Patents Issued in August 11, 2016
  • Publication number: 20160228694
    Abstract: An exemplary system may include an intracochlear electrode array configured to be inserted into a cochlea of a patient, an intraneural probe comprising an intraneural electrode contact and configured to be inserted into an auditory nerve of the patient, and a computing system. The computing system may be configured to identify an optimal insertion path for an intraneural electrode array into the auditory nerve of the patient by 1) repeatedly stimulating the intraneural electrode contact of the intraneural probe while the intraneural probe is advanced into the auditory nerve along a probe insertion path, 2) using the intracochlear electrode array to record a plurality of evoked responses that occur in response to the repeated stimulation of the intraneural electrode contact, and 3) determining, based on the plurality of evoked responses, whether the probe insertion path is the optimal insertion path for the intraneural electrode array.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2013
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventors: Abhijit Kulkarni, Leonid M. Litvak, Mark B. Downing
  • Publication number: 20160228695
    Abstract: A flexible circuit electrode array with more than one layer of metal traces comprising: a polymer base layer; more than one layer of metal traces, separated by polymer layers, deposited on said polymer base layer, including electrodes suitable to stimulate neural tissue; and a polymer top layer deposited on said polymer base layer and said metal traces. Polymer materials are useful as electrode array bodies for neural stimulation. They are particularly useful for retinal stimulation to create artificial vision, cochlear stimulation to create artificial hearing, or cortical stimulation many purposes. The pressure applied against the retina, or other neural tissue, by an electrode array is critical. Too little pressure causes increased electrical resistance, along with electric field dispersion. Too much pressure may block blood flow.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2016
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Applicant: Second Sight Medical Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Jordan Neysmith, Robert Greenberg, James Little, Brian Mech, Neil Talbot, Qingfang Yao, Dao Min Zhou
  • Publication number: 20160228696
    Abstract: Devices, systems and methods are provided for stimulation of tissues and structures within a body of a patient. In particular, implantable leads are provided which are comprised of a flexible circuit. Typically, the flexible circuit includes an array of conductors bonded to a thin dielectric film. Example dielectric films include polyimide, polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) or other biocompatible materials to name a few. Such leads are particularly suitable for stimulation of the spinal anatomy, more particularly suitable for stimulation of specific nerve anatomies, such as the dorsal root (optionally including the dorsal root ganglion).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2016
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventors: Mir A. Imran, Albert G. Burdulis, Matthew G. Hills, Eyad Kishawi
  • Publication number: 20160228697
    Abstract: A device (110) for insertion into a human or animal body has a surface (610) which at least partially bears a surface structure (140, 140?), wherein the coefficient of static friction between the surface structure (140, 140?) and an interface within the body is anisotropic.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2016
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventors: Thomas Doerr, Gernot Kolberg
  • Publication number: 20160228698
    Abstract: The invention provides a non-invasive r.f. current treatment device to be used with an agent or treatment substance (20), such as an ionic salt solution. The substance is transported using an electric field generated by the device, such as in iontophoresis, to move the treatment substance (20) into the skin so that the skin's electrical transmission of the r.f-current is increased. The path of any r.f. current is influenced by the distribution of the treatment substance (20) in the skin. Applying r.f. current causes heating in skin tissues coinciding with the path of the r.f. current, allowing skin tissue to be treated that is either coincident with the r.f. current path or immediately adjacent thereto. The region of skin treated with r.f. current may be the upper tissue layers. This renders superfluous the conventional hydration step necessary for r.f. skin preparation, which is poorly controllable and highly variable depending on the anatomic site and the individual being treated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2014
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventors: MARGARET RUTH HORTON, JONATHAN ALAMBRA PALERO, MARTIN JURNA, BABU VARGHESE
  • Publication number: 20160228699
    Abstract: An electric stimulator for heart (as in heart pacemakers), brain (as in DBS), organs and general cells, with a supporting structure where there exists a first plurality of electrically isolated electrodes called field-shaping electrodes that are located under the surface of the supporting structure, and a second plurality of ordinary electrically stimulating electrodes called active electrodes, that are located at the surface of the supporting structure, capable of injecting electric charges in the space surrounding the supporting structure. Both types of electrodes are controlled by an appropriate electronics control unit and powered by some electric energy storage, as a battery. Field-shaping electrodes are electrically insulated, being unable to inject current in the surrounding medium, but they are capable of shaping the electric field, which has consequence on the path of the stimulating currents injected by active electrodes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2016
