Abstract: A handheld work apparatus includes a fuel tank (8), into which a flexible fuel line (9) projects. A suction head (12, 46, 56, 66) is arranged at the free end (45) of the fuel line (9). The suction head is connected via the fuel line (9) to a fuel supply device (10) of an internal combustion engine (5) of the work apparatus. The suction head (12, 46, 56, 66) has at least, one weight member (16, 17, 47, 57, 67). The weight member (16, 47, 57, 67) is formed at least partially as a magnet to achieve good cleaning of the fuel without a substantial increase in the weight of the work apparatus.

Abstract: A common rail fuel pump includes a cam shaft with at least one cam rotatably supported in a pump housing. A plurality of tappet assemblies are each reciprocatingly movable in the pump housing, and include an axle pin mounted in a tappet, and a roller mounted in contact for rotation about the axle pin. Each end of the roller includes a plurality of non-contiguous planar thrust surfaces separated by lubrication grooves. A lubrication pathway for the roller includes in sequence a lubrication passage that opens to a roller bearing surface, movement along the roller bearing surface into the lubrication grooves, and then between the planar thrust surface of the roller and a counterpart thrust face of the tappet responsive to rotation of the roller on the cam shaft.

Abstract: A fuel supply apparatus for an engine, includes a first cylinder group, a second cylinder group, first fuel injection valves, second fuel injection valves, a fuel supply pipe, a branch portion, a first connecting pipe, a second connecting pipe, a first delivery pipe, and a second delivery pipe. The branch portion has an inflow direction along which fuel is to flow from the fuel supply pipe into the branch portion. The branch portion has a first outflow direction along which fuel is to flow from the branch portion into the first connecting pipe. The branch portion has a second outflow direction along which fuel is to flow from the branch portion into the second connecting pipe. All of the inflow direction, the first outflow direction, and the second outflow direction are provided not to lie in a same straight line.

Abstract: A fuel supply system includes an intake flow passage communicating with an intake port of a gas engine, a fuel shut-off valve assembly for blocking a fuel supply passage to prevent supply of a gas fuel to a fuel mixer, a vacuum flow passage communicating with a vacuum actuator of the fuel shut-off valve assembly and a crank chamber of the gas engine, and means for holding the vacuum flow passage open when the gas engine starts, such that a vacuum produced in the crank chamber is used to actuate the vacuum actuator for switching the fuel shut-off valve assembly to an open position allowing supply of the gas fuel to the fuel mixer.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a two-cycle engine that includes an exhaust port which is opened and closed at one end portion in a longitudinal direction of a cylinder; a scavenging port which is opened and closed at the other end portion in the longitudinal direction of the cylinder; and a fuel injection port which injects a fuel into the cylinder provided between the exhaust port and the scavenging port, wherein the fuel begins to be injected in a state in which at least any one of the exhaust port and the scavenging port is opened.

Abstract: Included may be a crankshaftless internal combustion engine, including a power shaft unit in which a transferring path of a power system may be selected depending on a deactivated state and an activated state of a cylinder, a cylinder separator separating a power system of the deactivated cylinder from the power shaft unit by control of an ECU operated by a deactivated cylinder and an activated cylinder, and a compression changing unit varying a compression ratio of the activated cylinder in multistage.

Abstract: A crankshaftless internal combustion engine includes a power shaft unit in which a transferring path of a power system is selected depending on a deactivated state and an activated state of a cylinder and a cylinder separator separating a power system of the deactivated cylinder from the power shaft unit by control of an ECU, thereby improving fuel efficiency due to a uniform change in volume of a combustion chamber of the cylinder and increasing reduction in Nox of exhaust gas, and particularly, a plurality of cylinders are controlled in a variable cylinder scheme to further improve fuel efficiency and be optimal to even EM improvement.

Abstract: A single-crankshaft single-cylinder fully-balanced opposed piston engine module that provides extra time for the injection and the combustion of the fuel.

Abstract: A canister purge valve for an internal-combustion engine is provided with a housing including a supply channel that connects a fuel-vapor inlet port to a fuel-vapor outlet port. A valve scat is disposed across the supply channel. A valve shutter has a pressure-compensating channel and is movably mounted within the supply channel to move from an “open” position, in which the valve shutter is distant from the valve seat, to a “closed” position, in which the valve shutter is pressed against the valve seat. A rigid stem is mechanically coupled to the valve shutter to move the valve shutter from the “open” position to the “closed” position and seals the; pressure-compensating channel in the “closed” position.

