Patents Issued in December 24, 2015
  • Publication number: 20150366422
    Abstract: A novel hazardous liquid recovery system provides a portable vacuum recovery into multiple storage containers, each associated with particular liquid. The system is computer controlled and measures and records recovered liquid volume simultaneous with the recovery event. Multiple different hazardous liquids, including different flammable hydrocarbons, fuels, and oils can be recovered by a single unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2015
    Publication date: December 24, 2015
    Inventor: John Hoce
  • Publication number: 20150366423
    Abstract: A slide shoe is detachably mounted on the underside of a cleaning head and has a hole congruent with the suction hole of the cleaning head. The slide shoe can be retrofitted to the cleaning head of an already existing floor vacuum cleaner. On its underside, the slide shoe has a slide surface that can be moved easily over a soft carpet. At the same time, the slide shoe mounted on the underside of the cleaning head increases the distance between the bearing surface of the cleaning head and the brush roller compared to the bearing surface of the cleaning head without a slide shoe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2015
    Publication date: December 24, 2015
    Inventors: Klaus-Dieter RIEHL, Martin Zydke
  • Publication number: 20150366424
    Abstract: A nozzle pipe is to be coupled to a distal open end of an air blow-off tube of a blower apparatus for regulating the profile of an airflow blown out from the blow-off tube. The nozzle pipe comprises an outer tubular member and an inner tubular member coaxially disposed within the outer tubular member. The inner tubular member has a circumferential wall formed with apertures allowing air passage therethrough. The outer tubular member and the inner tubular member provides a first space therebetween to form a first air passage, while the inner tubular member provides a second space therein to form a second air passage. A plurality of rectifier fins are disposed inward from the outer tubular member, standing radially and extending longitudinally, and spaced apart circumferentially from each other. The fins extend inclined at an angle with reference to the longitudinal central axis of the tubular members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2015
    Publication date: December 24, 2015
    Applicant: MAKITA CORPORATION
    Inventors: Shinsuke NAKA, Tomonobu NASHIMOTO, Yoshinori SHIBATA
  • Publication number: 20150366425
    Abstract: Provided is a vacuum cleaner. The vacuum cleaner includes a cleaner body including a suction motor for generating a suction force, a suction part communicating with the cleaner body to suction air and dusts, at least one battery disposed in the cleaner body or suction part to supply a power to the suction motor, and a controller controlling an operation of the suction motor. The controller control an output of the suction motor according to a voltage of the at least one battery.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 26, 2015
    Publication date: December 24, 2015
    Inventors: Changhoon Lee, Gunho Ha
  • Publication number: 20150366426
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for cleaning a surface. The apparatus includes a frame having wheels and a handle extending outwardly therefrom. A disc plate assembly is mounted on the frame for rotation about a first vertical axis and a nozzle assembly is mounted on the disc plate assembly for rotation about a second vertical axis. The disc plate assembly is rotated at a lower speed than the nozzle assembly. Separate pneumatically-operable motors drive the wheels, the disc plate assembly and nozzle assembly. A skirt extends downwardly from the frame and outwardly from nozzles on the nozzle assembly. The nozzles may be raised or lowered relative to the surface to be cleaned. Fluid is delivered from a fluid source to the nozzles and a vacuum port is provided on the frame to enable dirty fluid to be removed from a chamber bounded by the skirt.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2015
    Publication date: December 24, 2015
    Inventor: Terry D. Gromes, SR.