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventor: Sergio Lara Pereira Monteiro
  • Publication number: 20160228700
    Abstract: A non-invasive device for facilitating therapy of patient suffering from the gastrointestinal system diseases or symptoms, and in particular suffering Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The device is positioned by the patient on the skin of the patient abdomen and electrically stimulates the abdomen muscles. This treating results in dynamic motions of the digestive system, which causes the treatment of various digestive symptoms or diseases.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2016
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventors: MORDECHAY ESH, GIORA ARBEL
  • Publication number: 20160228701
    Abstract: Systems and methods for treating arrhythmias are disclosed. In one embodiment an LCP comprises a housing, a plurality of electrodes for sensing electrical signals emanating from outside of the housing, an energy storage module disposed within the housing, and a control module disposed within the housing and operatively coupled to the plurality of electrodes. The control module may be configured to receive electrical signals via two or more of the plurality of electrodes and determine if the received electrical signals are indicative of a command for the LCP to deliver ATP therapy. If the received electrical signals are indicative of a command for the LCP to deliver ATP therapy, the control module may additionally determine whether a triggered ATP therapy mode of the LCP is enabled. If the triggered ATP therapy mode is enabled, the control module may cause the LCP to deliver ATP therapy via the plurality of electrodes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2016
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Applicant: CARDIAC PACEMAKERS, INC.
    Inventors: Paul Huelskamp, Jacob M. Ludwig, Lance E. Juffer, Keith R. Maile
  • Publication number: 20160228702
    Abstract: Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on a computer storage medium, for developing transcranial electrical stimulation protocols are disclosed. In one aspect, a method includes obtaining an image of target tissue, assigning to the image tissue electrical conductance values, arranging a plurality of stimulation electrodes around the target tissue, obtaining, from the locations of electrodes and tissue electrical conductances, a forward model of the response of the tissue to applied currents for each electrode and computing an expected tissue response for an arbitrarily sized and shaped electrode defining an electrode area by combining the forward model for each electrode of an array of electrodes covering the defined electrode area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2014
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventors: Rene Kempe, Yu Huang, Lucas C. Parra
  • Publication number: 20160228703
    Abstract: An exemplary cochlear implant may include 1) a current source tied to a voltage supply and having an output that is electrically coupled to an electrode included in a plurality of electrodes, 2) a mirrored current source associated with the current source and that is commanded to output a commanded current, 3) a reference load coupled to an output of the mirrored current source and that forces the mirrored current source into an out-of-compliance state in which the mirrored current source outputs a peference current that is a predetermined percentage lower than the commanded current, the reference current resulting in a dynamic reference voltage at the output of the mirrored current source, and 4) a comparator that compares a voltage at the output of the current source with the dynamic reference voltage, and outputs a signal based on the comparison. Corresponding systems and methods are also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2014
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventor: R. Tissa Karunasiri
  • Publication number: 20160228704
    Abstract: An exemplary stimulation configuration management system may 1) obtain electric field imaging (EFI) data for a plurality of stimulation configurations associated with an electrode included in an intracochlear electrode array that is a part of a cochlear implant system associated with a patient, 2) identify, based on the EFI data, a stimulation configuration included in the plurality of stimulation configuration and that focuses an electric field produced by current applied to the electrode more than any other stimulation configuration included in the plurality of stimulation configurations, and 3) direct the cochlear implant system to use the identified stimulation configuration for the electrode during a normal operation of the cochlear implant system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2014
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventors: Myles McLaughlin, Melanie Lucile Gilbert
  • Publication number: 20160228705
    Abstract: A neurostimulation system senses electrographic signals from the brain of a patient, extracts features from the electrographic signals, and when the extracted features satisfy certain criteria, detects a neurological event type. A mapping function relates the detected neurological event type to a stimulation parameter subspace and a default stimulation parameter set where the values of the stimulation parameters define an instance of stimulation therapy for the patient. The decision whether to implement a stimulation parameter subspace or a default stimulation parameter set may be informed by integrating other information about a state of the patient. A stimulation parameter subspace or stimulation parameter set may optimized by testing it against various thresholds until certain effectiveness criteria is satisfied. The neurological event type may be one of several electrographic seizure onset types.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2016
