Patents Issued in May 31, 2016
  • Patent number: 9351854
    Abstract: A system and method associated with the movement of a limb. In one example, the system, such as a prosthetic or orthotic system, includes an actuator that actively controls, or adjusts, the angle between a foot unit and a lower limb member. The actuator preferably selectively locks during a desired phase in a gait cycle of the limb and minimizes friction against a rotor of the actuator. A processing module may control movement of the actuator based on data obtained from a sensor module. For instance, sensing module data may include information relating to the gait of a user and may be used to adjust the foot unit to substantially mimic the movement of a natural, healthy ankle. The system may further accommodate, for example, level ground walking, traveling up/down stairs, traveling up/down sloped surfaces, and various other user movements. In addition, the processing module may receive user input or display output signals through an external interface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: Össur hf
    Inventors: Helgi Jónsson, Arinbjörn Viggo Clausen, Gudni Ingimarsson, Christophe Lecomte, Larus Sigfusson, Heidrún Gígja Ragnarsdöttir
  • Patent number: 9351855
    Abstract: A powered lower extremity orthotic, including a shank link coupled to an artificial foot, a knee mechanism connected to the shank link and a thigh link, is controlled by based on signals from various orthotic mounted sensors such that the artificial foot follows a predetermined trajectory defined by at least one Cartesian coordinate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignees: Ekso Bionics, Inc., The Regents of the University of California
    Inventors: Tim Swift, Adam Brian Zoss, Katherine Strausser, Matthew Rosa, Dylan Miller Fairbanks, Minerva Vasudevan Pillai, Miclas Schwartz, Bram Gilbert Antoon Lambrecht, Sebastian Kruse
  • Patent number: 9351856
    Abstract: Hybrid terrain-adaptive lower-extremity apparatus and methods that perform in a variety of different situations by detecting the terrain that is being traversed, and adapting to the detected terrain. In some embodiments, the ability to control the apparatus for each of these situations builds upon five basic capabilities: (1) determining the activity being performed; (2) dynamically controlling the characteristics of the apparatus based on the activity that is being performed; (3) dynamically driving the apparatus based on the activity that is being performed; (4) determining terrain texture irregularities (e.g., how sticky is the terrain, how slippery is the terrain, is the terrain coarse or smooth, does the terrain have any obstructions, such as rocks) and (5) a mechanical design of the apparatus that can respond to the dynamic control and dynamic drive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: IWALK, INC.
    Inventors: Hugh Miller Herr, Richard J. Casler, Jr., Zhixiu Han
  • Patent number: 9351857
    Abstract: A joint motion simulator to simulate biomechanical motion includes a mount to which a prosthetic device is mounted, actuators coupled to the mount to drive the mount, and a programmable controller to drive the actuators to translate the mount and to rotate the mount with a center of rotation controllable independent of translation. The simulator can include a linear actuator to translate the mount in a linear direction substantially parallel to the axis of rotation. The linear actuator can include a piston within a sleeve, the piston being coupled to the mount and being hydraulically driven to translate the mount, and the actuators can be coupled to the sleeve. The controller may be programmed to vary the center of rotation with linear translation and rotation of the mount. Sensors may be included that measure displacement of the actuators. The controller may drive the actuators based on the measured displacement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: Advanced Mechanical Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Forest J. Carignan, Bruce F. White
  • Patent number: 9351858
    Abstract: A joint and method for producing a joint in an endovascular graft. In one embodiment, a flap of a flexible material portion of an endovascular graft is folded about a portion of an expandable member to form a loop portion. The flap is secured in the loop configuration so that tensile force on the expandable member is transferred into a shear force on the fixed portion of the flap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: TriVascular, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael V. Chobotov, Patrick Stephens
  • Patent number: 9351859
    Abstract: Described herein are vascular remodeling devices that include a proximal section, an intermediate section, and a distal section. During deployment, the proximal section can expand from a compressed delivery state to an expanded state and anchors the device in an afferent vessel of a bifurcation. The distal section expands from the compressed delivery state to an expanded state that may be substantially planar, approximately semi-spherical, umbrella shaped, or reverse umbrella shaped. The distal section is positioned in a bifurcation junction across the neck of an aneurysm or within an aneurysm. The intermediate section allows perfusion to efferent vessels. Before or after the device is in position, embolic material may be used to treat the aneurysm. The distal section can act as a scaffolding to prevent herniation of the embolic material. The device can be used for clot retrieval with integral distal embolic protection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Anh Cam, Michael Louis Losordo, Jianlu Ma, Luong Nguyen, Sanjay Shrivastava, John Wainwright, Xiaoling Zhao
