Patents Issued in January 17, 2017
  • Patent number: 9545308
    Abstract: A delivery device for a collapsible heart valve includes an operating handle, including a frame defining a movement space therein, a carriage assembly moveable within the movement space, and a first resheathing lock having a locked position and an unlocked position. The delivery device further includes a catheter assembly, including a first shaft around which a valve-receiving compartment is defined, the first shaft being fixedly connected to one of the frame or the carriage assembly, and a distal sheath operatively connected to the carriage assembly. The distal sheath is moveable between a closed condition adapted to maintain the valve in the compartment and an open condition adapted to fully deploy the valve. With the resheathing lock in the locked position, the distal sheath is unable to move to the open condition to fully deploy the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Assignee: St. Jude Medical, Cardiology Division, Inc.
    Inventors: Huisun Wang, Ralph Joseph Thomas
  • Patent number: 9545309
    Abstract: A collapsible prosthetic heart valve includes a stent and a valve assembly. The stent has an annulus section with a relatively small cross-section, and an aortic section with a relatively large cross-section. The valve assembly, including a cuff and a plurality of leaflets, is secured to the stent in the annulus section such that the valve assembly can be entirely deployed in the native valve annulus and function as intended while at least a portion of the aortic section is held by the delivery device in a manner that allows for resheathing. The configuration of the prosthetic valve is such that the valve leaflets can fully coapt and the valve can function properly even when the stent and/or valve assembly become distorted upon deployment or use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Assignee: St. Jude Medical, Cardiology Divisions, Inc.
    Inventors: Yousef F. Alkhatib, Peter N. Braido
  • Patent number: 9545310
    Abstract: An implant having at least three components, namely, a solid hydrogel, a porous hydrogel adjacent to or surrounding the solid hydrogel (together considered “the hydrogel”), and a porous rigid base. The solid hydrogel and porous rigid base carry joint load, and the porous hydrogel layer and the porous rigid base allow for cellular migration into and around the implant. The invention is also a novel method of manufacturing the implant, a novel method of implanting the implant, and a method of treating, repairing or replacing biological tissue, more preferably musculoskeletal tissue, with the implant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Assignee: NEW YORK SOCIETY FOR THE RUPTURED AND CRIPPLED MAINTAINING THE HOSPITAL FOR SPECIAL SURGERY
    Inventors: Suzanne A. Maher, Tony Chen, Joseph D. Lipman, Peter Torzilli, Russell Warren
  • Patent number: 9545311
    Abstract: A prosthesis that mechanically couples with both cancellous bone and cortical bone of a glenoid includes a head portion comprising a rear surface and an articular surface, an anchor member, and a plurality of deformable fins extending radially outward from the anchor member. The anchor member includes a distal end and a proximal end connected to the rear surface of the head portion. The plurality of deformable fins extend radially outward from the anchor member and includes at least a first proximal fin adjacent to the rear surface of the head portion positioned to engage with the cortical bone. The anchor member may also include at least one distal fin located proximate the distal end of the anchor member positioned to engage with the cancellous bone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Assignee: Tornier, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Courtney, Jr., Austin W. Mutchler, R. Sean Churchill
  • Patent number: 9545312
    Abstract: This glenoidal component for a shoulder prosthesis comprises a base which may be immobilized on the glenoid cavity of a shoulder, and an element provided to be mounted on this base and forming a convex surface of articulation centered on an axis of symmetry. This axis of symmetry is non perpendicular to a rear face of the base intended to abut against the glenoid cavity, this making it possible to compensate a defect in parallelism between the resectioned surface of the glenoid cavity and the axis of the patient's spinal column. A surgeon can select the component in which the axes of symmetry of the components are oriented differently with respect to their rear faces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Assignee: Tornier SAS
    Inventors: Alain Tornier, Francois Sirveaux, Gilles Walch, Daniel Mole, Christophe Levigne, Pascal Boileau, Luc Favard
  • Patent number: 9545313
    Abstract: An elongate inserter has a distal end releasably connected to an expandable interbody fusion device and a proximal end including a trigger actuator. The interbody fusion device comprises a superior endplate and an inferior endplate that are movable in an expansion direction relative to each other in the intradiscal space. The inserter includes a lifting platform and an elevator that define cooperatively engaging ramps and ramps surfaces that upon operation of the trigger actuator cause the superior and inferior endplates to move relatively away from each other. A driver is supported by the inserter for pushing an insert into the expanded device between the superior and inferior endplates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Assignee: Spine Wave, Inc.
