warner
  • Patent number: 8113995
    Abstract: An elliptical exercise machine includes two swing rods connected pivotally to a base, a flywheel, two supporting rods connected pivotally between the flywheel and the swing rods, two pedal rods slidable respectively on the supporting rods, and a motion transmitting device. The device includes a fixed member fixed on the base, a rotatable member locked releaseably on the fixed member at a selected angular position, two cranks connected pivotally to the rotatable member, and two links each having a first pivot portion connected pivotally to the corresponding pedal rod, a second pivot portion connected pivotally to the corresponding swing rod, and a third pivot portion connected pivotally to the corresponding crank. The links are driven by the cranks to move the pedal rods forwardly and rearwardly on the supporting rods, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Limax International, Inc
    Inventor: Eric Hsu
  • Patent number: 8113996
    Abstract: A dual action recumbent exercise cycle which provides upper body, lower body and cardiovascular conditioning with emphasis directed toward the needs of obese individuals as well as individuals with equilibrium issues such as Parkinson's Disease, Multiple Sclerosis and Stroke. The apparatus includes a multi-configurable seat which is horizontally displaced from the foot pedal and handlebar assemblies. A vaned wheel rotatably mounted on the frame and arranged to absorb energy by movement of the broad surfaces of the vanes against the surrounding body of air. A derailleur mechanism is provided for additional options of resistance intensity. Rotation of the wheel is effected through a pair of foot pedals and connected chain and sprocket/hub mechanism and/or through a pair of handlebar assemblies. The handlebar assemblies each include a pivotal spring housing mechanism which enables the handlebars to be both retractable and variable in their positioning to the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Inventor: Tad Allen
  • Patent number: 8113997
    Abstract: The present invention discloses an article of manufacture having at least one curved rail that is supported in an upright position with a supporting mean. The supporting means may be a stand, which may also contain at least one-foot holder and an arm bar. The curved rail or rails contains a seat that is capable of laterally sliding along the curved rail. The seat may swivel and contain handles for additional set of exercises.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Products of Tomorrow, Inc.
    Inventors: Juan Fernandez, Robert Kennedy, Paul McGrath
  • Patent number: 8113998
    Abstract: A device and method are disclosed for training the abdominal muscles of a user in an upright position. The device and method are configured to lead the upper torso of the user while bending along a preferred path, so that the backbone is bent in a proper manner causing a proper training of the abdominal muscles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Inventor: Nir Daniel
  • Patent number: 8113999
    Abstract: An oblong hoop formed of six tube pieces fitted together end to end has tube junctions at each of four beveled corners. A pair of telescoping side junctions preferably connects side tubes together to make the oblong hoop extendable and retractable in length. The hoop can be used in three ways during three stages of learning—first, with the pupil supported in the front region of the hoop and an instructor within the hoop and close behind the pupil, second, with the pupil remaining forward in the hoop and the instructor moving to a rear region of the hoop, and third, with the pupil remaining in the forward region of the hoop, and the instructor moving outside the hoop to hold onto a rear region of the hoop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Inventor: Stephen Falter
  • Patent number: 8114000
    Abstract: A tool changing unit moves between a magazine position and a changing position to transfer a tool. A machine tool has a plurality of tool changing positions. One of the tool changing positions is selected in advance for changing the tools next time. The tool changing unit and the tool mounted on a tool spindle move to the selected changing position for changing the tools in the selected changing position. Accordingly, the tool changing unit and the tool spindle move respective short distances for changing the tools, thereby shortening the non-machining time of a machine tool combined with the automatic tool changer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Mori Seiki Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroshi Yasuda, Hiroto Matsushita
  • Patent number: 8114001
    Abstract: A workpiece processing plant comprises several machine tools which are arranged in opposite rows. The rows define a free space between each other. A loading and unloading device is provided which comprises a girder above the machine tools and above the free space. Rails are provided on the upper side of the girder. A loading and unloading unit configured as a multiple-axis robot is displaceable along the rails, the loading and unloading unit comprising several arms which are articulated to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: MAG IAS, LLC
    Inventors: Wolfgang Horn, Moshe Israel Meidar, Thomas Bayha, Ralf Haug
  • Patent number: 8114002
    Abstract: Process and apparatus for the mass production of compound cigarette filters function to deposit granular filter material into the open ends of vertically oriented filter tubes. Predetermined amounts of diverse granular material are withdrawn by suction from sources of such material, and these amounts are deposited into the tubes. Solid filter segments seal the granular material within the tube. After one half of each filter tube is filled with granular material and sealed, the tube is inverted and the opposite end is filled in substantially the same manner. When cut in half each filter tube produces two cigarette filters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Philip Morris USA Inc.
