Patents Issued in January 24, 2017
  • Patent number: 9550043
    Abstract: Some embodiments of a medical device anchor system include an anchor device that secures a medical instrument (such as a catheter or the like) in place relative to a skin penetration point using subcutaneous anchors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: INTERRAD Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael S. Rosenberg, Mark R. Christianson
  • Patent number: 9550044
    Abstract: A device for stabilizing a patient catheter includes a medical valve and a male luer connector for connection to a catheter. The medical valve has an open mode that permits fluid flow through the valve and a closed mode that prevents fluid through the valve. The medical valve also includes a housing having an inlet and an outlet. The device also includes a docking pod that has an internal fluid path. The docking pod is fluidly connected to the male luer connector, and secured to the patient via a docking pod adhesive layer that is at least partially located beneath at least a portion of the docking pod. The device also includes an adherent substrate having a first film layer and a second film layer that at least partially define a fluid pathway extending through the adherent substrate and fluidly connecting the outlet of the medical valve and the docking pod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: NP Medical Inc.
    Inventors: Luis Maseda, Todd M. Chelak, Nicholas Dennis, Ian Kimball
  • Patent number: 9550045
    Abstract: This disclosure includes an anchor configured to maintain a portion of a therapy delivery element within a desired location of a patient. The anchor comprises a body forming a lumen configured to compressibly engage the outer surface of the therapy delivery element to hold the anchor in place about the therapy delivery element. The anchor may be stretched such that the lumen becomes larger than the cross-section of the therapy delivery element to facilitate positioning the anchor about the therapy delivery element. The body forms two or more channels that facilitate radial stretching of the anchor using a pronged tool. Radially stretching the body via the channels using the pronged tool reduces a holding force of the anchor on the therapy delivery element to facilitate adjusting a position of the anchor relative to the therapy delivery element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael D. Baudino, Brian T. Stolz
  • Patent number: 9550046
    Abstract: A balloon catheter assembly is provided with an outer catheter, an inner catheter, an outer adapter, a balloon and a support sheath, and is configured such that the balloon resides entirely within a predetermined volume having an outer diameter substantially equal to or less than the outside diameter of the distal end of the outer catheter when the balloon is in a deflated configuration. Methods of using and steering the catheter assemblies are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: Embolx, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael P. Allen, Greg Halstead
  • Patent number: 9550047
    Abstract: A balloon catheter, in particular a balloon catheter for angioplasty, the balloon having an inner or outer surface modified by means of a photoactivation reaction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: Invatec S.P.A.
    Inventors: Simone D'Onofrio, Paolo Pellegrini
  • Patent number: 9550048
    Abstract: Apparatus is provided for treating hypertension of a subject. The apparatus includes an implantable element which has a non-circular shape and which is configured to reduce the hypertension by facilitating an assumption of a non-circular shape by a blood vessel in a vicinity of a baroreceptor of the subject, during diastole of the subject. Other embodiments are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: Vascular Dynamics, Inc.
    Inventor: Yossi Gross
  • Patent number: 9550049
    Abstract: A method of treating a sinus cavity of a subject includes advancing a distal portion of a light source through a drainage pathway of a sinus cavity and into the sinus cavity and visually observing a transdermal light emitted from the light source. A distal portion of a substantially rigid inner guide member of a balloon dilation catheter is advanced into the drainage pathway, the balloon dilation catheter including a movable shaft including a balloon that is slidably mounted on the substantially rigid inner guide member. The movable shaft and balloon are advanced distally over the substantially rigid inner guide member to place a portion of the balloon in the drainage pathway whereby the balloon is inflated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: ENTELLUS MEDICAL, INC.