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventors: Tara Leigh CROWDER, Sharanya ARCOT DESAI, Martha Jo MORRELL, Thomas Kim TCHENG, Ritu KAPUR
  • Publication number: 20160228706
    Abstract: An system may include an electrode arrangement configured for implantation in an epidural space, a neural modulation generator configured to use electrodes in the electrode arrangement to generate modulation fields, at least one storage and a controller operably connected to the neural modulation generator. The storage(s) may be configured to store supra-perception threshold dorsal root modulation field parameter data and therapeutic modulation field parameter data, where the therapeutic modulation field parameter data may be different than the supra-perception threshold dorsal root modulation field parameter data.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2016
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventors: Bradley Lawrence Hershey, Michael A. Moffitt
  • Publication number: 20160228707
    Abstract: Systems and methods make possible the placement of one or more electrode leads in a tissue region for providing functional and/or therapeutic stimulation to tissue. The systems and methods are adapted to provide the relief of pain.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2016
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventor: Joseph W. Boggs, II
  • Publication number: 20160228708
    Abstract: An apparatus comprises a stimulus circuit, a recharge circuit, a switch circuit, and a control circuit. The stimulus circuit provides electrical cardiac pacing stimulation to multiple combinations of a plurality of electrodes, and the electrical stimulation is selectively applied at the first electrode of the electrode combinations. The recharge circuit includes a recharge capacitor electrically coupled to the second electrode of the electrode combinations, and the switch circuit selectively enables electrode combinations for electrical coupling to the stimulus circuit and the recharge circuit. The control circuit includes a pacing activation sub-circuit that selectively initiates delivery of the electrical stimulation using multiple electrode combinations, and enables simultaneous delivery of pacing recharge energy from the recharge capacitor to the second electrode of multiple electrode combinations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2016
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventors: David J. Ternes, William J. Linder
  • Publication number: 20160228709
    Abstract: An apparatus for coupling to a plurality of electrodes implantable at a plurality of tissue sites of a heart chamber of a subject. The apparatus including a stimulus circuit configured to provide an electrical cardiac pacing stimulation to the plurality of electrodes, a switching circuit configured to select electrodes of the plurality of electrodes for electrical coupling to the stimulus circuit, and a control circuit including a heart rate sub-circuit configured to determine heart rate; and a pacing site activation sub-circuit configured to selectively change which electrodes of the plurality of electrodes are used to provide the electrical cardiac pacing stimulation therapy according to the determined heart rate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 2, 2016
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventors: David J. Ternes, William J. Linder
  • Publication number: 20160228710
    Abstract: An energy efficient system is described for delivering electrostimulation to a patient's heart. The system may be configured to switch, in some cases dynamically, between a multi-site electrostimulation configuration and a single-site electrostimulation configuration for delivering electrostimulation to a single heart chamber (e.g. left ventricle) based upon one or more triggers and/or a predefined schedule to reduce the energy expenditure of the system while still providing the benefits of multi-site electrostimulation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2016
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventors: Pramodsingh Hirasingh Thakur, Qi An, Yinghong Yu, Benjamin J. Nyquist
  • Publication number: 20160228711
    Abstract: According to an embodiment of a method for providing neural stimulation, activity is sensed, and neural stimulation is automatically controlled based on the sensed activity. An embodiment determines periods of rest and periods of exercise using the sensed activity, and applies neural stimulation during rest and withdrawing neural stimulation during exercise. Other embodiments are provided herein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2016
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventors: Imad Libbus, Andrew P. Kramer
  • Publication number: 20160228712
    Abstract: An implantable medical device (IMD) may include a housing having a proximal end and a distal end and a set of one or more electrodes connected to but spaced apart from the housing. The IMD may further include a controller disposed within the housing, wherein the controller is configured to sense cardiac electrical signals, and deliver electrical stimulation pulses via the first set of one or more electrodes. In some embodiments, a first portion of the housing is configured to be disposed at least partly within a coronary sinus of a patient's heart and a second portion of the housing is configured to be disposed at least partly within a right atrium of the patient's heart.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2016
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Applicant: CARDIAC PACEMAKERS, INC.