  • Publication number: 20150366427
    Abstract: To provide a cleaning tool exhibiting excellent cleaning effectiveness. The present invention relates to a cleaning tool comprising a cleaning sheet, and a holding tool for holding said cleaning sheet. The cleaning sheet is provided with: a brush part capable of cleaning an object to be cleaned; a base part; and insertion parts for the holding tool. The brush part is provided with a first contact region and a second contact region. The second contact region is provided with a lower region formed so as to be lower than the first contact region in the thickness direction. The lower region is used as a guide region capable of guiding dust on the object to be cleaned towards the adjacent first contact region.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2014
    Publication date: December 24, 2015
    Inventor: Tomokazu SUDA
  • Publication number: 20150366428
    Abstract: To provide a cleaning tool which, upon attachment of a cleaning body to a cleaning-body holder, feels good to use. The present invention relates to a cleaning tool comprising a holding tool for holding a cleaning sheet. In the present invention, a first extremity virtual line and a second extremity virtual line are formed. The first extremity virtual line is the shortest line linking a centre line in the length direction and a first extremity of a holding part. The second extremity virtual line is the shortest line linking the centre line in the length direction and a second extremity of a protruded part. The first extremity virtual line is formed so as to be longer than the second extremity virtual line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2014
    Publication date: December 24, 2015
    Inventors: Tomokazu SUDA, Satoshi HASEGAWA, Akane MATSUYO
  • Publication number: 20150366429
    Abstract: To provide a cleaning tool with which a cleaning sheet can be efficiently used during cleaning. The present invention relates to a cleaning tool comprising a holding tool for holding a cleaning sheet. In a state in which holding parts of the holding tool are inserted into insertion parts of the cleaning sheet, tension imparting parts of the holding parts impart tensile force on second regions of the cleaning sheet to form tension portions, and sheet members in the tension portions in a length-intersecting direction are moved in directions in which first regions are disposed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2014
    Publication date: December 24, 2015
    Inventors: Tomokazu SUDA, Satoshi HASEGAWA, Akane MATSUYO
  • Publication number: 20150366430
    Abstract: Bottle washer assemblies for dishwasher appliances are provided. A bottle washer assembly includes a supply conduit defining a main passage for flowing wash fluid therethrough. The bottle washer assembly further includes at least one spray tine. The at least one spray tine includes a conduit defining a passage for flowing wash fluid therethrough, the passage in fluid communication with the main passage, and a rotatable impeller disposed within the passage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2014
    Publication date: December 24, 2015
    Inventors: Christopher Brandon Ross, Kyle Edward Durham
  • Publication number: 20150366431
    Abstract: An automated mat system, including: a well structure; and a floor structure selectively disposed above the well structure, wherein the floor structure includes at least one oscillating region, at least one stationary region, and at least one vent region; wherein the at least one oscillating region is configured to clean dirt and debris from an object disposed on top of the floor structure opposite the well structure; and wherein the at least one vent region is configured to allow the dirt and debris to pass through the floor structure and into the well structure. The at least one oscillating region includes at least one brush tread strip, the at least one stationary region includes at least one carpet strip, and the at least one vent region includes at least one vent strip.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2014
    Publication date: December 24, 2015
    Applicant: EMEH, Inc.
    Inventor: Wade Jeffrey Brown, JR.
  • Publication number: 20150366432
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing an optical probe for use in ophthalmic procedures can comprise: positioning a ferrule within a proximal portion of a cannula, wherein an optical fiber extends at least partially through the ferrule towards an optical element disposed within a distal portion of the cannula; and coupling the cannula to the ferrule by applying laser energy to the cannula. An optical probe can be provided that includes a cannula including a proximal portion and a distal portion; a ferrule disposed within the proximal portion of the cannula, the cannula and the ferrule coupled together by engaged deformations in the cannula and the ferrule; and an optical fiber positioned at least partially within the optical probe, the optical fiber configured to receive a light from a light source and guide the light to an optical element positioned within the distal portion of the cannula.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2014
    Publication date: December 24, 2015
    Inventors: Alex Artsyukhovich, Dustin Bouch, Ron T. Smith
  • Publication number: 20150366433