    Inventors: George R. Scott, Martin T. Garthaffner, Steven F. Spiers, Steven R. Rinehart, Barry S. Smith, James D. Evans
  • Patent number: 8114003
    Abstract: A centrifugal blood processing apparatus comprising a centrifuge rotor, a separation chamber, a tubing set for conducting blood components and fluids and having an inlet line, and an outlet line. Apparatus tests flow conditions using a red light-green light sensor to detect non-recoverable hemolysis during priming by identifying a high R/G ratio, preferably a ratio of greater than or equal to fifty (50), prior to the beginning of the first return of blood components to a donor followed by identifying a R/G ratio at least as great as one and one tenth (1.1) together with a green signal less than a predetermined value, preferably less than or equal to one thousand (1000) reflectance units. If these conditions are detected, an alarm is given and the apheresis procedure is discontinued.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: CaridianBCT, Inc.
    Inventors: Todd Curtis Green, Bruce W. Gibbs
  • Patent number: 8114004
    Abstract: A Method and Device for solidification of waste liquids and fluids is disclosed, which is particularly well suited to processing radioactive waste fluids. Set forth is a receiving unit or subassembly for housing solidification agent, and one or more manifold units or subassemblies positioned within the receiving unit for providing waste fluid. The subassemblies operate in relation to each other to provide, position and mix solidification agent or polymer with waste fluid so that a dirt-like polymerized waste product is produced and positioned in the container for removal or later safe shipment or storage. Mathematical relationships, in preferred embodiments or aspects are utilized in determining number and sizing of manifold openings, and pressure of waste to be provided, to meet the requirements of waste fluids to be transported through these openings into the receiving unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Inventors: Dennis A. Brunsell, Larry E. Beets
  • Patent number: 8114005
    Abstract: In brachytherapy radiation treatment, particularly on the breast following a tumor resection, adequate skin to balloon distance must be maintained, to avoid damage to the skin. Often the distance is too small in certain areas or at a single point. The disclosed procedures and devices are effective to manipulate the skin-to-balloon distance to increase that distance when necessary, using vacuum, friction or other means to grip, move and “bunch” the breast tissue from regions of larger balloon-skin distance to regions with inadequate balloon-skin distance. The apparatus can include a ring or ring shaped array that fits around the breast, larger than the balloon, a circular vacuum device, or a cup which is pushed over the breast to move tissue toward a thin tissue region. In many cases only a few millimeters of added distance are needed to meet minimum requirements so that the radiation procedure can commence.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Xoft, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul A. Lovoi
  • Patent number: 8114006
    Abstract: A method of removing lesions by implanting a radioactive seed at the location of the lesion, locating the lesion with the radioactive seed, and removing the lesion with the radioactive seed. A kit is also provided by the present invention for use in removing lesions by implanting a radioactive seed at the location of the lesion, locating the lesion with the radioactive seed, and removing the lesion with the radioactive seed. Other embodiments of the invention include: a disposable needle preloaded with radioactive seed(s); and radioactive seeds comprising hooks to ensure proper localization of the seed(s) in the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: University of South Florida
    Inventors: Charles E. Cox, Emilia L. Dauway
  • Patent number: 8114007
    Abstract: In an embodiment a therapeutic member includes a solitary radioactive seed. The seed includes a metallic housing with radioactive material contained within the metallic housing. The metallic housing has a first longitudinal end and a second longitudinal end and a longitudinal length between the first and second longitudinal ends. A polymeric material is molded to completely and monolithically encapsulate the metallic housing of the solitary radioactive seed. The implantable therapeutic member is adapted to be implanted into patient tissue using a hollow needle. A portion of the molded polymeric material extends from one of the first and second longitudinal ends of the metallic housing to reduce a tendency of the seed to migrate and rotate within a patient's body after implantation of the member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Biocompatibles UK Limited
