Patents Issued in March 31, 2015
  • Patent number: 8992369
    Abstract: An axial mounting of the planetary gearwheels of a planetary gearset having a sun gear that meshes with at least one planetary gearwheel mounted on a planetary bolt that is supported on the planetary carrier. The at least one planetary gearwheel meshes with a ring gear. At least one check-plate, which has a hole for the planetary bolt and which is positioned on one side of the planetary gearwheel between the planetary gearwheel and the planetary carrier, is associated with each planetary gearwheel. The check-plate is completely flat and is axially symmetrical relative to its longitudinal and transverse axes. The at least one check-plate has two wings that extend in the longitudinal direction, which are positioned in recesses formed in the planetary carrier, when the check-plate is in the installed condition, to secure the check-plate against rotation. The check-plate is fixed relative to the planetary carrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Tobias Miller, Frank Paulitschke, Stefan Brom
  • Patent number: 8992370
    Abstract: Infinitely variable motion control (IVMC) provides motion control without any requirement for changing gears or use of a clutch. A spur gear transgear, defined as a system having an input, an output and a control, a variable pitch cam having an eccentric inner and outer cam assembly and a driver may be used to form a speed converter. The speed converter is used in various forms to provide an infinitely variable transmission, a differential, embodiments of wind and river turbines and pumps/compressors. In one embodiment, the speed converter drives first and second directional control assemblies to provide a vehicle with zero turn radius. Various embodiments of an infinitely variable pump or compressor are described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Differential Dynamics Corporation
    Inventor: Kyung Soo Han
  • Patent number: 8992371
    Abstract: A planetary gear train of an automatic transmission for a vehicle include: an input shaft; an output shaft; a first compound planetary gear set combining first and second planetary gear sets and firstly changing torque input through one input path and two variable input paths into six speeds; a second compound planetary gear set combining third and fourth planetary gear sets, secondly changing the six speeds a rotation speed of the input shaft input through one variable input path into eleven forward speeds and reverse speed, and finally outputting the changed rotation speed; and friction members including clutches interposed between two rotation shafts or between a rotation shaft and the input shaft, and brakes interposed between a rotation shaft and a transmission housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventors: Hyu Tae Shim, Jinseok Kim, Kangsoo Seo, Jin Hee Lee, Myonghoon Noh
  • Patent number: 8992372
    Abstract: A transmission has an input member, an output member, at least four planetary gear sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. Each of the planetary gear sets includes first, second and third members. The coupling members continuously interconnect a member of the first, second, third and fourth planetary gear sets with another member of the first, second, third and fourth planetary gear sets. The torque transmitting devices include clutches and brakes selectively engageable to interconnect at least one of the first, second and third members with at least one other of the first, second, third members and a stationary member and are actuatable in combinations of three to establish a plurality of forward gear ratios and one reverse gear ratio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, LLC
    Inventors: Edward W. Mellet, James M. Hart, Andrew W. Phillips
  • Patent number: 8992373
    Abstract: A multi-gear transmission of a vehicle having a housing in which four planetary gearsets and a plurality of shafts and shifting elements are arranged. The drive input shaft can couple the sun gears of gearsets (RS1, RS3) and the carrier of gearset (RS1) and can be connected indirectly to the carrier of gearset (RS2). The drive output shaft couples the ring gear of gearset (RS4) and is connected directly or can be indirectly connected to the carrier of gearset (RS3), the sun gear and carrier of gearset (RS1) and the sun gear of gearset (RS4) can be connected to the housing. The ring gear of gearset (RS1) couples the carrier of gearset (RS4) and can be or is connected to the sun gear of gearset (RS2), and the ring gear of gearset (RS2) and the ring gear of gearset (RS3) are, or can be, connected to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Stefan Beck, Christian Sibla, Wolfgang Rieger
  • Patent number: 8992374