Abstract: A method for cooling an adsorbent material filled in a housing of an adsorbent-canister in a vehicle. The vehicle preferably has a cooler and a fuel door. The method may include the steps of detecting an opened or closed state of the fuel door, and when the fuel door is open, starting the cooler in order to cool the adsorbent material.

Abstract: A charge air cooler assembly for an internal combustion engine is described. A housing of the charge air cooler assembly includes a dividing wall that separates flow after the charge air cooler into two separate flow paths.

Abstract: A system to measure a parameter of a particulate laden gas flow may include a conduit enclosed by a boundary wall directing the particulate laden gas flow and a sensor configured to measure the parameter. The system may also include an annular averaging chamber extending radially outwardly from the conduit. The averaging chamber may be positioned such that the sensor is fluidly coupled to the conduit through the averaging chamber. The system may further include a porous element extending around the conduit. The porous element may be positioned such that the averaging chamber is fluidly coupled to the conduit through the porous element.

Abstract: The present invention makes it possible to accurately determine an EGR rate from an in-cylinder pressure. An EGR rate determination method for an internal combustion engine according to the present invention, a combustion period is calculated by using in-cylinder pressure data measured by an in-cylinder pressure sensor. An in-cylinder flame velocity is then calculated from the combustion period. Next, in accordance with prepared data indicative of the influence of an engine speed on the flame velocity, a portion of the flame velocity calculated from the combustion period that is affected by the engine speed is eliminated. Eventually, a current EGR rate is determined from the flame velocity from which the portion affected by the engine speed is eliminated.

Abstract: There is provided a removal apparatus for removing unburned deposits in an EGR flow passage of a vehicle. A control device of the removal apparatus is provided with a deposit removal implementing unit. The EGR gas flow control valve flows a part of exhaust gas through the EGR flow passage in a case where the control device determines that a temperature of cooling water of an engine is equal to or more than a predetermined temperature. The deposit removal implementing unit implements removal of the unburned deposits in the EGR flow passage in a case where the control device determines that the engine is in a high-load condition while the exhaust gas flows in the EGR flow passage and that it is a deposit removal implementation timing.

Abstract: While an engine is at idling state with an EGR valve fully closed, an EGRLQ is detected or estimated. When the EGRLQ exceeds a specified threshold, a target intake manifold pressure is established so that the EGRLQ becomes less than the specified value and an IAFRI-control is executed so that the intake manifold pressure becomes the target pressure. An intake air flow rate QIN can be increased and a differential pressure DP between upstream and downstream of the EGR valve 31 is reduced to effectively decrease an EGR rate. An ignition timing is retarded according to an increase in intake air flow rate QIN due to the IAFRI-control. An increase in torque (increase in intake air flow rate) due to the IAFRI-control is canceled by an increase in a required torque (increase in required intake air flow rate) due to a retard of the ignition timing.

Abstract: An air-fuel ratio control system of an internal combustion engine includes a controller that performs air-fuel ratio feedback control through main feedback control and sub feedback control based on the concentrations of oxygen in exhaust gas upstream and downstream of a catalyst respectively, and the controller stores a constant component of a sub feedback correction value of the sub feedback control as a sub feedback learned value, and sets a feedback target value of the main feedback control to values that are different depending on whether or not exhaust gas is recirculated into intake air. When the constant component of the sub feedback correction value obtained when the amount of recirculated exhaust gas is short of its required amount is stored as the sub feedback learned value, the controller corrects the feedback target value of the main feedback control when the recirculation of exhaust gas is not conducted.

Abstract: A portable and adjustable clay target launching apparatus for use with a clay pigeon launcher includes a framework. A tilt adjustment assembly is coupled to the framework, and includes a shaft and a tilt assembly input member operatively coupled to the shaft such that the shaft is rotated by operation of the tilt assembly input member. A base member is configured to secure the clay pigeon launching device, the base member being operatively coupled to the shaft and configured to tilt side to side when the shaft is rotated by operation of the tilt assembly input member. A rotational adjustment assembly operatively couples the base member to the tilt adjustment assembly, the rotational adjustment assembly being movable between a released configuration at which the base member is selectively rotatable about a sprocket and a locked configuration at which the base member is not rotatable.