    Inventor: Brendan E. Koop
  • Publication number: 20160228713
    Abstract: The present invention provides advancements in the art of cardiac pacemakers. The invention provides a pacemaker system that comprises at least one pacemaker and that is, to a large extent, self-controlled, allows for long-term implantation in a patient, and minimizes current inconveniences and problems associated with battery life. The invention further includes a mechanism in which at least two pacemakers are implanted in a patient, and in which the pacemakers communicate with each other at the time of a given pacing or respiratory event, without any required external input, and adjust pacing parameters to respond to the patient's need for blood flow. The invention further provides a design for a pacemaker in which the pacemaker electrode is connected to the pacemaker body by a lead that is configured to allow the pacemaker to lie parallel to the epicardial surface and to reduce stress on the pacemaker and heart tissue.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2014
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Applicants: CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL LOS ANGELES, UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
    Inventors: Yaniv BAR-COHEN, Gerald LOEB, Li ZHOU, Raymond PECK, Stephen NUTT
  • Publication number: 20160228714
    Abstract: A medical device for stimulating the heart using biventricular stimulation. The device includes a sensor for detecting an endocardial acceleration parameter and a processing circuit configured to receive the endocardial acceleration parameter. The device further includes stimulation electronics coupled to the processing circuit. The processing circuit is configured to use the EA parameter to evaluate the biventricular stimulation. The evaluation includes comparing the value of the EA parameter in biventricular mode to the value of the EA parameter in left only mode or right only mode, and using the comparison and an assessment of the variability of the EA parameter as a function of the AVD in the left or right mode to distinguish between cases comprising: (a) normal operation, (b) a loss of RV or LV capture, (c) possible anodal stimulation. The processing circuit is further configured to conduct at least one update to operational parameters of the device based on the determined case.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2016
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Applicant: SORIN CRM SAS
    Inventors: Filippo Ziglio, Fabrizio Renesto
  • Publication number: 20160228715
    Abstract: Various fixation techniques for implantable medical device (IMDs) are described. In one example, an assembly comprises an IMD; and a set of active fixation tines attached to the IMD. The active fixation tines in the set are deployable from a spring-loaded position in which distal ends of the active fixation tines point away from the IMD to a hooked position in which the active fixation tines bend back towards the IMD. The active fixation tines are configured to secure the IMD to a patient tissue when deployed while the distal ends of the active fixation tines are positioned adjacent to the patient tissue.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2013
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventors: Matthew D. Bonner, Thomas A. Anderson, William A. Berthiaume, Noelle C. Hurtig
  • Publication number: 20160228716
    Abstract: An implantable medical device includes a housing. A first ID tag is secured relative to the housing at a first position and defines a first radiopaque manufacturer code section that visually identifies a manufacturer of the implantable medical device. A second ID tag is secured relative to the housing at a second position that is offset from the first position in at least one dimension. The second ID tag defines a second radiopaque manufacturer code section that also visually identifies the manufacturer of the implantable medical device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2016
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Applicant: CARDIAC PACEMAKERS, INC.