  • Patent number: 9351860
    Abstract: The present embodiments provide systems and methods for loading a stent or stent graft onto an introducer for intraluminal deployment. In one example, a system includes an endoluminal prosthesis introducer comprising a stent retaining member engageable with a stent end. The system may also include a loading tool for engaging the stent end on the stent retaining member. The loading tool may include a loading body having a passage extending from a first end to a second end and a slot that extends through the tubular loading body from the passage to an outer surface of the tubular loading body, and the slot may further extend from the second end toward the first end. The stent retaining member may be disposed at least partially within the passage of the loading body, and the slot of the loading body may be rotatable around the stent retaining member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: Cook Medical Technologies LLC
    Inventors: Siddharth Vad, Rick Hadley
  • Patent number: 9351861
    Abstract: This disclosure contains methods, devices, and systems for object removal from a body, including removal of a stent from a body. Some methods of the present disclosure include inflating a balloon on a catheter, engaging a stent with a socket defined by a surface of the balloon, the surface inwardly sloped toward a lumen of the catheter, and retracting a portion of the stent through the socket and into the lumen. The present disclosure also includes methods for making a catheter, including forming a balloon, inverting a portion of the balloon, and attaching the balloon to a catheter such that a surface of the balloon defines a socket that is inwardly sloped toward a lumen of the catheter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: AngioDynamics, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul Sherburne
  • Patent number: 9351862
    Abstract: Devices and methods for treating obesity are provided. More particularly, intragastric devices and methods of fabricating, deploying, inflating, monitoring, and retrieving the same are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: Obalon Therapeutics, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark C. Brister, Paul D. Faucher, Neil R. Drake, Andrew P. Rasdal, Matthew S. Lake, Dubravka Markovic, Amy D. L. VandenBerg, Antonio C. Llevares, Josefina Nider
  • Patent number: 9351863
    Abstract: A system for inducing weight loss ina patient includes (a) an elongated element extending from a proximal end to a distal end, the elongated element separating a duodenum into first and second channels, wherein the elongated element is expandable; and (b) a retainer connected to the elongated element and securing the elongated element in a desired orientation within the duodenum. In the desired orientation, all chyme flowing through the duodenum enters the first channel and the second channel is open to a papilla of vater so that digestive fluids from the papilla of vater enter the second channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: BOSTON SCIENTIFIC SCIMED, INC.
    Inventors: Katie Krueger, Harold M. Martins
  • Patent number: 9351864
    Abstract: An orthopedic device is arranged to apply a dynamic load on a leg of a user. The orthopedic device has a rigid or semi-rigid frame including lower and upper frames, and a hinge assembly connecting the lower and upper frames. A dynamic loading component is used to urge the load on the user's leg on the basis of flexion of the hinge assembly on the basis of tension in an elongate element connecting the dynamic loading component and at least one of the lower and upper frames. A peak load is generated at a flexion angle between extension and maximum flexion of the hinge assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: OSSUR HF
    Inventors: Harry Duane Romo, Jane Lee, Chris Webster, Jared Olivo, Henry Hsu, Robert Laprade
  • Patent number: 9351865
    Abstract: A plantar fasciitis arch support (PFAS) device is presented. The PFAS device is an ergonomic compression device that administers a measured pressure along the tissue on the plantar surface of the foot for purpose of relieving the pain and inflammation of plantar fasciitis. The device works by directly compressing and stretching the plantar fascia in order to relieve pressure at the plantar fascia attachment points. This device differs from current conventional splints that use a dorsiflexion force of the foot and ankle complex to stretch the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon. The device is small, affordable, lightweight, and comfortable to wear. It targets the fascia directly, stretching the tendon gently through the night rather than indirectly stretching the calf or Achilles tendon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Inventor: Charles G. Cowan
  • Patent number: 9351866
    Abstract: This invention relates to condoms, prophylactics and contraceptive devices having a thick shape-retaining sheath body with an open end and a closed end, and a plurality of longitudinal flutes on the sheath body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Inventor: Daniel Resnic