    Abstract: The present invention provides a device for supporting and positioning an endoscope maneuvering system, the device connectable to a fixed support, the device comprising: a. a support mechanism releasably connectable to said endoscope maneuvering system; b. at least one movable arm comprising at least one first jointed connection to said support mechanism, said at least one movable arm adapted to position and orient said endoscope maneuvering system; and c. a base connector comprising at least one second jointed connection to said at least one movable arm, said base connector fixedly connectable to said fixed support; wherein said device is adapted to maintain said endoscope maneuvering system in a state of quasi-static dynamic equilibrium.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 8, 2014
    Publication date: December 24, 2015
    Applicant: M.S.T. MEDICAL SURGERY TECHNOLOGIES LTD
    Inventors: Gal ATAROT, Shlomi KARVAT
  • Publication number: 20150366434
    Abstract: An endoscope system having: an endoscope having: an endoscope insertion section wherein the endoscope defines a channel having a distal opening in the endoscope insertion section; and a first inductance element arranged to the channel, and configured to receive a high-frequency power to generate an AC magnetic field; and a treatment tool having: a treatment tool insertion section configured to be movably inserted in the channel; an electrically powered treatment device attached to the treatment tool insertion section; and a second inductance element arranged to the treatment tool insertion section, wherein the second inductance element is electrically connected to the electrically powered treatment device, and wherein the second inductance element is inductively coupled to the first inductance element such that the AC magnetic field induces an electromotive force to generate an induced current in the second inductance element to power the electrically powered treatment device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2015
    Publication date: December 24, 2015
    Applicant: OLYMPUS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Shoei TSURUTA, Yuta SUGIYAMA, Akira MATSUI
  • Publication number: 20150366435
    Abstract: A steering mechanism for a medical device that is configured for passing through the body cavities of a patient and for passage through an endoscope working channel is described. The mechanism comprises at least one spool having a central hole through which a central axle passes, the spool being rotatable about the axle, and the spool having at least one retaining tube having a lumen therethrough and configured to contain a portion of a drive cable. The drive cables, which may include UHMWPE, are capable of and are effective for deflecting the distal end of a catheter or endoscopic device, while preferably each being at least partially disposed through a retaining tube that is effective to prevent tangling or other binding of the cable(s).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2015
    Publication date: December 24, 2015
    Inventor: Michael Lee Williams
  • Publication number: 20150366436
    Abstract: A control mechanism for an endoscope (1) comprising a Bowden cable, the Bowden cable has an outer guide tube (9) having a first length between a proximal end and a distal end of said outer guide tube (9) and an inner pull-wire (15) having a second length between a proximal end and a distal end of said inner pull-wire (15). The second length is longer than the first length. The outer guide tube (9) comprises a first guide tube section (9?) and a second guide tube section, where said first guide tube section (9?) has plastic and elastic properties, which are different from the plastic and elastic properties of said second guide tube section (9?).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2013
    Publication date: December 24, 2015
    Inventor: Hans Henrik IUEL
  • Publication number: 20150366437
    Abstract: An optical cannula configured for implantation in biological tissue or other samples provides minimal invasiveness while accessing image deep structures within the sample. The cannula has a stabilizer portion that is used to affix the cannula to the sample, and an extension portion that protrudes into the sample and is either formed by, or contains, an optical probe that images a target area within the sample to an object image provided to an external optical device. The cannula has an integrated coupler portion that detachably connects to a connector of the external device, providing removable and interchangeable connection to external optical systems.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2014
    Publication date: December 24, 2015
    Inventors: Jonatan Labrie, Harold Dehez, Sead Doric
  • Publication number: 20150366438
    Abstract: Methods and a steering device for minimally invasive visualization surgery system are disclosed. In particular, the steering device configured for holding and positioning an image capturing device about a frame above a surgical site. The steering device including a curvilinear prismatic joint which may be operated by an end effector and a braking system including one or more sensors. In some embodiments, one or more electrical power mechanisms can be used to inhibit motion according to predetermined parameters can be included. A controller in logical communication with a database including said predetermined parameters (including, for example, ranges of motion for the curvilinear prismatic joint) may also be used to control the range of motion using the one or more electrical power mechanisms and/or the braking system. The braking system can include one or more of a frictional brake, a pumping brake, and an electromagnetic brake.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2015
    Publication date: December 24, 2015
    Applicant: VANTAGE SURGICAL SYSTEMS INC.