    Inventors: Gary A. Lamoureux, James Matons, Warren W. Johnston, Matthew Bouffard, Warren Rice
  • Patent number: 8114008
    Abstract: Provided are a magnetic coupling as an axial bearing including a driven magnet (11B3) that is a permanent magnet provided to a rotating body (11) inside a casing (12) and a drive magnet (23A) that is a permanent magnet placed face to face with the driven magnet in a radial direction of the rotating body outside the casing to be magnetically coupled with the driven magnet, a driving motor (22) that rotatably drives the drive magnet about an axis (P) of the rotating body, a radial bearing that is a dynamic bearing having annular bearing surfaces (12B1, 11B1) centering on the axis on an inner wall of the casing and the rotating body, each of the annular bearing surfaces being arranged with a gap between the drive magnet and the driven magnet in the radial direction of the rotating body, and a closed impeller (11A) including a front shroud (11A1) arranged on a front side in the axis direction in the rotating body, a rear shroud (11A2) arranged on a rear side in the axis direction of the front shroud, and a vane (
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Tatsuya Hidaka, Takeshi Okubo, Yasuharu Yamamoto, Toshiyuki Osada, Masashi Tagawa
  • Patent number: 8114009
    Abstract: A coronary artery bypass grafting device includes a plurality of attachment members each having: a flexible tube (102); a suction cup portion (101) provided in a tip end side of the flexible tube (102); a three-way cock (103) provided in the flexible tube (102); and a holding member (104) that holds the flexible tube (102). At least one of the attachment members further includes a duckbill valve (111) provided in the flexible tube (102).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Sumitomo Bakelite Company, Ltd.
    Inventors: Hirokuni Arai, Akira Kawamata, Hideaki Asai
  • Patent number: 8114010
    Abstract: A gastric restrictor assembly for positioning within the digestive tract, e.g., stomach, of a patient to treat obesity is disclosed. The gastric restrictor assembly includes an attachment mechanism for attaching the assembly within a body lumen and a valve assembly for adjusting the diameter of a throughbore defined by valve assembly. The gastric restrictor includes first and second actuators which can be actuated transorally for operating the attachment mechanism and the valve assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Tyco Healthcare Group LP
    Inventors: Henry E. Holsten, Frank Viola
  • Patent number: 8114011
    Abstract: An inflatable penile prosthesis of the present invention includes a cylinder that has an external wall that defines a pressure chamber. That external wall preferably incorporates a number of corrugations that extend in a longitudinal direction of the cylinder. In a preferred embodiment, the external wall of the cylinder is formed of a polyurethane or of a material having a modulus of elasticity greater than that of silicone. The corrugations enable the cylinder to move from a small, deflated diameter to a much greater diameter in the inflated state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: AMS Research Corporation
    Inventor: Charles C. Kuyava
  • Patent number: 8114012
    Abstract: A capsule endoscope includes a string that has one end attached to a main body of the capsule endoscope and another end secured at a predetermined position, and a wind-up unit that is provided in the main body of the capsule endoscope to bring out and wind up the string.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Olympus Medical Systems Corp.
    Inventor: Manabu Fujita
  • Patent number: 8114013
    Abstract: An endoscope insertion portion capable of illuminating a diseased part corresponding to a part of an endoscope image by irradiation light in an amount approximately the same as that in non-enlarged display, when displaying the part of the endoscope image in an enlarged manner. The endoscope insertion portion of this invention includes: an insertion portion having a distal end surface; a first illumination optical system for irradiating light onto a subject; a second illumination optical system for irradiating light onto the subject; a first image pickup portion including on the distal end surface a first optical member for introducing light from the subject; and a second image pickup portion including a second optical member for introducing light from the subject, the second optical member being disposed in an area sandwiched by the first illumination optical system and the second illumination optical system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Olympus Medical Systems Corp.
