Patents Issued in June 8, 2017
  • Publication number: 20170156804
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a tool having a wrist mechanism that provides pitch and yaw rotation in such a way that the tool has no singularity in roll, pitch, and yaw. In one embodiment, a minimally invasive surgical instrument includes an elongate shaft having a working end, a proximal end, and a shaft axis between the working end and the proximal end; and an end effector. A wrist member has a flexible tube including an axis extending through an interior surrounded by a wall. The wall of the flexible tube includes a plurality of lumens oriented generally parallel to the axis of the flexible tube. The wrist member has a proximal portion connected to the working end of the elongate shaft and a distal portion connected to the end effector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2017
    Publication date: June 8, 2017
    Inventors: Thomas G. Cooper, S. Christopher Anderson
  • Publication number: 20170156805
    Abstract: A system and method for tool exchange during surgery for cooperatively controlled robots comprises a tool holder for receiving a surgical tool adapted to be held by a robot and a surgeon, a tool holding element for constraining downward motion of the tool while allowing low force removal of the surgical tool from the holder, a first sensor for detecting if the surgical tool is docked within the tool holder, and a selector for automatically selecting different movements or actions of the tool holder to be performed based upon information detected by the first sensor. The system and method of the present invention provides an advantage to an often slow moving cooperative robot, by increasing the speed by which the tool holder may move in the direction away from the patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2016
    Publication date: June 8, 2017
    Applicant: The Johns Hopkins University
    Inventors: Russell H. Taylor, Marcin Arkadiusz Balicki, James Tahara Handa
  • Publication number: 20170156806
    Abstract: A medical robotic system has a robotic arm holding a medical device, and a control system for controlling movement of the arm according to operator manipulation of an input device. If the medical device is being commanded to a state exceeding a limitation by a threshold amount, then the control system disengages control of the medical device by the input device, servos the arm so that it remains in its current state, servos the input device so that it is set at a position such that a force being applied on the input device remains at its current level, requests the operator to lighten hold of the input device, sets a parameter associated with the input device upon detecting such lightened hold so that the medical device is commanded to a different state that does not exceed the limitation, and reengages control of the medical device by the input device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2017
    Publication date: June 8, 2017
    Inventors: Giuseppe Maria Prisco, David J. Rosa
  • Publication number: 20170156807
    Abstract: A tool apparatus and a method for actuating a tool apparatus are disclosed. The tool apparatus includes an actuator housing, and an elongate tool manipulator extending outwardly from the actuator housing and having a plurality of control links extending along a length of the tool manipulator. The control links are operable to cause movement of a distal end of the tool manipulator in response to movement of the control links in an actuating direction generally aligned with the length of the tool manipulator. The apparatus also includes a plurality of actuators, each actuator being associated with at least one of the control links and being mounted in the actuator housing to facilitate a range of travel in a transverse direction substantially orthogonal to the actuating direction, and a plurality of linkages. Each linkage is associated with one of the control links and extends between the control link and the respective actuator and is operable to transmit drive forces between the actuator and the control link.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2017
    Publication date: June 8, 2017
    Inventors: Rene Robert, David Allen Zitnick
  • Publication number: 20170156808
    Abstract: Techniques for a surgical system are provided that allow controlling a force applied by an electromechanical surgical tool coupled to an electromechanical surgical arm. A force limiter can be associated with at least one of the surgical arm and the tool and is used to limit the force applied by jaws of the tool to tissue when the tissue is engaged therebetween or when the tissue is otherwise manipulated. The force can be limited to a maximum force value, which can be preselected, and it can be adjustable based on user input or automatically. Also are provided techniques for a surgical system that allow controlling a stiffness of an electromechanical passive arm coupled to a fixture and having an active arm mounted thereon. The stiffness is adjusted, either manually or automatically, by adjusting a friction at a joint of the arm based on an angle at the arm's joint.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 4, 2015
    Publication date: June 8, 2017
    Inventor: Michael D. Auld
  • Publication number: 20170156809