    Inventors: Anthony J. Hanson, John R. Drontle, Chad Harris, Matthew Higgins
  • Patent number: 9550050
    Abstract: An electronic capsule (100) is provided. The capsule (100) has a discrete drive element (300) comprising: a housing (109), electronics for making the electronic capsule (100) operable, a pumping mechanism (115) for dosing and displacing a substance, a power source (105) for powering the electronic capsule (100) and enabling the electronics and the pumping mechanism (115) to operate, and a locking mechanism (130); and a discrete payload element (200) comprising: a housing (109), a reservoir (210) for storing the substance, one or more openings (250) in the housing (109) for releasing the substance from the reservoir (210) and a locking mechanism (230) for engaging the drive element locking mechanism (130). Engagement of the drive element locking mechanism (130) with the payload element locking mechanism (230) secures the drive element (300) to the payload element (200), thereby making the electronic capsule (100) operable and specific.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: Medimetrics Personalized Drug Delivery B.V.
    Inventors: Johan Frederik Dijksman, Anke Pierik, Judith Margreet Rensen, Jeff Shimizu, Hans Zou, Michel Pardoel, Frits Tobi De Jongh
  • Patent number: 9550051
    Abstract: An implantable drug delivery system includes a middle ear section with a proximal end fixed to a tympanic membrane of a patient, and a distal end that penetrates through a fluid-tight sealed opening into the inner ear. An inner ear section has a proximal end that is connected to the distal end of the middle ear guide member at the sealed opening, and a closed distal end terminating the inner ear holding member some predetermined distance within the cochlea. A hollow interior of the inner ear section is configured for containing a replaceable pharmaceutical agent, and an outer surface is configured to release the pharmaceutical agent from the hollow interior into the inner ear of the patient. The middle ear section and the inner ear section are configured to cooperate for replacing the pharmaceutical agent through the proximal end of the middle ear section to the inner ear section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: MED-EL Elektromedizinische Geraete GmbH
    Inventors: Claude Jolly, Ingeborg Hochmair, Anandhan Dhanasingh, Pavel Mistrik, Soeren Schilp, Roland Hessler, Kenneth Mugridge
  • Patent number: 9550052
    Abstract: An apparatus for treating skin has a console with a user input device and a handpiece assembly. The handpiece assembly is configured to treat skin. A fluid line provides fluid communication between the console and the handpiece assembly. A manifold system is coupled to the console and controlled by the user input device. The manifold system is configured to hold releasably a plurality of fluid sources and deliver fluid from at least one of the plurality of fluid sources to the handpiece assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: Edge Systems LLC
    Inventors: Roger Ignon, Scott Mallett, Abraham Solano, William Cohen
  • Patent number: 9550053
    Abstract: A device and method for delivering a high viscosity composition is described. The composition includes a bioactive agent for delivery to a subject in need thereof. The method delivers the bioactive agent at a high bioavailability and with little loss of agent to the natural defense mechanisms of the body. The device includes one or more microneedles with structures fabricated on a surface of the microneedles to form a nanotopography. A random or non-random pattern of structures may be fabricated such as a complex pattern including structures of differing sizes and/or shapes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventor: Russell F. Ross
  • Patent number: 9550054
    Abstract: A connection device has a male connector and a female connector. The female connector will only accommodate the dedicated male connector, thereby prohibiting a misconnection with the wrong male connector. In certain embodiments, a member prohibits male connectors, other than a dedicated male connector, from being inserted into the female connector. In certain other embodiments, a post prohibits male connectors, other than a dedicated male connector including a slot, from being inserted into the female connector. In still certain other embodiments, a series of prongs in the male connector and corresponding grooves in the female connector ensure the proper connection. Once the male connector is inserted and secured within the female connector, a fluid-tight seal is formed between the male connector and the female connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: CAREFUSION 303, INC.
