Patents Issued in August 1, 2017
-
Patent number: 9717367Abstract: The present application relates to a vacuum flask assembly (1). The vacuum flask assembly (1) comprises a vacuum flask (2) with a push-button lid (5). The push-button lid (5) is movable between an open condition and a closed condition, in which a sealing actuator (15) of the lid (5) is elevated when the lid (5) is in its open condition and retracted when the lid (5) is in its closed condition. The vacuum flask assembly (1) further comprises a container part (21) which is locatable over the lid (5) and is mountable to the vacuum flask (2). When the lid (5) is in its open condition, the container part (21) is configured to act on the sealing actuator (15) as the container part (21) is mounted to the vacuum flask (2), so that the lid (5) is urged to move from its open condition into its closed condition. The present application also relates to a container (3) for a vacuum flask (2) and a baby bottle kit.Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 2014Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Assignee: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS N.V.Inventor: Marc Leendert Verwillegen
-
Patent number: 9717368Abstract: The invention relates to a pureeing unit (1) for an apparatus for processing foodstuffs with at least one knife (31, 32) arranged radially to a rotation axis (2) and with at least one blade (41, 42) arranged radially to the rotation axis (2). The at least one knife (31, 32) and the at least one blade (41, 42) are rotatable about the rotation axis (2).Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2013Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Assignee: swizzzProzzz AGInventor: Bruno Herren
-
Patent number: 9717369Abstract: The invention discloses a hand blender with a body which can be connected with different stirring tools. The body includes a motor with an output shaft, a deceleration component and a plurality of output connectors. The speed control knob and the safety switch, starting switch which control the moving of the motor are set up of the body. The control circuit includes a half speed control lever and a reverse control lever which can be moved by the corresponding stirring tools. The hand blender can connected with different stirring tools and output different kinds of speeds. It is more convenient and safe.Type: GrantFiled: January 6, 2015Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Inventors: Shu Sang Cheung, Xianliang Ouyang
-
Patent number: 9717370Abstract: A base for a food processing system is provided including a housing configured to couple with a complementary container. The housing includes a bottom surface. At least one suction device is mounted to the bottom surface and is configured to adhere the base to an adjacent surface. At least one release mechanism is mounted to mounted generally flush with an outer surface of the housing. The at least one release mechanism is operably coupled to at least one suction device and is movable between a first position and a second position to release the at least one suction device from the adjacent surface.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2015Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Assignee: SHARKNINJA OPERATING LLCInventor: Daniel Stephen Potter
-
Patent number: 9717371Abstract: A portable sink includes a container for holding wash water, an inlet line to bring fresh water into the container, and an outlet line to remove wastewater from the container. A float valve on the inlet line maintains wash water at a selected level within the container. A faucet attached to the float valve may further provide a separate source of clean water to the user. The outlet line further includes a siphon to draw the wastewater from the container to a selected discharge location. The sink may be provided with one or more handles and/or a caster assembly or dolly for ease of movement about the work area. The siphon preferably includes an airlock to prevent the ingress of air at the discharge end under conditions of less than maximum flow.Type: GrantFiled: August 14, 2014Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Inventor: Martin Aaron Wade
-
Patent number: 9717372Abstract: A quick connecting device and a shower room assembly are disclosed. The quick connecting device comprises an inserting member, a receiving member and a locking key. The shower room assembly comprises a track connected at a corner uses the above quick connecting device.Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 2014Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Assignee: Foshan Ideal Co., Ltd.Inventor: Wuxiang Wei
-
Patent number: 9717373Abstract: A rigid material, preferably recycled plastic, Tubular Toothpaste Tube Stand with Brushing Timer is a countertop dental hygiene appliance. It is comprised of a vertically arranged, open top and open bottom, tubular toothpaste tube stand with an attached, stationary, sand/oil liquid timer hourglass to provide the user a visual gauge to determine elapsed brushing time. The appliance also assists with concentrating toothpaste, within the toothpaste tube, toward the tube's nozzle end. Also, the appliance can be made into various decorative shapes, and, can employ decorative graphics to attract users. It can be easily assembled as well.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 2015Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Inventors: Daniel Patrick Andrews, Amy Lynne Andrews
