Patents Issued in December 5, 2017
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Patent number: 9833099Abstract: A holder for affixing a user chosen decorative element to the top trunk of a tree is shown and described. Multiple methods are provided for affixing the holder to the decorative element. The holder is easily secured to the trunk and can be adjusted to obtain the most pleasing vertical and horizontal position of the decorative element. Electrical wiring can also be routed through the device to provide electrical power to the decorative element from a power supply.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 2016Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Inventors: Thomas D. Ring, Maria P. Ring
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Patent number: 9833100Abstract: A portable framed artistic window pane covers includes plain and textured window pane film mounted on glass or transparent polyvinyl sheet with a prismatic effect that allows incoming light to pass through a window pane while refracting the light at random or semi-random angles in a manner that distorts viewed images through window panes of any size outside a home, office, or structure to create privacy for persons inside home, office, and other structures.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 2015Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Assignee: GAINES AND ASSOCIATES, LLCInventor: Aldolphus Ray Gaines
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Patent number: 9833101Abstract: In an exemplary embodiment, an induction cooking pan can include: a pan; a handle coupled to the pan; wherein the pan can include: a ceramic inner coated portion; a first metallic outer portion; and a second metallic outer portion; wherein the second metallic outer portion is at least one of extruded or impact bonded to the first metallic outer portion; wherein the second metallic outer portion can include: a generally circular shape and can include a plurality of punched openings therethrough; and wherein the plurality of punched openings have been at least one of: impact bonded into a lower surface of the first metallic portion; or extruded into a lower surface of the first metallic portion; and wherein the first and second metallic outer portions have been machined substantially smooth.Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 2014Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Assignee: NuWave, LLCInventors: Jung S. Moon, Byung G. Choi, Mikale K. Kwon
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Patent number: 9833102Abstract: Apparatus and method for forming beverages using a beverage cartridge and sonic energy. A cartridge may include a sonic receiver, such as a feature that extends into an interior space of the cartridge and is arranged to receive a sonic emitter that introduces sonic energy into the interior space. The sonic receiver may be excited by sonic energy, which causes the sonic receiver to itself introduce sonic energy into the cartridge.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 2012Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Assignee: Keurig Green Mountain, Inc.Inventors: Peter Peterson, Ross Peter Jones, Miles William Noel Hember, Javier Gonzalez-Zugasti
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Patent number: 9833103Abstract: A food preparation system includes a food preparation machine with a receptacle for a food capsule and a fluid injecting member, and the food capsule including a capsule body, a cavity, a first end, an opening communicating with the cavity, a second end including at least one outlet communicating with the cavity, an injection wall, and at least one partition dividing the cavity into chambers containing a respective quantity of an alimentary substance and having at least one outlet with an independently-operable closure member in the second end. The injection means injects a quantity of fluid into the capsule through a single injection point, and a sealing member selectively blocks fluid communication between the chambers, resisting a pressure difference between the chambers of between 2 and 20 bar, preferably between 4 and 15 bar.Type: GrantFiled: October 4, 2013Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Assignee: Nestec S.A.Inventor: Christian Talon
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Patent number: 9833104Abstract: A brewing device includes a frame that has an insertion area for inserting a capsule towards a brewing position. Further, the brewing device includes a brewing chamber that has a first portion and a second portion. The first and second portions of the brewing chamber are slidingly arranged in a sliding area of the frame. The first portion and the second portion both slide with respect to each other and with respect to the frame between a closed position and an open position. Ducts supply a brewing fluid to the chamber and outlet a brewed product from the brewing chamber. A pair of opposed guiding channels are provided for inserting, from a top of the insertion area, the capsule in the brewing position which is fixed with respect to the frame, and at least one member is provided for supporting the capsule in the brewing position.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 2011Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Assignee: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS N.V.Inventors: Giuseppe Fin, Andrea Favero, Giovanni Berto
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Patent number: 9833105Abstract: A machine (1) for preparing a beverage from at least one ingredient (2) comprises: an ingredient processing module (30); an ingredient passage (40) for inserting an ingredient from outside such machine into the ingredient processing module; and a cover (10) forming a user-handle that is manually movable between a position covering the ingredient passage and a position uncovering the ingredient passage. The cover (10) is manually slidable, in particular translationally slidable, from the covering to the uncovering positions and/or vice versa.Type: GrantFiled: January 3, 2012Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Assignee: Nestec S.A.Inventor: Antoine Cahen
