Patents Issued in March 28, 2017
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Patent number: 9603550Abstract: The ingestible event marker data framework provides a uniform, comprehensive framework to enable various functions and utilities related to ingestible event marker data (IEM data). Included are a receiver adapted to be associated with a body of an individual, the receiver configured to receive IEM data; a hub to receive the IEM data; and at least one IEM data system to receive the data from the hub. Among other information, behavioral data and predictive inferences may be provided.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2013Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Assignee: PROTEUS DIGITAL HEALTH, INC.Inventor: Yashar Behzadi
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Patent number: 9603551Abstract: An inductive respiration sensor (10) comprises an inductive transducer (12) and sensing circuitry. The sensing circuitry comprises a transimpedance amplifier, TIA, (14), the sense input (16) of which is operatively connected to the inductive transducer. The TIA is configured to drive a current from its output (20) into the sense input such that the voltage on the sense input follows the voltage applied to the reference input (18) and to cause a voltage on the output indicative of the current. The TIA comprises a first (34) and a second (30) transistor. The collector or drain and the emitter or source of the first transistor are operatively connected between the sense input and the output of the TIA. The emitter or source of the second transistor is connected to the reference input, the collector or drain of the second transistor is connected to the base or gate of the first transistor, and the base or gate of the second transistor is connected to the sense input.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2014Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Assignee: IEE International Electronics & Engineering S.A.Inventor: Laurent Lamesch
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Patent number: 9603552Abstract: The invention relates to a measuring method for determining biometric data of human feet, comprising the following steps providing a reference object, which has at least one reference pattern, providing a freely moveable image recording device, automatically detecting the relative position and the alignment of the image recording device relative to the reference object using the at least one reference pattern, automatically recording of several images by the image recording device, wherein each individual image is only recorded, when the relative position and the alignment of the image recording device relative to the reference object corresponds to a triggering position predetermined for the respective image, determining biometric data of the at least one foot by means of the recorded images. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a measuring system as well as a pedestal for determining biometric data of human feet.Type: GrantFiled: June 11, 2015Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Assignee: VITRONIC Dr.-Ing. Stein Bildverabeitungssysteme GmbHInventors: Alejandro Arrieta Alfaro, Burghard Hoffmann, Udo Bürgel, Ales Jurca
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Patent number: 9603553Abstract: A device for measuring an expanded internal orifice of a patient includes an orifice-expanding device, a pressure measuring device, and a size-measuring device. The size-measuring device measures a dimension of the orifice after it has been expanded by the orifice-expanding device.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2013Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Assignee: Edwards Lifesciences CorporationInventors: Louis A. Campbell, Travis Zenyo Oba, Rafael Pintor
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Patent number: 9603554Abstract: Receiving a plurality of images of a first wall of the patient's heart, the plurality including a first image captured at a time ij and a second image captured at a time t2, determining, based on the plurality of images, a first characteristic of movement of at least a wall portion of the first wall during a time period spanning time t1 and time t2, the first characteristic of movement being determined by using one or more image processing techniques, and the first, characteristic of movement being based on at least one of: (i) a shape of the wall portion in the first image and a shape of the wall portion in the second image, and (ii) a location of the wall portion in the first image and a location of the wall portion in the second image: and outputting an indication of the first characteristic of movement.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 2013Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Assignees: The Arizona Board of Regents, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and ResearchInventors: Jianming Liang, Nima Tajbakhsh, Wenzhe Xue, Hong Wu, Eileen McMahon, Marek Belohlavek
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Patent number: 9603555Abstract: A motion/vibration detection system and method therefore are provided. The system includes a transmitter and a receiver. The transmitter includes a transmit/receive antenna unit and a first oscillator. The receiver includes a receiving unit and a demodulation unit. The transmit/receive antenna unit receives an output signal from the first oscillator and transmits a detection signal. The detection signal is reflected from at least one object under detection into a reflected detection signal, which is received by the transmit/receive antenna unit. The transmit/receive antenna unit injects the reflected detection signal into the first oscillator and accordingly the first oscillator is under a self-injection locking mode. The receiving unit receives the detection signal. The demodulation unit demodulates the detection signal received by the receiving unit into a baseband output signal, to extract at least one motion/vibration information of the objection under detection.Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 2014Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Assignees: INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY RESEARCH INSTITUTE, NATIONAL SUN YAT-SEN UNIVERSITYInventors: Tzyy-Sheng Horng, Fu-Kang Wang, Kang-Chun Peng