-
Patent number: 9717374Abstract: A bodily scrubbing assembly includes a housing that may be removably coupled to a wall in a shower. A sponge is removably positioned in the housing. Thus, the sponge is retained on the shower thereby facilitating the sponge to scrub a user's body. A plurality of couplers is provided and each of the couplers is coupled to the sponge. Each of the couplers engages the housing such that the sponge is removably retained in the housing.Type: GrantFiled: February 10, 2016Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Inventor: Anderson Kinsale
-
Patent number: 9717375Abstract: A dispensing system includes a housing including a cover portion attached to a base portion. The cover portion includes an opening. The dispensing system includes a dispensing assembly within which a material is contained and from which the material is dispensed. The dispensing assembly is supported within an interior of the base portion and in fluid communication with the opening. At least one of the cover portion is movable relative to the base portion or the base portion is moveable relative to the cover portion. A position of the cover portion relative to the base portion is adjusted between a first position, in which the cover portion does not engage the dispensing assembly such that the material is not dispensed through the opening, and a second position, in which the cover portion engages the dispensing assembly such that the material is dispensed through the opening.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 2014Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Assignee: GOJO INDUSTRIES, INC.Inventor: Keith A. Pelfrey
-
Patent number: 9717376Abstract: An apparatus for washing skin uses a brushless electric motor and a spring. The apparatus may include a case; an operation unit installed outside the case; a power supply unit installed at one end inside the case; the brushless electric motor installed inside the case; a control unit to output an electric signal; a face-washing brush fitted with a shaft of the brushless electric motor to be rotated forward and reverse as the brushless electric motor is operated; a holder and a spring.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2013Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Assignees: AMOREPACIFIC CORPORATION, SENTRONIX CO., LTD.Inventors: Cheonghwan Hwang, Sohee Kim, Wooram Park, Yoon-hee Lee, Hyeseong Nam, Chilsung Lee, Jeongmin Lee, Hyoyoung Kim
-
Patent number: 9717377Abstract: A system including a roll formed from a web having at least one characteristic mark of the roll, and a dispenser which has an element for identifying this mark in order to determine whether a new roll installed in the dispenser is a compatible roll. The mark is present on a free end section of the new roll. This marked free end section is followed by at least one section that does not have a characteristic mark of the roll.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2011Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Assignee: SCA TISSUE FRANCEInventors: Gilles Cattacin, Nicolas Pommier
-
Patent number: 9717378Abstract: Embodiments of a roll support, and a roll support system, for a sheet product dispenser are disclosed. One such roll support includes an arm having an end portion and an aperture proximate the end portion of the arm and recessed therein. The aperture includes a capture region and a release region. The capture region has a width dimensioned to receive a matching end cap and shaped to allow the matching end cap to rotate freely within the capture region. The release region is contiguous with the capture region and has a width less than the width of the capture region.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2013Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Assignee: GEORGIA-PACIFIC CONSUMER PRODUCTS LPInventor: Antonio Michael Cittadino
-
Patent number: 9717379Abstract: A dispenser for dispensing a selectable quantity of absorbent sheet products is provided. The dispenser includes a container for containing a stack of absorbent sheet products, and an opening through which at least one absorbent sheet product is graspable. The opening includes a main portion in a first side of the container and at least one additional portion extending the main portion towards a second side of the container such that the, at least one, additional portion extends above and transversally relatively to the stack of absorbent sheet products contained in the container. The, at least one, additional portion defines multiple exposing zones along an axis (x) from one end of the main portion towards another end of the main portion. Each additional portion has a length from the axis (x) being associated with a maximum amount of absorbent sheet products graspable at the same time in a single seizure by a user.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 2013Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Assignee: SCA TISSUE FRANCEInventors: Yoann Denis, Karine Papin, Loïc Sieber, Matti Ellonen
-