    Abstract: A disposable glove dispensing system may allow for a user to efficiently put on a disposable glove without touching the outside of the glove. In various embodiments, a disposable glove may comprise an opening for hand entry having a first opening edge and a second opening edge, a first interconnection point located near the first opening edge, where the first interconnection point attaches the disposable glove to a first adjacent disposable glove, and a second interconnection point located near the second opening edge. The second interconnection point may attach the disposable glove to a second adjacent disposable glove, wherein the disposable glove is positioned between the first adjacent disposable glove and the second adjacent disposable glove. Furthermore, a disposable glove dispensing system may comprise a pack of interconnected disposable gloves, and a glove dispenser comprising two glove hangers for hanging the pack of disposable gloves hang.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2016
    Publication date: June 8, 2017
    Inventors: Jack Brian Dennison, John Owensby, Brad Forrest, Steve Knight
  • Publication number: 20170156810
    Abstract: A carrying case (500) and handle (504) for accommodating a portable topical negative pressure therapy apparatus (200) comprising a device (202) and a waste canister (204) separable therefrom, the waste canister having an aspiration conduit (274) emerging therefrom is described, the carrying bag comprising an apparatus receiving pouch (502), said pouch having opening and closing means (522, 524) at a lower portion thereof and said handle (504) being directly attached to said apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2017
    Publication date: June 8, 2017
    Inventors: Andrew Duncan Pidgeon, Richard Mann
  • Publication number: 20170156811
    Abstract: A method and system for organizing surgical instruments and supplies in an operating room in preparation for surgery using a system having two tray devices. Each tray includes at least one flat work surface disposed in a first reference plane; an edge feature surrounding the at least one flat work surface, the edge surface standing proud at a predetermined first positive offset distance from the first reference plane, the edge feature comprising at least a work-surface-side wall intersecting the at least one flat work surface at substantially about 90-degrees at a top surface coupled to the work-surface-side wall, wherein the top surface disposes generally parallel to the first reference plane and is further defining the first positive offset distance measured from the reference plane; and at least one recessed compartment comprising a bottom surface disposed parallel to the first reference plane and offset therefrom at a first negative offset distance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2016
    Publication date: June 8, 2017
    Inventors: John Paul Cerda, Mark Lowenstein, Julio Armando Cerda-Gutierrez
  • Publication number: 20170156812
    Abstract: A therapeutic device has an elevated or raised portion that is elastically deformable for releasable adherence to a patch of skin so as to lift the patch of skin above a sensitive underlying treatment site in reducing discomfort or pain associated with tissue compression at the treatment site. With the application of pressure to elastically deform the device from its original neutral configuration, the raised portion is brought into contact with the patch of skin, adhering the skin to the adhesive. When the pressure is removed, the device flexes with the raised portion exerting a lifting force on the attached patch of skin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2017
    Publication date: June 8, 2017
    Inventor: Joseph Nazari
  • Publication number: 20170156813
    Abstract: A torque applying tool suited for torquing small surgical fasteners. The tool includes a torque limiting clutch accessible when a housing of the tool is removed, so that torque limits can be sensed without subjecting the blade or working shaft to deforming forces. Torque can be adjusted by turning a nut threaded to the blade or working shaft. The torque limiting clutch is formed in interacting cam members bearing interacting ratchet surfaces, the cam members urged together by a spring located between the clutch and the housing, away from interference with torque sensing when first establishing a predetermined maximum torque of the tool. The tool is small and disposable, and includes a rubber grip coating.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2016
    Publication date: June 8, 2017
    Inventor: Brian James Cutler
  • Publication number: 20170156814
    Abstract: An access device for accessing an intervertebral disc having an outer shield comprising an access shield with a larger diameter (˜16-30 mm) that reaches from the skin down to the facet line, with an inner shield having a second smaller diameter (˜5-12 mm) extending past the access shield and reaches down to the disc level. This combines the benefits of the direct visual microsurgical/mini open approaches and the percutaneous, “ultra-MIS” techniques.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2017
    Publication date: June 8, 2017
    Applicant: Medos International Sarl
    Inventors: DANIEL THOMMEN, JOERN RICHTER, MICHAEL WANG, RICHARD ASSAKER, RICHARD FESSLER, CHRISTOPHER MEHREN, SEANG BENG TAN, WILLIAM TAYLOR, ERIC BUEHLMANN, MICHAEL WHITE
  • Publication number: 20170156815
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for surgeon-assisted rapid surgical implantation of devices into soft tissue. The apparatus comprises several subsystems that enable the referencing of the spatial position and orientation of the device being implanted with respect to the soft tissue into which it is being implanted and then the controlled implantation of the device at a predefined speed with higher positional accuracy and precision and a reduction in soft tissue damage, provided by ultrasonic assisted motion, compared to current state-of-the-art implantation methods and devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2016
    Publication date: June 8, 2017