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Patent number: 9603556Abstract: Signal measurement for biometric recognition purpose includes a computational unit and a sensory unit designed to measure electrocardiographic (ECG) signals in a continuous fashion, guaranteeing that the biometric recognition is performed in an uninterrupted way whenever the device is used, with the purpose of enabling the automated recognition or validation of the identity of its wearer. The sensory unit has an electronic module through which the ECG is acquired. Its operating principle can be based in the electrical conductivity, in which case it requires contact with the skin of the user, or in any kind of capacitive or mechanical element, in which case it does not require any direct contact with the user. The device can be used in alternative or as a complement to existing systems that only perform a momentary identity check. It can be applied to vehicles, tablet computers or analogous contexts.Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 2013Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Assignees: INSTITUTO SUPERIOR TECNICO, INSTITUTO DE TELECOMUNICAÇÕES, INSTITUTO SUPERIOR DE ENGENHARIA DE LISBOAInventors: Hugo Humberto Plácido da Silva, André Ribeiro Lourenço, Ana Luísa Nobre Fred
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Patent number: 9603557Abstract: The present invention relates generally to systems and methods for measuring an analyte in a host. More particularly, the present invention relates to systems and methods for transcutaneous measurement of glucose in a host.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2013Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Assignee: DexCom, Inc.Inventors: Mark Brister, James R. Petisce, Sean Saint, Kum Ming Woo, Victor Ha, John Nolting, Peter C. Simpson, James Brauker
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Patent number: 9603558Abstract: Methods and devices for the diagnosis and treatment of diabetes are disclosed in which an analyte concentration within a peritoneal fluid of a human subject may be determined by implanting an analyte sensor apparatus in the subject where the apparatus may comprise a housing and a flexible sensing catheter which has a lumen with a plurality of apertures and an exterior surface with an analyte sensor affixed thereto. The catheter may comprise a proximal end attached to the housing and the remaining end may be positioned freely within the peritoneal space to contact peritoneal fluid where an analyte concentration in the peritoneal fluid may be sensed. The housing may be anchored at a subcutaneous site proximate the peritoneal space. The sensed analyte concentration may then be transduced into a transmittable electrical signal.Type: GrantFiled: June 12, 2014Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Assignee: TheraNova, LLCInventors: Daniel R. Burnett, Evan S. Luxon, Marcie Hamilton, Brian M. Neil, Brett D. Mensh
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Patent number: 9603559Abstract: An apparatus for measuring capillary refill time has a measurement module containing at least two radiation sources and at least one detector configured to detect radiation from each source that interacts with and is received from a measurement region of a patient or subject. One radiation source may be characterized by a wavelength that is absorbed substantially equally by oxyhemoglobin and deoxyhemoglobin. The other radiation source may be substantially unaffected by the presence or absence of blood in the measurement region. The measurement module may be applied against a measurement region of a patient for a first time period, and the released from the measurement region for a second time period, and detected signals processed to quantitatively evaluate capillary refill time.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 2010Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Assignee: Children's Medical Center CorporationInventors: Vassilios Bezzerides, Mark Ian Neuman
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Patent number: 9603560Abstract: The present invention includes a flexible sensor suitable for contact with skin comprising: a nanocomposite; and a top layer; where the sensor provides in-situ detection in sweat or other aqueous body fluids at the skin surface of at least one physiological parameter selected from the group consisting of a physiological salt component, temperature, moisture, humidity, or combinations thereof. The present invention further includes a method of fabricating a flexible sensor suitable for contact with skin comprising: electrospinning at least one polyamide-producing monomer to form a non-conductive polyamide substrate; attaching at least one plurality of conductive nanoscale attachments, wherein the nanoscale attachments are selected from nanotubes, nanoparticles, or combinations thereof, to form an intermediate layer; and functionalizing the intermediate layer to form a top layer.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 2013Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Assignee: The University of AkronInventors: Chelsea N Monty, Evan K Wujcik, Nathaniel Jacob Blasdel