Abstract: A cooking system having adjustable oven cooking zones generally includes a spiral stack disposed within a cooking oven chamber, the spiral stack including a plurality of tiers, and a circulation system for delivering gaseous cooking medium to the spiral stack in the cooking oven chamber. The system further includes a mezzanine assembly including an inner mezzanine and an outer mezzanine, wherein the position of the inner mezzanine is movable relative to the position of the outer mezzanine. Methods for adjusting cooking zones in an oven, and systems and methods for bidirectional flow systems for cooking ovens, are also provided.

Abstract: A grease removal system for a combination oven, requiring venting and condensation of steam, conducts excess grease through the same drainpipe as the steam to a water-filled condenser, then segregates the grease within a reservoir wall. In this way, a single opening may serve to remove both excess steam pressure and grease and temperature-moderated grease may be readily pumped to a convenient location.

Abstract: A grease filter capable of reducing a pressure loss generated while air passes through the grease filter, and cooking apparatus are provided. The grease filter includes an inflow portion configured for oil particles to be introduced therethrough, and a channel provided to discharge air current and oil particles, which are introduced through the inflow portion, to an outside, wherein the channel includes an upper channel disposed in parallel while spaced apart in a predetermined distance to form the inflow portion, and a lower channel comprising a direction changing portion provided to change a direction of the air current and the oil particles introduced through the inflow portion, and a guide portion having a predetermined angle to guide the oil particles and the air current having been changed in direction by the direction changing portion.

Abstract: In a solar concentrator of a type having a curved mirror adapted to focus light onto an energy collecting body mounted at the mirror's focal axis, an alignment correction apparatus and method includes a linear array of light detectors adapted to be mounted at a bottom of and across a centerline of the curved mirror so as to intercept the shadow cast by the energy collecting body mounted along the focal axis. Outputs of each of the detectors are measured and plotted according to an order of arrangement of the light detectors on the array. The output results in a dip across adjacent detectors when a shadow falls across the array. A shadow detection means is adapted to determine a center point of the dip and correction means are configured to output a correction command if the center point is different from an optimal position.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to operating sun-tracking assemblies in response to one or more wind parameters or conditions. By judiciously reorienting one or more sun-tracking assemblies in response to detected or predicted wind conditions, the potential for wind- damage may be reduced. Some of the sun-tracking assemblies may act as a wind buffer for more fragile or sensitive components, thereby protecting them from damage. Such wind- sensitive components may be other sun-tracking assemblies arranged downwind from the reoriented assemblies. The downwind sun-tracking assemblies may continue to operate normally or substantially normally (i.e., to track the sun) despite the presence of the wind. During times of reduced or no wind, the sun-tracking assemblies may continue to track the sun until wind conditions require reorientation.

Abstract: A unit for harnessing solar power for heating water at high pressure, in which the circuit is exposed to freezing, comprising: a heat exchanger made as a single piece for a hydraulic circuit, made up of parallel polymer pipes (1) connected at one end thereof to a main branch-off pipe (2, 3) and, at the other end thereof, to a main collector pipe (2, 3); a sealed box (4) for a whole number of units connected in series, having a profile of regular section (5), reinforced by brackets that can be inserted in In corners, with a translucent face (6), the other face having an insulated cover (7); the profile having a geometry suitable for connecting the box to a support structure; the profile having a geometry suitable for holding the insulating material (8) and the rubber seals on the inner part of the translucent face (9); the profile being such that complementary profiles (10) may be assembled thereon, by snap-fitting, and the complementary profiles have a housing for rubber seals (11) on the outer part of the tr

Abstract: An actuator for an inhaler for delivering medicament by inhalation, comprising: a main body comprising a tubular member for receiving a canister containing medicament and having a valve stem extending therefrom; and an outlet assembly, as a part formed separately of the main body, comprising a mouthpiece for guiding medicament to the mouth of a user and a nozzle block for receiving the valve stem of the canister and delivering medicament from the canister into the mouthpiece; wherein the main body is provided with an outlet opening for receiving the outlet assembly in a position wherein the mouthpiece extends outside the outlet opening and the nozzle block is inserted through the outlet opening and arranged in position for receiving the valve stem of the canister. There is also disclosed an inhaler comprising the above-described actuator and a canister containing medicament, a main body and an outlet assembly.