    Inventors: Brian L. Schmidt, Bryan J. Swackhamer, Robert A. Jones, Steven A. Kubow
  • Publication number: 20160228717
    Abstract: A portable electronic programmer has a display screen, one or more sensors, a non-transitory memory storing instructions, and one or more electronic processors configured to execute the instructions to perform operations that include: detecting, via the one or more sensors, that the display screen of the portable electronic programmer has been engaged by an object; determining a location of the display screen of the portable electronic programmer that has been engaged; and causing an external monitor to display a visual indicator that corresponds to the location of the display screen of the portable electronic programmer, the external monitor being communicatively coupled to the portable electronic programmer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 6, 2016
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventors: Scott Drees, Norbert Kaula, Yohannes Iyassu, Scott G. Leyh, Richard J. Polefko, Stephen C. Trier, Raymond L. Yoder
  • Publication number: 20160228718
    Abstract: Systems and methods for treating cardiac arrhythmias are disclosed. In one embodiment, an SICD comprises two or more electrodes, a charge storage device, and a controller operatively coupled to two or more of the electrodes and the charge storage device. In some embodiments, the controller is configured to monitor cardiac activity of the heart of the patient, detect an occurrence of a cardiac arrhythmia based on the cardiac activity, and determine a type of the detected cardiac arrhythmia from two or more types of cardiac arrhythmias. If the determined type of cardiac arrhythmia is one of a first set of cardiac arrhythmia types, the controller sends an instruction for reception by an LCP to initiate the application of ATP therapy by the LCP. If the determined type of cardiac arrhythmia is not one of the first set cardiac arrhythmia types, the controller does not send the instruction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2016
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Applicant: CARDIAC PACEMAKERS, INC.
    Inventor: Brendan E. Koop
  • Publication number: 20160228719
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for treating a neurodegenerative disease. The treatment involves administering a series of pulses and pauses from a radio frequency generator to a patient with a neurodegenerative disease.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2016
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventors: Salvatore RINALDI, Vania FONTANI
  • Publication number: 20160228720
    Abstract: Described embodiments include an electromagnetic field perturbing object and a method. The electromagnetic field perturbing object includes a biocompatible exterior surface. The electromagnetic field perturbing object includes a dielectric permittivity value or magnetic permeability value such that an interaction between the perturbing object and a quasi-static radiofrequency electromagnetic field in an electromagnetic cavity creates a high contrast radiofrequency electric field having a power density localized to a volume adjoining the biocompatible exterior surface of the perturbing object. In an embodiment, the electromagnetic field perturbing object includes a dielectric permittivity value or magnetic permeability value configured to interact with a quasi-static radiofrequency electromagnetic field in an electromagnetic cavity and generate a high contrast radiofrequency electric field having a power density localized to a volume adjoining the biocompatible exterior surface of the perturbing object.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2015
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventor: Yaroslav A. Urzhumov
  • Publication number: 20160228721
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for simultaneously providing an infra-red laser beam and a concentrated uni-polar, pulsed electromagnetic field to a region of interest in the body of a patient are disclosed. The apparatus produces the infrared laser beam from a laser diode and the pulsed electromagnetic field from an electrically conductive coil. The infra-red laser beam and the pulsed electromagnetic field are produced concurrently along a common axis. A focusing magnet is provided to concentrate the lines of flux so that they extend along the laser beam. The apparatus includes a body of Mu-metal shielding surrounding the components of the apparatus except for one pole of the coil from which the lines of flux of the electromagnetic field extend to further concentrate the field and render it effectively uni-polar.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2016
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventors: Hossam Abdel Salam El Sayed MOHAMED, Houda Abdul Rahman M. AL MANSOUR
  • Publication number: 20160228722
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a bidirectional alternating application system for preventing or treating a brain tumor caused by malignant glioma cells in animals. The bidirectional alternating magnetic field application system can apply a magnetic field having weak intensity and low frequency to patients in need of the prevention or treatment of brain tumor to thereby specifically inhibit the proliferation and mobility of glioma cells without causing any damage to normal cells. Thus, the bidirectional alternating magnetic field application system can greatly reduce side effects occurring in patients after surgery.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2015
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventors: Eun Ji Cheong, Do Guwn Hwang, Go Eun Ha, Yi An Chen
  • Publication number: 20160228723