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Patent number: 9603561Abstract: Methods and systems for sensor calibration and sensor glucose (SG) fusion are used advantageously to improve the accuracy and reliability of orthogonally redundant glucose sensor devices, which may include optical and electrochemical glucose sensors. Calibration for both sensors may be achieved via fixed-offset and/or dynamic regression methodologies, depending, e.g., on sensor stability and Isig-Ratio pair correlation. For SG fusion, respective integrity checks may be performed for SG values from the optical and electrochemical sensors, and the SG values calibrated if the integrity checks are passed. Integrity checks may include checking for sensitivity loss, noise, and drift. If the integrity checks are failed, in-line sensor mapping between the electrochemical and optical sensors may be performed prior to calibration.Type: GrantFiled: April 24, 2014Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Assignee: MEDTRONIC MINIMED, INC.Inventors: Andrea Varsavsky, Xiaolong Li, Mike C. Liu, Yuxiang Zhong, Ning Yang
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Patent number: 9603562Abstract: The invention relates to analyte monitoring/drug delivery device. The invention is suited for monitoring various blood constituents such as glucose. The device has a housing that at least partially encloses a plurality of microneedles disposed on a carrier and an electronics portion. Each microneedle is in fluid communication with a corresponding microchannel. Each microneedle is individually addressable. That is, each microneedle can be extended and retracted individually via an actuator. The invention can optionally provide for calibration without intervention of the user and can also provide for semi-continuous monitoring for day and night time. The invention can provide up to four, or more, weeks of operation. The invention can provide for a device that is relatively small in size, and therefore unobtrusive. The invention can also provide for device with remote control and interactive electronics. The invention may be also used for the delivery of various pharmaceutical agents.Type: GrantFiled: November 5, 2012Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Assignee: Intuity Medical, Inc.Inventors: John Gregory Aceti, Sterling Eduard McBride, Richard Morgan Moroney, III, Christopher Carter Gregory, Peter John Zanzucchi
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Patent number: 9603563Abstract: A lancing device includes a housing (10, 12) and a lancet holder movably mounted within the housing. The lancet holder has a forward portion defining a socket (30) for partially surrounding and retaining in use the rear portion of a lancet. A lancet release element (40, 42) can be moved forward to cooperate with lugs on the socket to expand it to allow insertion and/or removal of the lancet with minimal insertion or withdrawal force.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 2012Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Assignee: OWEN MUMFORD LIMITEDInventors: Christopher Hudson, Timothy Muller
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Patent number: 9603564Abstract: A method for assessing an emotional response from a test subject includes presenting, for a first predetermined period of time, a plurality of stimuli to the test subject through a first computer implemented interface. The method further includes, in response to presenting at least one stimulus, receiving, within a second predetermined period of time, at least one test subject response from the test subject through a second computer implemented interface. The method further includes determining a quantitative emotional profile of the test subject based on the at least one test subject response.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 2010Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Assignee: The Forbes Consulting Group, LLCInventor: David L. Forbes
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Patent number: 9603565Abstract: A device for guiding a depth gauge for measuring blind holes formed through a bone including (a) a handle having an elongated body, an upper surface of the body having a peg extending therefrom to removably engage a proximal end of a first elongated rod of the depth gauge, the handle including a first slot extending into the upper surface and open to a first elongated channel extending through the handle and (b) a first elongated shaft extending through the first elongated channel and including a first tab extending through the first slot, a range of movement of the first elongated shaft relative to the handle being limited by engagement of the first tab with walls of the first slot. In an operative configuration, the slotted tab receives a proximal end of the depth gauge to control movement of an increased diameter insert at a distal end thereof.Type: GrantFiled: December 27, 2012Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Assignee: DEPUY SYNTHES PRODUCTS, INC.Inventor: Alberto Fernandez Dell'Oca
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Patent number: 9603566Abstract: Provided are a sleep awaking system and a sleep awaking method.Type: GrantFiled: January 20, 2015Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Assignee: BOE TECHNOLOGY GROUP CO., LTD.Inventor: Ruisi Chen
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Patent number: 9603567Abstract: A sensitive method of assessing treatment using molecular and anatomical imaging scans provides automatic tumor identification and quantification within anatomical zones based on treatment criteria. Absolute or comparative measures of tumors in pre- and/or post-scans are thereby isolated from other tissue to accentuate the progress of the treatment when multiple scattered disease lesions are present.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 2015Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Assignee: Wisconsin Alumni Research FoundationInventors: Robert Jeraj, Glenn Liu