  • Patent number: 9351867
    Abstract: A method of treating prolapse of a vagina includes inserting a shell into the vagina; contacting a convex exterior apex of the shell with an interior apical portion of the vagina; and securing a first portion of an anchor to the shell and securing a second portion of the anchor to a ligament or a sacrum exterior to and separate from the vagina.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: Coloplast A/S
    Inventor: Rachael Anne Bergstrom Crabb
  • Patent number: 9351868
    Abstract: The invention concerns a method for making a reservoir (5) containing an active substance and adapted to be introduced into a natural cavity of a living being, the reservoir (5) comprising a membrane (9) permeable to the active substance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: Bayer Oy
    Inventor: Charles-Dominique Lafont
  • Patent number: 9351869
    Abstract: Temperature control device for use in fluid-based hyper/hypothermia systems, comprising a connection unit for connecting the device to a local power network, and a fluid temperature control unit for heating or cooling a fluid. The device includes a power supply unit, by which electrical consuming components of the fluid temperature control unit are supplied with power, and which effects supply of the electrical consuming components with direct current.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: Sorin Group Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Erwin Knott, Manfred Fronhöfer
  • Patent number: 9351870
    Abstract: A temperature controlled cosmetic treatment facial mask with area-specific treatments of the present invention includes a substantially planar mask body which is formed with cut-outs for a person's eyes, nose, and mouth. The mask may include a number of large and small area treatment zones in combination with asymmetrical treatment zones suitable for treatment of specific and localized skin conditions. The treatments zones are coated with skin treatments, such as compounds, lotions, gels, and the like as are known in the facial treatment, cosmetics, spa and medical industry. The mask may include a self-heating or cooling substrate to provide temperature control to the face mask and each mask may include heating areas, cooling areas, or both. A system is also provided that includes an imaging device that feeds its output to a central computer system having an image analyzer, CPU, memory and Look Up Table, and face map for determining specific treatment requirements for the particular patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: FOREVER YOUNG INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventor: Daniel L. Young
  • Patent number: 9351871
    Abstract: Embodiments described herein provide ophthalmic surgical instruments. One embodiment provides an instrument including an infusion sleeve, aspiration tube, and infusion/aspiration tip. The sleeve can include a body defining an infusion channel. The tube can be in the infusion channel and define an aspiration channel. The tip can conform to the distal end of the tube. The tip can seal a gap between the sleeve and tube and can include a flange with a profile (e.g., a tapered portion) corresponding to the profile of the sleeve. The sleeve and tip can be keyed such that the sleeve directs fluid in one direction and the tip draws fluid perpendicularly from that direction. The tip's aspiration channel can extend distally beyond its aspiration port. The tip can extend to a point adjacent to an infusion port of the sleeve. A disposable component (including an aspiration tube and infusion/aspiration tip) for use with instruments is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: Alcon Research, Ltd.
    Inventors: Ziad R. Ghannoum, Glenn Robert Sussman
  • Patent number: 9351872
    Abstract: A capsulorhexis apparatus includes a capsulorhexis probe configured for insertion into an eye through an incision and a pulse generator configured to deliver at least one radio-frequency (RF) pulse to the capsulorhexis probe. The delivered RF pulse has a pre-determined attenuation profile such that the power level of the delivered RF pulse is substantially attenuated over the RF pulse's duration. In some embodiments, the pulse generator is configured to deliver a series of two or more RF pulses to the eye, such that the energy of each of the second and subsequent pulses of the series is substantially attenuated relative to the energy of the immediately preceding pulse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: Alcon Research, Ltd.
    Inventors: Guangyao Jia, Ahmad Salehi, Glenn Robert Sussman, Ann Yadlowsky
  • Patent number: 9351873
    Abstract: Disclosed are devices and methods of treating an ocular disorder including forming a self-sealing incision in a cornea into an anterior chamber of an eye; introducing through the incision a fluid drainage tube having a distal end, a proximal end and a longitudinal, internal lumen extending through the fluid drainage tube, wherein at least the proximal end passes through the anterior chamber; and implanting the distal end of the fluid drainage tube in fluid communication with the suprachoroidal space such that the proximal end of the fluid drainage tube remains in fluid communication with the anterior chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: Transcend Medical, Inc.