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for providing Uni-polar Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (UPEMF) therapy for various medical conditions. The apparatus includes a unit having an electromagnetic field producing coil and a focusing subassembly in it. The coil is arranged to be energized by associated circuitry to produce a pulsating electromagnetic field. The focusing subassembly includes sets of focusing magnets to focus the lines of flux emanating from one pole of the coil so that they are concentrated and extend for some distance generally parallel to the central longitudinal axis of the coil. A Mu metal body is provided around the other pole of the unit and around portions of the focusing magnets.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2013
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventors: Hossam Abdel Salam El Sayed MOHAMED, Houda Abdul Rahman M. AL MANSOUR
  • Publication number: 20160228724
    Abstract: A device for controlling a low level laser probe (20a) suitable for treating adult stem cells of a subject, said probe (20) having a plurality of light sources (24a . . . 24n) provided in a doming treatment surface (25). The device receives, stores and provides (11a, 11) status information from a subject and in accordance with the status information provided controls (12) the laser probe (20a) to transmit visible light (?) having at least two various wavelengths (?1 . . . ?n) for stimulating adult stem cells of the subject, wherein at least one first light source (24a) being centrally positioned in the doming treatment surface (25) of the probe (20a) is adapted to transmit light of a first wavelength (?1,) of a first particular intensity (l1) and the other light sources (24n) positioned around the first light source (24a) are adapted to transmit light of another higher wavelength (?n) and at least a second higher intensity (l2).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2014
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventor: Susanne JOHANSSON
  • Publication number: 20160228725
    Abstract: Methods and systems (10, 54, 72) are provided for administering phototherapy to an injured tissue in a living subject by delivering visible or infrared biostimulatory energy to bone marrow at a dose sufficient to cause mesenchymal stem cells to appear in the injured tissue. The energy may be coherent light and can be administered transcutaneously, subcutaneously, or via an intramedullary probe (74). The technique is useful for treating many types of tissue injury, including ischemic cardiac and renal conditions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2016
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventors: Uri Oron, Hana Tuby
  • Publication number: 20160228726
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is an instrument kit and applicator for the localized internal irradiation of tumors or temporary post-operative cavities. For example, an applicator is disclosed in the form of a balloon for a radiation source of ionized radiation, which applicator enables an exactly dosed irradiation in the tissue concerned.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 18, 2014
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventors: Michael FRIEBE, Nassir NAVAB
  • Publication number: 20160228727
    Abstract: A magnetic resonance (MR)-radiotherapy (RT) hybrid system for treating a patient is disclosed. The MR-RT hybrid system comprises: an MR imaging (MRI) apparatus comprising bi-planar magnets configured to generate a magnetic field; a radiation source configured to supply a radiation beam to treat the patient; a gantry configured to couple the MR apparatus at a first end and the radiation source so that they can rotate in unison; a treatment support configured to support the patient; a motor configured to move the treatment support; and a controller. The controller comprises a processor and memory having stored thereon instructions, which when executed by the processor, cause the motor to move the treatment support in order to avoid collision between the MRI apparatus and the patient when the MRI apparatus is rotated. A method for positioning the treatment support within the MR-RT hybrid system is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2016
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventors: Keith WACHOWICZ, Bradley MURRAY, B. Gino FALLONE
  • Publication number: 20160228728
    Abstract: Magnetic resonance (MR) guided radiation therapy (MRgRT) enables control over the delivery of radiation based on patient motion indicated by MR imaging (MRI) images captured during radiation delivery. A method for MRgRT includes: simultaneously using one or more radiation therapy heads to deliver radiation and an MRI system to perform MRI; using a processor to determine whether one or more gates are triggered based on at least a portion of MRI images captured during the delivery of radiation; and in response to determining that one or more gates are triggered based on at least a portion of the MRI images captured during the delivery of radiation, suspending the delivery of radiation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2016
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventors: James F. Dempsey, Iwan Kawrykow
  • Publication number: 20160228729
    Abstract: A method and system for noninvasive face lifts and deep tissue tightening are disclosed. An exemplary method and treatment system are configured for the imaging, monitoring, and thermal injury to treat the SMAS region. In accordance with an exemplary embodiment, the exemplary method and system are configured for treating the SMAS region by first, imaging of the region of interest for localization of the treatment area and surrounding structures, second, delivery of ultrasound energy at a depth, distribution, timing, and energy level to achieve the desired therapeutic effect, and third to monitor the treatment area before, during, and after therapy to plan and assess the results and/or provide feedback.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2016