    Abstract: An automatic transmission includes an input shaft, first, second, third, and fourth planetary gear sets, a plurality of engagement mechanisms, and an output member. The input shaft is rotatably supported inside a transmission case to be rotated by a driving force received from a drive source. The first, second, third, and fourth planetary gear sets are arranged in sequence along an axis line of the input shaft and each include three elements having a sun gear, a carrier, and a ring gear. The plurality of engagement mechanisms each releasably connect two of the three elements with each other or releasably connect one of the three elements to the transmission case. The output member is disposed on outer circumferences of the second and third planetary gear sets and connected to the ring gear of one of the second and third planetary gear sets to output rotation of the input shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Mariko Shibamura, Soichi Sugino, Kohei Iizuka
  • Patent number: 8992375
    Abstract: The invention relates to a drive pawl within a bicycle transmission, wherein at least one torque transmission path extends from an input side to an output side across the same, and that has allocated thereto, relative to a first component supporting said pawl, a rotatable ring part, which interacts with the pawl for the alternate activation and deactivation of the pawl.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: SRAM, LLC
    Inventors: Joachim Göbel, Wolfram Frank
  • Patent number: 8992376
    Abstract: A power transmission device includes first and second rings arranged opposite each other, having a common rotation center axis, and rotatable relative to each other; a plurality of planetary balls having rotation center axes parallel to the rotation center axis, and radially arranged between the first and second rings and around the rotation center axis; a transmission control unit configured to change a rotation ratio between the first and second rings by changing the respective contact points of the first and second rings and each of the planetary balls through tilting motion of each of the planetary balls; and a rotation restricting unit disposed between the planetary balls adjacent to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Hiroyuki Ogawa, Akira Murakami, Daisuke Tomomatsu, Takahiro Shiina
  • Patent number: 8992377
    Abstract: A control device controls a vehicle drive device including an input member connected to and driven by an internal combustion engine; an intermediate member connected to and driven by a rotating electrical machine; an output member connected to and driven by a wheel; a first engagement device provided between the input member and the intermediate member; and the second engagement device provided between the intermediate member and the output member. The rotating electrical machine generates power while the first engagement device is directly engaged, and has a differential rotation control region wherein the first engagement device is moved from direct engagement to slipping engagement and the second engagement device is moved from disengagement to slipping engagement during special takeoff control, which controls the vehicle so as to take off while the second engagement device is disengaged and the rotating electrical machine is generating power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Aisin AW Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yasuhiko Kobayashi
  • Patent number: 8992378
    Abstract: A vehicle powertrain includes a first rotatable member and a second rotatable member. A clutch has an engaged state in which torque is transferred between the first rotatable member and the second rotatable member through the clutch. The clutch has a disengaged state in which torque is not transferred between the first rotatable member and the second rotatable member through the clutch. A clutch actuator includes a motor-generator that has a rotor rotatably drivable by one of the first rotatable member and the second rotatable member, and has a stator powerable to rotatably drive the rotor relative to said one of the first rotatable member and the second rotatable member. A controller is operatively connected to the stator and is configured to control the motor-generator to function as a generator to provide torque on the rotor. The motor-generator provides electrical power to a vehicle component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Alan G. Holmes, Anthony L. Smith, Anthony J. Corsetti
  • Patent number: 8992379
    Abstract: A hybrid drivetrain for a motor vehicle includes an automated mechanical transmission (AMT) having an output shaft. The drivetrain includes an alternative energy source including a motor and an energy storage unit and two torque transfer arrangements. The first transfer arrangement is separate from engageable gear sets of the AMT for transferring torque from the output shaft to a motor when the energy storage unit is being charged and for transferring torque from the motor to the output shaft when the energy storage unit is being discharged. Additionally, an alternative energy source clutch for selectively coupling the first torque transfer arrangement to the output shaft is included. The second torque transfer arrangement is for transferring torque from the output shaft to a driven axle of the motor vehicle. At least one of the first and second torque transfer arrangements has different first and second torque transfer ratios.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Robert L. Isaacs, Benjamin M. Hoxie
  • Patent number: 8992380