    Applicants: CARNEGIE MELLON UNIVERSITY, a Pennsylvania Non-Profit Corporation, University of Pittsburgh - Of the Commonwealth System of Higher Education
    Inventors: Peter J. Gilgunn, O. Burak Ozdoganlar, Takashi Daniel Yoshida Kozai, Gary Fedder, Xinyan Cui, Douglas J. Weber
  • Publication number: 20170156816
    Abstract: A minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion surgery method includes sequential steps of (a), aided by a guidance system, placing a guide wire in each pedicle of each vertebra of each spinal segment to be fused in a transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion surgery, (b) replacing one or more of the guide wires with respective pedicle markers, and (c) performing the minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion surgery using the pedicle markers and remaining ones of the guide wires.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2016
    Publication date: June 8, 2017
    Inventor: Zaki G. Ibrahim
  • Publication number: 20170156817
    Abstract: The disclosure herein provides repositionable medical instrument support systems, devices, and methods. A repositionable medical instrument support system comprises a frame for rigidly connecting the system to a patient support, a ball and socket joint configured to provide three degrees of rotational freedom, a frame mounting arm configured to releasably mount the ball and socket joint to the frame, a sliding joint configured to provide one degree of translational freedom, a connecting arm configured to connect the sliding joint to the ball and socket joint, and a docking member configured to engage a medical instrument to support the medical instrument during a medical procedure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2016
    Publication date: June 8, 2017
    Inventors: Jiwan Steven Singh, Jai Singh
  • Publication number: 20170156818
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for a fluted endodontic file are provided. The apparatus may include a fluted endodontic file defining a central longitudinal axis. The fluted endodontic file may include a working length extending along the central longitudinal axis. The working length may include a single flute. The working length may define an off-center cross-section having three vertices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2016
    Publication date: June 8, 2017
    Inventors: Carlos A. Aloise, L. Stephen Buchanan, Sorin Vasile Cora, Emanuele Maretto, Gopikrishnan Soundararajan
  • Publication number: 20170156819
    Abstract: A dental dam clamp and method comprising an aperture frame, a first opposing jaw, and a second opposing jaw is disclosed. The first opposing jaw is coupled to a first opposing end of the aperture frame, and the second opposing jaw coupled to a second opposing end of the aperture frame. The first opposing jaw and the second opposing jaw are biased toward a rest state by the aperture frame. The external surface of the aperture frame comprises at least one notch, and the internal surface of the aperture frame defines a treatment aperture. The aperture frame may be substantially parallel with both the first opposing jaw and the second opposing jaw.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 28, 2016
    Publication date: June 8, 2017
    Inventor: Beverly Agnew
  • Publication number: 20170156820
    Abstract: A syringe for multi-component materials includes a mixer housing, a mixing element, a multi-component cartridge and a mixing head, the mixing head being arranged at least partly within the mixer housing and adjacent to the multi-component cartridge. The mixing head is arranged moveable in an axial direction of the syringe between at least two positions, the at least two positions including a sealed position and a dispensing position. The axial movement of the mixing head is brought about by rotation of at least a part of the mixer housing relative to the multi-component cartridge. The mixing head is axially displaced in a direction opposite to a dispensing direction on a displacement of the mixing head from the sealed position into the dispensing position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2015
    Publication date: June 8, 2017
    Inventors: Andreas HIEMER, Marco ZÜND
  • Publication number: 20170156821
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides method, systems, and devices for expanding arch of teeth. A device for expanding an arch of teeth of a patient can include a removable shell formed of a first material having a number of cavities formed therein. The number of cavities are shaped to receive teeth of a patient. A device for expanding an arch of teeth of a patient can include an arch element extending from the removable shell in a lingual direction and across an arch width of the removable shell. The arch element can be formed of the first material and a second material that is a different material than the first material, can be designed to expand an arch of the teeth of the patient, and can have a width specific to a stage of a treatment plan.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2017
    Publication date: June 8, 2017
    Inventors: Avi Kopelman, Shiva Sambu, Rene M. Sterental, Eric Kuo, Mauricio de Alancar Casa
  • Publication number: 20170156822
    Abstract: An orthodontic bracket and an orthodontic assembly are provided. The orthodontic bracket includes a bottom base, a first sidewall, a second sidewall and two blocks. The bottom base has a first surface and a second surface opposite to each other. The first sidewall is disposed on the first surface. The second sidewall is disposed on the first surface and is opposite to the first sidewall. The blocks are disposed on the first surface between the first sidewall and the second sidewall. A bending space is defined and formed between the blocks, a first path is defined and formed between the first sidewall and the blocks, and a second path is defined and formed between the second sidewall and the blocks. An orthodontic wire is configured to be disposed in the first path or the second path, or to extend through the first path, the bending space and the second path.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2015