Abstract: A tracheal tube assembly includes an outer cannula configured to be positioned in a patient airway and an inner cannula configured to be disposed inside the outer cannula. The tracheal tube assembly further includes a flange member secured about the outer cannula, and a connector coupled to a proximal end of the outer cannula. The connector is configured to provide a view of the inner cannula, and the inner cannula and the connector form a contiguous passageway for exchanging fluid with the patient airway in operation.

Abstract: A heat and moisture exchanger of the present invention includes a casing defining a retaining space therein, and an air conditioning unit retained in the retaining space. The casing has a breathing port and an air flow unit that are adapted to communicate fluidly the retaining space, and an air valve unit that has an air hole formed in the casing, and that is adjustable from a closed state to an opened state.

Abstract: A positive airway pressure support system (2, 7, 130) that includes a pressure generating device (4) structured to produce an intermittent or continuous flow of breathing gas at a selected positive pressure or pressures, and a patient interface device (2, 72, 132) operatively coupled to the pressure generating system and structured to deliver the flow of breathing gas to an airway of a patient. The patient interface device includes a helmet (30) structured to be worn on the head of the patient and a patient interface element (22) coupleable to the top portion (44), the left side portion (82) and/or the right side portion (84) of the helmet in manner which stabilizes the patient interface element relative to the helmet and resists forces applied to the patient interface element when the patient interface device is donned by the patient and the patient moves while in a supine position.

Abstract: The present invention may be embodied as a system and/or a computer-based method for determining safe operation of a breathing gas system comprising the step of receiving a present oxygen concentration value from an oxygen concentration sensor. The method further comprises the step of receiving, at the computer, a present altitude value from an altimeter of the aircraft and using the computer to calculate an alarm flow rate, where the alarm flow rate is a function of the present oxygen concentration value and the present altitude value. The method may further comprise the step of receiving, at the computer, a present flow value from a flow meter, where the present flow value represents the rate of flow of breathing gas to the user. The method may comprise the step of comparing the calculated alarm flow rate to the received present flow value to determine a safe operation of the oxygen system.

Abstract: A mouthpiece polymer body comprising a distal side and a proximal side. The distal side further having a fastener element, and where the fastener element is integrated into the mouthpiece polymer body. A mouthpiece comprising at least one fastener element and a polymer body, where the fastener element is integrated as part of the polymer body. A method to demountably attach/detach a mouthpiece to a regulator comprising using the proximal side of a mouthpiece to create a mechanical advantage to open the distal side of the mouthpiece using a fulcrum. Also using the mouthpiece polymer to provide the elastic force to lock said mouthpiece onto the regulator.

Abstract: An oscillating positive expiratory pressure apparatus having a housing defining a chamber, a chamber inlet, a chamber outlet, a deformable restrictor member positioned in an exhalation flow path between the chamber inlet and the chamber outlet, and an oscillation member disposed within the chamber. The deformable restrictor member and the oscillation member are moveable between an engaged position, where the oscillation member is in contact with the deformable restrictor member and an disengaged position, where the oscillation member is not in contact with the deformable restrictor member. The deformable restrictor member and the oscillation member move from the engaged position to the disengaged position in response to a first exhalation pressure at the chamber inlet, and move from the disengaged position to an engaged position in response to a second exhalation pressure at the chamber inlet.

Abstract: A gas mixture for treatment of a mycobacterial infection and methods thereof, wherein the gas mixture comprises hydrogen. In certain applications, the gas mixture further comprises oxygen and optionally an inert or anaerobic gas, preferably selected from the group consisting of nitrogen, helium, argon, carbon dioxide, and mixtures thereof. The methods for treatment comprise direct inhalation of the gas mixture comprising hydrogen and oxygen, intubation of a patient with a double lumen endotracheal tube thereby supplying one lung with an anaerobic gas, and administration of a gas mixture comprising hydrogen and oxygen in a hyperbaric setting. Also provided is a method of sterilization of a mycobacterium-contaminated surface comprising administration of the hydrogen-containing gas mixture.

Abstract: An apparatus for the supply of humidified gases to a patient is disclosed that comprises a gases supply passage downstream of a humidified gases supply, and upstream of a patient in use, where at least one sensor is embedded in or located on the outside of the wall of the passage. In preferred forms the wall of the passage divides the sensor(s) from a flow of gases in the passage. In use, a controller receives an output of the sensor(s) and derives from the output of the sensor(s) an estimation of a property of gases flowing through the passage or provides a control output to the humidified gases supply according to the output of the sensor(s).