    Abstract: A vehicle control device for controlling a vehicle with an oil pump to be driven by rotation generated by a drive source and transmitted thereto and a continuously variable transmission including a power transmission member mounted between two pulleys includes coast stop control means configured to execute a coast stop control in which the drive source is stopped during vehicle running when a predetermined condition holds, and hydraulic pressure control means configured to execute a pulley pressure control in which a hydraulic pressure supplied to the pulley is increased such that frictional heat generated between the pulley and the power transmission member does not exceed upper limit frictional heat, below which the pulley or the power transmission member is not degraded, when the coast stop control is stopped, the drive source is restarted and the hydraulic pressure is supplied from the oil pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: JATCO Ltd
    Inventor: Keichi Tatewaki
  • Patent number: 8992381
    Abstract: The control device comprises an upshifting prohibiting portion for prohibiting the upshifting of the plurality of speed change stages, an engine rotation speed maintaining portion for maintaining an engine rotation speed to a predetermined rotation speed, an engine maximum torque value recording portion for recording a maximum torque value of the engine and an upshifting prohibition releasing portion for releasing an upshifting prohibition by the upshifting prohibiting portion when a differential torque value which is a difference between the maximum torque value of the engine recorded by the engine maximum torque value recording portion and a current engine torque value is greater than a predetermined torque value when the upshifting of the plurality of speed change stages is prohibited by the upshifting prohibiting portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignees: Aisin Seiki Kabushiki Kaisha, Aisin Technical Center of America, Inc.
    Inventors: Naochika Oda, Tomohiro Nagato, Jesse O'Neill
  • Patent number: 8992382
    Abstract: In a control apparatus for an automatic transmission in which a read-ahead vehicle speed which is a future vehicle speed is estimated on a basis of an acceleration and an actual vehicle speed and a gear shift control is carried out on a basis of the read-ahead vehicle speed and other driving parameters, a start of an up-shift is inhibited even if a determination of the up-shift is made for a predetermined time after a down-shift in a coast state has occurred and executing the up-shift after the predetermined time is elapsed. Consequently, while an unpleasant feeling given to a driver is suppressed, an appropriate gear shift is executable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: JATCO Ltd
    Inventors: Katsuhiro Matsuo, Shunsuke Ogasawara
  • Patent number: 8992383
    Abstract: The invention relates to an exercise apparatus (1), which has a running surface or a sitting surface (9), provided with a holding arrangement for the exercising person. The holding arrangement has a crossbar (6). In order for the exercising person to be able to carry out writing work on a computer (20) during exercise, a keyboard (7, 8) is arranged in such a way that the keyboard lies on the side of the bar (6) facing away from the running surface or sitting surface (9). In particular, the keyboard is also tilted downward. Said arrangement of the keyboard enables physical exercise and writing work to be carried out at the same time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Inventor: Eric Bilang
  • Patent number: 8992384
    Abstract: A training apparatus includes a training machine, a detecting unit, a signal generating unit, and a control unit. The training machine includes a displaceable part that is movable in response to exercise motions performed by the exerciser during training exercise. The detecting unit detects the displacement of the displaceable part or detects the displacement of the target training area of the exerciser resulting from the exercise motions. The signal generating unit generates a stimulus signal to be applied to the exerciser during the training exercise. The control unit corrects a content of processing relating to stimulus signal performed by the signal generating unit based on the displacement detected by the detecting unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: System Instruments Co., Ltd
    Inventors: Kazuyuki Hamada, Takeshi Akiba, Hiroshi Yokoi
  • Patent number: 8992385
    Abstract: Machines, apparatuses, systems and methods for providing adjustable tension to a cable system using a pivotally mounted leverage mechanism that employs an adjustably positionable weight. Embodiments are used in exercise and other muscle strengthening devices, and may include an electronic control system for monitoring, recording a user's progress, and for altering or releasing tension to the cable system based on feedback from the user. Embodiments include a user interface for inputting information for particular exercises or workouts, as well as outputting/downloading information following exercises or workouts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Personal Trainer, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert F. Lemos