    Inventors: Spanky Allen Raymond, Scott McLean, Nicola Cullinan
  • Patent number: 9545314
    Abstract: An expandable intervertebral implant is provided for insertion into an intervertebral space defined by adjacent vertebrae. The expandable intervertebral implant includes a pair of outer sleeve portions and an inner core disposed between the outer sleeve portions. Movement of the inner core relative to the outer sleeve portions causes the outers sleeve portions to deflect away from each other, thereby engaging the expandable intervertebral implant with the vertebrae and adjusting the height of the intervertebral space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Assignee: DePuy Synthes Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Christopher Marden John Cain
  • Patent number: 9545315
    Abstract: Implants having improved mechanical properties and/or degradation profiles, kits including such implants, and methods of producing and using the same.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Assignee: Globus Medical, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark Borden
  • Patent number: 9545316
    Abstract: A spinal implant which is configured to be deployed between adjacent vertebral bodies. The implant has at least one extendable support element with a retracted configuration to facilitate deployment of the implant and an extended configuration so as to expand the implant and effectively distract the disc space, stabilize the motion segments and eliminate pathologic spine motion. The implant has a minimal dimension in its unexpanded state that is smaller than the dimensions of the neuroforamen through which it typically passes to be deployed within the intervertebral space. The implant is provided with a locking system having a plurality of linked locking elements that work in unison to lock the implant in an extended configuration. Bone engaging anchors also may be provided to ensure secure positioning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Assignee: Howmedica Osteonics Corp.
    Inventors: John E. Ashley, Philip J. Simpson, Walter Dean Gillespie, Damien Shulock, Murali Kadaba, David G. Matsuura, George A. Mansfield, III, Thomas Grotz, Rudy Pretti, Dennis Crandall
  • Patent number: 9545317
    Abstract: In various embodiments, an implant for interfacing with a bone structure includes a web structure including a space truss. The space truss includes two or more planar truss units having a plurality of struts joined at nodes and the web structure is configured to interface with human bone tissue. In some embodiments, a method is provided that includes accessing an intersomatic space and inserting an implant into the intersomatic space. The implant includes a web structure including a space truss. The space truss includes two or more planar truss units having a plurality of struts joined at nodes and the web structure is configured to interface with human bone tissue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Assignee: 4WEB, Inc.
    Inventor: Jessee Hunt
  • Patent number: 9545318
    Abstract: An apparatus and method is provided for interbody fusion including distracting, in a given direction, and supporting opposing vertebral bodies. A plurality of wafers are consecutively inserted between the vertebral bodies to create a column of wafers. The column of wafers is oriented between the vertebral bodies so as to expand in the given direction as the wafers are consecutively added to the column.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Assignee: Spine Wave, Inc.
    Inventors: Wes Johnson, Tyler Lipschultz, Larry Wales, Robert Kieval
  • Patent number: 9545319
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device intended to replace or partially replace one or more vertebral bodies or intervertebral discs in the cervical, thoracic or lumbar spine, and includes methods for its use and deployment. The invention may be used to restore biomechanical parameters correlating with improved patient outcomes and also involves a method for a more effective discectomy or corpectomy prior to graft deployment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Assignee: Azadeh Farin Wald, M.D., Inc., A Medical Corporation
    Inventor: Azadeh Farin
  • Patent number: 9545320
    Abstract: Stand-alone interbody fusion devices for engagement between adjacent vertebrae. The stand-alone interbody fusion devices may include a spacer and one or more inserts or members coupled to the spacer. The inserts or members may be configured and designed to provide the apertures which are designed to retain bone fasteners, such as screws, and secure the implant to the adjacent vertebrae.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Assignee: GLOBUS MEDICAL, INC.