    Inventor: Minas Theodore Coroneo
  • Patent number: 9351874
    Abstract: A method of deploying an ocular implant into Schlemm's canal of a human eye including the following steps: inserting a distal tip of a delivery tool within an anterior chamber of the eye through trabecular meshwork of the eye into Schlemm's canal of the eye; and advancing an ocular implant through a curved portion and a distal opening of the delivery tool to place a body portion of the ocular implant in Schlemm's canal and an inlet portion of the ocular implant in the anterior chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: IVANTIS, INC.
    Inventors: Andrew T. Schieber, John Wardle, Edward Matthees, Charles L. Euteneuer
  • Patent number: 9351875
    Abstract: A steerable laser probe may include a handle having a handle distal end and a handle proximal end, an auto-fixing actuation control, a flexible housing tube having a flexible housing tube distal end and a flexible housing tube proximal end, a first flexible housing tube portion having a first stiffness, and an optic fiber disposed within an inner bore of the handle and the flexible housing tube. An actuation of the auto-fixing actuation control may gradually curve the flexible housing tube. A gradual curving of the flexible housing tube may gradually curve the optic fiber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: Katalyst Surgical, LLC
    Inventors: Gregg D Scheller, Matthew N Zeid
  • Patent number: 9351876
    Abstract: A steerable laser probe may include a handle, an actuation structure of the handle, a housing tube, an optic fiber, and an optic fiber sleeve. The housing tube may have a first housing tube portion having a first stiffness and a second housing tube portion having a second stiffness. The second stiffness may be greater that the first stiffness. The optic fiber may be disposed within an inner bore of the handle, the optic fiber sleeve, the actuation structure, and the housing tube. The optic fiber sleeve may enclose at least a portion of the optic fiber and the optic fiber sleeve may be disposed within the actuation structure and the housing tube. A compression of the actuation structure may be configured to curve the housing tube and the optic fiber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: Katalyst Surgical, LLC
    Inventors: Gregg D Scheller, Matthew N Zeid
  • Patent number: 9351877
    Abstract: A laser-assisted method for fully or partially separating tissue such as collagen containing tissue is provided. In one embodiment, the method pertains to a capsulorhexis whereby the laser-assisted method is applied to the lens capsule. A light-absorbing agent is added into or onto the tissue. A light beam with a wavelength capable of being absorbed by the light absorbing agent is then directed at the tissue to cause a thermal effect at the tissue following a predetermined closed curve with the goal to avoid irregularity or potential tears in the resulting rim of the tissue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: EOS HOLDINGS, LLC
    Inventor: David H. Mordaunt
  • Patent number: 9351878
    Abstract: The invention relates to a laser treatment unit for performing eye surgery, comprising a contact glass (23), which can be placed onto the eye (21) and via which a treatment laser beam (2) passes. A safety mechanism (24, 25) is provided that displaceably holds the contact glass (23) in such a manner that the contact glass retreats when the contact glass (23) is subjected to the action of a force contrary to the direction of incidence of the laser beam. The safety mechanism (24, 25) enables this retreating when a force is greater than a force limit value (Fmin) and holds the contact glass (23) in a fixed manner when the force is less than the force limit value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: Carl Zeiss Meditec AG
    Inventors: Dirk Muehlhoff, Carsten Lang, Karsten Festag
  • Patent number: 9351879
    Abstract: Configurations are described for conducting ophthalmic procedures to address cataract-related clinical challenges. In one embodiment, a one-piece patient contact interface may be utilized to couple a diagnostic and/or interventional system to a cornea of a patient; in another embodiment, a two-part configuration may be utilized; in another embodiment, a liquid interface two-part embodiment may be utilized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: OPTIMEDICA CORPORATION
    Inventors: Phillip Gooding, David Angeley
  • Patent number: 9351880
    Abstract: Anti-fog, interchangeable-lens goggle adapted for use with a battery comprising: a body with a flexible posterior portion for engaging a user's face and an anterior portion; a lens having a resistive anti-fog element thereon, the lens adapted for engaging the anterior portion of the body; an engagement mechanism for releasably interconnecting the lens and the body; an interconnection mechanism depending from the body adapted for detachably interconnecting the heating element of the lens and the battery, the interconnection means operable or integral with the engagement mechanism such that interconnecting the heating element of the lens with the battery also reinforces interconnecting of the lens with the semi-rigid anterior portion of the body; and a strap adapted for holding the goggle on one of a user's head and helmet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: Abominable Labs, LLC
    Inventors: David C. McCulloch, Jack C. Cornelius, Toren P. B. Orzeck
  • Patent number: 9351881