    Inventor: Takashi Otawara
  • Patent number: 8114014
    Abstract: A capsule medical apparatus is provided with a plurality of rigid boards which are connected in line via a flexible board; and molded bodies. The molded bodies are formed in a manner of covering functional components mounted on the respective rigid boards. The molded bodies keep an inter-board interval between the rigid boards by intervening between facing rigid boards. The molded bodies keep an inter-board interval between the rigid boards by intervening between facing rigid boards.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Olympus Medical Systems Corp.
    Inventors: Jun Matsumoto, Hidetake Segawa
  • Patent number: 8114015
    Abstract: According to the present invention, the light source (7) is elastically mounted on the electric housing (5) and it can be pushed back by the projecting proximal end (4P) of the light conduit, when said housing is inserted into the disposable handle (3). As a result of being pushed back, the light source (7) actuates a microswitch (8) which enables it to be powered from a power source (6).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Inventors: Gilles Ayoun, Joel Merran
  • Patent number: 8114016
    Abstract: A reconfigurable modular retractor system including a set of interchangeable body modules, the body modules including mechanisms for forming retractors and slot mechanisms for connecting blades, and blades including locking mechanisms for locking inside the slot mechanisms. A method of using the retractor system by forming a retractor by using at least one body module, attaching blades to the body module, inserting the retractor into a surgical area, retracting tissue, removing retraction from the tissue, and removing the retractor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: GoMedica Technologies Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Janzen Lo, Yufei Xiang
  • Patent number: 8114017
    Abstract: An endoscopic instrument comprises a shaft, comprising a proximal end and a distal end. A grip comprising a handle is arranged at said proximal end of said shaft and a tool having at least an open and a closed position is arranged at said distal end of said shaft. Said shaft comprises at least two sections, a first section and a second section, which can be articulated with respect to said first section. Said second section comprises said tool. Said instrument further comprises an actuating element, by means of which said handle is in operative connection with said second section and with which an articulation of said second section can be initiated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Karl Storz GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Uwe Bacher
  • Patent number: 8114018
    Abstract: Devices for use during surgical or non-surgical procedures can move items from the field of view or work space. Retraction of items during any surgical or non-surgical procedure moves the items from the field of view or work space. The flexibility and compactness of a retraction device can make it suitable for surgery, especially minimally invasive surgery (MIS).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Inventors: Adrian E. Park, Charles F. Knapp
  • Patent number: 8114019
    Abstract: A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue refraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: NuVasive, Inc.
    Inventors: Patrick Miles, Scot Martinelli, Eric Finley, James Gharib, Allen Farquhar, Norbert Kaula, Jeffrey Blewett, Goretti Medeiros, legal representative
  • Patent number: 8114020
    Abstract: A surgical retractor fixing device including a clamp body arranged for removably fixing the surgical retractor fixing device to a frameset that extends along a frameset longitudinal axis and that is arranged to be mounted to an operating table, a rotating body attached to the clamp body, the rotating body being pivotable around an axis of rotation, the rotating body comprising a fixing element arranged for fixing a surgical retractor, where in that the fixing element is a releasable one-way fixing element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Inventors: Helmut Fricke, Lawrence E. Griffith
  • Patent number: 8114021