Patent number: 9717380Abstract: A vacuum cleaner includes a dirt separating and collecting system. The dirt separating and collecting system can include an air-permeable filter material, and a helical inlet guide. Dirt entering the helical inlet guide within a working airstream is visible to the user through an at least partially transparent housing.Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 2015Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Assignee: BISSELL Homecare, Inc.Inventors: Alan J. Krebs, Joseph A. Fester
-
Patent number: 9717381Abstract: A hose retractor valve for central vacuum cleaning systems that utilize retractable suction hoses that retract into a system vacuum tubing for storage. The hose retractor valve includes a vacuum assisted hose lock and seal assembly comprising a tapered cylinder and an elastomeric cylinder which restrain the vacuum hose from being drawn into the system vacuum tubing while in use, and seals around the hose outer diameter to prevent air from passing between the inside of the system vacuum tubing and exterior of the hose at the valve assembly. The hose lock and seal assembly is self-locking and vacuum assisted, while also permitting additional hose to be extracted by pulling on the hose.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 2014Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Inventor: James Roger Harman
-
Patent number: 9717382Abstract: A vacuum cleaner with a reduced frictional force between a vacuum base and a cleaning medium is described. The vacuum has a handle, yoke, body, and base. A handle and yoke distinct from, and behind, the base provides a moment arm anterior to the base when a force is applied. The handle and yoke assembly reduce the friction between the cleaning surface and the vacuum, allowing for larger motor and debris capturing capabilities, with easier handling and maneuverability resulting in advanced and superior cleaning capabilities.Type: GrantFiled: August 19, 2014Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Assignee: Techtronic Floor Care Technology LimitedInventor: Charles J. Morgan
-
Patent number: 9717383Abstract: An all in the head surface cleaning apparatus can include a surface cleaning head having a brush motor that can be drivingly connected to a moveable brushing member. The brush motor may have a brush motor axis. The surface cleaning head can include a cyclone comprising a cyclone chamber. The cyclone may have a longitudinal cyclone axis. The surface cleaning head can include a suction motor having a first end, a second end. A suction motor axis may extend between the first and second ends. At least a portion of the brush motor may be located between the first and second ends of the suction motor. An upper portion may be moveably mounted to the surface cleaning head between a storage position and a floor cleaning position, the upper portion comprising a drive handle.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2014Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Assignee: Omachron Intellectual Property Inc.Inventor: Wayne Ernest Conrad
-
Patent number: 9717384Abstract: An apparatus controls operations of a cleaner. The apparatus comprises a network interface unit for receiving first information regarding external conditions through an external network, and a controller for setting up operating schedules of the cleaner based on the first information.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2011Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Assignee: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTDInventors: Jong-Gyu Ham, Hee-Jun Song
-
Patent number: 9717385Abstract: A surface cleaning apparatus, such as a vacuum cleaner, having a wireless communication and control system including two or more wireless radio frequency communication devices configured to transmit and receive control instructions and responses to control the operation of various electrical components disposed within or attached to the surface cleaning apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: October 7, 2015Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Assignee: Techtronic Floor Care Technology LimitedInventor: Charles Andrew Liter
-
Patent number: 9717386Abstract: A liquid extraction cleaning device comprises a vacuum pump, a liquid pump, a cleaning solution tank, a recovery tank, first and second spray nozzles, a spray selection switch, a vacuum inlet port, an agitator assembly, and a handle. The spray selection switch controls whether liquid is expelled from the second spray nozzle when liquid is expelled from the first spray nozzle. The agitator assembly comprises first and second agitators. The first agitator is configured to rotate. The second agitator is configured to reciprocate. The handle is pivotally connected to the rest of the liquid extraction cleaning device and is lockable in several pivotal orientations. The handle can also be pivoted forward from a rearwardly extending direction to an extent that it extends forward horizontally.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 2015Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Assignee: RUG DOCTOR, LLCInventors: Timothy Wall, Ann Marie Morrow, Walter Haug, Phuong Le, Charles Michael Ostendorf, Schubert Pereira, Ernest Matthew Chavana, Jr., Vincent Lau, Jason Edward Hill, Jason Tilk, Evan Spirk, Lindsey Tufts, Craig Saunders, Paul Stephens
-