    Inventors: Nick Padovani, Jason Gray, Jason Zappacosta, David Paul, Michael Hunt
  • Patent number: 9545321
    Abstract: This specification describes technologies relating to an intervertebral disc prosthesis used to strengthen and stabilize the spine. Implementations of the technology described herein comprise a surgical device that is implanted through a small surgical incision into a portion of a human intervertebral disc, various support tools used to insert such a surgical device, and a method by which the device is used to strengthen and stabilize the spine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Assignee: SPINAL STABILIZATION TECHNOLOGIES LLC
    Inventors: Nadi Salah Hibri, James Douglas Lutz
  • Patent number: 9545322
    Abstract: An intravascular device for treating atherosclerotic occlusive disease can include an annular band defining a longitudinal axis between proximal and distal ends. The annular band can have a plurality of barbs on its outer periphery. One or more intravascular devices may be applied in positions along a plaque accumulation site as needed to stabilize the site and/or hold pieces of plaque out of the way of blood flow. The barbs may be pressed into the plaque and/or blood vessel walls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Assignee: Intact Vascular, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter Schneider, Robert Giasolli
  • Patent number: 9545323
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides methods and apparatuses for guiding an endovascular tool, such as a puncturing tool or an angioscope, in a radial direction, such as toward or through the sidewall of a vessel, stent, or stent graft, using elongate members and specialized catheters. The present disclosure provides methods and apparatuses for locating branch vessels from within a grafted main vessel while maintaining continuous blood flow to the branch vessel. Another aspect of the present disclosure involves a reverse cannulation system, particularly useful for stenting the abdominal aorta proximate the renal arteries and stenting the renal artery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Assignee: W. L. GORE & ASSOCIATES, INC.
    Inventor: Edward H. Cully
  • Patent number: 9545324
    Abstract: Methods for accessing the common and internal iliac arteries and delivering and deploying an endovascular graft therein utilizing an ipsilateral approach are disclosed. A system including a pre-loaded delivery and deployment device to enable such a method to be practiced is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Assignee: Cook Medical Technologies LLC
    Inventor: Blayne A. Roeder
  • Patent number: 9545325
    Abstract: Apparatuses and methods for controlling a medical device delivery assembly are provided. The apparatus can comprise a first engagement device and a coupling mechanism. The first engagement device can be used to engage a first component. The coupling mechanism can have a port and at least one wing. The at least one wing can be disposed adjacent to the port and be configured to facilitate interconnection of the first engagement device with the coupling mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventor: D. Scott Beckham
  • Patent number: 9545326
    Abstract: A technique for deploying an intraluminal device, such as a bariatric device, in a mammalian lumen, such as the gastrointestinal tract, includes positioning a visualization device through an orifice, such as a natural orifice, into the mammalian lumen. A deployment device having the intraluminal device mounted thereto is guided to the mammalian lumen. The intraluminal device, which has a lumen wall that is configured to the size and shape of a portion of the mammalian lumen, is at least partially deployed from the deployment device in the mammalian lumen. The at least partially deployed intraluminal device is positioned with the deployment device while a position of said intraluminal device is visualized with the visualization device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Assignee: BFKW, LLC
    Inventors: Randal S. Baker, Frederick J. Walburn
  • Patent number: 9545327
    Abstract: A pressurized fluid cast for stabilizing a broken bone of a patient includes a sleeve having an inner wall and an outer wall with a fluid cavity between the inner and outer walls. The outer wall has at least one access port established therethrough. The sleeve is configured to be placed at a limb of a patient such that the inner wall circumscribes the limb and is disposed at least partially along the limb, with the fluid cavity and the outer wall being radially outward of the inner wall. The sleeve is adaptable to accommodate a particular patient injury and limb. Fluid is provided within the fluid cavity and is pressurized to a selected pressure to apply substantially uniform pressure at the limb of the patient. An outer protective shell may be provided at least partially around the sleeve to limit puncturing of the sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Inventor: Molly J. Paulson
  • Patent number: 9545328
    Abstract: A medical aid for supporting the function of the knee joint, in particular a knee joint orthosis with a pad engaging around the patella of the knee joint. An improved patellar pad has the additional function of supporting movement and has additional preventive/therapeutic functions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Assignee: BAUERFEIND AG
    Inventors: Heinrich Hess, Rainer Scheuermann, Hans B. Bauerfeind, Oliver Marx
  • Patent number: 9545329
    Abstract: A flow control and collection system includes a flow control device having a tubular member in which an inflatable balloon is positioned about the circumference of the interior side wall for closing the passageway to movement of matter and liquid when the balloon is expanded and allowing flow when the balloon is contracted against the side wall to which it is attached. The flow control device includes an adapter at the outer end of the tubular member having one or more interlocking features. A waste collection bag has a sealed body with at least one opening and a flow control device adapter at the opening having one or more counterpoising interlocking features to removably lock the adapters together and passes waste material and liquid through the flow control device into the waste collection bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Assignee: International Medical Technology
    Inventor: Fouad A. Salama
  • Patent number: 9545330