Abstract: A fluid dispenser device including a body, an elongate flexible strip supporting a plurality of reservoirs, each containing a dose of fluid or powder; an reservoir-opening mechanism for opening a reservoir on actuation; a first displacement mechanism for causing the flexible strip to advance before, during and/or after actuation, so as to bring a full reservoir into register with the reservoir-opening mechanism; and a second displacement mechanism for displacing a full reservoir against the opening mechanism each actuation. The leading end of the flexible strip is fastened to a rotary receiver element, the receiver element including a set of peripheral teeth that co-operates with a movable traction member, a stressed spring acting on the movable traction member so as to displace it, the displacement of the movable traction member causing the receiver element to turn, such that the receiver element exerts a traction force on the elongate strip.

Abstract: A dry powder inhaler includes a dose container assembly having a dose container disk with opposing upper and lower surfaces, a first row of circumferentially spaced apart dose containers at a first radius and a second row of circumferentially spaced apart dose containers at a second radius. The dose containers have dry powder therein and are sealed via a first flexible sealant over apertures in the upper surface and a second flexible sealant over apertures in the lower surface. A piercing mechanism includes two reciprocating piercers that serially alternate between the two rows of dose containers in the dose container disk. A rotatable ramp disk includes first and second sets of circumferentially spaced-apart ramp elements in staggered, concentric relationship that are configured to move the first and second piercing members between retracted and extended positions.

Abstract: A pressurized flow of breathable gas is delivered to the airway of a subject to facilitate respiration by the subject. To enhance the effectiveness of the pressurized flow of breathable gas, stochastic fluctuations in the level of pressure at or near the airway of the subject are created. These stochastic fluctuations mimic similar oscillations present in so-called “bubble CPAP” systems. Since these stochastic fluctuations are intended to maintain the openness of the airway of the subject, and not to drive ventilation, these fluctuations tend to have a higher frequency and/or lower magnitude than changes in pressure that drive ventilation.

Abstract: A method of providing high frequency ventilation to a patient, comprises delivering a flow of breathing gas to the patient, the flow of breathing gas having a first positive pressure level and a second positive pressure level, the first and second positive pressure levels alternating with one another in a plurality of cycles in the flow of breathing gas to have a frequency and an amplitude, the flow of breathing gas to the patient generating a mean airway pressure; determining whether the patient is breathing spontaneously or is trying to breath spontaneously; and, in response to the determination that the patient is breathing spontaneously or trying to breath spontaneously or according to the user settings for HFV and user intervention for non-spontaneous breathing patient, adjusting the mean airway pressure, modulating the frequency and duty cycle of the flow of breathing gas, or modulating the level of flow and pressure amplitude of the breathing gas, or two or more thereof.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are disclosed for controlling pressure delivery to a user such as a patient. A flow generator generates an outlet flow at an outlet port for delivery to a patient. At least one sensor measures properties of the flow of gas at the outlet port or being delivered to the patient. A controller is operatively connected to the flow generator and the at least one sensor, and is adapted to operate according to a pressure control mode in which the controller controls the flow generator to output a substantially steady pressure or a flow control mode in which the controller controls the flow generator to output a substantially steady flow. The controller operates in the flow control mode when a patient may be awake and in the pressure control mode when the patient may be asleep.

Abstract: A mask assembly includes a mask with an inflatable bladder. The internal pressure of the inflatable bladder can be set to be higher than the delivered therapeutic pressure. The pressure offset may be constant, or it may vary over the range of therapeutic pressures. Thus, the force necessary to maintain a contact seal between the mask and the patient can be reduced, thereby providing a system that is more comfortable to the patient, which increases patient compliance.

Abstract: A full face mask system for treatment of respiratory disorder with Continuous Positive Airway Pressure equipment suitable to generate a supply of gas at positive pressure to be delivered to a patient's airways, the mask system comprising a frame module; a cushion module provided to the frame module and adapted to form a seal with the patient's face; an elbow module provided to the frame module and adapted to be connected to an air delivery tube to deliver breathable gas to the patient; and headgear removably attachable to the frame module.