  • Patent number: 8992386
    Abstract: The competitor starting device in a sports competition is a starting block device. It includes one rear base for holding the device on a competition surface, a force detection sensor connected to a processing circuit, and two starting blocks for competitor's feet. Each block is adjustably mounted on a longitudinal bar, which is connected to the base and activates the sensor to determine a response time at the competition start. The longitudinal bar is connected to an H-shaped structure having two strips, spaced apart. The strip ends are rigidly connected to an immobile portion of the rear base, while a central bar connecting the strips is secured to the rear end of the longitudinal bar. When a force is applied to the block(s), the central bar is pushed in one direction via the bending of the strips to activate the sensor to determine a response time at the competition start.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Swiss Timing
    Inventors: André Zanetta, Cédric Grimm, Reto Galli
  • Patent number: 8992387
    Abstract: An embodiment of an exercise system includes an exercise monitoring device that gathers data regarding an outdoor exercise routine. Additionally, a remote communication system communicatively connectable to the exercise monitoring device is receptive to the data regarding the outdoor exercise routine such that the remote communication system generates an exercise program based on the data regarding the outdoor exercise routine. Furthermore, an exercise device that is communicatively connectable to the remote communication system may receive the exercise program and simulate one or more aspects of the outdoor exercise routine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: ICON Health & Fitness, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott R. Watterson, Mark Watterson
  • Patent number: 8992388
    Abstract: The present invention relates to playground equipment and, more particularly, to a playground apparatus incorporating modular construction, which permits rapid simplified assembly, modification and universal arrangement of playground equipment modules without tools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Gym-Mark, Inc.
    Inventors: Jay Beckwith, Hap Parker
  • Patent number: 8992389
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus providing a base having a top surface and a bottom surface, wherein the top surface is smooth and planar. The top surface includes a first plurality of apertures arranged in a circular pattern having a first diameter, and a second plurality of apertures arranged in a circular pattern having a second diameter. A plurality of repositional stops are further provided including mounting posts for securing the repositional stops within any of the first and second plurality of apertures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Inventors: Christianna Abel, David H. Armet
  • Patent number: 8992390
    Abstract: A method of taking a sliding exercise, which is taken on a training machine and the training machine has two pedals, includes the steps of: a) putting feet on the pedals; and b) reciprocating the feet in opposite directions or in the same direction. The feet respectively move in a curved path on a substantial horizontal plane. Therefore, the use's feet reciprocate forward/rearward and split to train user's muscles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Ucheer Health Tech Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Larry Chen, Kuo-Chen Lin
  • Patent number: 8992391
    Abstract: A modular sizing fit cycle, having an enclosed, acoustically dampened transmission, and calibrated height and angle adjusters, each designed to fit an individual to a bicycle according to specific measurements attained during a controlled ride. The sizing fit cycle is highly portable, having distinct pieces that facilitate portability. Additionally, the sizing fit cycle is preferably equipped with a quiet, chain and bell-driven transmission at the rear, facilitating accurate measurements via a load generator and providing a realistic simulation of a stable cycling session.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Seastrom Manufacturing Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Seastrom, Ryan Capell
  • Patent number: 8992392
    Abstract: Exercise apparatus and method with selectively variable stabilization enabling a user to progressively increase his/her core body muscular strength. In various embodiments, the exercise apparatus includes a resistance cabling system providing a user defined line of motion, and a partial stabilizer pad being adjustably positionable offset from the line of motion, wherein the user's core body is positionable against the pad and required to resist the torque created by the offset. The user can progressively increase the distance between the line of motion and partial stabilizer pad, in order to progressively increase the force which the user's core body must resist to maintain an upright stature. In this way, the user can progressively, over time, increase his or her core body strength.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Cybex International, Inc.