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Patent number: 9833106Abstract: The invention relates to a system for a drinks extraction machine using capsules introduced into a capsule cage, said system having slides allowing a capsule to be guided into the machine, held and then released in order to move into an extraction position, said cage being moved between a retracted position allowing the insertion of a capsule into the machine, and a position for the extraction of the drink wherein the capsule is held in the cage against an extraction plate, said slides being moved by actuating means in a coordinated manner with the cage, but with a delay, in such a way as to release the capsule introduced into the machine for the insertion thereof into the cage when said cage moves back into the extraction position thereof, and only to go back to the initial position once the used capsule has been extracted from the cage.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2014Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Assignee: ETHICAL COFFEE COMPANY SAInventors: Guillaume Heisel, Jean-Paul Gaillard, Alain Mariller
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Patent number: 9833107Abstract: A capsule for preparing a beverage, for example coffee, includes a hollow element for containing a product from which the beverage is made, for example ground coffee. The hollow element is provided with a side wall, a top surface, a bottom surface and a flange. The flange includes a deformable element which is deformed by a deforming member arranged on the capsule holder. A device for using the capsule and a method for extracting a beverage are also provided.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2012Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Assignee: ETHICAL COFFEE COMPANY SAInventor: Alain Mariller
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Patent number: 9833108Abstract: The barbecue grill with a rotating fire receptacle includes a fire receptacle for receiving wood, charcoal or other combustible materials, which rotates, drawing air through a plurality of air inlets, or vents, formed through a lower wall thereof, thus increasing the oxygen flow through the receptacle and both increasing the rate of combustion as well as providing an enhanced convective path for the heated combustion gases. The barbecue grill with a rotating fire receptacle includes a vertical rod having opposed lower and upper ends, a base secured to the lower end of the vertical rod, the fire receptacle, which is rotatably mounted on the vertical rod, and a vertical support rotatably mounted on the upper end of the vertical rod. The fire receptacle includes the lower wall and at least one sidewall. The fire receptacle has a central aperture and the plurality of air inlets, or vents, formed therethrough.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 2015Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Inventor: Bijan M. Kazerouni
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Patent number: 9833109Abstract: A machine prepares semi-frozen food products and/or beverages from pre-prepared (e.g. frozen) cups. A user chooses the desired frozen cup, inserts it into the machine, chooses how they would like it prepared from a range of thickness options, and the machine then opens a sealed chamber door and inserts the product upward into the chamber and prepares the product by blending it in the cup. Upon removal of the product and resealing of the chamber door, the cleaning mechanisms provide thorough cleaning of all food contact surfaces and the chamber interior. Automatic high temperature steam sanitation takes place in the chamber if the machine is not used for an extended period of time, thus greatly reflected or eliminating the need for manual cleansing and sanitation by an attendant and ensuring healthy food preparation in all times.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 2015Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Assignee: F'REAL FOODS, LLCInventors: James J. Farrell, Jens P. Voges
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Patent number: 9833110Abstract: A bathtub insert can include a frame, a door movably coupled with the frame and movable with respect to the frame between an opened position and a closed position, an elongate latch coupled with the door, a catch coupled with the frame, and a support structure, the support structure being coupled to the frame.Type: GrantFiled: August 10, 2015Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Assignee: Safeway Safety Step, LLCInventors: Christopher Brian Stafford, Michael Anthony Serraino
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Patent number: 9833111Abstract: A vertical corner joint for joining a first shower wall panel having a J-shaped channel integrally formed on an edge thereof and second shower wall panel having a resilient, elongate wedge member attached to the back side and along an edge thereof. The edge with the wedge is inserted into the channel of the first panel, thus compressing the wedge and forming a tight corner joint or seam. A multi-piece shower enclosure may include one or more such joints. A four-piece enclosure may include a shower base or bathtub, a back wall with channels on both vertical edges, and two side walls, each with an edge with a wedge for insertion into a respective channel. The channel may form a nailing flange. A sealing strip may be included between the front side of the second panel and the short side of the channel.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 2007Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Assignee: Aquatic Co.Inventor: Raymond C. Torres