    Inventors: Jason Wilson, Vacit Arat
  • Publication number: 20150366439
    Abstract: A method of operating an endoscope by changing a magnetic field and controlling a feeding and a rotation synchronously comprises steps of: providing an endoscope, the endoscope including a magnetic section formed on a front end thereof, the magnetic section having a multi-section bending portion and a magnetic element; and setting a target position in a space. The method of operating the endoscope further comprises steps of: exerting a magnetic field on the magnetic element of the magnetic section, any one of a size, a direction, and a position of the magnetic field is allowed to be changed after exerting the magnetic field on the magnetic element of the magnetic section so that the magnetic element is guided by the magnetic field; and controlling the endoscope to feed or/and rotate based on the target position and a bendable direction of the multi-section bending portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2014
    Publication date: December 24, 2015
    Inventors: CHING-HSING LUO, MENG-DAR SHIEH, CHIEN-CHEN CHANG, MING-HUNG TSAI, HSIN-EN FANG, YI ZHANG, WEN-HORNG YANG, MING-CHANG SHIH, CHENG-CHI TAI
  • Publication number: 20150366440
    Abstract: A medical manipulation assembly comprises a sheath steerable in response to rotational movement of a sheath steering mechanism. The assembly also comprises a catheter extendable through the sheath. The catheter is steerable in response to rotational movement of a catheter steering mechanism. The sheath and catheter are independently steerable. The assembly also comprises a set of control wires. At least one of the sheath or the catheter includes a plurality of lumens with at least two of the plurality of lumens each sized for passage of one of the control wires of the set of control wires. The steerable catheter includes a working channel sized to receive a visualization instrument therethrough.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 2, 2015
    Publication date: December 24, 2015
    Inventors: Chris A. Rothe, David Miller, Vahid Saadat, Ruey-Feng Peh, Edmund Tam
  • Publication number: 20150366441
    Abstract: An endoscope system having: an endoscope having: an endoscope insertion section configured to be inserted into a subject, wherein the endoscope insertion section defines a channel having a distal opening; and a power transmission electrode arranged to the endoscope insertion section and electrically connected to a power source configured to output a high-frequency power; and a treatment tool having: an electrically powered treatment device; a treatment tool insertion section attached to the electrically powered treatment device, wherein the treatment tool insertion section is configured to be arranged in the channel of the endoscope; and a power reception electrode arranged to the treatment tool insertion section, wherein the power reception electrode is separated from the power transmission electrode to form a capacitor to transfer power from the power source through an electric field between the power transmission electrode and the power reception electrode to power the electrically powered treatment device
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 1, 2015
    Publication date: December 24, 2015
    Applicant: OLYMPUS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Shoei TSURUTA, Yuta SUGIYAMA, Akira MATSUI
  • Publication number: 20150366442
    Abstract: A video imaging system, and more particularly, a modular video imaging system having a control module connectable to multiple input modules. The input modules each capable of receiving differing types of image data from different types of cameras including stereoscopic camera configurations and processing the image data into a format recognizable by the control module. The control unit providing general functions such as user interface and general image processing that is not camera specific including the generation of a 3D image stream formed by combining two image streams.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2015
    Publication date: December 24, 2015
    Inventors: Marc R. Amling, Timothy King, Grant deGoede, Lisa Blake
  • Publication number: 20150366443
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods combine visible light output from two or more laser light sources emitting at different wavelengths to provide an illumination beam for illumination inside a human or animal body during a diagnostic or surgical procedure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 1, 2015
    Publication date: December 24, 2015
    Inventors: Thomas LIOLIOS, Michael Charles EAST
  • Publication number: 20150366444
    Abstract: An endoscope system includes a light source unit, a band limiting unit, a light source control unit, an imaging sensor, an imaging control unit, and an oxygen saturation image generation unit. The light source unit includes a V-LED that emits violet light, a B-LED that emits blue light, a G-LED that emits green light, and an R-LED that emits red light. The band limiting unit generates measurement light having a specific wavelength band for measuring the oxygen saturation from the blue light. The light source control unit switches the control of the light source unit between a first light emission mode, in which the observation target is irradiated with the violet light, the measurement light, the green light, and the red light, and a second light emission mode, in which the observation target is irradiated with the measurement light.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2015
    Publication date: December 24, 2015
    Applicant: FUJIFILM CORPORATION
    Inventors: Yoshinori MORIMOTO, Satoshi OZAWA
  • Publication number: 20150366445