    Abstract: Receivers, which may be external or implantable, are provided. Aspects of receivers of the invention include the presence of one or more of: a high power-low power module; an intermediary module; a power supply module configured to activate and deactivate one or more power supplies to a high power processing block; a serial peripheral interface bus connecting master and slave blocks; and a multi-purpose connector. Receivers of the invention may be configured to receive a conductively transmitted signal. Also provided are systems that include the receivers, as well as methods of using the same. Additionally systems and methods are disclosed for using a receiver for coordinating with dosage delivery systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Proteus Biomedical, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy Robertson, Fataneh Omidvar, Yashar Behzadi, Lawrence Arne, Kenneth Rowberry, James Hutchison, Robert Leichner, George Savage, Andrew Thompson, Mark Zdeblick, Marc Kreidler, Hooman Hafezi, Robert Duck
  • Patent number: 8114022
    Abstract: Business method for generating advertising claims by utilizing Confocal Raman Spectroscopy (CRS) for dermatological studies. The methods of the invention can be carried in vitro (either artificial skin or a sample of skin) or in vivo (directly on the human skin of a person).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Jonathan Mark Crowther, Anke Sieg, Paul Jonathan Matts, Peter Blenkiron
  • Patent number: 8114023
    Abstract: Electrochemical systems for measuring an analyte concentration, and correcting any surplus or deficiency in the measured concentration. More specifically, systems for measuring an analyte level in a fluid with an implantable sensor, processing the measurements with an algorithm, and determining an appropriate fluid infusion rate in response to the measurements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Legacy Emanuel Hospital & Health Center
    Inventors: W. Kenneth Ward, Michael D. Wood, Heather M. Duman, Bala Nair
  • Patent number: 8114024
    Abstract: An encapsulated rotary seal around a rotating shaft, the seal having an outer annular body and an inner annular body. The inner annular body engages the rotating shaft and permits free rotation of the shaft while providing a liquid tight seal around the rotating shaft. The outer annular body is molded about and permanently adhered to the inner annular body, the outer annular body permitting limited non-concentric or eccentric movement of the rotating shaft engaged to the inner annular body without affecting the integrity of the seal between the rotating shaft and the inner annular body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Inventors: Roman Solek, Donald Coulthart
  • Patent number: 8114025
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method and a device for regulating the pressure in at least one inflatable cuff, preferably a finger cuff (6), of a blood pressure manometer comprising a plethysmographic sensor device (8, 9) for detecting a plethysmographic signal PG and a pressure sensor (7) for detecting a cuff pressure signal BP. According to the invention, two control loops (1, 2) acting on a differential amplifier (10) are used to independently regulate different operating parameters, the first, inner control loop (1) using the cuff pressure signal BP as the first regulating variable, and the second, outer control loop (2) comprising a regulating device (12), preferably a PID regulator, which generates a nominal value SW as a second regulating variable from the plethysmographic signal PG. The differential amplifier (10) is connected, on the output side, to at least one valve connected to a pressure source (4), preferably a proportional valve (3; 25, 27), for regulating the pressure in the cuff (6).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: CNSystems Medizintechnik GmbH
    Inventors: Juergen Fortin, Rupert Gruellenberger, Alexander Hacker, Falko Skrabal
  • Patent number: 8114026
    Abstract: Single- or dual-bladder devices for remote ischemic preconditioning and blood pressure monitoring are disclosed along with various oscillometry-based and other methods for detecting systolic and diastolic blood pressure while the ischemic preconditioning treatment is in progress. The devices and methods of the invention provide for delivery of ischemic preconditioning at the lowest effective cuff pressure while closely monitoring patient's hemodynamics. Advantageously, the device of the invention allows both ischemic preconditioning and blood pressure monitoring to be done on the same limb. Disposable battery-powered version of the device of the present invention is especially useful for emergency use with patients suffering from acute myocardial infarction, acute stroke, or acute trauma. Additional device configurations are described for use in a percutaneous intervention and vascular sealing settings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Infarct Reduction Technologies Inc.