    Abstract: An intraoral orthosis including a first shell and a second shell. The shells are connected together by an adjustable connection device, the adjustable connection device including two notched tabs that are arranged respectively on either side of one of the shells, each notched tab co-operating in adjustable manner with a respective adjustment housing, arranged correspondingly on either side of the other of the shells, the adjustment housings being molded integrally with the other shell, each adjustment housing being connected to the other shell by a foldable support structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Assignee: BLUESOM
    Inventors: Boris Petelle, Bernard Fleury
  • Patent number: 9545331
    Abstract: The current invention relates to an adjustable mandibular advancement device with a unique combination of resilient hinging, dentition engagement and adjustability, to prevent or reduce Snoring and/or Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome. The adjustability is described by means of two concepts of adjustability for the relative enlargement or diminution of the members of the device, incremental and successive advancement mechanisms, in either combination or separately. By use of thermoplastic materials the device can be used in the outmost variability of the human dentition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Assignee: Petruska, LLC
    Inventor: Natashia Ingemarsson-Matzen
  • Patent number: 9545332
    Abstract: A retainer with a block extending downwards from an otherwise generally flat surface is disclosed. The block corresponds to a region of one or more of the cuspids or pre-molars. A side block or other device on the upper retainer also abuts a wing or other abutment device of a lower retainer, causing the lower jaw to be pushed forward relative to the upper jaw and resting position (regular organic closing position) of the upper and lower jaw together. Thus, the upper teeth are pushed forward and a space is created between the teeth behind the (lower) block preventing an apnea during sleep.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Inventor: Kenneth Luco
  • Patent number: 9545333
    Abstract: The eye dropper positioning and guiding apparatus includes a resilient guiding device having a selectively compressible member having a first opening adapted to receive an eye drop applicator and a second opening adapted to position an eye within an area of the second opening to receive a fluid from the eye drop applicator. The selectively compressible member is adapted for selective linear and nonlinear movement in relation to the eye positioned within the area of the second opening. The eye dropper positioning and guiding apparatus can also include a support base and a resilient guiding device including a selectively expandable member having a plurality of concentric loops having an outermost loop and an innermost loop, adapted for selective linear and nonlinear movement, or a support base and a resilient guiding device including a plurality of concentric, interconnected rings adapted for selective linear and nonlinear movement in relation to an eye.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Assignee: KING SAUD UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Mohd Aftab Alam, Fahad Ibrahim Al-Jenoobi, Abdullah M. Al-Mohizea
  • Patent number: 9545334
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for performing modulated fluid delivery and aspiration during a surgical procedure such as phacoemulsification is provided. The method and apparatus include delivering fluid and/or aspirating fluid in a modulated or pulsed manner during a surgical procedure, including applying fluid and/or aspirating fluid in connection with ultrasonic energy at a level and for a time period sufficient to induce transient cavitation. Fluid may be applied and/or aspirated at a timing sequence and duty cycle similar to or different from application of ultrasonic energy delivery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Assignee: Abbott Medical Optics, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark E. Steen, Kenneth E. Kadziauskas
  • Patent number: 9545335
    Abstract: A graphical user interface for use in phacoemulsification surgical systems that allows a user to select different pulse modes by touching portions of the display screen. The user interface includes first and second display elements. One display element includes a representation of the on-time of the pulses, and the other display element includes a representation of the off-time. The representations show how the on-time and off-time change relative to a position of a controller, such as a foot pedal. The representation show a constant time, or that a time increases or decreases as the foot pedal is pressed. To select a pulse mode, a user can scroll through different pulse representations by touching the screen at the display elements. The selected pulse mode can be continuous, pulse, burst, or a combination or derivation thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Assignee: Novartis AG
    Inventors: Mikhail Boukhny, David A. Thoe
  • Patent number: 9545336
    Abstract: Ocular surgery may be performed by a variety of systems, processes, and techniques. In certain implementations, systems and processes for ocular surgery may include the ability to emulsify a lens in an eye using a modular hand-held system including a phacoemulsification unit detachably coupled to a pump unit and remove lens portions from the eye using suction provided by the pump unit. The system and the process may also include the ability to decouple the phacoemulsification unit from the pump unit, couple an irrigation-aspiration unit to the pump unit to form a second hand-held system, and remove material from the eye using suction provided by the pump unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Assignee: Novartis AG
    Inventor: Glenn Robert Sussman
  • Patent number: 9545337
    Abstract: An acoustic streaming valve arrangement induces flow in a glaucoma drainage device. The arrangement may include a selectively vibrating flow generator having a sharp edge and a driving device configured to selectively vibrate the flow generator to create a streaming fluid flow in a direction away from the sharp edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Assignee: Novartis AG
    Inventors: Satish Yalamanchili, Mikhail Ovchinnikov, Jianbo Zhou
  • Patent number: 9545338
    Abstract: A system and method for increasing the amplitude of accommodation and/or changing the refractive power of lens material of a natural crystalline lens is provided. Generally, there is provided methods and systems for delivering a laser beam to a lens of an eye in a plurality of patterns results in the increased accommodative amplitude and/or refractive power of the lens. There is further provided a system and method of treating presbyopia by increasing both the flexibility of the human lens and the depth of field of the eye.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Assignee: LENSAR, LLC.