Abstract: A mask includes a shroud; a cushion module that engages the shroud, the cushion module including a frame and a full-face cushion adapted to engage the patient's face generally along nasal bridge, cheek, and chin regions of the patient's face, the frame at least partly defining a breathing chamber; an elbow connected to the frame in a releasable and rotatable manner, the elbow being adapted to be connected to an air delivery tube to deliver breathable gas to the patient; and headgear removably attachable to the shroud, wherein: the frame includes an opening, the elbow including a distal end releasably inserted into the opening of the frame with a snap-fit, thereby connecting the elbow to the frame, whereby the connection between the elbow and the frame also maintains the shroud in engagement with the frame.

Abstract: A cushion module provided to a frame module for delivery of a supply of gas at positive pressure to be delivered to a patient's airways, the cushion module comprising a main body and a cushion, the main body defining a breathing chamber and having an exterior surface adapted to directly engage with a surface of the frame module, wherein the main body and the cushion together comprise a co-molded, integrated component, the main body comprising a molded polycarbonate material adapted to directly contact the frame module and the cushion comprises a molded silicone material adapted to interface with patient's face, and wherein the molded polycarbonate material of the main body is a more rigid material than the molded silicone material of the cushion.

Abstract: A continuous positive air pressure (“CPAP”) or ventilator system includes a mask and an air flow generator. The air flow generator is mounted or provided to the mask's wearer. In one embodiment, air flow generator is mounted on the mask.

Abstract: A multi-function nitrous oxide system is disclosed for producing breathing air. In the example, the system provides charging, heat and nitrous oxide for medical use.

Abstract: A respiratory device filter (10) comprises a housing (12) having a mouthpiece (16) and a body (18). The housing (12) defines an inner sidewall (34) and a conical filter (14) is disposed within the housing (12). The conical filter (14) includes a first end that defines an apex (42) and a second end that defines an opening (44). An apex retention member (46) extends from the inner sidewall (34) and is secured to the apex (42) of the conical filter (14).

Abstract: A patient interface device (8, 8?) for delivering a flow of breathing gas to an airway of a patient includes a grooved adjustment mechanism (20, 58, 78) having a main body (22, 60) formed from an elastic material, the main body having an outer surface having a plurality of convolutions (80) provided therein. Each convolution including a groove (24, 62, 84), and each convolution has a stiffness associated therewith. The stiffnesses associated with the convolutions increase from a first side of the main body to a second side of the main body.

Abstract: A practical, disposable full genital barrier/shield prophylactic undergarment that is gender specific with at least one inwardly or outwardly expandable and collapsible orifice covering for safe sex protection from body fluids, pathogens and parasites for a wearer and a partner which includes integral and multiple sensory, textural, visual and/or body enhancement components along with herbal, chemical and/or natural elements for increased stimulation while providing comfort, portability, style and size options in an undergarment device.

Abstract: The various embodiments of the present inventions provide stabilization devices and methods for use of the stabilization devices with minimally invasive gynecological procedures such as methods of preventing pregnancy by inserting intrafallopian contraceptive devices into the fallopian tubes.

Abstract: Intra-uterine system for inserting an active substance in an uterus, wherein the system comprises two flexible arms that extend from a central part in essentially mutually opposed directions, and retention means for the active substance, wherein during use the system is entered into the uterus, wherein an elongated housing extends from the central part at essentially equal angles with the flexible arms, wherein the housing comprises a storage container as retention means for the active substance, an outlet opening, a pump system, a control unit for controlled pumping of the active substance from the storage container through the outlet opening into the uterus and a energy storage means for supplying energy to the pump system and to the control unit.

Abstract: The abdominal elevator comprises a body portion made from a flexible foam, a polymer, paper or fabric having at least one upper edge and, optionally, two or more side edges, with a shape ranging from triangular to rectangular to oval with one or more straps attached to one or more of the edges and also having an anterior surface and a posterior surface having a adhesive applied to the posterior surface. The straps of the abdominal elevator are attached to the bedrail using a secure method that comfortably elevates, retracts and retains the abdominal pannus during a surgical procedure that requires access to the lower abdomen and/or groin area that would otherwise be obstructed.

Abstract: An implantable tissue suspension device and its method for use. The device includes first and second filamentary elements bonded together only at a central connection region such that first and second leading and trailing legs of the respective first and second filamentary elements extend outwardly from the central connection region. The method includes implanting the device such that the central connection region extends laterally across a patient's tongue and the first and second leading and trailing legs of the first and second filamentary elements extend through the tongue such that ends thereof are positioned external to the genioglossus muscle.