    Abstract: The endoscope herein described has a unique steering capability allowing the highly flexible distal end of the shaft of the device to be moved to a full range angular positions without rotating the device on its long axis, thus enabling the device to be steered within the cavity of interest. The relative lengths of the control cables used to move the distal end of the bendable shaft can be changed whenever the flexible or malleable shaft is to be re-shaped to a new configuration thus preventing the distal end or the steering mechanism from assuming an undesired angular position. When used as an endotracheal device, a novel tongue retractor is described which forms an internal conduit, allowing passage of the bendable shaft of the endotracheal intubation device and an endotracheal tube therethrough. Methods for performing a tracheal intubation and changing the relative lengths of the cables are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2014
    Publication date: December 24, 2015
    Inventor: Richard P. Rutgers
  • Publication number: 20150366446
    Abstract: An ophthalmic surgical system can include a light source configured to generate a light beam and a filter wheel disposed between the light source and an intraocular illumination device. The filter wheel can include an unfiltered area, a first filtered area, and a second filtered area. The first and second filtered areas can limit transmission of certain wavelengths of the light beam to the intraocular illumination device. The system can include an actuator configured to selectively move the filter wheel to cause the light beam to pass through the unfiltered area, the first filtered area, and/or the second filtered area. The system can include a computing device configured to provide a control signal to the actuator. The computing device can be configured to provide a control signal to the actuator based on a beam location, a beam composition, an exposure time, and/or a limited visibility condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2014
    Publication date: December 24, 2015
    Inventors: Eyad Ammari, Steven T. Charles
  • Publication number: 20150366447
    Abstract: Various embodiments of an eye imaging apparatus can be used to image the posterior and/or anterior portions of the eye. In some embodiments, the eye imaging apparatus can comprise a light source, imaging optics, an image sensor, and a handgrip comprising a bump shaped to fit with a palm of an operator. In some embodiments, the eye imaging apparatus can comprise a light source, imaging optics, an image sensor, and a control button. The control button can comprise a multi-functional button and/or a control button activated by the index finger. In some embodiments, the eye imaging apparatus can comprise a housing structure comprising a double shell structure with an inner shell and an outer shell, which can be configured to facilitate heat management.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2014
    Publication date: December 24, 2015
    Inventors: Wei Su, Kang Lin
  • Publication number: 20150366448
    Abstract: An image processing apparatus includes a tomographic image acquisition unit configured to acquire a polarization-sensitive tomographic image of a subject, and an extraction unit configured to extract, from the polarization-sensitive tomographic image of the subject, a region in which a polarization state is scrambled.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 1, 2015
    Publication date: December 24, 2015
    Inventors: Yoshihiko Iwase, Tomoyuki Makihira, Makoto Sato, Kazuhide Miyata, Hiroyuki Shinbata, Ritsuya Tomita, Daisuke Kibe
  • Publication number: 20150366449
    Abstract: A method of determining a vertical location of a patient's eye includes receiving in a surgical console a location of a surgical tray coupled to the surgical console and calculating a vertical distance relative to a point based on the location of the surgical tray.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2014
    Publication date: December 24, 2015
    Inventor: TAKAYUKI AKAHOSHI
  • Publication number: 20150366450
    Abstract: A method of automatically detecting a retinal feature using an ophthalmic imaging system can include: acquiring an optical coherence tomography (OCT) image of a retina; segmenting the OCT image; generating a metric based on the segmented OCT image; detecting the retinal feature based on the metric; and providing an indication of the detected retinal feature to a user. An ophthalmic imaging system can include: an OCT system configured to acquire an image of a retina; a computing device coupled to the OCT system and configured to segment the image, generate a metric based on the segmented image, and detect a retinal feature based on the metric; and an audio/visual/tactile device in communication with the computing device and configured to provide at least one of an audio, visual, and tactile indication of the detected retinal feature to a user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2014
    Publication date: December 24, 2015
    Inventors: Hugang Ren, Lingfeng Yu
  • Publication number: 20150366451
    Abstract: According to embodiments of the present invention, an optical imaging device is provided. The optical imaging device includes an optics arrangement configured to generate an extended-source illumination pattern including a plurality of separate spectral bands, and to illuminate a respective section of a sample to be imaged with a respective spectral band of the plurality of separate spectral bands, wherein the optics arrangement is further configured to form an interference signal from a sample light comprising respective return lights from respective sections of the sample illuminated by respective spectral bands of the extended-source illumination pattern, and a reference light, and a detector configured to receive the interference signal for generating an image corresponding to the sections of the sample. According to further embodiments of the present invention, a method for imaging a sample and a method for generating an image are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2014