    Publication date: June 8, 2017
    Inventors: Chien-Hung Yu, Wei-Hung Shih, Wei-Te Wu, Yen-Chun Chen, Tsung-Chih Yu, Ho-Chung Fu
  • Publication number: 20170156823
    Abstract: Systems and methods of repositioning teeth, using one or more appliances for installing on a patient's teeth are described. The appliance includes an arch shaped member; a plurality of spring members coupled to or provided on the arch shaped member; and a plurality of securing members for securing to a corresponding plurality of the patient's teeth on a one-to-one basis, the securing members being supported by the arch shaped member. The arch shaped member and the plurality of springs, together, comprise a two dimensional structure having a length dimension and a width dimension with varying widths along the length dimension, that is bent into a three dimensional structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2016
    Publication date: June 8, 2017
    Inventors: Seyed Mehdi Roein Peikar, James Sylvester Wratten, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20170156824
    Abstract: Custom dental prosthesis or implants each individually designed and manufactured to replace nonfunctional natural teeth positioned in a jawbone of a specific pre-identified patient are provided. An example dental prosthesis/implant includes a dental implant body having a prosthesis interface formed therein to receive an occlusally-facing dental prosthesis component. The prosthesis interface has a custom three-dimensional surface shape positioned and formed to create a form locking fit with respect to the occlusally-facing dental prosthesis component when positioned thereon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2017
    Publication date: June 8, 2017
    Inventors: Ruedger Rubbert, Ernst-Ulrich Berndt, Jakob Sebastian Marquard, Hauke Schmidt-Martens, Lea Ellermeier Nesbit
  • Publication number: 20170156825
    Abstract: The “OPI” dental implant may include a body and an attachment member. The body may include an implant core portion and an extension portion. The implant core portion may extend from a first surface of the body to a second surface of the body at a first tapered angle. The extension portion/s may extend from the first surface of the body to the third and fourth surface of the body at a second and third tapered angle. The attachment member may be attached to the first surface of the body and configured to attach a prosthetic to the body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2017
    Publication date: June 8, 2017
    Inventor: Reza RAHGOZAR
  • Publication number: 20170156826
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a three-dimensional oral cavity scan device for a digital impression that obtains a three-dimensional image by processing a two-dimensional image acquired by photographing a three-dimensional subject in an oral cavity. The device includes: a pattern mask converting parallel light incident thereto into structured light; a piezoelectric plate where a mechanical vibration is generated on a surface thereof by an AC voltage applied thereto; and a power supply unit applying the AC voltage to the piezoelectric plate, wherein the piezoelectric plate moves the pattern mask in a longitudinal direction of the piezoelectric plate by using the mechanical vibration. The device can reduce noise and vibration by moving the pattern mask with an electrical method. In addition, the device can accurately measure depth of teeth by electrically controlling a focal length of structured light projected on the teeth.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 5, 2016
    Publication date: June 8, 2017
    Applicant: KOREA PHOTONICS TECHNOLOGY INSTITUTE
    Inventors: Joo Beom EOM, Jaesung AHN, BYEONG IL LEE, In Hee SHIN, Anjin PARK, Byeong Ha LEE
  • Publication number: 20170156827
    Abstract: A double linked winged pontic is provided having four extending wings of a flexible, bondable material. A method for constructing the double linked winged pontic is also provided. The extending wings, secured within the pontic, allow the pontic to be permanently secured to abutting teeth on both sides. The four extended wings are actually the end of two straps of a flexible, bondable, mesh material that extend through and are locked into the mesial and distal of the pontic. The pontic is placed in an opening resulting from a missing tooth, and secured in place by overlaying the flexible wings onto both the facial and the lingual sides of abutting teeth on both sides of the pontic. The pontic is positioned with the opening such that its face will follow the contour of and appear to be in alignment with the abutting teeth.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2014
    Publication date: June 8, 2017
    Inventor: Brandie Carter
  • Publication number: 20170156828
    Abstract: A system is disclosed for processing a plurality of customized dental restorations in an automated process that comprises a milling center, a carrier for holding a plurality of customized dental restorations, and a transfer system for transferring the customized restorations between processing units. Processing units may comprise one or more of a separating unit, a scrap disposal unit, a heating unit and a cooling unit. A multi-compartment tray and a material block are disclosed for use in the system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2016