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Patent number: 9603568Abstract: Apparatuses and methods for corrective guidance of eating behavior of a patient equipped with a gastric restriction device. The apparatus provides continuous monitoring or one or more parameters related to food passing through the gastric restriction device. Each monitored parameter is processed to provide a visual indication of the current eating behavior. The visual indication is used as input to the patient or a caregiver to modify the eating behavior. In some embodiments, the apparatus includes an emergency relief mechanism that automatically relieves excess pressure developing in the gastric restriction device. In some embodiments, the apparatus is enabled to deliver an appetite suppressant to modify the eating behavior.Type: GrantFiled: June 11, 2015Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Inventors: Isaac Tavori, Lorentz (Lior) Fleischer
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Patent number: 9603569Abstract: Wearable devices are described herein including at least two photodetectors and a mount configured to mount the at least two photodetectors to an external surface of a wearer. The at least two photodetectors are configured to detect alignment between the wearable device and a target on or in the body of the wearer (e.g., to detect the location of vasculature within the body of the wearer relative to the at least two photodetectors). Alignment of the at least two photodetectors relative to the target could enable detection of one or more physiological properties of the wearer. For example, the wearable device could include a sensor configured to detect a property of the target when the sensor is above the target, and alignment of the target relative to the at least two photodetectors could include the sensor being located above the target.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 2014Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Assignee: Verily Life Sciences LLCInventors: Russell Norman Mirov, Andrew Homyk, Mark West Askew, Jason Donald Thompson
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Patent number: 9603570Abstract: Intravascular devices, systems, and methods are disclosed. In some instances, the intravascular devices are guide wires that include a distal sensing element mounted partially within a housing and embedded and/or surrounded by a flexible adhesive. For example, in some implementations a sensing guide wire includes a flexible elongate member; a housing coupled to the flexible elongate member; a flexible element extending distally from the housing; and a sensing element coupled to the flexible elongate member such that a proximal portion of the sensing element is positioned within the housing and a distal portion of the sensing element is positioned within the flexible element. A flexible adhesive can embed or surround the distal portion of the sensing element positioned within the flexible element. Methods of making, manufacturing, and/or assembling such intravascular devices and associated systems are also provided.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 2015Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Assignee: Volcano CorporationInventor: Chris Szunyog
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Patent number: 9603571Abstract: A wearable electrocardiogram measurement device and a method for compressing an electrocardiogram are disclosed. A heart detection unit detects a heart activity status of a human body to obtain electrocardiogram data. A processor of a portable host proceeds with bandwidth decomposition and quantization by using quantization scales to obtain quantized results. An integer part of each quantized result is set as a quantized datum. A decimal portion of each quantized result is set as a truncated error datum. Each quantization scale is multiplied by a corresponding truncated error datum to obtain a product. If a distortion value obtained by adding the products fulfills a distortion default value range, the quantized data are encoded to obtain compressed electrocardiogram data for storage in a data storage unit of the host. If the distortion value does not fulfill the distortion default value range, an adjustment step is repeated.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2015Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Assignee: National Kaohsiung First University of Science and TechnologyInventors: King-Chu Hung, Huan-Sheng Wang, Jui-Hung Hsieh, Je-Hung Liu, Pei-Jen Chang
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Patent number: 9603572Abstract: An analysis device is proposed for detecting an analyte in a liquid sample, in particular for detecting glucose in a bodily fluid. The analysis device comprises at least one control element, which is configured to provide a function menu with at least two menu items. The analysis device further comprises at least one adjustable selector element, in particular a mechanically adjustable selector element, which can be adjusted by a user to at least two different selection positions. The selector element is configured to remain in the adjusted selection position after being adjusted. The control element is configured to select a menu item corresponding to the adjusted selection position. The analysis device further comprises at least one operating element. At least one parameter in the selected menu item can be influenced by the user via the operating element.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 2011Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Assignee: Roche Diabetes Care, Inc.Inventor: Anja Knoefel
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Patent number: 9603573Abstract: A monitoring system may include each of a left and a right side EMG detection device and may be configured to detect either seizure activity associated with the left side or right side of a patient's body. The system may further be configured to differentiate symmetric or asymmetric seizure activity. For example, the system may characterize whether left and right side EMG detectors show similar or dissimilar levels of activation during a suspected seizure. In some embodiments, the system may also include one or more orientation and/or position sensors. The system may be configured to determine the orientation and position of the sensor over time and to correlate this data with EMG signals.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2015Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Assignee: Brain Sentinel, Inc.Inventors: Peter A. Leininger, Jason T. Getman, Michael R. Girouard, Russell M. Herring, Jose E. Cavazos