    Inventors: D. Gregory Yow, Jonathan Walborn
  • Patent number: 9550055
    Abstract: An apparatus and system for transferring a liquid, such as an anesthetic, from the outlet port of a reservoir to a machine while effectively and conveniently minimizing the release of anesthetic. In one embodiment, the apparatus and system can include a first valve movable between a first position and a second position; a first housing surrounding the first valve; a second valve slidably connected to the first valve and movable between a third position and a fourth position; and a second housing which surrounds the second valve; wherein the apparatus defines a first opening, a second opening, and a receiver passage between the first and second openings. In another embodiment, a movable plunger can be slidably connected to the second valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: Piramal Critical Care, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Cuzydlo
  • Patent number: 9550056
    Abstract: Medical leads include a lumen body at an end of the lead, and the lumen body includes multiple filar lumens. The lumen body is joined to a lead body, and electrical connectors are longitudinally spaced along the lumen body. Filars within the filar lumens are directed through filar passageways within the lumen body to attach to the electrical connectors on the lumen body. The filar passageways may be aligned with the filar lumens, and slots within the electrical connectors may be aligned with the filar passageways to facilitate assembly. The lumen body may provide additional stiffness to the end of the lead where the lumen body is located to facilitate lead insertion into the medical device. The filar lumens of the lumen body may have a longitudinally straight configuration so that the portions of filars within the filar lumens are held in a longitudinally straight configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: MEDTRONIC, INC.
    Inventors: Michael R. Klardie, Michael J. Kern, Brian T. Stolz, Marty D. Martens
  • Patent number: 9550057
    Abstract: A surgical guide to facilitate delivery of a therapy delivery device into the pterygopalatine fossa of a subject includes a curvilinear body having a distal end portion, a proximal end portion, and an intermediate portion extending between the distal and proximal end portions. The proximal end portion is defined by oppositely disposed first and second surfaces. The proximal end portion and the intermediate portion define a longitudinal plane that extends between the proximal and distal end portions. The distal end portion has an arcuate configuration relative to the longitudinal plane and is defined by oppositely disposed third and fourth surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: The Cleveland Clinic Foundation
    Inventors: Francis A. Papay, Carl Lance Boling
  • Patent number: 9550058
    Abstract: A medical stylet for guiding a lead includes a first elongate member for attachment of the lead to the target tissue, a second elongate member to reshape the lead. The first elongate member of the medical stylet includes a proximal end portion, and a distal end portion wherein the distal end portion of the first elongate member includes a tip feature configured to engage the lead on application of torque externally. The second elongate member defines a lumen along its length. The lumen of the second elongate member can be configured to enclose at least a portion of the first elongate member. The second elongate member can have a pre defined shape. The pre defined shape of the second elongate member allows the lead to be reshaped when inserted into the lead, this reshaped lead now can be guided to an anatomical pass way.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: Cardiac Pacemakers, Inc.
    Inventor: Arthur J. Foster
  • Patent number: 9550059
    Abstract: A respiration implant system for a patient with impaired breathing includes one or more temperature sensors configured for placement into an inner wall tissue along an airway passage of the patient and configured to measure temperature in the inner wall tissue in order to produce a temperature signal based on the measured temperature. The system further includes a pacing processor configured to receive the temperature signal from the temperature sensor and to generate a respiration pacing signal based on the temperature signal that is synchronized with a breathing cycle of the patient and a stimulating electrode configured to deliver the respiration pacing signal from the pacing processor to respiration neural tissue of the patient to facilitate breathing in the patient. The respiration implant system may be used as a laryngeal pacemaker system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: MED-EL Elektromedizinische Geraete GmbH
    Inventors: Christian Denk, Birthe Rubehn
  • Patent number: 9550060
    Abstract: An apparatus for generating focused currents in biological tissue is provided. The apparatus comprises an electric source capable of generating an electric field across a region of tissue and means for altering the permittivity of the tissue relative to the electric field, whereby a displacement current is generated. The means for altering the permittivity may be a chemical source, optical source, mechanical source, thermal source, or electromagnetic source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: Highland Instruments, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy Andrew Wagner, Uri Tzvi Eden
  • Patent number: 9550061