    Inventors: Rudolph W. Frey, Gary P. Gray, Jerome R. Kuszak
  • Patent number: 9545339
    Abstract: The invention includes: a new composition of matter (a composite comprising a naturally occurring in vivo cornea in an in situ eye together with at least one volume of vitrified non-naturally occurring corneal stromal tissue formed within the naturally occurring corneal stromal tissue) wherein the vitrified tissue is modified in structure and properties from its naturally occurring condition into a non-naturally occurring glass-like condition with modifications including but not limited to increased eletastic modulus; methods for producing and using the new composition of matter for modifying cortical structure and properties, including but not limited to corneal optical aberrations; wound closure adhesion and transplant adhesion; and a photovitrification system for producing the new composition of matter comprising at least one photon source with controllable treatment parameters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Inventors: Olivia Serdarevic, Michael Berry, Donald F. Heller
  • Patent number: 9545340
    Abstract: By adapting femtosecond micromachining approaches developed in hydrogels, we can perform Intra-tissue Refractive Index Shaping (IRIS) in biological tissues. We reduced femtosecond laser pulse energies below the optical breakdown thresholds to create grating patterns that are associated with a change in the refractive index of the tissue. To increase two-photon absorption, we used a two (or more)-photon-absorbing chromophore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Assignee: University of Rochester
    Inventors: Wayne H. Knox, Krystel R. Huxlin, Li Ding
  • Patent number: 9545341
    Abstract: Postoperative lens position is predicted on the basis of known measured values, such as the corneal thickness, the depth of the anterior chamber, the eye length, and the distances of the capsular bag equator and/or of the lens haptic from the anterior surface of the lens. In addition, the calculation also takes into account the attitude of the intraocular lens, for which purpose additional parameters of the pseudophakic eye are used that have not previously been taken into consideration. The proposed method is suitable for a more exact prediction of the strength and nature of an intraocular lens to be implanted in a pseudophakic eye in the context of cataract surgery or of a refractive intervention. The method is based on the use of suitable calculation methods, e.g. geometric optical formulae, or of ray tracing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Assignee: Carl Zeiss Meditec AG
    Inventors: Wilfried Bissmann, Tobias Bühren, Michael Trost
  • Patent number: 9545342
    Abstract: A system for monitoring one or more patients has: i) a number of temperature sensors for attachment to the outer surface of an absorbent article at spaced locations for generating a number of signals indicative of the temperature measurements at such locations; ii) a transmitter for communicating the signals to a processor; iii) wherein the processor is provided with computer code which, when executed, determines whether a urination or defecation event has occurred in the absorbent article based on the temperature measurements; and iv) a display for displaying the urination or defecation event to a care-giver. An accelerometer can also be used to provide additional information of use to the caregiver in combination with incontinence information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Assignee: FIT ASSIST MEDICAL INC.