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Patent number: 9603574Abstract: The present disclosure relates to the fabrication of electrical components and, in particular to the use of a reconfigurable substrate to which a flexible circuit may be affixed. In certain embodiments, the reconfigurable substrate may be moved between different configurations, certain of which are suitable for fabrication and certain of which are suitable for operation.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2014Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: James Wilson Rose, Donna Marie Sherman, Jeffrey Scott Erlbaum
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Patent number: 9603575Abstract: An X-ray imaging apparatus and a method of operating the X-ray imaging method are provided. The X-ray imaging apparatus includes a first panel configured to contact an object; an X-ray generator configured to maintain a uniform distance with the first panel and configured to generate an X-ray; a second panel facing the first panel and configured to contact the object; and an X-ray detector configured to detect the X-ray transmitted to the object.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 2014Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Assignee: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.Inventors: Byoung-hoon Koh, Woo-sup Han
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Patent number: 9603576Abstract: A method for depicting an airway tree of a patient includes: (a) generating an iodine map of the airway tree from dual energy computed tomography (DECT) imaging data acquired from the patient; (b) defining a region of interest of the airway tree from the DECT imaging data; (c) rendering at least a portion of the airway tree based on information derived from the iodine map and the defined region of interest; and (d) displaying a graphical image of at least a portion of the airway tree on a user interface. Systems for depicting an airway tree of a patient are described.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 2014Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Assignee: Siemens Healthcare GmbHInventors: Atilla Peter Kiraly, Benjamin L. Odry, Carol L. Novak
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Patent number: 9603577Abstract: An X-ray imaging apparatus and control method for the X-ray imaging apparatus are provided. The X-ray imaging apparatus includes an X-ray source to generate X-ray beams, and to irradiate the X-ray beams onto an object; a first X-ray detector configured to detect X-ray beams transmitted through the object and generate a first phase contrast signal; an X-ray obtainer including an X-ray collimator and a second X-ray detector, wherein the X-ray collimator is spaced apart from the object by a predetermined distance, and configured to focus the X-ray beams transmitted through the object, and wherein the second X-ray detector is configured to detect the focused X-ray beams and generate a second phase contrast signal based on the detected X-ray beams; and an image processor configured to create a phase contrast image and an absorption image of the object.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 2014Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Assignee: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.Inventors: Hyun Hwa Oh, Dong Goo Kang, Sung Hoon Kang, Young Hun Sung
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Patent number: 9603578Abstract: In a method and apparatus for graphical assistance in an interventional procedure to open an occlusion of a hollow organ of a patient a three-dimensional CT image data set of an examination region with the at least one hollow organ having the occlusion is retrieved and visualized segmentation data with segmentation data of the hollow organ at a display unit. At least two x-ray fluoroscopy images are acquired at different angulations the CT image data set is registered with at least two of the x-ray images. A number of fluoroscopy x-ray images are acquired during a time period, with real-time visualization of at least one x-ray fluoroscopy image and data of the CT image data set at the display unit. The steps are implemented individually and in sequence, and control options relating exclusively to the current step can be selected manually via a user interface depending on the step that is currently implemented, and only user inputs that are appropriate for the current step are accepted.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 2014Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventors: Andreas Meyer, Norbert Rahn, Markus Rossmeier
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Patent number: 9603579Abstract: Provided is a three-dimensional (3D) ultrasound system and a 3D ultrasound system operating method that may obtain 3D ultrasound data with respect to an object inside a human body to determine an accurate sagittal view. The 3D ultrasound system may include a scanner to generate ultrasound data including image data generated by scanning an object inside a human body, a processing unit to detect a center point of the object from the generated ultrasound data, and to generate, on the ultrasound data, a virtual plane on which the detected center point is placed, and a controller to rotate the ultrasound data based on the image data included in the virtual plane and to determine a sagittal view with respect to the object.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 2015Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Assignee: SAMSUNG MEDISON CO., LTD.Inventors: Kwang-Hee Lee, Sung-yoon Kim