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventors: Michael H. Slayton, Peter G. Barthe, Inder Raj S. Makin, Brian D. O'Connor
  • Publication number: 20160228730
    Abstract: A belay descender device for a rope comprising a earn mounted rotating on a fixed flange to perform locking of the rope when said rope is under tension, and a lever articulated on the cam to perform progressive unlocking of the rope with a geared-down effect at the beginning of unlocking travel of the lever. The operating lever comprises transmission means collaborating with a guide ramp of the flange to interrupt the mechanical link with the cam after an intermediate position of the lever has been passed resulting in freeing from said ramp outside the gearing-down area. The end of the guide ramp of the flange corresponds to the anti-panic position of the transmission means, enabling automatic locking of the canvas soon as the gearing-down area has been passed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2016
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Applicant: ZEDEL
    Inventors: Michael Chaumontet, Julien Moine, Christophe Quillard
  • Publication number: 20160228731
    Abstract: The current invention is system and device for a Self-Contained-Breathing-Apparatus (SCBA) emergency situation to solve the problem where a user is motionless and non-breathing. In order to hasten a Full Alarm activation and speed up the notification of distress to rescuers, in addition to the standard motion-sensing alarm, the SCBA shall be equipped with an ‘air activation’ alarm. Such ‘air activation’ alarm system shall monitor airflow to and from the user and activate if a user is not breathing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2015
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventor: Eric Sacknoff
  • Publication number: 20160228732
    Abstract: The inflatable harness assembly for an aircraft oxygen crew mask includes one or more inflatable tubes having an outer layer of fabric material with an airtight coating for inflating the inflatable harness assembly. The inflatable tubes include an inner core of resilient, elastic material fixedly connected between first and second ends of the inflatable tubes that biases the inflatable tubes to shorten when the tubes are deflated. Inflation of the tubes them to expand the outer layer of material radially outwardly and lengthen axially, to allow the harness assembly to be placed over the user's head. Deflation of the tubes causes the aircraft inflatable harness assembly to grip the user's head with a desired head tension.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 3, 2016
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventors: Alice R. Cooper, David M. Prueter
  • Publication number: 20160228733
    Abstract: An extended fire hose system for directing firefighting fluids to a fire from a fire hose is provided. The extended fire hose system comprises a first pipe having an open first end and an open second end with the first end of the first pipe capable of being connected to the fire hose. A nozzle is connectable to the open second end of the first pipe. A motor is mounted adjacent the first end of the first pipe for moving the nozzle. The nozzle delivers firefighting fluids to a desired position for effective firefighting while minimizing risks to firefighters and saving fire lives.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2016
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventor: John Ceresani
  • Publication number: 20160228734
    Abstract: An X-brace configuration locks a valve element in a latched position until a fusible element breaks releasing pressurized inert gas. Upon depressurization, the X-brace configuration releases the valve element to open and allow water flow through the flexible sprinkler assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2016
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Applicant: VICTAULIC COMPANY
    Inventor: Buddy Clayton SHIPMAN
  • Publication number: 20160228735
    Abstract: A fire sprinkler of the preferred embodiments includes a frame, a trigger, and a deflector. The frame defines a duct to exhaust the flow of a fire suppressing or extinguishing substance, and includes a fastener to fasten the frame to a supply line. The trigger blocks the flow of the fire suppressing or extinguishing substance through the duct during a first mode, and permits the flow of the fire suppressing or extinguishing substance during a second mode. The deflector redirects the flow of the fire suppressing or extinguishing substance into a coverage area. The deflector also at least partially shields the trigger from the dispersal of a fire suppressing or extinguishing substance from an adjacent fire sprinkler and prevents a failure of the trigger.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2016
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Applicant: Firebird Sprinkler Company LLC
    Inventor: Jeffrey J. Pigeon
  • Publication number: 20160228736