    Publication date: June 8, 2017
    Inventors: David Christopher Leeson, James Fidel Zamora, Dong Hee Phee, Nicolas Ziegler
  • Publication number: 20170156829
    Abstract: An oral care tool (1; 50; 100) for tensioned dental floss comprising a hollow handle portion (2; 51; 101) at the user's disposal in which a housing chamber (3), which receives a spool (B) of dental floss (F) and an outlet port (4; 103) which allows the user himself the progressive extraction of the dental floss (F) from the hollow handle portion (2; 51; 101), are defined, a fork (5; 52) formed by a couple of shaped arms (6, 7; 53, 54), projecting upwardly from the hollow handle portion (2; 51; 101), provided with respective terminal tips (8, 9) spaced apart each other by a prefixed distance (D) and suitable to support a first progressive given length (L1) of the dental floss (F) kept in tension, placing it in the prefixed distance (D) spacing apart the terminal tips (8, 9).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2015
    Publication date: June 8, 2017
    Inventor: Giancarlo BRUN
  • Publication number: 20170156830
    Abstract: An oral hygiene device is provided. The oral hygiene device includes a body having a base and first and second opposing sides extending from the base and defining a gap therebetween. The device may further include a plurality of corresponding notch pairs, wherein each corresponding notch pair has a first notch positioned in the first opposing side and a second notch positioned in the second opposing side. The location of the notch pairs may coincide with a user's mouth and in particular to the position of the user's teeth within the mouth. As such, a fibrous material, such as floss, may be coupled to the device such that the material spans the gap between at least one of the corresponding notch pairs so that the material may be inserted into the spaces between the user's teeth when the device is placed into the user's mouth.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2016
    Publication date: June 8, 2017
    Inventor: David Barrett Wallace
  • Publication number: 20170156831
    Abstract: A disposable saliva ejector made by a simplified manufacturing design that utilizes a single planar, double leaf shaped plate design that is embossed on the inner faces of the leaf plates with a series of arced ribs and then folded about its midpoint. A tab and slot arrangement joins the two plates such that the distal and proximal tips meet and can be held in operational contact by the suction forces passed through the device and via a tab and slot arrangement. The arced ribs then form a series of channels that are equally spaced about perimeter of the device. A trough runs along the linear axis of both of the plates to direct any fluid and debris that is sucked into the channels into a connected suction tube. Placement of the saliva ejector within the mouth lies along the interior of the patient's cheek, keeping the oral cavity clear of viewing obstructions. The discharge end connects to a discharge tube, wrapping around the oral commissure then hooking onto the patient's outer cheek.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2016
    Publication date: June 8, 2017
    Inventor: Hari Mark Reyes
  • Publication number: 20170156832
    Abstract: A disposable saliva ejector that utilizes a single planar, double leaf shaped plate design that is embossed on their inner faces with a series of arced ribs and folded about its midpoint. A tab and slot arrangement about the center of the plates, joins the two plates. The distal tips are held together by a dovetail arrangement on raised pads at the distal tips of each plate. The distal and proximal tips are also held in operational contact by the suction forces passed through the device. The arced ribs form a series of channels about perimeter of the device. A trough runs along the linear axis of both of the plates to direct any fluid and debris that is sucked into the channels into a connected suction tube. Placement of the saliva ejector within the mouth lies along the interior of the patient's cheek, keeping the oral cavity clear of viewing obstructions. The discharge end connects to a discharge tube, wrapping around the oral commissure then hooking onto the patient's outer cheek.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2016
    Publication date: June 8, 2017
    Inventor: Hari Mark Reyes
  • Publication number: 20170156833
    Abstract: An oral cavity suction system that incorporates a disposable saliva ejector residing along the interior of the patient's cheek that utilizes a single planar, double leaf shaped plate design that is embossed on their inner faces with a series of arced ribs and folded about its midpoint. The arced ribs form a series of channels about perimeter of the device that directs saliva into a trough running along the linear axis of both of the plates to direct this saliva into a connected “U” connector that hooks around the patient's cheek. A sterile suction tube is also connected on one end to the “U” connector suction tube and on its other end to a quick connect fitting that mates to a tube adapted with a fitting for connection to a high volume suction pump.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2016
    Publication date: June 8, 2017
    Inventor: Hari Mark Reyes
  • Publication number: 20170156834