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Patent number: 9603580Abstract: A high frequency ultrasound probe includes a substrate having a number of transducer elements on it and a ground plane that is electrically coupled by one or more vias to a conductive frame that supports the substrate. The conductive frame is electrically coupled to a ground plane of a printed circuit having conductors that are coupled to the transducer elements.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2014Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Assignee: FUJIFILM SonoSite, Inc.Inventors: Nicholas Christopher Chaggares, Eric Rieder
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Patent number: 9603581Abstract: An ultrasonic transducer includes: a first electrode layer disposed on an upper substrate and a support; a second electrode layer which is disposed on a lower surface of the upper substrate and is separated from the first electrode layer; an upper electrode disposed on an upper surface of a membrane to contact an upper surface of the first electrode layer; a trench formed through the upper electrode, the membrane, the support, and the upper substrate; and a pad substrate disposed under the upper substrate and including bonding pads that electrically connect to the first and second electrode layers, respectively.Type: GrantFiled: September 11, 2013Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Assignee: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.Inventor: Seok-whan Chung
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Patent number: 9603582Abstract: A method of imaging a blood vessel includes delivering a bubble-based contrast agent within the vessel and positioning at least one ultrasound device in the vicinity of the bubble-based contrast agent within the vessel. A first burst of low-frequency ultrasound energy can be delivered to excite the bubble-based contrast agent into oscillation within the vessel, and a second burst of high-frequency ultrasound energy can be delivered at the excited bubble-based contrast agent. A return signal from the burst of high-frequency ultrasound energy can be received and processed to obtain one or more images.Type: GrantFiled: August 24, 2012Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Assignee: University of Pittsburgh—Of the Commonwealth System of Higher EducationInventors: Xucai Chen, Francois T. H. Yu, Flordeliza S. Villanueva
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Patent number: 9603583Abstract: A method of analyzing elastography of tissue using a one-dimensional (1D) ultrasound probe. The method includes: acquiring two-dimensional (2D) ultrasound images with respect to a region of interest (ROI) of an object to be diagnosed, to which a shear wave is induced, using the 1D ultrasound probe; measuring a displacement of the shear wave from the acquired 2D ultrasound images; estimating a change rate in the displacement of the shear wave along a y-axis direction orthogonal to a 2D plane on which the 2D ultrasound images are shown, using the measured displacement; and analyzing elastography information of tissue in the ROI using the measured displacement and the estimated displacement change rate.Type: GrantFiled: April 23, 2013Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Assignee: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.Inventors: Ki-wan Choi, Ji-young Park, Hyoung-ki Lee
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Patent number: 9603584Abstract: A method for generating a composite image using an intravascular imaging device includes receiving reflected echo signals from at least one transducer along a first of a plurality of radial scan lines. The received echo signals are passed through a plurality of signal processing channels to form a plurality of filtered signals. The filtered signals include a high-resolution tissue structure signal and at least one first pre-blood-flow-mask signal. High-resolution tissue structure signals are processed to form a high-resolution tissue structural image. First pre-blood-flow-mask signals are cross-correlated with second pre-blood-flow-mask signals from an adjacent radial scan line to form blood-flow-mask signals. Blood-flow-mask signals are processed to form a blood-flow mask.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 2013Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Assignee: BOSTON SCIENTIFIC SCIMED, INC.Inventor: Anming He Cai
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Patent number: 9603585Abstract: Core biopsy scissors capable of one-handed use by a medical professional, and include blades capable of making a rotatable core cut, in addition to elevating, clipping, and collecting a sample from targeted tissue in a patient.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2012Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Inventor: Oscar R Polo
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Patent number: 9603586Abstract: Devices and methods for cutting and collecting a specimen from a mass of tissue. The device may include an integrated cut and collect assembly. The integrated cut and collect assembly includes a cutting portion and a collection portion that includes a flexible membrane. The collection portion of the assembly is attached to the cutting portion thereof. The cutting portion is configured to cut the specimen from the mass of tissue and the collection portion is configured to collect the cut specimen and to encapsulate and isolate the cut specimen within the membrane to enable its safe retraction from the mass of tissue.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 2011Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Assignee: ENCAPSULE MEDICAL, LLCInventors: James W. Vetter, Ary S. Chernomorsky, Mark J. Clifford, Dan Brounstein, Scott C. Anderson