    Abstract: An eyewear temple arm mounted to an eyewear device, wherein a distal portion of the elongated body member defines a parking structure. A distal edge portion of the structure defines an opening into a cavity thereof which is formed and dimensioned for free sliding, peripheral receipt of at least the proximal portion of a functional element therein between an operational condition and a parked condition. A cover member is configured to cooperate with the parking structure for movement between an opened condition and a closed condition. In the opened condition, the functional element can be moved to the operational condition, while in the closed condition, the cover member extends over the parking structure opening to substantially enclose at least the distal portion of the functional element therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: ReadyMax, Inc.
    Inventors: Brent Crawford, Bill E. Brauner, Brad Nemeth, Jeff Chen, Robin Liu
  • Patent number: 9351882
    Abstract: An apparatus and system for providing reduced pressure to a defect in a nerve is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a nerve conduit having a generally tubular shape that has walls including a luminal wall surrounding the tissue site to contain fluids within a luminal space between the tissue site to contain fluids within a luminal space between the tissue site and the luminal wall. The apparatus further comprises a manifold having a porous body and a connector for receiving reduced pressure, wherein the manifold is positioned within the luminal space adjacent the tissue site to distribute the reduced pressure to the defect. Additionally, a method for providing reduced pressure to a defect in a nerve is disclosed that includes implanting the nerve conduit and manifold at a site of damaged nerve tissue and applying a reduced pressure to the manifold thereby stimulating repair or regrowth of nerve tissue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: KCI Licensing, Inc.
    Inventors: Larry Swain, Michael Manwaring, Braden Leung, Douglas Cornet
  • Patent number: 9351883
    Abstract: A hemostatic pad comprising a bioabsorbable scaffolding material; a lyophilized thrombin powder, a lyophilized fibrinogen powder, and a meltable binder powder, with all powders disposed on the bioabsorbable scaffolding material. A meltable binder such as PEG bonds the lyophilized thrombin powder and the lyophilized fibrinogen powder to the bioabsorbable scaffolding material for improved friability, wettability and performance in a use, such as for hemostatic treatment or sealing at a wound site.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: Ethicon, Inc.
    Inventors: Aaron D. Pesnell, Gerard Llanos
  • Patent number: 9351884
    Abstract: An apparatus for joining substrates including a rotating drum. The drum may include an outer circumferential surface and a drum aperture in the drum outer circumferential surface. The drum may be configured to continuously advance substrates. A fluid nozzle may be moveably connected to the drum and located radially inward from the drum aperture. The fluid nozzle may be adapted to direct a fluid radially outward through the drum aperture toward the substrates. The fluid may have a temperature sufficient to at least partially melt the substrates. An anvil roll may be located adjacent the drum. The anvil roll may be adapted to rotate about an axis of rotation. A press member may be moveably connected to the drum and located radially inward from the drum aperture. The press member adapted to extend through the drum aperture to compress the substrates between the anvil roll to form a bond.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Uwe Schneider, David Carlton Ordway
  • Patent number: 9351885
    Abstract: A disposable wearing article in which waist elastics are attached at least in a rear waist region of front and rear waist regions so that a space between a core and the wearer's skin is formed which functions as a pocket for retaining excretions such as feces or the like. A diaper includes front and rear waist panels in which front and rear waist elastics are attached and a crotch panel extending therebetween. With regard to the crotch panel, front and rear end edges are joined to the skin facing sides of the front and rear waist panels respectively such that the front and rear end edges of the core are overlapped with the front and rear waist panels. In the front and rear waist panels, inelastic regions, first elastic regions, and second elastic regions are formed respectively. In the crotch panel, a pair of first cuffs in which the gasket elastics is attached are formed, and the front and rear end portions are intersected with the front and rear waist elastics in the gasket elastics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: Unicharm Corporation
    Inventor: Toshiyasu Yoshioka
  • Patent number: 9351886
    Abstract: An elastic absorbent assembly is presented for use in manufacturing disposable absorbent garments. The elastic assembly includes an absorbent core comprising: a base layer having a pair of side edges and a longitudinal centerline spaced inwardly from the side edges; an elastic construction supported by the base layer, the elastic construction including a plurality of spaced apart elastic elements forming a plurality of channels and a plurality of cells; and superabsorbent polymer particles coupled to the elastic elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: DSG Technology Holdings Ltd.