    Abstract: Ultrasound scaler tip and ultrasound scaler has high sterilization effect. Toothbrush has reduced effect on mouth interior. An ultrasound scaler tip has tip body and optical fiber. Tip body has tubular shape with pointed-end opening and rear-end opening, rear end that can be attached to ultrasound scaler body, and intermediate curved part. Optical fiber is thinner than minimum inner diameter of tip body and has rear end toward which light from light source can enter. Optical fiber is inserted from rear-end opening to pointed-end opening of tip body, and has intermediate part that is in contact with curved part, so that end is vibrated by ultrasonic vibration of tip body. Ultrasound scaler body houses liquid supply device, ultrasound-generating device, and light source, which is attached to rear end of ultrasound scaler tip. Light source causes light for sterilization in predetermined wavelength range to enter rear end of optical fiber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2014
    Publication date: June 8, 2017
    Inventor: Minoru KANNO
  • Publication number: 20170156835
    Abstract: An oral hygiene implement has a neck section extending along a longitudinal direction and a head section having a through hole therein extending through the head section along a through hole direction having an angle with respect to the longitudinal direction and having a head section housing surrounding the through hole. The neck section has a neck section housing surrounding a neck section cavity. The through hole defines a first and a second opening in the head section housing. A cap element, separately made from the head section housing, is connected with the head section housing to essentially cover the first opening. A carrier element, separately made from the head section housing, is arranged to cover the second opening. Between an edge of the first opening and an edge of the cap there is a circumferential gap that allows water, saliva, or toothpaste to escape an interior of the head section during use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2017
    Publication date: June 8, 2017
    Inventors: Norbert Schaefer, Thomas Fritsch, Joern Utsch, Wolfgang Stegmann
  • Publication number: 20170156836
    Abstract: An added inertia resonant system (12) for a power toothbrush (10) comprises a drive shaft (16), a drive system (22), and at least one inertial weight member (24). The drive shaft (16) has a principal axis (26) that defines a center of rotation. The drive system (22) imparts a reciprocating motion to the drive shaft (16) about the principal axis(26). The at least one inertial weight member (24) couples to the drive shaft (16) and comprises a planar material having a complex shape balanced along an x-, y-and z-axis to enable the drive system (22) to achieve low power, high amplitude motion of the drive shaft (16) when placed under user loading. A method for providing added inertia in a resonant system for a power toothbrush is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2015
    Publication date: June 8, 2017
    Inventors: LANE EVAN KLEPPEN, SCOTT ROBERT WILLS
  • Publication number: 20170156837
    Abstract: A method for applying a composition to teeth and a dispenser for dispensing a composition. The method of the present invention is directed to the storage and dispensing of a composition. During storage and subsequent use the composition in the storage chamber must be maintained segregated from the applicator surface. This is accomplished by delivering the composition from the storage chamber through a delivery channel having a length and a cross-sectional diameter sufficient to preclude the migration of moisture and the enzyme catalase from the application surface to the storage chamber. The composition is applied to teeth by means of bristles, a sponge surface or fibrillated surface. This applicator can be used with both aqueous and non-aqueous compositions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2017
    Publication date: June 8, 2017
    Inventors: Michael Prencipe, Suman Chopra, Joseph Thomas Norris, Adolfo Serrano
  • Publication number: 20170156838
    Abstract: The disclosure relates generally to an extended use systems and devices for management of bladder function for people with urinary dysfunction. The system includes a prosthesis which can include a retaining portion to prevent migration and a valve that can control fluid flow. The catheter can be placed inside the bladder using devices that facilitate insertion and extraction. The placement of the catheter can be done by a trained individual such as a patient, as well as a clinician, a nurse, or a caretaker. Once placed inside the bladder, the catheter can be fully-internal, meaning no portion of the catheter is visible from outside of the patient's body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2017
    Publication date: June 8, 2017
    Inventors: Derek Herrera, Zach McKinney, Linh Dinh, Prescott Traversi
  • Publication number: 20170156839
    Abstract: In a particular embodiment, the present disclosure provides a prosthetic valve delivery assembly that includes a storage tube. A prosthetic valve having a frame is at least partially disposed within the storage tube. A nose cone is located distally to the valve. A removable tab is disposed between the distal end of the frame and the nose cone. The tab assists in maintaining the position of the nose cone relative to the distal end of the frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2016
    Publication date: June 8, 2017
    Inventors: Alexander H. Cooper, Michael R. Bialas, David M. Taylor, Gregory Scott Tyler, II, Zachary R. Kowalski, Art Z. Kwan, Darshin S. Patel, Asher L. Metchik, Michael J. Popp, Amanda K. Anderson
  • Publication number: 20170156840