    Inventor: Eugen Cretu-Petra
  • Patent number: 9545343
    Abstract: Disclosed is an absorbent article, having an individual-wrapping sheet which is liquid-impermeable; an absorber arranged on an upper side of the individual-wrapping sheet, containing super absorbent polymer, and capable of absorbing an aqueous liquid; and a back-up sheet arranged between the individual-wrapping sheet and the absorber and capable of retaining the aqueous liquid, in which the individual-wrapping sheet has a liquid-storing portion in a form of bag which is provided in a rear portion of the individual-wrapping sheet and forms an internal space on the upper side of the individual-wrapping sheet, and in which a rear end portion of the absorber exists in the internal space formed by the liquid-storing portion. By using this absorbent article, a material used for individual wrapping can be utilized at the time of wearing the absorbent article without disposal of the material, and leakage is less liable to occur.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Assignee: DAIO PAPER CORPORATION
    Inventors: Migaku Suzuki, Yoshio Hirai
  • Patent number: 9545344
    Abstract: A packaging unit for hygiene articles is formed from a sheet of material having an inner surface and an outer surface. The inner surface includes an edge zone including an inner edge portion and an outer edge portion. The sheet has at least one folding axis dividing the sheet into a first region and a second region. The inner edge portion and the outer edge portion of the edge zone of the first region is provided with adhesive, and the other of the inner edge portion and the outer edge portion of the edge zone of the first region is adhesive-free. Further, one of the inner edge portion and the outer edge portion of the edge zone of the second region is provided with adhesive, and the other is adhesive-free in a complementary manner to the edge zone of the first region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Assignee: SCA HYGIENE PRODUCTS AB
    Inventor: Sofia Ekstedt
  • Patent number: 9545345
    Abstract: A deployable gurney ramp assembly with a retractable ramp deployment apparatus having two deployment tracks extending parallel, parallel first and second base tracks terminating in stops, the deployment tracks slidably engage the base tracks, with ramp guides slidably pivotally engaging a ramp at the end permitting the ramp to pivot when raised or lowered. Extension devices are utilized to advance the deployment ramps and the ramp guides.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Inventor: Uriah S. Akers, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9545346
    Abstract: A mounting device which provides a pivotal interface for emergency equipment and a method of attaching the emergency equipment to a rescue transport, e.g., a foot of a litter, are disclosed. For example, the mounting device is releasably attachable to the litter and includes a fastening device operably attached to a mounting structure of the device. The mounting structure includes a tilt plate capable of pivoting. The mounting device also includes an adapter capable of securely mating with the tilt plate, providing a pivotal interface for the attachment of the emergency equipment thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Assignee: Ferno-Washington, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert C. Chinn, Joseph G. Bourgraf
  • Patent number: 9545347
    Abstract: The present invention provides a medical ambulatory device and method comprised of an ambulatory vehicle and a flexible, elastic harness attached to the vehicle for suspending an injured lower limb of a child in a substantially elevated position in order to maintain mobility of the child, encourage movement, and provide ample exercise and fun for the child while the injury is healing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Inventor: Elizabeth Michels
  • Patent number: 9545348
    Abstract: A mattress with a rotating and waste elimination system comprises a mattress with a recessed area for receiving a rotation and waste elimination system. The rotation and waste elimination system comprises a (i) frame with a rectangular base and two side walls, forming a “U” shape; (ii) platform (with a central cut out for a waste elimination bag) suspended over the base by two pairs of sliding posts; (iii) optional four chains attached to the platform and side walls; and (iv) programmable electronic gear to operate the sliding posts to simultaneously raise one end and lower the opposite end of the platform to gently turn the patient. Alternately, the gear operates a cable/pulley system (involving two independent systems positioned outside the frame) by attaching one cable end to the midpoint of the platform's shorter side and the other cable end to the gear to rotate and counter-rotate the platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Inventor: Elaine L. Britton
  • Patent number: 9545349
    Abstract: There is provided a bedrail mount (10) for detachably attaching an object (30) to a bed rail (40) of a bed. The bedrail mount comprises a U shaped bracket for positioning over a bedrail. One leg (70) of the U shaped bracket comprises a U shaped recess (20) which, when the bedrail mount rotates, receives the bed rail and prevents the bedrail mount from further rotating and getting detached from the bed rail. The object is attached to the other leg (60) of the U shaped bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Assignee: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS N.V.