Patent number: 9717387Abstract: Apparatus and methods for training and operating of robotic appliances. Robotic appliance may be operable to clean user premises. The user may train the appliance to perform cleaning operations in constrained areas. The appliance may be configured to clean other area of the premises automatically. The appliance may perform premises exploration and/or determine map of the premises. The appliance may be provided priority information associated with areas of the premises. The appliance may perform cleaning operations in order of the priority. Robotic vacuum cleaner appliance may be configured for safe cable operation wherein the controller may determine one or more potential obstructions (e.g., a cable) along operating trajectory. Upon approaching the cable, the controller may temporarily disable brushing mechanism in order to prevent cable damage.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 2015Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Assignee: Brain CorporationInventors: Botond Szatmary, Vadim Polonichko
-
Patent number: 9717388Abstract: A pad changer capable of automatically replacing a pad used to wipe out dust on a floor, a cleaner and a cleaner system having the pad changer are provided. The pad changer to replace a pad mounted to a cleaner includes a replacement unit. The replacement unit includes a separation cartridge to separate the pad from the cleaner and receive the separated pad therein, and a mounting cartridge to receive a pad therein and mount the pad to the cleaner.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2014Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Assignee: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.Inventors: Jae Youl Jeong, Dong Hun Lee, Min Jae Kim, Heum Yong Park, Dong Hyun Lee
-
Patent number: 9717389Abstract: An extraction cleaner for a floor surface comprises a fluid delivery system for storing cleaning fluid and delivering the cleaning fluid to the surface to be cleaned and a fluid recovery system for removing the spent cleaning fluid and dirt from the surface to be cleaned and storing the spent cleaning fluid and dirt. The fluid delivery system can further include a bladder housed within a tank of the recovery system, and the bladder can be closed by a fill cap.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 2013Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Assignee: BISSELL Homecare, Inc.Inventors: Steven Johnson, Michael Graham, Mitchell DeJonge, Kenneth M I Lenkiewicz
-
Patent number: 9717390Abstract: A steam cleaning apparatus comprising: a main body having a boiler and a pump; a main power switch; a cleaning head coupled to a main body through a joint; a yoke in the main body or the cleaning head, the yoke having an arm contacting a position sensitive switch so that when the main body is in a non-use position, the position sensitive switch prevents the main switch from supplying power, and when the main body is in an in-use position, the position sensitive switch allows the main switch to provide power.Type: GrantFiled: May 1, 2015Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Assignee: BLACK & DECKER INC.Inventors: Barry Pears, David Rowntree, Martyn Riley, Stephen Houghton, Andrew Walker
-
Patent number: 9717391Abstract: The disclosed cleaning system provides a system for storing and containing together a cleaning tool and cleaning ampoules, which contain the cleaning material, so that all the necessary parts of the cleaning system are easily stored and accessible for cleaning needs. In one embodiment, the cleaning system includes a cleaning tool and a cleaning ampoule. The cleaning tool includes a body with a working surface having scrubbing elements. The body has an ampoule receptacle. The cleaning ampoule contains a cleaning material. The cleaning ampoule includes a compartment and a cover for containing the cleaning material in the compartment. The ampoule receptacle is capable of holding the cleaning ampoule while the cleaning material is dispensed to the working surface from the cleaning ampoule.Type: GrantFiled: December 27, 2012Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Inventors: Mitchell E. Culbreath, Philip J. Dumont, Trisha D. Adamson
-
Patent number: 9717392Abstract: A dishwasher includes a washing tub defining a space that is configured to receive dishes to be washed by wash water, a sump configured to receive and collect wash water flowing from the washing tub, a filter unit disposed at the sump and configured to filter the wash water flowing from the washing tub to the sump, and a cap configured to prevent the wash water received in the sump from flowing from the filter unit to the washing tub.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 2015Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.Inventors: Sanghoon Lee, Sangheon Yoon, Gapsu Shin
-
Patent number: 9717393Abstract: A household appliance, such as dishwasher, includes a bulk unit-dose dispenser configured to hold multiple unit doses of treating chemistry and dispense the treating chemistry at the appropriate time in a cycle of operation. The bulk unit-dose dispenser can include a multiple compartments moveable along a track, and the compartments can be sequentially moved into registry with a dispensing opening of the appliance.Type: GrantFiled: June 11, 2015Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Assignee: Whirlpool CorporationInventors: Kristopher L. Delgado, Michael I Hirsh, Nathan W. Kryglowski, Rafael G. Reyes, Michael S. Seeley, Barry E. Tuller, Chad T. Vanderroest