    Inventor: Boris Leschinsky
  • Patent number: 8114027
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a swab for collecting biological specimens of the type consisting of a rod terminating in a tip covered with fiber with hydrophilic properties to allow absorption of said specimens, wherein said fiber covers said tip in the form of a layer deposited by flocking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Copan Innovation Limited
    Inventor: Daniele Triva
  • Patent number: 8114028
    Abstract: An analyte determination analysis system with a disposable integrated sample acquisition and analysis element is disclosed. A piercing element has a tip for generating a bodily puncture wound and a test strip having a body fluid sample receiving zone to perform an analysis on a body fluid sample. A reusable analysis instrument comprises a coupling unit that couples the integrated sample acquisition and analysis element to a drive that drives a piercing element in a piercing movement comprising two phases: a propulsion phase wherein the piercing element moves on a puncture path in a puncture direction and a retraction phase wherein the piercing element moves opposite to the puncture direction after reaching a reversal point. A measuring and analysis unit measures a variable characteristic for the determination of the analyte and determines a desired analysis result on the basis of the measurement. The sample receiving zone of the test strip forms a sample contact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Hans List, Volker Zimmer, Michael Keil
  • Patent number: 8114029
    Abstract: An actuator for driving a test element is disclosed. The test element can comprise a lancet for perforating the skin of a living organism. The actuator can comprise an engaging part for engaging and driving the test element in a lancing motion. The actuator can further comprise a lancing actuator and a lancing spring. The lancing actuator can bias the lancing spring by executing a forward movement and thereby can exert a biasing force on the engaging part. The actuator can further comprise a latch element. The latch element can be a force-sensitive latch element for exerting a retention force to hold back the engaging part. The retention force can counteract the biasing force. The latch element can release the engaging part when the biasing force exerted by the lancing actuator exceeds the retention force exerted by the latch element, thereby allowing the test element to perform the lancing motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Hans List, Hans-Peter Haar, George Bevan Kirby Meacham
  • Patent number: 8114030
    Abstract: Presented is a method for quantifying breastfeeding between a mother and a baby, the method including measuring a physiological volume indicative of stomach fullness volume for the baby; setting a signal threshold value of the physiological volume to correspond to a stomach level that is less than or equal to the stomach fullness volume; obtaining an objective measurement of the physiological volume indicative of a level of fullness of the baby's stomach; and providing an indication to the mother when the objective measurement equals or exceeds the signal threshold value. In one embodiment, for instance, the baby's swallows may be recorded for determining the volume of breast milk consumed by the baby.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas Michael Ales, Rick D. Mosbacher
  • Patent number: 8114031
    Abstract: A guidewire for antegrade guidance of vascular interventions of a lower limb artery via a common femoral artery into a superficial femoral artery of a human patient. When in unloaded condition, the guidewire has, at its distal end, a rounded or floppy tip (4). A curved deflection section (5) is located closely proximal of the tip (4) and extends over an angle of curvature such that the rounded tip (4) is spaced from a continuation of an axis of a section proximally neighboring the curved deflection section (5). The curved deflection section (5) has a flexibility causing the curved deflection section (5) to spring back to substantially its original shape after elastic deformation to a straightened condition. A rotation preventer, a kit and a method for facilitating insertion of a guidewire into the superficial femoral artery are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Inventor: Johan Willem Pieter Marsman
  • Patent number: 8114032
    Abstract: A system for moving an elongate medical device has at least one drive element for engaging and moving an elongate medical device. Various embodiments provide for moving the separate inner and outer elements of a telescoping medical device. Some systems also provide for the rotation of a rotatable distal element on a rotatable medical device or the rotation of extension element in a telescoping medical device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Stereotaxis, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven J. Ferry, Jennifer R. Finney, Cam Habeger, Vincent Hackenmueller, Andrew F. Hall, Reed A. Houge, Scott G. Klimek, Michael J. Pikus
  • Patent number: 8114033
    Abstract: A sleep determination apparatus capable of detecting wakefulness of a subject before entering a hypnagogic state with high accuracy is provided. When the subject is not yet in the hypnagogic state, it is determined that the subject is asleep when a detected body movement signal continuously remains below a determination threshold for a predetermined time or longer, and that the subject is awake in other situations. When the subject has entered the hypnagogic state, it is determined that the subject is awake when the detected body movement signal continuously remains above the determination threshold for the predetermined time or longer, and that the subject is asleep in other situations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Daikin Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Takehiko Hiei, Kazuhisa Shigemori
  • Patent number: 8114034
    Abstract: A walking aid apparatus comprising a sitting member which a user sits astride and leg links each coupled to a connection provided on the undersurface of the sitting member in such a way as to be free to swing in the forward/backward direction, which improves the stability of the sitting member. The connection is adapted in such a way that a forward/backward swinging fulcrum of the leg links is located above the sitting member. More specifically, the connection is provided with an arc-shaped guide track longitudinal in the forward/backward direction and having the center of curvature above the sitting member, so that each of the leg links swings along the guide track in the forward/backward direction. If the leg links are allowed to swing freely also in the lateral direction, preferably the lateral swinging fulcrum of the leg links is also located above the sitting member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yasushi Ikeuchi, Tatsuya Noda, Jun Ashihara, Yutaka Hiki
  • Patent number: 8114035
    Abstract: Devices and methods for attaching a belt cartridge to a belt drive platform. A clip attached to the belt is inserted into a slot in the drive spool of the belt drive platform. The cover plate of the belt cartridge fits into a channel beam in the housing of the belt drive platform, thereby securing the cartridge to the housing. Belt guards, for protecting the cartridge, belt drive platform, patient and rescuer, are rotatably attached to the cover plate and are secured around spindles disposed on the sides of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: ZOLL Circulation, Inc.