    Inventor: Charles F. Schroer, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9351887
    Abstract: The objective of the present disclosure is to provide an absorbent article (1) having a high fiber density region (7) in which absorbed menstrual blood is not easily retained, so that after menstrual blood has been absorbed, feelings of stickiness are not easily caused on a top sheet (2), and the top sheet (2) remains dry. The absorbent article (1) of the present disclosure has a liquid-permeable top sheet (2), a liquid-impermeable back sheet (6), and an absorbent body (3). The absorbent article (1) is characterized by: the top sheet (2) having, in an excretory orifice contact region (A), a high fiber density region (7) and a low fiber density region (8); the top sheet (2) containing, in the excretory orifice contact region (A), a prescribed blood lubricating agent (9); and the basis weight of the blood lubricating agent (9) in the high fiber density region (7) being larger than the basis weight of the blood lubricating agent (9) in the low fiber density region (8).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: UNICHARM CORPORATION
    Inventors: Akira Hashino, Yuki Noda, Tatsuya Tamura, Masashi Nakashita
  • Patent number: 9351888
    Abstract: A front suspension system for an electric wheelchair is disposed between the frame of the electric wheelchair and each of the front wheels, and has two ends pivoted to the front pivot shaft and a corresponding one of the front wheels, respectively. An elasticity resistance member is sleeved onto the front pivot shaft and has two ends connected to the front wheel retainer and the abutting member of the frame, respectively. When the front wheels encounters bumpy road and makes the front wheel retainer pivot, the elasticity resistance member will be compressed to produce a reaction force toward the front wheel retainer and the abutting member of the frame, respectively, so that the front wheel retainer is pressed down to keep pressing against the flat bearing surface, and the frame is also pressed downward to prevent tipping backward.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: Energy Control Limited
    Inventor: Donald P. H. Wu
  • Patent number: 9351889
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure include a wheelchair configured to reposition an occupant between a lowered and a raised position. The wheelchair can include a frame, a seat moveable relative to the frame, a drive wheel, and one or more pairs of arm assemblies. The arm assembly includes a wheel configured to move from a first spatial location when the wheel chair is operating on flat, level ground to a second spatial location that is different than the first spatial location. Arm limiters can selectively engage the arm assembly based on at least one of a seat position, position of the arm assembly and surface conditions of ground surface. The arm limiters can limit the range of motion of the arm assembly and sometimes other operational aspects of the chair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: Pride Mobility Products Corporation
    Inventors: James P. Mulhern, Stephen J. Antonishak
  • Patent number: 9351890
    Abstract: A medical chair includes a seat supported by a base and actuators adapted to both tilt and lift the seat with respect to the base. A controller controls the actuators to both lift and tilt the seat as the seat moves from the sitting position to the standing position. The movement from the sitting position to the standing position assists in the egress of an occupant from the chair, while the movement from the standing position to the sitting position assists in the ingress of an occupant to the chair. A backrest on the chair remains substantially vertically oriented during movement between the sitting and standing position so as to provide more comfort to the occupant during the sit-to-stand or stand-to-sit movement. The backrest also moves in a manner that generally keeps the occupant's torso vertically aligned with his or her hips during this movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: Stryker Corporation
    Inventors: Christopher S. Hough, John P. Zerbel, Richard A. Derenne, Matthew A. Cutler
  • Patent number: 9351891
    Abstract: A raising wheelchair comprises a wheeled frame and a raising system mounted to the frame and supporting a seat and a backrest. The raising system is configured to be movable between a lowered position and a raised position. The raising system includes at least one double-armed lever including a first lever member and a second lever member, a coupling member fixedly mounted to the frame, wherein the first lever member and the second lever member are pivotally coupled to the coupling member, and a coupling mechanism translationally coupled or pivotally coupled to a second end of the first lever member, pivotally coupled to a second end of the second lever member, and coupled to the backrest. The raising system maintains an orientation of the backrest relative to the ground that is substantially constant throughout substantially an entire range of movement between the lowered position and the raised position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: Dane Technologies, INC.