    Publication date: December 24, 2015
    Inventor: Linbo Liu
  • Publication number: 20150366452
    Abstract: An image processing apparatus includes an information acquiring unit configured to acquire information indicating a shape of a plurality of regions in at least one layer in a tomographic image including a plurality of layers in an eye fundus of an eye to be examined and a determination unit configured to determine whether an anomaly is present in the plurality of regions based on the information indicating the shape.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2015
    Publication date: December 24, 2015
    Inventor: Yoshihiko Iwase
  • Publication number: 20150366453
    Abstract: A measurement probe is configured to be detachably attached to an optical measurement apparatus. The measurement probe has at an end surface thereof exit ends of a plurality of optical fibers. The optical measurement apparatus includes: an imaging unit that receives rays of light transmitted from the exit ends of the plurality of optical fibers and performs photoelectric conversion in order to generate and output an electric signal; and a partition unit that optically isolates paths for the rays of light transmitted from the exit ends of the plurality of optical fibers, from one another in a space from the end surface to a light reception surface of the imaging unit. The partition unit comes into contact with the end surface at one end of the partition unit, and comes into contact with the light reception surface of the imaging unit at another end of the partition unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 1, 2015
    Publication date: December 24, 2015
    Inventors: Seiki TORIYAMA, Nobuaki AKUI
  • Publication number: 20150366454
    Abstract: Examples of a spectroscopy system with a specially design ambient illumination system are disclosed. The ambient illumination system comprises one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs) that provide illumination light in the wavelength of 400-785 nm. The ambient illumination system can further comprise a filter to block light above 785 nm. The filter can be placed directly in front of LED emitters. The LEDs can be white LEDs or RGB LEDs. The spectroscopy system can further comprise a control system that can receive a signal from the spectral probe when the spectral measurements commence and can instantaneously send a signal to automatically switch off the ambient illumination system and to receive a signal from the spectral probe when the spectral measurements are terminated and automatically switch on the ambient illumination system. Examples of methods of operating the spectroscopy system and the ambient illumination system are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2014
    Publication date: December 24, 2015
    Inventors: Haishan ZENG, Jianhua ZHAO, Michael SHORT, Thomas Andrew BRAUN
  • Publication number: 20150366455
    Abstract: The present invention relates to remote photoplethysmography and in particular to a system (1) and method for determining vital sign information of a subject (100). The system comprises a filter (10) for application to a detection unit, said filter further comprising a first filter area (11) configured to transmit light (A) at a first wavelength and a second filter area (12) configured to transmit light (D) at a second wavelength, the detection unit (22) for detecting radiation received from the first filter area and from the second filter area of the filter, and an analysis unit (6) for determining the vital sign information of the subject from the detected radiation from the first filter area and from the second filter area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2014
    Publication date: December 24, 2015
    Inventor: Rick BEZEMER
  • Publication number: 20150366456
    Abstract: The present invention provides a pulse wave velocity measurement method and system as well as an imaging device available for everyday use by general users at low cost with measurement accuracy less affected by posture or the like. The present invention simultaneously images different parts of a human body in a non-contact state by a single visible light camera and acquires continuous time series image data. Then, the present invention detects each pulse wave from the image data in the different parts of the human body based on a temporal change in pixel value of the different parts of the human body, and then calculates a pulse wave velocity of the human body based on a time difference between the pulse waves in the different parts of the human body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2015
    Publication date: December 24, 2015
    Applicants: FUJIFILM CORPORATION, TOHOKU UNIVERSITY, NATIONAL UNIVERSITY CORPORATION FUKUSHIMA UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Tetsuya TAKAMORI, Makoto YOSHIZAWA, Noriyasu HOMMA, Norihiro SUGITA, Makoto ABE, Akira TANAKA
  • Publication number: 20150366457
    Abstract: Described are embodiments of methods of obtaining three-dimensional (3D) surface data of an object scene such as an intra-oral cavity. For example, measured surfaces may include the enamel surface of teeth, the dentin substructure of teeth, gum tissue and various dental structures. The methods can also be applied in medical applications and other applications in which 3D measurement data are acquired with maneuverable 3D measurement devices. In certain embodiments, the measurement device is positioned and translated to enable 3D data to be acquired for a backbone 3D data set. Subsequent controlled motion of the measurement device enables additional 3D data to be acquired and accurately joined to the backbone 3D data set.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2015