    Abstract: An exemplary system includes 1) a programming device configured to be located external to a cochlear implant patient and communicatively coupled to a cochlear implant system associated with the patient, 2) a programming interface device communicatively coupled to the programming device and configured to be located external to the patient, and 3) a receiver communicatively coupled directly to the programming interface device. The programming device directs at least one of the cochlear implant system and the receiver to apply stimulation to the patient, records an evoked response that occurs in response to the stimulation, and performs a predetermined action in accordance with the evoked response. Corresponding systems and methods are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: Advanced Bionics AG
    Inventors: Leonid M. Litvak, Smita S. Agrawal, Gulamali Emadi, Aniket Saoji, Charles C. Finley, Guillermo A. Calle, R. Tissa Karunasiri, Kanthaiah Koka
  • Patent number: 9550062
    Abstract: Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) system having a recharging system with self alignment, a system for mapping current fields using a completely wireless system, multiple independent electrode stimulation outsource, and IPG control through software on Smartphone/mobile device and tablet hardware during trial and permanent implants. SCS system can include multiple electrodes, multiple, independently programmable, stimulation channels within an implantable pulse generator (IPG) providing concurrent, but unique stimulation fields. SCS system can include a replenishable power source, rechargeable using transcutaneous power transmissions between antenna coil pairs. An external charger unit, having its own rechargeable battery, can charge the IPG replenishable power source. A real-time clock can provide an auto-run schedule for daily stimulation. A bi-directional telemetry link informs the patient or clinician the status of the system, including the state of charge of the IPG battery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: GLOBUS MEDICAL, INC
    Inventors: Saif Khalil, Raghavendra Angara, Miles Curtis, Christopher Biele, Daniel Fellmeth
  • Patent number: 9550063
    Abstract: A positionally sensitive spinal cord stimulation apparatus and method using near-infrared (NIR) reflectometry are provided for automatic adjustments of spinal cord stimulation. The system comprises an electrode assembly with an integrated optical fiber sensor for sensing spinal cord position. The integrated optical fiber sensor, comprising a pair of optical elements for emitting light from an IR emitter and for collecting reflected light into a photodetector, determines a set of measured photocurrents. As the spinal cord changes position, the angles of incidence for light from the IR emitter and the measured optical intensities change. Electrode pulse characteristics are adjusted in real time, based on the set of measured optical intensities, to minimize changes in stimulation perceived by the patient during motion. The system includes automatic calibration of the optical fiber sensor when the patient is at rest, and a patient orientation detection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Inventor: Erich W. Wolf, II
  • Patent number: 9550064
    Abstract: A device according to some embodiments may include a housing configured for location external to a body of a subject. The device may also include at least one processor associated with the housing and configured to communicate with a circuit implanted in the subject within proximity to a tongue of the subject, wherein the circuit is in electrical communication with at least one electrode, receive a physiological signal from the subject via the circuit, and send a control signal to the implanted circuit in response to the physiological signal, wherein the control signal is predetermined to activate neuromuscular tissue within the tongue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Inventor: Adi Mashiach
  • Patent number: 9550065
    Abstract: Methods, systems, and/or devices for selecting spinal cord stimulation (SCS) electrode array configurations to provide effective cardiac therapy. Physiological parameters related to the heart may be monitored and analyzed during the delivery of SCS using various SCS electrode array configurations to determine an effect SCS electrode array configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Lilian Kornet, Tim D. J. Jongen, Raphael A. Schneider, Pascalle H. C. M. Reiters
  • Patent number: 9550066
    Abstract: Devices and methods for improving device therapy such as cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) by determining a desired value for a device parameter are described. An ambulatory medical device can receive one or more physiologic signals and generate multiple signal metrics from the physiologic signals. The ambulatory medical device can determine a desired value for a device parameter, such as a timing parameter used for controlling the delivery of CRT pacing to various heart chambers, using information fusion of signal metrics that are selected based on one or more of a signal metric sensitivity to perturbations to the device parameter in response to a stimulation, a signal metric variability in response to a stimulation, or a covariability between two or more signal metrics in response to a stimulation. The ambulatory medical device can program a stimulation using the desired device parameter value, and deliver the programmed stimulation to one or more target sites to achieve desired therapeutic effects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: Cardiac Pacemakers, Inc.