    Inventors: Balz Maurer, Fabian Wolter
  • Patent number: 9351892
    Abstract: A sonic percussion therapy system includes a patient support apparatus and a control module. The sonic percussion structure is attached to the inflatable cell so that the sonic percussion structure moves in response to movement of the inflatable cell. The control module includes a sonic percussion control module and a position control module. The sonic percussion control module independently controls frequency and/or intensity of at least one of the plurality of sonic percussion structures. The position control module selectively raises and lowers at least one of the plurality of sonic percussion structures with respect to a patient surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: KAP Medical
    Inventors: Raj K. Gowda, Dan F. Rosenmayer, Richard Jeff Garcia
  • Patent number: 9351893
    Abstract: A patient transfer apparatus includes a transfer arm for moving a top movable board on which the body of the patient is supported; a transfer arm housing fixed on a patient-moving bed frame so as to move the transfer arm; and a side protector laid on a patient bed so as to serve as a guide rail for enabling the transfer arm to easily move over the patient bed. The patient transfer apparatus enables the patient to simply lie on his/her side from a recumbent position such that the patient can be loaded or unloaded onto/from the patient-moving bed, thus minimizing inconveniences to the patient and easily moving the patient with fewer staff members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Inventor: YangGyu Jei
  • Patent number: 9351894
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for cyclic variations in altitude condition that allows a user to rest in a pressure vessel while undergoing rapid variations or transitions between simulated altitudes. The pressure vessel comprises a blower to generate negative pressure, and a proportional valve to allow air back into the pressure vessel in order to relieve the negative pressure. An on-board interface, kiosk controller and master controller are all in electrical communication with each other in order to enable a user to implement a program of cyclic variations in altitude conditioning that is suitable to the specific user, and enables an operator to bill the user for such services, as well as to allow the user to use a different pressure vessel without re-entering data, so long as such data was originally entered and stored, and the different pressure vessel is in electrical communication with the master controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: CVAC Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Carl E. Linton
  • Patent number: 9351895
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a spinal surgical table which is used during spine and spinal-related surgical operations and on which the patient is laid down. The spinal surgical table includes at least one carrying skeleton, at least one carrying connection member, at least one stand, at least six supporting pads, and at least one head rest. The present invention enables to decrease pressure-related complications by leaving the abdominal area on the hole, be connected to any kind of operation table, be accorded with different body sizes and be accorded with the position of the patient. The present invention can also be connected to other apparatuses which help position the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: YEDITEPE UNIVERSITESI
    Inventors: Namik Ciblak, Cem Tutcu, Bilge Can Okumus, Basar Atalay
  • Patent number: 9351896
    Abstract: The PORTABLE ASEPTIC UNIT is an invention which will provide an aseptic environment at a first location to allow mixing and preparation of aseptic products and then provide an aseptic environment at the site of administration to patient or animal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Inventor: Joseph John Urban
  • Patent number: 9351897
    Abstract: In combination, vertically percussive vibration and non-symmetrical forces are applied to a patient. The non-symmetrical forces may be generated by a variety of unevenly applied weights that are supported at appropriate body locations in a manner that upsets normal body load symmetry. The non-symmetrical forces in combination with vertically percussive vibrations induce neuromusculoskeletal proprioceptive re-education and development within a living body to correct musculo-skeletal disorders including but not limited to scoliosis. A special posture modifying chair and head-orienting glasses may be used instead of or in addition to unevenly applied weights. An additional force concentrating treatment apparatus is also presented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Inventors: Dennis A. Woggon, A. Joshua Woggon, John D. Carlson, Donald D. Winkels
  • Patent number: 9351898