    Abstract: Devices, methods and systems are provided for occluding an opening within the tissue of a body, such as a left atrial appendage. In one embodiment, a medical device includes an occluder portion and an anchor portion. The occluder portion includes a hub that defines an axis, the occluder portion extending between a proximal end coupled to the hub and a distal end defining an occluder eyelet adjacent thereto. The anchor portion extends between a first end and a second end, the first end coupled to an anchor hub and the second end defining an anchor eyelet adjacent thereto and hingeably coupled to the occluder eyelet. With this arrangement, the anchor hub is moveable along the axis to move the anchor portion between a retracted position and a deployed position upon the occluder portion being in an expanded position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2017
    Publication date: June 8, 2017
    Inventors: Daryl R. Edmiston, Clark C. Davis, Scott D. Miles
  • Publication number: 20170156841
    Abstract: The device (1) for the treatment of esophageal stenoses, comprising at least a body (2) of elongated shape intended to be inserted within the esophagus of a patient, and a tubular sheath (4) mounted around said body (2) to define an interspace (5) between said body (2) and the tubular sheath (4), wherein it comprises a stiffening element (8, 9) accommodated in said interspace (5) and comprising a plurality of ribs (8) which extend along said interspace (5).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2015
    Publication date: June 8, 2017
    Inventor: Luigi Dall'Oglio
  • Publication number: 20170156842
    Abstract: A stent is provided that includes a body extending between a distal and a proximal end. The body is defined by a plurality of elongated members, with each elongated member extending between a distal end that is coterminous with the distal end of the body and a proximal end that is coterminous with the proximal end of the body. Each of the plurality of elongated members are arranged so as to define a lumen extending along the length of the respective plurality of elongated members, the lumen extending between the distal and proximal ends of the body so as to form a lumen length. Each of the plurality of elongated members are configured to permit drainage of a fluid from within the lumen to an environment external the stent along the entire lumen length.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2016
    Publication date: June 8, 2017
    Inventors: Andrew P. Isch, Benjamin Biltz
  • Publication number: 20170156843
    Abstract: A valve to perform lung volume reduction procedures is described. The valve is formed of a braided structure that is adapted for endoscopic insertion in a bronchial passage of a patient's lung. The braided structure has a proximal end and a distal end and is covered with a non porous coating adapted to prevent flow of air into the . A constricted portion of the braided structure is used to prevent flow of air through a central lumen of the structure, and to define at least one funnel shaped portion. The funnel shaped portion blocks the flow of air towards the constriction, i.e. towards the core of the lung. At least one hole is formed in the braided structure to permit flow of mucus from the distal end to the proximal end, to be expelled out of the lungs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2017
    Publication date: June 8, 2017
    Inventor: Claude CLERC
  • Publication number: 20170156844
    Abstract: A flow diverter for implantation into a patient's vessel includes a distal annular support element and a proximal annular support element, the proximal and distal support elements supporting a longitudinally twisted diverter element. The flow diverter is designed to be disposed within a vessel and to impart a rotational or twisting motion to the flow of blood passing therethrough, thereby to reduce the pressure of blood at the center of the vessel. Such flow diversion can reduce the pressure of blood impinging upon an aneurysm at a bifurcation downstream of the vessel. The device can be particularly useful for the treatment of aneurysms occurring at the bifurcation between the basilar artery and the posterior cerebral arteries.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2017
    Publication date: June 8, 2017
    Inventor: Aidan Furey
  • Publication number: 20170156845
    Abstract: There is described an arteriovenous fistula stent, having a tubular body comprising a series of sinusoidal shaped struts along the length of the tubular body. A plurality of curvilinear connectors extend between and are attached to adjacent struts wherein a first end of a connector is attached to a distal face of a proximal strut apex and a second end of a connector is attached to a proximal face of a distal strut apex. A pair of unconnected strut apexes are between pairs of connected apexes. When the tubular body is in a stowed configuration a proximal aperture and a distal aperture are circular and when the tubular body is in a deployed configuration the distal aperture is oblong or ovoid. There is also described a method for inserting a stent for use in creation of an arteriovenous fistula by identifying a candidate artery and a candidate vein and dissecting the candidate vein. Next, inserting a stent into the vein and creating a breach in the candidate artery at a desired angle and location.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2017
    Publication date: June 8, 2017
    Inventor: Marius C. Florescu
  • Publication number: 20170156846
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a thoracic aortic covered stent (100), comprising a bare stent segment (110) and a covered stent segment (120). The bare stent segment (110) comprises a bare wave-shaped ring (111); the covered stent segment (120) has a lesser curvature side region (100c), a greater curvature side region (100a), and two opposite intermediate regions (100b) located between the lesser curvature side region (100c) and the greater curvature side region (100a) respectively; and the covered stent segment (120) comprises a first proximal wave-shaped ring (121).