    Inventors: Qi An, Barun Maskara, Pramodsingh Hirasingh Thakur, Julie A. Thompson
  • Patent number: 9550067
    Abstract: A shoe-shaped magnetic coil system for the treatment of foot pain which has an electrical pulse generator and a magnetic coil system connected to the electrical pulse generator. The magnetic coil system is in the general shape of a shoe with the electric current pulses flowing through magnetic coils of the magnetic coil system being capable of creation of intense magnetic pulses within a patient's foot and ankle. The coil of wire is formed of coil sections having a smallest area in the region of the patient's toes with a generally increasing area of the coil sections as the ankle region is approached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: Zygood, LLC
    Inventors: Susan R. Fischell, Robert E. Fischell
  • Patent number: 9550068
    Abstract: A patient treatment unit for analyzing and treating abnormality of human or animal tissues, includes a display; a pulse generator circuit that outputs a sequence of electrical pulses at a pulse frequency, the electrical pulses having a pulse width, the pulse generator controlling the pulse frequency and the pulse width of the electrical pulses; a pair of probes for contacting a body of a patient and electrically coupled to the pulse generator; and a voltage and current sensing circuit that senses a voltage or a current via the probes when contacting the body of the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: NewLife Sciences, LLC
    Inventor: Ronald J. Weinstock
  • Patent number: 9550069
    Abstract: There is disclosed a system and method for irradiating extracellular macular deposits through a cornea of an eye utilizing laser pulses. In an embodiment, the method comprises generating laser pulses of between about 1 femtosecond to 1,000,000 femtoseconds in a wavelength range from about 200 nanometers to 30 micrometers; and irradiating the extracellular macular deposits with the laser pulses for a preset temporal duration, energy, wavelength, spectral distribution, energy fluence, and power density. In an embodiment, the laser source generates a laser pulse in the range of about 0.001 nJ to 100 mJ of optical energy. By focusing the laser at a depth targeting extracellular macular deposits, the irradiating laser pulse is configured to ionize, remove, deplete, denature, and destroy the extracellular macular deposits without damaging the retinal pigmented epithelium cell membrane or mascula.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Inventor: Abdulhakem Elezzabi
  • Patent number: 9550070
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a portable light pen dispensing device comprising: a housing, an electronics module located in said housing and comprising a light source capable of irradiating skin and stimulating regeneration of the skin to treat skin disorders, a battery for powering the electronics module, wherein the light source comprises one or more LEDs, wherein the electronics module comprises drive means arranged to control the operation of the light source to emit light in a mixed driving mode so as to limit the temperature of the LED while ensuring a sufficient fluency allowing for the skin to be treated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: Aptar France S.A.S.
    Inventors: Amir Feriani, Cédric Zaugg, Luciano Cravero, Frédéric Duquet
  • Patent number: 9550071
    Abstract: A method for generating light intensity inside a tumor to aid in the treatment of diseases such as cancer is disclosed. The light is generated inside the body to perform a modified photodynamic therapy treatment (PDT) that allows treatment of body regions that are inaccessible by normal PDT procedures. In addition, the use of two spatially and temporally coincident treatment modalities, i.e. radiation and PDT, have the potential for significant biological synergy in the tumor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: THE UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON SYSTEM
    Inventors: Abdelhak Bensaoula, John Christopher Boney, A. Sam Beddar, Tina Marie Briere, Sunil Krishnan, Andrew K. Lee
  • Patent number: 9550072
    Abstract: Apparatus, method, computing devices, and computer programs related to photodiagnosis and photodynamic therapy, methods of use thereof, and a method for detecting abnormal tissue, are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: CERCA SOLUTIONS, LLC
    Inventors: Jose Roberto Trujillo, Fernando de Moraes Mendonça Ribeiro
  • Patent number: 9550073
    Abstract: Provided is a therapeutic agent capable of treating allergic rhinitis in a safe, simple, and noninvasive manner substantially without side effects and physical distress to patients. Provided is a therapeutic agent for allergic rhinitis for 5-aminolevulinic acid-based photodynamic therapy (ALA-PDT) comprising 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) or a derivative thereof, or a salt of the 5-aminolevulinic acid or the derivative as an active ingredient, and used in ALA-PDT in which light having a wavelength of 400 nm to 700 nm is irradiated; and particularly provided is a therapeutic agent for allergic rhinitis in a locally applied solution form, a water-soluble ointment-dissolved form, a jelly-dissolved form, or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignees: SBI Pharmaceuticals Co., Ltd., National Hospital Organization