    Inventors: Roman Oliver Kalka, Stefan Melles
  • Patent number: 9545350
    Abstract: A sliding chair for assisting entering and exiting a bathtub provides assistance for handicapped or otherwise physically incapable persons in using a bathtub for bathing. A bathing chair is moved by a displacement mechanism from outside the bathtub to various positions within the bathtub. A chair support board supports the bathing chair in some positions, and slides along chair support rails into the bathtub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Inventor: Richard Walters
  • Patent number: 9545351
    Abstract: A modular operating table comprises a support (10) and a base part (20) attached to the support (10), the base part (20) providing a first region of a support surface for a patient's body during surgery, the base part (20) comprising side bars (21) extending parallel to a longitudinal axis of the support surface in lateral edge regions of the support surface. A seat element (30) is attached to the base part (20), the seat element (30) providing a second region of the support surface, a width of the second region decreasing in a distal direction, symmetric to a central longitudinal axis of the support surface, the seat element (30) having at least two first connection elements for the distal attachment of functional components, the at least two first connection elements being arranged along main axes of the side bars. A first functional component (40.1, 40.2) comprising a generally triangular plate (42.1, 42.2) provides a third region of the support surface. The first functional component (40.1, 40.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Assignee: Schaerer Medical Management AG
    Inventors: Thomas Sommer, Michael Voegtle, Christian Zaugg
  • Patent number: 9545352
    Abstract: An apparatus has at least one fastener and a first plate defining an opening for receiving the at least one fastener and a second plate slidably engaged with the first plate. The second plate defines at least one slot for slidably receiving the at least one fastener. The at least one fastener is adapted to secure the position of the first plate relative to the second plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Assignee: Life Remembrance, LLC
    Inventor: Douglas Lee Flin
  • Patent number: 9545353
    Abstract: A method of operating an exoskeleton device includes: receiving sensor information; connecting a clutch system to a pulley system in; determining whether to engage a drive train gear to the clutch system based on the sensor information; engaging the drive train gear through the clutch system when determined to engage the drive train gear; and powering a first motor to drive the drive train gear for controlling a joint or segment of exoskeleton device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Assignee: Leonis Medical Corporation
    Inventors: Jon Smith, Kern Bhugra
  • Patent number: 9545354
    Abstract: A hydraulically adjustable walker including a frame that includes a plurality of telescoping legs and a leg adjustment assembly that includes at least one valve and at least one tube that delivers hydraulic fluid into the legs and allows a user to control the length of each leg. The legs of the walker are hydraulically adjustable, so that the front legs may be shortened and the back legs extended, or two side legs shortened and the two opposing side legs extended, so as to allow the walker to be securely placed on two different steps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Inventors: William Cyrus Klausmeyer, Peter William Klausmeyer, Ryan William Andrew
  • Patent number: 9545355
    Abstract: An attachment apparatus for a crutch including a pair of horizontal supports, a rectangular attachment having a back side and a front side, and a pair of clips. The pair of horizontal supports includes an upper support and a lower support. A right end of each of the upper support and the lower support, and a left end of each of the upper support and the lower support are attached to a right side support of a crutch and a left side support of a crutch, respectively. The pair of clips includes an upper clip and a lower clip. Each of the upper clip and the lower clip has a female receptor and a male member. Each of the female receptors is disposed on each of the pair of horizontal supports, and each of the male members is disposed on the back side of the attachment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Inventor: Donald Keith Welch
  • Patent number: 9545356
    Abstract: A therapeutic hand exercise device includes one or more pliant sleeves (5) for attachment to one or more digits of a human hand, a chamber (4) provided in at least a dorsal region of the or each pliant sleeve (5), a liquid inlet to the chamber and a pump (3) for supplying pressurized liquid to the or each chamber. Each pliant sleeve (5) is movable between a relaxed state and a stiffened state in which the pliant sleeve forms a substantially rigid elongate member for holding a finger disposed within the sleeve in an extended position. A resilient member (6) is fitted to the palmar side of each pliant sleeve which returns the finger to a state of contracture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Assignee: I2R MEDICAL LIMITED
    Inventors: Keith Patrick Heaton, Ian James Hardman
  • Patent number: 9545357
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a massaging apparatus. The massaging apparatus is comprised of a massage sphere that can be rotated with the use of adjacent ball bearings. The massage sphere is encased in an upper, midsection and lower housings, whereby only a section of the massage sphere is exposed. A strap is connected to the lower housing, and can be wrapped around the midsection housing for easy storage. To use the massaging apparatus, one simply has to hold the device and roll the exposed part of the massage sphere over the desired area. In order to massage hard to reach areas such as the back, both ends of the strap are held in each hand, and the massaging apparatus is placed on a hard surface such as a wall, in between the wall and the person's back. The user holds the straps and applies pressure onto the massaging apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Inventor: John Pathrose