-
Patent number: 9717394Abstract: A lint remover cover is provided. The cover is a substantially flat and bendable sheet having a first end, a second end, an upper surface, a lower surface, and an edge about the perimeter. A strap is attached to the upper surface and protrudes past the edge on the first end. A connector is attached to the upper surface near the second end and releasably attaches to the strap. The cover is wrapped around a lint roller covering the adhesive tape. The strap connects to the connector to further secure the cover to the lint roller.Type: GrantFiled: February 19, 2015Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Inventor: Helen Ann DeSimone
-
Patent number: 9717395Abstract: A piston is inserted into a piston passage of a cylinder. The piston is displaced between a first position of a non-contact state and a second position by a pressing operation. At the first position, a suction source connection port of the cylinder faces a circumferential groove of the piston and a suction source conduit communicates with an outside atmosphere. At the second position, the suction source connection port faces an outer peripheral surface opening and the suction source conduit communicates with a suction connection port. A V-shaped opening portion as a correction opening portion is formed in the outer peripheral surface opening. The V-shaped opening portion causes an increment of a communication opening width at which the suction source connection port overlaps with the outer peripheral surface opening to be three times or less an increment of a pressing stroke of the piston.Type: GrantFiled: February 3, 2015Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Assignee: FUJIFILM CorporationInventor: Yusuke Toyoda
-
Patent number: 9717396Abstract: A video endoscope with sideways viewing direction including an endoscope shaft having a jacket tube, an entry window joined hermetically to the jacket tube at the distal end of the jacket tube, a sideways viewing optical subassembly and a sensor module having an optical sensor, wherein the sensor module is disposed on a distal side of a longitudinally extended sensor module carrier that is rotatably mounted with respect to the jacket tube. In the video endoscope, the sideways viewing optical subassembly can be formed as an attachment which can be plugged distally onto the sensor module and/or the sensor module carrier and which is rotatably mounted with respect to the sensor module and/or the sensor module carrier, wherein the attachment has at least one lock which interacts with at least one corresponding lock on the jacket tube, such that the attachment is rotationally fixed with respect to the jacket tube.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 2014Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Assignee: OLYMPUS WINTER & IBE GMBHInventors: Sebastian Jungbauer, Sebastian Stuehle, Patrick Scherr, Ronny Huebl
-
Patent number: 9717397Abstract: A reinforced arthroscope comprising external ribs to provide for a number of separate fluid channels, such as inflow, outflow and interstitial tissue drainage, when the arthroscope is slipped into a disposable external sheath. The external sheath includes projections that fit closely on either side of one or more of the external ribs to lock the sheath in place circumferentially relative to the arthroscope. The arthroscope is constructed to be sufficiently rigid so as to penetrate and move within a joint without damaging the rod optics inside. The externality of the arthroscope channels allow for cleaning and sterilizing the scope between uses.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 2015Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Assignee: Cannuflow, Inc.Inventor: Theodore R. Kucklick
-
Patent number: 9717398Abstract: The invention relates to a lighting system for endoscopic examinations having a lighting unit that includes at least two LED elements for illuminating an area of examination that is to be observed by means of an endoscope optic. To create a lighting system for endoscopic examinations that ensures a constantly sufficient illumination of the area of examination, it is proposed according to the invention that the direction of radiation of the lighting unit can be displaced between a direction essentially perpendicular to the direction of observation of the endoscope optic upon insertion into the area of examination and a direction essentially in the direction of observation of the endoscope optic after insertion into the area of examination.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2006Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Assignee: Karl Storz GmbH & Co. KGInventor: Klaus M. Irion
-
Patent number: 9717399Abstract: An endoscope and methods of use thereof are provided, which includes at least one multi-functional extending arm supporting a plurality of imaging, lighting and other sensory elements. The arms provide a mounting platform upon which cameras, lights and sensors may be mounted to generate multiple-angled images and video, arena-like lighting and other data for performing a minimally-invasive surgical (MIS) procedure. The arms may be inserted through a single portal in the endoscope and extended outward in multiple directions from the single portal once inserted into a body cavity. The endoscope may also include support arms which support the extending arms within the body cavity and a stabilization plate which anchors the endoscope to an external surface of the body. An endoscopic tool with optical, lighting and other sensors integrated into a functional end is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2013Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Assignee: ENDOPODIUM, INC.Inventor: Allen Newman