    Inventors: Tohru Tanaka, Katsushi Inoue, Kiwamu Takahashi, Takuya Ishii, Tsutomu Numata, Mariko Shibuya, Takeshi Suzuki
  • Patent number: 9550074
    Abstract: A laser therapy apparatus includes: a laser source including a light source for outputting first laser light; a laser irradiator for subjecting the first laser light to at least one of light-guiding and beamforming to convert the first laser light into second laser light, and radiating the second laser light to the exterior; a second light amount detector for detecting a light amount of second laser light; a pre-use checker for performing a pre-use check at least based on a result of detection by the second light amount detector; a pre-use check detector for determining whether a pre-use check corresponding to the current activation has been performed or not, based on past-activation information and a result of the check by the pre-use checker; and an alarm for, at the current activation, reporting a result of determination by the pre-use check detector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: ANRITSU CORPORATION
    Inventors: Masahiro Saito, Yoshihiro Ino
  • Patent number: 9550075
    Abstract: Methods of projecting an image onto a patient to aid delivery of proton therapy, including capturing a first image of a patient's treatment volume, processing the image to generate a treatment volume image corresponding to at least a portion of the treatment volume, generating a scan pattern to deliver a particle beamline to at least a portion of the treatment volume, projecting the treatment volume image and the scan pattern onto the skin of the patient proximate the treatment volume, and delivering the particle beamline to at least a portion of the treatment volume to match dimensions of the treatment volume image and the scan pattern.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: ProNova Solutions, LLC
    Inventors: Joseph C. Matteo, Jonathan Huber
  • Patent number: 9550076
    Abstract: A method of electronic portal imaging (EPID) for radiation dosimetric measurement and quality assurance (QA) in radiation therapy is provided that includes imaging a calibration photon beam and a treatment beam using an EPID imager disposed between a plastic water build-up phantom and a plastic water back-scatter phantom that is thicker than the plastic water build-up phantom, correcting the EPID images using an off-axis correction map that takes into account a horn-shape of a photon fluence profile, deconvolving the corrected EPID images using a Monte Carlo simulated EPID response kernel, the deconvolved corrected EPID images provide a primary photon fluence map, reconstructing a relative dose map using the primary photon fluence map convolving with a Monte Carlo simulated pencil-beam dose distribution kernel, and generating an absolute dose map using cross calibration to a 10×10 cm2 square field that is compared with a planned dose distribution for QA analysis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: The Board of Trustees of the Leland Stanford Junior University
    Inventors: Bin Han, Lei Xing
  • Patent number: 9550077
    Abstract: This disclosure relates to apparatuses and methods for the extraction of particle beams while maintaining the energy levels and precision of the particles and the particle beam. Apparatuses and methods for extracting a charged particle beam from a central orbit in a synchrotron are provided, in which a particle beam is deflected from the central orbit. Parts of the deflected particle beam passes through a stripping foil placed in at least parts of the deflected path such that the particles that pass through the foil are stripped of at least one electron. The electron stripped particles and the non-stripped particles may be separated magnetically.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: Brookhaven Science Associates, LLC
    Inventor: Nicholaos Tsoupas
  • Patent number: 9550078
    Abstract: The present invention relates to novel peptides derived from an EDAR (EDAR receptor) ligand which belongs to TNF (tumor necrosis factor)-? family and to uses of the same. The present peptides of EDA3 derived from EDA and EDphD1 derived from EDAR ligand possess identical or similar activities to naturally occurring EDA and have much higher stability and skin penetration potency than naturally occurring EDA. Therefore, the composition containing the present peptide not only shows excellent effects on improvement in hair loss and promotion of hair growth, but also has superior efficacies on treatment of an EDA signal transduction pathway-related disorder. In addition, the outstanding activity and stability of the present peptide described above may be greatly advantageous in application to pharmaceutical compositions, quasi-drugs and cosmetics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: CAREGEN CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yong Ji Chung, Eun Mi Kim