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2014
    Publication date: June 8, 2017
    Inventors: Yongsheng Wang, Caiping LIU, Deyuan ZHANG
  • Publication number: 20170156847
    Abstract: A system for fixating soft-tissue is described herein. The system includes a soft-tissue fixation device comprising a cable-retention feature. Additionally, the system includes a cable coupleable to the cable-retention feature of the soft-tissue fixation device. The cable is configured to be tensioned to a measurable and adjustable tension.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2015
    Publication date: June 8, 2017
    Inventors: William Ricci, Mark Brinker, Carey Bryant
  • Publication number: 20170156848
    Abstract: A method and system for deploying an ocular implant into Schlemm's canal of an eye. The method includes the steps of inserting a distal end of a cannula through a cornea of the eye and into an anterior chamber of the eye, the cannula having a distal opening extending from the distal end and through a side wall, a curved distal portion and a curved intermediate portion; placing the distal opening of the cannula into fluid communication with Schlemm's canal; advancing the ocular implant distally through the cannula with a delivery tool engaged with the ocular implant, a proximal portion of the ocular implant engaging the delivery tool proximal to a distal portion of the delivery tool; and disengaging the ocular implant and the delivery tool when the proximal portion of the ocular implant reaches the cannula distal opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 2015
    Publication date: June 8, 2017
    Inventor: Andrew T. SCHIEBER
  • Publication number: 20170156849
    Abstract: Systems and methods for providing enhanced image quality across a wide and extended range of foci encompass vision treatment techniques and ophthalmic lenses such as contact lenses and intraocular lenses (IOLs). Exemplary IOL optics can include a circular surface structure which acts as a diffractive or phase shifting profile. In some cases, a single ring IOL includes an anterior face and a posterior face, where a profile can be imposed on the anterior or posterior surface or face. The profile can have an inner portion such as a microstructure or central echelette, and an outer portion. Between the inner portion and the outer portion, there may be a transition zone that connects the inner and outer portions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2017
    Publication date: June 8, 2017
    Inventor: Hendrik A. Weeber
  • Publication number: 20170156850
    Abstract: Implantable corneal and intraocular implants such as a mask are provided. The mask can improve the vision of a patient, such as by being configured to increase the depth of focus of an eye of a patient. The mask can include an aperture configured to transmit along an optical axis substantially all visible incident light. The mask can further include a transition portion that surrounds at least a portion of the aperture. This portion can be configured to switch from one level of opacity to another level of opacity through the use of a controllably variable absorbance feature such as a switchable photochromic chromophore within a polymer matrix.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 17, 2017
    Publication date: June 8, 2017
    Inventor: Thomas A. Silvestrini
  • Publication number: 20170156851
    Abstract: Apparatus for positioning an intraocular lens (IOL) having a haptic within the capsular bag of an eye. The apparatus comprises a handle portion having a proximal end, a distal end, and an irrigation lumen extending between the proximal end and the distal end. The apparatus further comprises a lens engagement portion at the distal end of the handle portion. The lens engagement portion includes a superior surface defining a haptic engagement surface configured to engage the haptic of the IOL, and a plurality of irrigation ports arranged about the haptic engagement surface. Each of the irrigation ports is in fluid communication with the irrigation lumen.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2017
    Publication date: June 8, 2017
    Inventor: Arvind Saini
  • Publication number: 20170156852
    Abstract: A cap configured and dimensioned to sweep or fold one or more haptics when removed from an insertion device. The cap may further have a pin, one or more snaps and/or one or more locks. The cap may also have one or more ports and/or one or more windows. An insertion system having a handpiece, a cartridge, and a cap configured and dimensioned to sweep or fold one or more haptics when the cap is removed from the insertion system. The cap is configured and dimensioned to couple with the distal end of the cartridge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2016
    Publication date: June 8, 2017
    Inventors: Steven R. Anderson, Mark Cole
  • Publication number: 20170156853
    Abstract: A tympanic membrane repair device is disclosed which comprises a tube having a distal end having a patch expansion mechanism such as a balloon or mechanical expansion mechanism, wherein in a retracted configuration the patch expansion mechanism is positioned in close proximity to the tube wall and wherein in an expanded configuration the patch expansion mechanism is configured to at least partially extend away from the tube wall. The repair device is capable of delivering a grafting patch to cover a perforation on the underside of the tympanic membrane. A method of using the device is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2015
    Publication date: June 8, 2017
    Inventors: MERRILL WEBER, BORIS FRENKEL