-
Patent number: 9717400Abstract: An illuminating lens for a medical headlamp, endoscope or exoscope, to generate an illuminating light bundle with variable light distribution includes a liquid lens with variable focal length to modify a focusing of the illuminating light bundle. The invention also relates to an observation device with an illuminating lens of this type as well as a method to generate an illuminating light bundle with variable light distribution.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 2012Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Assignee: Karl Storz GmbH & Co. KGInventor: Jan Dahmen
-
Patent number: 9717401Abstract: A surgical headlight system includes an adjustable headband, a light assembly mounted to the headband, a motor assembly mounted to the headband and the light assembly, and electronic controller having a wireless transceiver therein, a power control circuit for varying electrical power delivered to a light source of the light assembly, a power source in electrical communication with the light assembly, the motor assembly, and the wireless transceiver, and a sterilizable wireless controller configured to transmit instructions to the wireless transceiver, the instructions causing the electronic controller to one or more of actuate at least one motor of the motor assembly to alter an orientation of the light assembly, adjust a diameter of an aperture of the light assembly, adjust a spacing between one or more condensing lenses and an objective lens, or operate the power control circuit to increase or decrease electrical power delivered to the light source.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 2017Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Assignee: Jay S. Orringer, M.D., A Professional CorporationInventors: Jay S. Orringer, JoLynne V. Orringer, Jordan H. Orringer, Thomas V. Root, Michael A. Cook
-
Patent number: 9717402Abstract: The present disclosure provides computing device implemented methods, apparatuses, and computing device readable media for confocal imaging using astigmatism. Confocal imaging can include receiving an image of a portion of an object captured by a confocal imaging device having a particular astigmatic character, determining an image pattern associated with the image, and determining a distance between a focus plane of the confocal imaging device and the portion of the object based, at least in part, on information regarding the image pattern. Confocal imaging can also include receiving data representing an image pattern associated with an image of an object captured by a confocal imaging device having a particular astigmatic character and having an image sensor with a plurality of pixels, and determining a positional relationship between the object and a focus plane of the confocal imaging device based on a distribution of the diffraction pattern over a portion of the plurality of pixels.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2012Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Assignee: Align Technology, Inc.Inventors: Erez Lampert, Isaia Glaser-Inbari
-
Patent number: 9717403Abstract: The foregoing application describes a system and method of performing a minimally invasive surgical operation. More specifically, the invention involves the use of disposable cannula and slender dilators of variable lengths, which incorporate a source of illumination to carry light to a surgical site and video capabilities for capturing and displaying images from a CMOS or CCD camera device. According to one embodiment, fiber optics run semi-circumferentially or along walls of the cannula/dilator and terminate at about a centimeter from the distal end of the cannula/dilator, thereby preventing illumination from “bottoming out” at the floor of the incision. According to one alternate embodiment, the light fibers may be fashioned in an annulus around one or more camera chips to provide illumination and video of the surgical site.Type: GrantFiled: October 21, 2014Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Inventor: Jeffrey B. Kleiner
-
Patent number: 9717404Abstract: An apparatus for generating simulated images includes an input device, a processor and a display device. The input device is configured to input information on a pupil of an eye and design information for a multifocal lens. The processor is configured to generate, based on the inputted pupil information and design information, a simulated image that is visible to the eye when the multifocal lens is disposed in the eye. The display device is configured to display the simulated image generated by the processor.Type: GrantFiled: January 20, 2015Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Assignee: SPECIALEYES, LLCInventors: Stephen Edward Brauner, Michael John Simpson
-