  • Patent number: 9550079
    Abstract: The multilevel railcar safety catch system of the present disclosure comprises at least two multilevel railcars (or at least one multilevel railcar and a vehicle loading ramp), at least two bridge plates, and a safety catch assembly. In the preferred embodiment of the disclosure, two or more multilevel railcars are coupled together by a coupler. Two bridge plates are laid across the gap between corresponding multilevel railcar decks for the purpose of walking or moving vehicles across from one multilevel railcar to another. A safety catch assembly is removably attached underneath the bridge plates via a securement means on the safety catch assembly and barrel rings or bridge plate hinge pins in such a way as to prevent persons or items from falling through the gap between the multilevel railcar decks when loading or unloading vehicles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Inventor: Theresa H. D'Angelo
  • Patent number: 9550080
    Abstract: Various concepts are provided for suppressing a fire condition in an aircraft. In one embodiment, the presence of a fire condition in an aircraft is detected. After such a detection, extinguishing agents can be dispensed and/or certain areas of the aircraft can be depressurized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: UNITED PARCEL SERVICE OF AMERICA, INC.
    Inventors: Keith M. Stehman, John H. Ransom, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9550081
    Abstract: A method of fire suppression may include injecting a reactive agent into a reaction zone to produce a catalytically active species for fire suppression and conveying the catalytically active species to a fire to catalytically interfere with flame chemistry of the fire. Fire in a fuel tank may be suppressed by injecting the reactive agent into a convective flow of a mixture of fuel and oxidizer in a fuel tank, the reactive agent reacting in the fuel tank to release a species which catalytically interferes with flame chemistry to suppress fire in the fuel tank. Fire at an airplane crash may be suppressed by releasing the reactive agent from the container at the crash site to produce an active species to catalytically interfere with a fire at the crash site.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: Eclipse Aerospace, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter D. Haaland, Ken Harness
  • Patent number: 9550082
    Abstract: A forcible entry training simulator. The simulator has a clamping structure that allows for hinges to be affixed and cut by a trainee in the same manner as would have to be accomplished for forcible entry into a building. The simulator has plunge-cutting and lock-pulling simulators as well. In addition, the simulator has a stabilizing wheel structure utilized to allow easy transport and handling of the simulator. The structure of the simulator allows low cost alternatives to materials to be used to provide the same level of training as though actual hinges, doors, and locks were being utilized, but without the significant expense of utilizing actual real-world materials in training where the materials will, of necessity, be destroyed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Inventor: Phillip E. Britton
  • Patent number: 9550083
    Abstract: A protective barrier that will typically be installed beneath ceilings during construction work being performed on ceilings or roofs of buildings. The protective barrier can be comprised entirely of one material or of different materials connected by seams. Some or all of these materials can be designed to fail when contacted by water via dissolution, melting or through some other destructive process initiated by contact with water. Some or all of the materials comprising the protective barrier can be designed to fail at a certain temperature. This failure can create access points from the ceiling through the protective barrier to the area being protected by the barrier, which can allow water from a fire suppression system to reach a fire located below the protective barrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Inventor: David Landis Campbell
  • Patent number: 9550084
    Abstract: A method for removing elements, including heavy metals, from fly ash and from fly ash resulting from removal of SOx/NOx from flue gas using Na2CO3/NaHCO3/trona, is described. An aqueous suspension of the fly ash and/or a solution of the leachate from the fly ash is treated with dissolved ferrous compounds, such as FeSO4.7H2O and/or FeCl2.4H2O, at a chosen initial acidic pH, and the precipitation of the ferrous ions as the solution basifies sequesters the trace elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: University of Wyoming
    Inventors: Maohong Fan, Morris D. Argyle, Mustafa O. M. Sharrad
  • Patent number: 9550085