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Patent number: 9603587Abstract: A biopsy device comprises a body, a needle, and a needle firing assembly. The needle comprises a sharp tip and a hub. The hub comprises a distal flange and a proximal flange. The needle firing assembly is operable to drive the needle longitudinally relative to the body. The needle firing assembly comprises a fork member coupled with the hub of the needle. The fork member comprises a pair of distal ramped surfaces converging at a distal edge configured to engage the distal flange. The fork member further comprises a pair of proximal ramped surfaces converging at a proximal edge configured to engage the proximal flange.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2014Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Assignee: Devicor Medical Products, Inc.Inventors: Kevin M. Fiebig, J Scott Ehlert
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Patent number: 9603588Abstract: A tissue puncture locator device includes a temporary anchor configured for placement through a vascular puncture into a vessel. The temporary anchor includes a column member that defines a lumen. The temporary anchor is movable between an uncompressed position and a compressed position, wherein in the compressed poition a portion of the column member protrudes radially outward. The column member may include a reduced thickness portion, wherein the column member protrudes radially outward at the reduced thickness portion. The column member, when expanded radially outward within the vessel, is sized to limit retraction of the temporary anchor through the vascular puncture.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 2010Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Assignee: ST. JUDE MEDICAL PUERTO RICO LLCInventors: Scott A. Kramer, Valerie J. Glazier, Catherine A. Pipenhagen, Brian J. Edquist, Steven N. Willard
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Patent number: 9603589Abstract: A vascular closure device includes an inflation balloon and a delivery tube. The delivery tube includes an inflation lumen configured to deliver inflation fluid to the inflation balloon, a sealant lumen configured to deliver a sealant to a vessel puncture, and a delivery tip in flow communication with the sealant lumen and having a plurality of outlet openings.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2013Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Assignee: ST. JUDE MEDICAL PUERTO RICO LLCInventors: Russell D. Terwey, Zachary J. Tegels, Edward E. Parsonage, Robert M. Vidlund, Martha Escobar
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Patent number: 9603590Abstract: A single-arm stabilizer having suction capability includes a single, small leg through which suction can be applied. The leg has an upper surface and a lower surface that are spaced apart to define a chamber. The lower surface includes a plurality of openings that are disposed adjacent each other. A support arm is connected to the leg in order to position the leg as desired. A suction line is in fluid communication with the chamber in order to create a vacuum within the chamber. The stabilizer can be used to stabilize any desired portion of a patient's body, but is particularly effective at stabilizing the septum of a patient's heart. Such stabilization can be accomplished by inserting the leg into the patient's heart through the aorta.Type: GrantFiled: March 17, 2014Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Inventors: Robert E. Michler, Albert N. Santilli
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Patent number: 9603591Abstract: A method for securing an anchor to tissue includes positioning the anchor in an area of the tissue. The anchor can include a flexible first tubular member, a flexible second tubular member, and a first suture member. The first tubular member can include a first wall defining a first passage between first and second ends. The second tubular member can include a second wall defining a second passage between first and second ends. The first suture member can couple the first tubular member and the second tubular member. The first suture member can pass through the first wall and the first passage and the second wall and the second passage. The first tubular member and the second tubular member can engage each other and deform to form an anchoring mass upon tensioning the first suture member.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2014Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Assignee: Biomet Sports Medicine, LLCInventors: Gregory J. Denham, Daniel Norton, Christopher Palese, Kevin T. Stone
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Patent number: 9603592Abstract: A suturing device provided. The suturing device may include at least a firing aperture, a drive mechanism and an autoloading mechanism. The firing aperture may include at least one needle rotatably disposed therein configured to engage a suture for deployment. The drive mechanism may be operatively coupled to the needle and configured to advance the needle from a retracted position to an extended position during engagement, and retract the needle from the extended position to the retracted position during disengagement. The autoloading mechanism may be operatively coupled to the drive mechanism and configured to slidably retrieve and position a suture to be deployed over the firing aperture during disengagement of the drive mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2014Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Assignee: Surgimatix, Inc.Inventors: Wai N. Chin, James Orrico, Gary M. Kobylewski, Jafar S. Hasan
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Patent number: 9603593Abstract: Disclosed is a needle handling device engageable to an introducer tool used for implantation of a penile prosthetic insert in a corpora cavernosum of a penis. The needle handling device includes an attachment section, a needle capturing section and an intermediate section. The attachment section is provided at a first end of the needle handling device and is releasably attached to the introducer tool. The needle capturing section is provided at a second end of the needle handling device and is configured to capture and extract a needle out of the introducer tool. The intermediate section connects the first and the second end of the needle handling device. A method of implanting a penile prosthetic insert in a corpora cavernosum of a penis using a needle handling device is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 2014Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Assignee: Coloplast A/SInventor: Daniel Nygaard