Patent number: 9717405Abstract: Optical coherence tomography (OCT) scan data is used to automatically detect and characterize vitreoretinal membranes in a spatially precise manner to generate a mask image. The mask image may characterize various aspects of a vitreoretinal membrane. The mask image is then overlaid with an optical image of the retina to enable visualization of the vitreoretinal membrane.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 2015Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Assignee: Novartis AGInventors: Hugang Ren, Lingfeng Yu
-
Patent number: 9717406Abstract: There is a need for robust and portable system, and apparatus for ophthalmology. We propose use of folding apparatus for ocular purposes for the first time. Our system will have a chin-rest (or face-rest or forehead rest) that can be folded so that the ocular device could be transported in a brief-case type casing.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2015Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Assignee: Netra Systems, Inc.Inventors: Manish Dinkarrao Kulkarni, Manmohan Singh Sidhu
-
Patent number: 9717407Abstract: A method and an apparatus for testing night vision are disclosed. At least one visual mark is presented to a test person having an open pupil from a distance of several meters. The visual mark is configured as a light point, and a visual impression of the test person is determined by means of the visual mark. The apparatus comprises means for opening a pupil of a test person, in particular a darkened room. An examination position for the test person and a presentation apparatus for visual marks arranged at a distance of several meters from the examination position are also provided. The presentation apparatus comprises at least one point-shaped light source. A light beam thereof is directed towards the examination position. Means are provided for determining a visual impression of the test person with the help of the visual marks.Type: GrantFiled: November 25, 2015Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Assignee: CARL ZEISS VISION GMBHInventors: Jesus Miguel Cabeza Guillen, Timo Kratzer
-
Patent number: 9717408Abstract: An ophthalmologic imaging apparatus includes: a first optical system that applies an accommodation stimulus to a subject's eye; a tomographic image forming unit that includes a second optical system that splits light from a light source into signal light and reference light, and detects interference light between the signal light having travelled via the subject's eye and the reference light, and creates a tomographic image of the subject's eye based on a detection result of the interference light; and an analyzer that compares a first tomographic image with a second tomographic image to acquire change information indicating a change in a tissue of the subject's eye due to an accommodation stimulus change. The first and second tomographic images are respectively created by the tomographic image forming unit for the subject's eye, to which first and second accommodation stimuli are respectively applied by the first and second optical systems.Type: GrantFiled: December 4, 2013Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Assignee: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOPCONInventors: Masahiro Akiba, Yasufumi Fukuma, Hiroshi Akiyama, Hisashi Tsukada, Eiichi Yanagi
-
Patent number: 9717409Abstract: An image processing apparatus includes a planar image acquisition unit configured to acquire a planar image of a subject, a tomographic image acquisition unit configured to acquire a tomographic image indicating a polarization state of the subject, and a display control unit configured to cause a display unit to display the planar image and the tomographic image indicating the polarization state side by side.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2015Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Assignee: Canon Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Yoshihiko Iwase, Kazuhide Miyata, Tomoyuki Makihira, Makoto Sato, Hiroyuki Shinbata, Ritsuya Tomita, Daisuke Kibe
-
Patent number: 9717410Abstract: An ophthalmologic apparatus measures a dimension of an eye to be examined. The ophthalmologic apparatus includes a light source, an incidence member, an acquisition unit, and a display unit. The incidence member causes light from the light source to be incident on a plurality of different positions in the eye to be examined. The acquisition unit acquires a two-dimensional tomographic image of an interior of the eye to be examined on the basis of a plurality of interference signals acquired as a result of the incidence member causing the incidence of light on the plurality of different positions. The display unit displays the acquired two-dimensional tomographic image.Type: GrantFiled: February 20, 2015Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Assignee: Tomey CorporationInventors: Chihiro Kato, Katsumasa Okouchi
-