    Abstract: This invention relates to a lift to assist in standing and/or walking for persons who have insufficient strength or movement in their legs. The inventive lift walker includes a frame assembly having a lower an upper and lower portion that wheels are provided beneath the lower frame so as to enable the lift to be propelled and maneuvered. A bracing assembly is provided at the upper portion and comprises a supporting platform which is adapted to fit under the forearms of a person, and optional handles for gripping by the user's left and right hands. An elevator assembly is provided which includes lift and stabilization tracks for raising and lowering the supporting assembly in a coordinated, purely vertical fashion, and further includes gas lift means for effectuating the same via use of a remotely switched activation mechanism. There are also anti-tip means for maintaining the stability of the device when contacting uneven ground surface during movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignees: The United States of America, as Represnted by the Dept. of Veterans Affairs, Case Western Reserve University
    Inventors: Ronald J. Triolo, Thomas C. Bulea
  • Patent number: 9351899
    Abstract: Systems and methods to manage memory on a spin transfer torque magnetoresistive random-access memory (STT-MRAM) are provided. A particular method of managing memory includes determining a temperature associated with the memory and determining a level of write queue utilization associated with the memory. A write operation may be performed based on the level of write queue utilization and the temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Pradip Bose, Alper Buyuktosunoglu, Xiaochen Guo, Hillery C. Hunter, Jude A. Rivers, Vijayalakshmi Srinivasan
  • Patent number: 9351900
    Abstract: In at least one aspect, there is provided a system for generating force about one or more joints including a soft exosuit having a plurality of anchor elements and at least one connection element disposed between the plurality of anchor elements. The system also includes at least one sensor to determine a force the at least one connection element or at least one of the plurality of anchor elements and to output signals relating to the force, at least one actuator configured to change a tension in the soft exosuit and at least one controller configured to receive the signals output from the at least one sensor and actuate the at least one actuator responsive to the received signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: President and Fellows of Harvard College
    Inventors: Conor Walsh, Alan Thomas Asbeck, Ignacio Galiana Bujanda, Ye Ding, Robert Joseph Dyer, Arnar Freyr Larusson, Brendan Thomas Quinlivan, Kai Schmidt, Diana Wagner, Michael Wehner
  • Patent number: 9351901
    Abstract: A gait training tool has an elongate frame structure having a proximal end and a distal end, with a wheelchair clamp attached to the proximal end. The tool further includes a walker connection attachment, and a manual gripping attachment, which can be interchangeably mounted on the distal end of the elongate frame structure for performing different forms of gait training. The walker connection attachment has a walker clamp for attachment to a walker. The manual gripping attachment has a cylindrical gripping structure that is adapted for manually gripping and pulling the elongate frame structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Inventor: Cassi Lee Petsch
  • Patent number: 9351902
    Abstract: A device for scar management includes an applicator head including a recess having a rotating means therein, a reservoir containing a silicone composition fluidly connected to the applicator head, and a metering valve fluidly connected to the reservoir. The composition has viscosity of 3,000 to 8,000 cps, and consists of a mixture of cyclopentasiloxane, dimethiconol, dimethicone, and dimethicone/vinyl dimethicone crosspolymer. A metered dose of the silicone composition is delivered from the reservoir to the applicator head upon the application of external pressure to the metering valve. The invention also relates to a method for scar management using such device by identifying a target skin area having a wound or scar, contacting the outward surface of the applicator head to the target skin area, massaging the rotating means of the applicator head on the target skin area, and applying the silicone composition to the target skin area via the rotating means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: Elan Pharma International Ltd.
    Inventor: Jessica Rowen
  • Patent number: 9351903
    Abstract: An eye rinsing device for rinsing at least one eye is embodied as an attachable attachment, which can be connected to a container, wherein the attachment can be placed onto the eye of a person. The eye rinsing device is provided with at least one rinsing opening, which is directed towards the eye by means of which the washing of an eye is carried out in an improved manner. The attachment encompasses a device having wing-like spreading elements which pull the upper eyelid and the lower eyelid apart so as to support the opening of the eye during the rinsing process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: Plum A/S
    Inventor: Poul Bertelsen