    Inventors: Raymond Giannelli, Scott Lee, Arnold Gillen
  • Patent number: 8992393
    Abstract: A change of direction machine provides training for various muscles and body structures of a user. In one embodiment, the machine provides focused training for the muscles and body structures associated with making changes in the body's direction. The machine may comprise a pivoting arm assembly supported by a structure. The arm assembly may be configured to provide a resistance such that when a user engages the arm assembly a downward resistance may be applied to the user. The user may engage the arm assembly with his or her upper body and perform training or exercises involving lifting and lowering the user's body, moving laterally, or both. The machine may have various adjustable components to fit a user and to provide the desired resistance to the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: GRAA Innovations, LLC
    Inventor: Gil Reyes
  • Patent number: 8992394
    Abstract: A barbell support safely assists with adding and removing weight plates between exercises. The barbell support provides leverage and stability for manipulating weight plates on the barbell. An embodiment of the barbell support has at least one cradle, a leverage handle, and at least one pivot foot. The cradle or cradles are capable of supporting and balancing a barbell. The cradles may be tilted forward using the leverage handle to lower the cradle below the height of the barbell comprising weight plates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Inventors: Kerry Mitchell, Eric Jordan
  • Patent number: 8992395
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus is provided including a board and a pull-up bar integrated with a detachable barbell and dumbbell. The apparatus may be used for body weight exercise, such as pull-ups, when the mount is installed in a doorway or other suitable location. The detachable barbell and dumbbell functionality may be used for free weight exercise when detached from the mount. The mount may serve as a rack for holding the detachable barbell and dumbbell functionality when not in use for free weight exercise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Obidi Orakwasi
    Inventor: Obidi Orakwusi
  • Patent number: 8992396
    Abstract: An adjustable barbell or dumbbell or exercise device includes a handle having an end member, a spring biased latching element engaged in the end member, a weight member attached onto the end member and having an aperture for engaging with the spring biased latching element and for anchoring the weight member to the end member, a button is slidably engaged in the weight member for selectively depressing the spring biased latching element into the end member and for disengaging the spring biased latching element from the weight member and for allowing the weight member to be engaged onto and disengaged from the end member of the handle. The other outer weight members are attachable onto the weight member in series.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Beto Engineering & Marketing Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Lo Pin Wang
  • Patent number: 8992397
    Abstract: To ensure easy and secure placement of a belt for KAATSU muscle training on a target compressed site near the proximal portion of a limb. A belt 100B has a longer first band-shaped member 110 and a shorter second band-shaped member 120 both of which have a band shape and are connected to a ring-shaped joint member 130 at their respective ends. In order to place the belt 100B on the target compressed site, the limb (right leg in this case) on which the belt 100B is expected to be placed is inserted into a loop of the first band-shaped member 110 formed by passing the end of the first band-shaped member 110 through an opening in the joint member 130, and the belt is moved up to the target compressed site. Then, the first band-shaped member 110 and the second band-shaped member 120 are pulled with both hands in the opposite directions. The belt 100B is placed on the target compressed site with the belt 100B being tensioned appropriately.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Kaatsu Japan Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yoshiaki Sato
  • Patent number: 8992398
    Abstract: An exercise device includes at least first and second weighted toning rings, at least one resistance cord and at least first and second clips. The first and second weighted toning rings each have a toroidal shape, an inner periphery, an outer periphery and a hook that extends outwardly from the outer periphery. The at least one resistance cord has a first end and a second end. The first clip attaches the first end of the at least one resistance cord to the hook of the first weighted toning ring and the second clip attaches the second end of the at least one resistance cord to the hook of the second weighted toning ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Inventor: Kim Marie Ross
  • Patent number: 8992399
    Abstract: A resistance training apparatus and method for providing multiple training vectors having points of origin variable by direction and elevation to a trainee. The apparatus may accommodate multiple trainees and provide multiple training vectors to each trainee. The apparatus provides the training vectors by attaching tethers such as elastic cords to harnesses worn around body portions of an athlete in a configuration that allows the athlete to perform a sports-specific or therapeutic movement at an optimum speed. The apparatus may include a base forming the training area and a pair of tower assemblies, each providing elastic cords for attachment to the harnesses worn by the athlete. In another embodiment training vectors are provided to patients or trainees who cannot fully support their own body weight. The elastic cords are independently adjustable such that balanced or unbalanced loading may be applied simultaneously to a trainee from multiple directions and planes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Inventor: Michael A. Wehrell
  • Patent number: 8992400
    Abstract: In a machine and a method for manufacturing composite filters (F1, F2) for cigarettes or the like, a feed conveyor (S) supplies filter groups (G1, G2) in pairs to two respective feed lines (L1, L2) of a station (16) for forming two continuous filter rods (B1, B2); the machine (100) comprises at least one transfer device (DT) by which the filter groups (G1, G2) are taken up from the feed conveyor (S) and directed along the feed lines (L1, L2), and at least one release device (R), operating along the two feed lines (L1, L2), by which the two filter groups (G1, G2) are taken up from the transfer device (DT) and released in phase one with another along the selfsame feed lines (L1, L2); the rate at which the filter groups (G1, G2) are released by the release device (R) is governed according to the phase value of at least one of the continuous filter rods (B1, B2) relative to the cyclic cutting operation whereby the two filter rods (B1, B2) are cut transversally to make the composite filters (F1, F2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: G.D S.p.A.