    Abstract: A fitness machine, including: a frame structure; a spanning bar rotatably coupled to the frame structure, wherein the spanning bar selectively rotates about a central axis; a gripping bar coupled to the spanning bar; and a retention mechanism coupled to the spanning bar; wherein, when a user grasps the gripping bar with his or her hands and puts his or her feet in the retention mechanism and the spanning bar is selectively rotated about the central axis, the user is also rotated about the central axis. Optionally, the spanning bar selectively rotates about the central axis by operation of an electric motor coupled to the spanning bar. Optionally, the spanning bar also selectively rotates about a secondary access that is offset from the central axis. Optionally, the gripping bar is translatable/rotatable with respect to the spanning bar. The spanning bar is disposed at an angle with respect to the frame structure such that a center of gravity of the user substantially coincides with the central axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2016
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventor: James F. CUTTINO
  • Publication number: 20160228737
    Abstract: A training device (1) for training abdominal muscles comprising an arm (3)and a handle (2) for holding with two hands, the handle (2) being attached to or forming an integral part of the arm (3). There are disclosed different embodiments allowing a user to hold the handle (2) and to make arch-like training movements in order to train control of abdominal muscle activity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2013
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Applicant: Olkicontrol Oy
    Inventors: Olli Rahnasto, Kirsi Rahnasto
  • Publication number: 20160228738
    Abstract: An exercise assembly includes a grippable member that may be held by a person while the person is walking to facilitate the engagement of upper body muscles. A plurality of weights is provided and a selected number of the weights is removably positioned within the grippable member. The weights provide a selectable amount of resistance to the person while the person holds the grippable member. A weapon is removably positioned within one of the grippable member to be utilized by the person for defense purposes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2015
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventor: Martin Tansil
  • Publication number: 20160228739
    Abstract: A barbell is provided. The barbell includes a main body and two holding elements. The main body is elongated and hollow to enclose a receiving room. The receiving room is adapted for being filled with fluid or solid. The main body defines a longitudinal direction. The main body is formed with at least one positioning recess on the outer surface thereof. Each holding element is movable sleeved onto the main body. The holding element has a positioning element which is selectively abutted against the positioning recess to position the holding element on the main body. The holding element further has a holding portion for holding.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2015
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventor: Li-Lan WU
  • Publication number: 20160228740
    Abstract: An abdominal and oblique exercise device is formed as a small, lightweight portable structure and configured to be used while in the sitting position. The device includes leg or thigh grips that engage the user's thighs and handlebars that are engaged by the user's hands. The leg grips are coupled to a stationary cylindrical main body member and the main body member includes three distinct grooves defining three distinct exercise movements. The handlebars are coupled to a moveable top piston received within the main body member. The piston includes a groove following projection that is selectively received in one of the three grooves in the main body member. The movement of the top piston relative to the bottom main body member will compress a resistance spring for resistance throughout the exercise. The grooves will define proper user movement for exercising to isolate the desired muscles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2016
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventor: Salvatore Castelluccio
  • Publication number: 20160228741
    Abstract: An exercise tool 1 for improving oral function inserted and used in an oral cavity includes: a base 10 inserted in the oral cavity; and a hollow bulge 20 which is made of an elastic body and protrudes from the base 10. Level difference portions 41-43 and 51-53 are provided in a vertically intermediate region of at least one of an outer surface and an inner surface of the bulge 20.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 18, 2013
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventors: Yusuke NOGUCHI, Koichiro TOYOTA
  • Publication number: 20160228742
    Abstract: A dual chamber device 1 for exercising is comprised of a first chamber 2, a second chamber 3 and a rotation bracket 12 connected therebetween, said device 1 can be inverted such that when positioned in a first exercise mode the exerciser can do pushups by grasping a handle bar 5 and simultaneously rotating the first chamber 2 about the second chamber 3, and in the second mode 2 the exerciser can do pushups by forming a fist and placing his/her knuckles on the knuckle pad 4 and simultaneously rotating the second chamber 3 about the first chamber 2.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2015
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventor: Lamar Anthony Rutherford
  • Publication number: 20160228743
    Abstract: A physical therapy and exercising apparatus comprising an upper surface configured to fit a person's foot or hand, and a bottom surface, wherein, when the apparatus is placed on a flat surface, only a portion of the bottom surface touches the flat surface, such that low-friction gliding on the flat surface, of the person's foot or hand and apparatus, together, is facilitated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2016
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventors: Shayna Sorbel, Floyd W. Kaylor