    Inventors: Renaldo J. Quintana, Paul Q. Escudero, Charles E. Swinehart
  • Patent number: 8114036
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for therapeutically treating at least a portion of a body. Apparatus and methods according to various embodiments of the disclosure include a platform for supporting at least a portion of a body. The platform includes at least one plate, a drive lever supported from the plate, and a damping member including a cantilever spring in contact with the drive lever. The platform is actuated at a first frequency. Next, the damping member is oscillated to create a force with a second frequency. Then, the force is distributed to at least a portion of the platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: American Medical Innovations, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Donald E. Krompasick
  • Patent number: 8114037
    Abstract: There is provided a non-invasive pulsation and counterpulsation medical treatment apparatus for treating reduced cardiac output in heart patients. A flexible cuff is passed over the patient's lower body and/or extremities, and is attached a hydraulic actuator. Through a mechanical linkage, the actuator sequentially tensions and releases the cuff, thereby sequentially compressing and releasing pressure on the patient, and thereby augmenting the patient's blood pressure. The actuator includes a hydraulic cylinder that axially extends and retracts a shaft. A curved plate on the apparatus supports the patient's body or extremity in a fixed position during the treatment. A pressure sensor in the cuff transmits pressure data to an operator or electronic processor. Based on physiological data continuously obtained from the patient, various treatment parameters may be changed during the patient's treatment by an attending clinician or by a computer processor controlling the treatment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Inventor: Michael Paul Lewis
  • Patent number: 8114038
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for oral hygiene, in particular having an oral hygiene device similar to a WATER PIK® brand device which has a pump with an inlet port and an outlet nozzle. A reservoir is placed in a sink above a drain and below a faucet and water from the faucet is adjusted for temperature and flows into the reservoir and over and into the drain of the sink. A conduit is provided between the inlet of the pump and the outlet of the reservoir so that, in use, a person can first adjust the temperature of the water in the reservoir and then turn on the pump and use the oral hygiene device as with any other oral hygiene apparatus while either allowing the water to continue to flow from the faucet at the desired temperature; or, if desired, to stop the flow and put medication into the container before use so that the water and medication solution is used rather than just water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Inventor: John Stelmach
  • Patent number: 8114039
    Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for providing a ventilated orthotic cranioplasty helmet for treating positional plagiocephaly in infants. Specifically, a system and method are disclosed in which patient-specific parameters such as head size, patient age, degree of patient sweating, diameter of patient's hair, average length of patient's hair, and sweat range are input into a computer implemented algorithm along with a user-proposed ventilation hole array to determine an optimal ventilation hole arrangement. The computer may be connected either directly or indirectly to an automated hole drilling machine to drill the hole array in the specified portion of the helmet. The same computer implemented algorithm can be used to revise the ventilation hole array to accommodate changes in patient physiology during treatment to thereby achieve an optimal ventilation hole design throughout the treatment process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Siemens Medical Solutions USA, Inc.
    Inventor: Wei Qu