    Inventors: Mario Righetti, Alberto Stagni, Massimo Sartoni
  • Patent number: 8992401
    Abstract: A machine for making covered paper or cardboard boxes which have a curvilinear outline comprises means for forming a curvilinear box (6) and a covering station (R) operating in conjunction with means for the linear feed of a pre-glued covering sheet (12), in such a way that the sheet (12) is connected to the outer wall of the box (6).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Emmeci S.p.A.
    Inventor: Gino Bassi
  • Patent number: 8992402
    Abstract: A disposable blood separation set and a centrifugal blood processing system comprising a blood processing chamber adapted to be mounted on a rotor of a centrifuge; a frustro-conical cell separation chamber in fluid communication with the processing chamber, the cell separation chamber having an inlet, and outlet and a side tap outlet adjacent the inlet. The inlet may protrude into the cell separation chamber forming a circumferential well surrounding the protruding inlet. The side tap outlet may connect to the well. The set and system comprise means for selectively drawing fluid from either the outlet or the side tap outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Terumo BCT, Inc.
    Inventor: Brian M. Holmes
  • Patent number: 8992403
    Abstract: A cartridge (1) for accommodating blood bags (35) to be inserted into a centrifuge is used for the separation of blood components. Said cartridge (1) is provided with a partition wall (3) which separates a blood bag section (5) positioned radially inside from a product section (7) positioned radially outside, wherein a fixture (29) for a filter (31) is provided in the product section (7), a product transport path (36) which leads from the blood bag section (5) via the fixture (29) for the filter (31) to the product section (7). The product transport path (36) coming from the blood bag section (5) leads into the fixture (29) for the filter (31) radially from the outside and from below.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignees: Terumo BCT, Inc., Andreas Hettich GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Klaus-GĂĽnter Eberle, Roland Biset
  • Patent number: 8992404
    Abstract: Disclosed are radiation treatment systems with enhanced control architectures that enable more complex treatment plans to be implemented, and radiation treatment systems with enhanced resistance to the effect of neutrons. An exemplary control architectures comprises: a digital packet network; a supervisor electrically coupled to the digital packet network and having a treatment plan; and a plurality of nodes, each node coupled to digital packet network and controlling one or more treatment-related components of the radiation treatment system; and wherein the supervisor periodically communicates control orders to the nodes over the digital packet network.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Varian Medical Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Andres Graf, Hanspeter Felix, Qingxiang Ke, Angi Ye
  • Patent number: 8992405
    Abstract: A system for automatic segmentation of tumor tissue, useful for motion correction during radiotherapy using real-time imaging, identifies multiple regions based on the values of data and then identifies the tumors within the regions based on a priori knowledge about tumor size and/or location. The regions may be refined with robust and fast morphological operations, providing segmentation at speeds commensurate with the motion to be corrected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation
    Inventors: Venkata Veerendranadh Chebrolu, Bhudatt R. Paliwal
  • Patent number: 8992406
    Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed including: a cannula having a shape closely matched to the anatomy of the right ventricle of the human heart, where the cannula has an outflow port configured to be located proximal the pulmonary artery and an inflow port located proximal the inferior vena cava. In some embodiments, the cannula is a close fit to the anatomy of at least 90%, 95%, or more of the population.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Abiomed, Inc.