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Patent number: 9603594Abstract: A surgical stapling device comprising a housing, an elongated portion, an end effector, and a movable handle disposed in mechanical cooperation with the housing and movable between a first open position and a second approximated position for affecting a function of the end effector. A ratchet mechanism is disposed in mechanical cooperation with the movable handle and is configured to substantially prevent the movable handle from moving towards its first open position until the movable handle reaches a predetermined position.Type: GrantFiled: November 24, 2014Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Assignee: Covidien LPInventor: Keith L. Milliman
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Patent number: 9603595Abstract: A surgical instrument can comprise a first jaw, a second jaw, and a firing system configured to be advanced relative to the first jaw and the second jaw. The firing system can comprise a firing member including a first portion configured to engage the first jaw and a second portion configured to engage the second jaw in order to position the first jaw and the second jaw relative to one another.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2014Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, LLCInventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Jerome R. Morgan
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Patent number: 9603596Abstract: Tissue closure devices include one or more closure components, each closure component having a first member and a second member, each of the first and second members having a first surface that adheres to a tissue surface proximate to the tissue opening, each of the first and second members having a second surface substantially orthogonal to the first surface, and each of the first and second members having a transitional region between the first surface and the second surface which is contoured to evert an edge of the tissue opening upon the drawing together of the first and second members.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2014Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Assignee: DermaClip US, LLCInventors: Daniel J. Riskin, Andrew D. Fox, Michael Barenboym
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Patent number: 9603597Abstract: Various embodiments of a non-deforming surgical fastener are discussed. In one embodiment, the fastener includes two legs and a backspan extending between the two legs. The fastener also includes a backspan thickness that is adapted to reduce the pressure and/or increase the holding strength applied to underlying materials. The non-deforming fastener is constructed and arranged to retain substantially the same shape before, during and after deployment into the target implantation site.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2016Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Assignee: Davol, Inc. (a C.R. Bard Company)Inventors: Saurav V. Gupta, Kevin J. Ranucci
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Patent number: 9603598Abstract: In various embodiments, an end effector for use with a surgical instrument is disclosed. The end effector comprises a first jaw and a second jaw moveable relative to the first jaw, wherein one of the first jaw and the second jaw comprises a plurality of staple cavities arranged in a plurality of curved staple cavity rows, and wherein at least one curved staple cavity row extends along a path. The path comprises a first curved portion comprising a first longitudinal vector component and a second curved portion comprising a second longitudinal vector component, wherein the second longitudinal vector component is opposite of the first longitudinal vector component. The end effector further comprises a firing member comprising a laterally-offset cutting edge, a first camming surface configured to engage the first jaw, and a second camming surface configured to engage the second jaw.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2013Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, LLCInventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Jerome R. Morgan, Stephen J. Balek
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Patent number: 9603599Abstract: A surgical instrument includes an anvil selectively coupleable to a stapling head assembly and a trigger operable to fire staples into tissue compressed between the anvil and the stapling head assembly. In some versions, a lockout member may engage a securing feature to prevent actuation of the anvil relative to the stapling head assembly. For instance, a tab may engage a slot on an actuator, a screen door lock may provide frictional resistance or engage teeth on the actuator, a door may actuate into engagement with one or more recesses, geared teeth may mesh with teeth on the actuator, the lockout member may include a ratcheting assembly to engage actuator, and/or a push button may actuate into a recess while disengaging the lockout member. Alternatively, in some versions, the trigger actuation assembly may be disengaged prior to firing. An anvil position indicator may restrict engagement of the trigger actuation assembly.Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 2011Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, LLCInventors: Christopher C. Miller, Edward G. Chekan, Johnny H. Alexander, III, John F. Cummings, Carl J. Shurtleff, Adam R. Dunki-Jacobs, Barry T. Jamison, Joseph E. Young, Cortney E. Henderson