    Publication date: December 24, 2015
    Inventors: Robert F. Dillon, Andrew F. Vesper, Timothy I. Fillion
  • Publication number: 20150366458
    Abstract: An imaging apparatus (100), configured for thermoacoustic tomographic imaging a region of interest (2) in an object (1), comprises a source device (10) being arranged for emitting an electromagnetic energy input into the region of interest (2), a detector device (20) being arranged for detecting mechanical wave response signals generated in the region of interest (2) along multiple angular projection directions in response to the electromagnetic energy input, and an image data acquisition and processing device (30) being arranged for providing tomographic image data representing the image of the region of interest (2) on the basis of the mechanical wave response signals, wherein the source device (10) is adapted for continuously emitting the electromagnetic energy input with a predetermined input modulation, and the image data acquisition and processing device (30) is adapted for converting the mechanical wave response signals into the frequency domain and for performing data processing and image reconstructi
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2012
    Publication date: December 24, 2015
    Applicant: Helmholtz Zentrum Munchen Deutsches Forschungszentrum Fur Gesundheit Und Umwelt (GmbH)
    Inventors: Stephan Kellnberger, Vasilis Ntziachristos, George Sergiadis, Nikolaos Deliolanis, Murad Omar
  • Publication number: 20150366459
    Abstract: Provided is an object information acquiring apparatus provided with: a laser light source; a detection unit that detects a portion of laser light emitted from the laser light source; a determination unit that determines whether or not abnormal emission is contained in the laser light, based on a detection result of the detection unit; a radiation unit that radiates the laser light onto an object; a reception unit that receives acoustic waves that propagate from the object, based on radiation of the laser light; an acquisition unit that acquires information relating to the object, based on a reception result of the reception unit; and a control unit that controls output of the laser light, based on a determination result of the determination unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2015
    Publication date: December 24, 2015
    Inventors: Minoru Ohkoba, Shigeru Ichihara
  • Publication number: 20150366460
    Abstract: Provided is an object information acquiring apparatus, comprising: a laser light source configured to irradiate laser light onto an object; a detector configured to detect a part of the laser light from the laser light source; a receiver configured to receive an acoustic wave that propagate from the object, based on the irradiation of the laser light; and an acquisition unit configured to acquire information relating to the object, based on a reception result of the receiver and a detection result of the detector, wherein the detector detects anomalous emission from the laser light source.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2015
    Publication date: December 24, 2015
    Inventors: Minoru Ohkoba, Shigeru Ichihara
  • Publication number: 20150366461
    Abstract: An endoscopic system may include an endoscopic device and a control apparatus. The device may include a housing membrane having a distal end and a transparent outer layer around a periphery of the housing membrane and extending longitudinally from the distal end to define a side volume of interest, and an optical infrared sensor array comprising infrared sensors extending longitudinally along and circumferentially about a longitudinal axis of the device to detect infrared radiation over the side volume. The control apparatus may include a processor and a computer-readable medium having computer-executable instructions that cause the processor to, determine temperature data for the side volume in response to infrared data from the infrared sensor array, determine if the temperature data is in a temperature region of concern in a vessel, and provide a temperature control signal to a subsystem to instruct the subsystem to reduce temperature in the vessel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2015
    Publication date: December 24, 2015
    Inventors: Hakan Oral, Fred Morady
  • Publication number: 20150366462
    Abstract: An improved catheter is described. The catheter may have an inflation lumen reinforced with a metal support, such as a coil, to prevent collapse and deflation of the inflation lumen, while leaving a minimal impact on the size of the catheter. The catheter may be manufactured with a temperature sensing strip permanently integrated into the catheter during the manufacturing process. The temperature sensing strip is able to wirelessly send information regarding a patient's temperature to an external display, where it may be available for viewing by a care provider. Additionally, the drainage lumen of the catheter is preferably coated with a hydrophobic coating or treatment, and/or formed to include a patterned microstructure surface design, such as superhydrophobic patterned surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2014
    Publication date: December 24, 2015
    Inventors: Ruben Ramos, David Icenogle
  • Publication number: 20150366463
    Abstract: A method of determining a thermal signature from thermal data associated with a body section is disclosed. The method comprises: segmenting the thermal data into a plurality of segments, and calculating a set of locations defining a contour, each location being central with respect to picture-elements associated with one segment, thereby determining the thermal signature based on the contour.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 1, 2015
    Publication date: December 24, 2015
    Applicant: Real Imaging Ltd.