    Inventor: Scott C. Corbett
  • Patent number: 8992407
    Abstract: A blood pump (26) includes a stator assembly (122) that includes a motor stator, a fluid inlet (24), and a fluid outlet (26). A rotor assembly (120) includes a motor rotor (54) and an impeller (40) rotatable about an axis (44) to move fluid from the inlet (24) to the outlet (26). A permanent magnet radial bearing (100) supports the rotor assembly for rotation about the axis (44). The radial bearing (100) includes a permanent magnet radial bearing stator (106) fixed to the stator assembly (122) and a permanent magnet radial bearing rotor (108) fixed to the rotor assembly (120). The radial bearing (100) is configured such that the radial bearing stator magnets (106) and the radial bearing rotor magnets (108) are axially offset from each other when the pump is at rest.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: The Cleveland Clinic Foundation
    Inventors: William A. Smith, Markus Lorenz, David Dudzinski, Hsiang Ming Chen, Peter A. Chapman, Jr., Charles J. Prisco, Nicholas G. Vitale, Stephan Weber
  • Patent number: 8992408
    Abstract: A system for assisting the right heart of a patient includes a PA cannula adapted for insertion into a PA of a patient through the right internal jugular vein of the patient. The system includes a percutaneous RA cannula adapted for insertion into an RA of the patient. The system includes a blood pump disposed outside of the patient to which the RA cannula and the PA cannula are connected to provide right ventricular circulatory support to the patient without any left ventricular assist. A method for assisting the right heart of a patient includes the steps of inserting a PA cannula into a PA of a patient. There is the step of inserting an RA cannula into an RA of the patient. There is the step of connecting the RA cannula and the PA cannula to a blood pump disposed outside of the patient. There is the step of activating the blood pump to provide right ventricular circulatory support to assist the heart of the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: CardiacAssist, Inc.
    Inventors: James A. Magovern, Scott B. Allison, Royce G. Barraclough, James R. Revenaugh, Douglas E. Smith, David H. J. Wang
  • Patent number: 8992409
    Abstract: There is provided a method for controlling a flow of fluid and/or other bodily matter in a lumen formed by a tissue wall of a patient's organ. The method comprises gently constricting (i.e., without substantially hampering the blood circulation in the tissue wall) at least one portion of the tissue wall to influence the flow in the lumen, and stimulating the constricted wall portion to cause contraction of the wall portion to further influence the flow in the lumen. The method can be used for restricting or stopping the flow in the lumen, or for actively moving the fluid in the lumen, with a low risk of injuring the organ. Such an organ may be the esophagus, stomach, intestines, urine bladder, urethra, ureter, renal pelvis, aorta, corpus cavernosum, exit veins of erectile tissue, uterine tube, vas deferens or bile duct, or a blood vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Inventor: Peter Forsell
  • Patent number: 8992410
    Abstract: A urological device comprises a urological valve for location in the bladder of a patient and a valve support stem for location in the urethra of a patient. The valve has a normally closed configuration to prevent flow from the bladder and an open configuration for fluid flow through the valve. The valve is automatically movable from the closed configuration to the open configuration in response to a pre-set hydrodynamic pressure applied for a pre-set time. In one case the valve has a plurality of valve leaflets with a region of co-aption between the valve leaflets. In the normally closed configuration the valve leaflets are engaged at the region of co-aption and in the open configuration the leaflets are separated at the co-aption region for fluid flow through the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Vysera Biomedical Limited
    Inventor: Niall Behan
  • Patent number: 8992411
    Abstract: Described are methods, devices, and systems related to pelvic implants, including implants that include absorbable and non-absorbable materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: AMS Research Corporation
    Inventors: Edouard A. Koullick, Balkrishna S. Jadhav, Robert C. Grant
  • Patent number: 8992412
    Abstract: Method and system for treating a patient using an inflatable device. A removal device may be used to remove the inflatable device from the body. The removal device can have at least one manually-actuatable member and at least two opposing jaws at a distal end. At least one of the at least two jaws can be movable by actuation of the at least one manually-actuatable member. At least one of the at least two jaws can have a puncturing member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: AttenueX Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Ryan J. Cahill, John Gillespie, Jr., Peter Dayton, Kevin G. Connors