    Abstract: A trampoline swingset suspension includes a trampoline frame having at least three legs. A trampoline bed is suspended from the trampoline frame. Springs connect between the trampoline bed and the trampoline frame to provide resilient restoring force for a user. The trampoline enclosure frame includes a plurality of vertical trampoline enclosure frame members. An enclosure net is mounted to the trampoline enclosure frame. A swingset frame is mounted to at least two of the at least three legs of the trampoline frame. A swing seat is suspended from the swingset frame. A spring suspension connects the swingset frame to the trampoline frame. The spring is a coil spring having an upper end bounded by an upper pin and the coil spring has a lower end bounded by a lower pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Inventor: Samuel Chen
  • Patent number: 9550086
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes an elongated outer elastic hollow tubing having opposed ends and an elongated inner elastic hollow tubing having opposed ends. A connection mechanism at each of the opposed ends is for interlocking the respective opposed ends of the elongated outer elastic hollow tubing and the elongated inner elastic hollow tubing. A pair of handles is positioned at respective opposed ends of the elongated outer and elongated inner elastic hollow tubings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: MFAC, LLC
    Inventor: Christopher J. Poirier
  • Patent number: 9550087
    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: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Inventor: Martin Tansil
  • Patent number: 9550088
    Abstract: The present invention provides an improved exercise roller apparatus having a cylindrical body with at least one unobstructed inner compartment and wrapped in a foam sleeve. The hollow compartment(s) may hold variable amounts of weights in a fixed position such that the weights do not shift while the roller is in use and the roller rolls steadily on a smooth surface. The foam sleeve provides the cushion necessary to comfortably roll the body over the roller during therapeutic roller use or roller-aided exercises. Handgrips are provided on the body to transform the roller into a versatile weight-lifting apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Inventor: Boonplook Coompol
  • Patent number: 9550089
    Abstract: An exercise machine comprises a resistance device and a power supplier. The resistance device provides a resistance and comprises an axle. The power supplier comprises one or more conducting rings arranged at a side or respectively arranged at a side of the resistance device. The conducting rings are coaxially coupled with the axle and are capable of rotating about the axle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: Dyaco International Inc.
    Inventor: Ghun-Kai Tseng
  • Patent number: 9550090
    Abstract: Portable fitness monitoring systems with displays, and applications thereof, are disclosed. In an embodiment, a method of providing performance feedback to an individual using a portable fitness monitoring device is provided. The method may include sensing performance parameter information during the physical activity, generating a first visual output that includes an indication of the intensity level that the individual should be performing at, and generating a second visual output that includes an indication of the intensity level that the individual is currently performing at.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: addidas AG
    Inventors: Christian Dibenedetto, Mark Arthur Oleson, Scott Tomlinson
  • Patent number: 9550091
    Abstract: The system and method for capturing exercise data may include offsetting an imaginary longitudinal axis of a center beam of a workout bar and an imaginary longitudinal axis of an outer beam of the workout bar. The system and method may include disposing an interface disk between the center beam and the outer beam and may include securing the center beam to an inner disk of the interface disk; securing the outer beam to an outer disk of the interface disk; and moving the inner disk, the outer disk, or a combination thereof, to offset the imaginary longitudinal axis of the center beam and the imaginary longitudinal axis of the outer beam. The system and method may include sensing, dynamically by a sensor, an amount of weight disposed on the outer beam. The system and method may include communicating the amount of weight wirelessly to a computing device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: Hoofcase, LLC
    Inventor: Brandon Emerson
  • Patent number: 9550092
    Abstract: A hand grip assembly for climbing a tree includes a handle grip portion. A handle bracket is attached to the handle grip portion. At least one mounting bracket is attached to the handle bracket. The mounting bracket includes an angled shape for engaging a surface of the tree. A harness is attached to the handle bracket. The harness cinches about the tree and secures the hand grip assembly relative to the tree.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: Hurricane Safety Systems, LLC
    Inventor: Timothy P. Squires