Patent number: 9717411Abstract: Disclosed is a method of manufacturing an intraocular pressure sensor that is put into an eyeball of a patient and measures the intraocular pressure, the method comprising: preparing a first substrate; depositing a base film on the bottom of the first substrate; exposing the top of the base film by etching the first substrate; applying epoxy onto the center of the exposed base film; disposing the first electrode at the epoxy-applied portion on the base film; preparing a second substrate; depositing a support film onto the second substrate; forming a second electrode on the support film; exposing the bottom of the support film by etching the second substrate; and disposing the second substrate onto the first substrate.Type: GrantFiled: November 24, 2011Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Assignee: SOONGSIL UNIVERSITY RESEARCH CONSORTIUM TECHNO-PARKInventors: Byung Joo Kang, Ji Sung Jo, Chang Kun Park
-
Patent number: 9717412Abstract: A wireless fetal and maternal monitoring system includes a fetal sensor unit adapted to receive signals indicative of a fetal heartbeat, the sensor optionally utilizing a Doppler ultrasound sensor. A short-range transmission unit sends the signals indicative of fetal heartbeat to a gateway unit, either directly or via an auxiliary communications unit, in which case the electrical coupling between the short-range transmission unit and the auxiliary communications unit is via a wired connection. The system includes a contraction actuator actuatable upon a maternal uterine contraction, which optionally is a EMG sensor. A gateway device provides for data visualization and data securitization. The gateway device provides for remote transmission of information through a data communication network. A server adapted to receive the information from the gateway device serves to store and process the data, and an interface system to permits remote patient monitoring.Type: GrantFiled: November 4, 2011Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Assignee: GARY AND MARY WEST HEALTH INSTITUTEInventors: Masoud Roham, Enrique Saldivar, Srinivas Raghavan, Mehran Mehregany, Mitul Shah
-
Patent number: 9717413Abstract: A biocompatible, human implantable apparatus and a method for fully encasing a circuit within a polymer housing. The method may include placing the circuit in a mold, injecting a formulation into the mold, and polymerizing the formulation. The formulation may include monomers and polymers. The apparatus may include a circuit in a polymerized formulation of monomers and polymers.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2011Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Assignee: Senseonics, IncorporatedInventors: Arthur Earl Colvin, Carrie R. Lorenz, Casey J. O'Connor, Steven J. Walters
-
Patent number: 9717414Abstract: A method for isolating a potential anomaly in imaging data comprising: providing a set of at least one given anomaly property representative of a given anomaly; providing a anomaly property identifier for identifying each of the at least one given anomaly property; in the imaging data, isolating a first zone having a first property and a group of at least one other zone, each of the at least one other zone having a corresponding property different than the first property; in the imaging data, and resulting from the isolation of a first zone and a group of at least one other zone, providing a transition zone selected from a group consisting of: a closed zone separating the first zone and the group of at least one other zone; and a closed zone extending in one of the first zone and the group of at least one other zone; applying the anomaly property identifier for identifying each of the at least one given anomaly property on at least the transition zone for providing a computed indication for a selected zone, tType: GrantFiled: February 24, 2012Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Assignee: DOG MICROSYSTEMS INC.Inventors: Florent André Robert Chandelier, Thomas Bernard Pascal Vincent
-
Patent number: 9717415Abstract: Apparatus and methods are described including inserting a tool into a blood vessel, and, while the tool is within the blood vessel, acquiring an extraluminal image of the blood vessel. In the extraluminal image of the blood vessel, a location of a portion of the tool with respect to the blood vessel is detected automatically. In response to detecting the location of the portion of the tool, a target portion of the blood vessel that is in a vicinity of the portion of the tool is designated automatically. Using the extraluminal image, quantitative vessel analysis is performed on the target portion of the blood vessel. Other embodiments are also described.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 2009Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Assignee: SYNC-RX, LTD.Inventors: Ran Cohen, Eldad Klaiman, Alexander Steinberg, Sagiv Philipp, David Tolkowsky
-
Patent number: 9717416Abstract: Exemplary embodiments disclose an optical zoom probe including an aperture adjuster configured to adjust an aperture in which light transmitted by a light transmitter passes, a focus adjuster configured to focus the light passed through the aperture and adjust a focal length to an ultra-close location and a close location, and a filter which includes a center region in which incident light passes without change, and a filter region which surrounds the center region and increases a depth of focus (DOF) of light that is focused on the ultra-close location.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 2013Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Assignee: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.Inventors: Seung-wan Lee, Eun-sung Lee, Jong-hyeon Chang, Kyu-dong Jung, Min-seog Choi