  • Patent number: 8992413
    Abstract: A microwave antenna including a feedline, a radiating section, an inflow hypotube, a puck, a transition collar and a sleeve. The feedline includes a coaxial cable including an inner and outer conductor, and a dielectric disposed therebetween. The radiating section includes a dipole antenna coupled to the feedline and a trocar coupled to the distal end of the dipole antenna. The inflow hypotube is disposed around the outer conductor and configured to supply fluid to the radiating portion. The puck includes at least two ribs with inflow slots defined between two adjacent ribs. The transition collar is coupled to the distal end of the inflow hypotube and the first end of the puck. The transition collar includes at least two outflow slots configured to receive fluid from a distal end of the inflow hypotube and to transition the fluid from the outflow slots to a distal end of the radiating section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Kenlyn S. Bonn, Darion R. Peterson, Joseph D. Brannan
  • Patent number: 8992414
    Abstract: Improved methods and apparatuses for treatment of pelvic organ prolapse are provided. A specialized mesh having a shape for effective placement via the ischiorectal fossa is provided, as is a method of use of such a device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: AMS Research Corporation
    Inventor: Alton V. Hallum
  • Patent number: 8992415
    Abstract: An implantable device used in a gastric band system includes an access port, a tube coupled to the access port, and a shielding device covering a portion of the tube. The shielding device is positioned adjacent to the access port and covers the end of the tube coupled to the access port. The shielding device is made from a puncture resistant material, to protect the tube from puncture by a misplaced syringe needle inserted by a physician.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Apollo Endosurgery, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher R. Deuel, Jason B. Jacquet, Babak Honaryar, Marcos Borrell
  • Patent number: 8992416
    Abstract: An endoscope storage cabinet for use with at least one endoscope having at least one signal emitting member associated therewith and configured to emit a signal indicative of at least one attribute of the at least one endoscope to which it is associated, the cabinet including: an enclosed structure formed by a plurality of walls defining an inner area which is accessible by at least one door; at least one hanger arrangement configured to support at least a portion of at least one endoscope positioned thereon; at least one signal receiving device associated with the enclosed structure and configured to receive the signal emitted by the at least one signal emitting member; and a local control device in communication with the at least one signal receiving device and configured to receive and process the signal emitted by the at least one signal emitting member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Mobile Aspects, Inc.
    Inventors: Suneil Mandava, Timur P. Sriharto, Gino N. Iasella, Khang Nguyen Le, Pribadi Kardono, Hansen Brenkus, Muhammad R. Rahim, Jared Kiah Frye, Prasad Venkata Lakshmi Mandava, Balaji Rengeswamy
  • Patent number: 8992417
    Abstract: An endoscope collar for use with an endoscope. The endoscope collar comprising a main portion comprising a proximal end that detachably couples to an end of the endoscope and a collar protrusion extending from the main portion. The collar protrusion is configured to be removably located within the aperture of a tube (e.g., a feeding tube).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: The Regents of the University of California
    Inventors: Peter C. Belafsky, Robert J. Stinauer
  • Patent number: 8992418
    Abstract: A video recording and image capture device for documenting surgical procedures that includes a main board for executing a plurality of software, a multimedia interface operable to receive a video signal and process it into an MPEG layer stream, the video interface connected on a first bus to the main board, a hard drive to record an MPEG layer stream as a file, an optical media drive to write an MPEG layer stream as a file, the hard drive and the optical media drive operably connected on a second bus, the bus being vertically stacked and connected to the main board, and a touchscreen interactive for user control, connected to the main board on a second bus to control the video interface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Karl Storz Imaging, Inc.
    Inventor: Bruce L. Kennedy