    Inventors: Eyal Naimi, Eddy Solomon, Israel Boaz Arnon
  • Publication number: 20150366464
    Abstract: A method for determining an artery location on a living subject's skin and positioning a tonometry pressure sensor on the artery location for tonometric blood pressure measurement is provided. The method comprises a non-contact optical search followed by a contact pressure search. In the non-contact optical search, an optical-sensing unit is used to scan the skin along a scan path while maintaining a pre-determined distance between the unit and the scan path. A search region within the scan path and a height profile characterizing the scan path's curvature are determined. The search region is determined such that an artery is predicted to lie thereunder. The artery location is then searched within the search region by the contact pressure search, in which the pressure sensor sweeps along the search region and the sweeping is guided by curvature information provided by the height profile. A device using the method is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2014
    Publication date: December 24, 2015
    Inventor: Wenbo GU
  • Publication number: 20150366465
    Abstract: A system for mapping and marking baroreceptors of a patient. The system includes a mapping device, a marker, and a stimulator. The mapping device includes a plurality of electrodes to be situated on the patient. The marker is to be attached to the patient and mark a location of at least one of the plurality of electrodes based on an analysis of patient physiological responses to stimulation of the plurality of electrodes. The stimulator is to divide the plurality of electrodes into a first electrode zone and a second electrode zone and stimulate electrodes in the first electrode zone and the second electrode zone to obtain first patient physiological responses, where one of the first electrode zone and the second electrode zone is selected based on the first patient physiological responses.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2015
    Publication date: December 24, 2015
    Inventors: Andrew L. De Kock, Eric A. Mokelke, Brian Soltis, Doug E. Giwoyna, James E. Blood
  • Publication number: 20150366466
    Abstract: Methods and devices for analyzing posture-induced changes to physiological parameters of a patient (e.g., ejection time, heart rate, etc.) to provide an assessment of one or more conditions of the patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2015
    Publication date: December 24, 2015
    Inventors: Giorgio Corbucci, Brian B Lee
  • Publication number: 20150366467
    Abstract: A system including a mapping device, a stimulator, and a marker. The mapping device includes a plurality of electrodes to be situated on a baroreceptor region of a patient to map baroreceptors in the baroreceptor region. The stimulator is to stimulate selected electrodes of the plurality of electrodes to obtain physiological responses from the patient in response to stimulation of the selected electrodes. The marker is to be attached to the patient to mark a location of at least one of the selected electrodes based on an analysis of the physiological responses from the patient, where the marker is to maintain its location on the patient as the mapping device is removed from the patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2015
    Publication date: December 24, 2015
    Inventors: Andrew L. De Kock, Eric A. Mokelke, Brian Soltis, Doug E. Giwoyna, James E. Blood, Jack Gordon
  • Publication number: 20150366468
    Abstract: A system for monitoring hemodynamics of a subject is disclosed. The system comprises: a signal generating system configured for providing at least an output electric signal and transmitting the output signal to an organ of the subject. The system also comprises a demodulation system configured for receiving an input electrical signal sensed from the organ responsively to the output electric signal, and for modulating the input signal using the output signal to provide an in-phase component and a quadrature component of the input signal. The system also comprises a processing system configured for monitoring the hemodynamics based on the in-phase and the quadrature components.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2012
    Publication date: December 24, 2015
    Inventors: Baruch LEVY, Shmuel MARCOVITCH, Eliezer SHUSMAN, David ROTENBERG, Yoav AVIDOR
  • Publication number: 20150366469
    Abstract: A system that continuously monitors cardiovascular health using an electrocardiography (ECG) source synchronized to an optical (PPG) source, without requiring invasive techniques or ongoing, large-scale external scanning procedures. The system includes an ECG signal source with electrodes contacting the skin, which generates a first set of information, and a watch-like device, worn on a limb such as an arm or a wrist, having a reflectance-based PPG signal source that generates a second set of information. Together with a processing module, housed within the watch-like device and configured to receive and process the first and second sets of information, from which the time differential of the heart beat pulmonary pressure wave can be calculated, continuous data related to cardiovascular health markers such as arterial stiffness can be determined. Automated heart rate calibration of the reflectance-based PPG sensor can also be achieved.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2012
    Publication date: December 24, 2015
    Inventors: Paul Ronald HARRIS, Ji Feng LI
  • Publication number: 20150366470
    Abstract: A bio signal measuring apparatus is provided which a receiver configured to receive a pulse signal penetrating a person to be measured, a processing unit configured to process the pulse signal to analyze a bandwidth of the pulse signal and to measure a bio signal of the person to be measured based on an analysis result on the bandwidth, and a storage unit configured to store data used to measure the bio signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2015
    Publication date: December 24, 2015
    Inventors: TAE WOOK KIM, HONGGUL HAN
  • Publication number: 20150366471
    Abstract: A sensor module configured to be worn by a subject includes a plurality of sensors configured to measure physiological information from the subject and/or environmental exposure information in a vicinity of the subject, a power source coupled to the plurality of sensors, and at least one processor configured to obtain data from the plurality of sensors only at certain time intervals in order to extend a life of the power source. The sensor module also includes a wireless chip configured to communicate data obtained from the plurality of sensors to a telecommunication device. The telecommunication device is configured to communicate the data obtained from the plurality of sensors to a remote database. One or more of the plurality of sensors may be activated and/or deactivated by the telecommunication device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2015
    Publication date: December 24, 2015
    Inventors: Steven Francis LeBoeuf, Jesse Berkley Tucker, Michael Edward Aumer