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Patent number: 9833112Abstract: A system to enable lateral shower curtain movement including: a first open channel frame, where the first open channel frame attaches to a first sidewall of a shower stall; a second open channel frame, where the second channel frame respectively attach to a second sidewall of the shower stall and said second sidewall opposes the first sidewall; openings in each open channel frame, where the openings enable the insertion of an end of a shower rod; and a means to adhere each channel frame to each side wall. The means to adhere may include at least one of a double-sided tape, glue or mounting brackets. Preferably, each channel frame extends the entire length of each respective sidewall.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 2015Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Inventor: Charles Busha
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Patent number: 9833113Abstract: An expanding curtain does not require the addition or installation of a new curved rod and/or any external mechanical devices such as curtain supports, control devices, or adapters to expand the usable space in the enclosure area. Rather, the curtain itself has the strength, rigidity and/or fortitude to form an outwardly extended shape (e.g., away from the enclosure area) that holds it in place, thus, expanding the amount of space available for utilization by the user of the enclosure area. The curtain easily and rapidly mounts and thereafter is easily slidable/manipulated between an open and closed position. The curtain surrounds, divides and/or provides privacy to a specific area and/or confined space. The curtain also maintains a mold, mildew and germ resistant facade, while remaining inexpensive to manufacture.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2017Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Inventor: Michael P. Royal
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Patent number: 9833114Abstract: A device for fastening a toilet seat to at least one first element of a toilet bowl, including a first locking part and wherein, for each back and forth motion of the fastening device relative to the bowl, the locking part is capable of alternately displacing between a first position where the first locking part cooperates with the first element and a second position where the fastening device may be separated from the first element.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2015Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Assignee: Etablissements Dubourgel GrangeInventors: Gérard Etaix, David Arphant
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Patent number: 9833115Abstract: A vacuum cleaner nozzle having a rotatable member arranged around a longitudinal axis for picking up particles from a surface to be cleaned, and a cleaning arrangement for removing articles entangled on the rotatable member. The cleaning arrangement has at least one support surface provided on at least one radially projecting member of the rotatable member, and at least one cleaning member movable between a resting position in which the cleaning member is arranged at a distance from the support surface and at least one cleaning position in the vicinity of the rotatable member. In the cleaning position, the cleaning member co-operates with at least one segment of the support surface to remove any entangled articles from the rotatable member as the rotatable member rotates. The at least one support surface comprises a number of segments arranged at an individual respective radius in relation to the longitudinal axis.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 2012Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Assignee: Aktiebolaget ElectroluxInventor: Henrik Eriksson
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Patent number: 9833116Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for providing multiple modes of cleaning on a smart robotic cleaner are disclosed. A cleaning mode of rolling brush sweeping and a cleaning mode of vacuuming are provided on the smart robotic cleaner. When different cleaning devices are replaced on the body of the smart robotic cleaner, an electronic control unit in the body may control the smart robotic cleaner to switch between the cleaning modes automatically. A mounting position may be provided in the smart robotic cleaner. A rolling brush assembly and a suction inlet assembly may be detachably mounted on the mounting position, and the rolling brush assembly and the suction inlet assembly may be replaced with each other at the mounting position.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 2015Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Assignee: Shenzhen BONA Robot Technology Co., Ltd.Inventors: Jianmin Huang, Yibo Cao
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Patent number: 9833117Abstract: A pad includes a leading edge, a trailing edge having a thickness different from a thickness of the leading edge, a first portion oriented to engage a surface, and a second portion oriented to engage the surface. The second portion is more fluid absorbent than the first portion.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 2014Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Assignee: Diversey, Inc.Inventors: Nathan E. Ludtke, Glenn Weaver, Axel Schmitz, Shwn-Meei Linden
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Patent number: 9833118Abstract: A cleaning article. The cleaning article has a laminate construction. The cleaning article comprises a sheet and a hydrophilic gather strip element joined together at plural bonds. The gather strip element has plural layers superimposed upon one another, providing strips extending outwardly from the bonds. Different layers are differentially bonded, to provide a construction which allows the strips to advantageously present a dynamically changing area to the target surface during cleaning, under normal usage conditions. By changing the surface area, more liquids, and associated debris, can be cleaned from the target surface.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2015Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Assignee: The Procter & Gamble CompanyInventor: Nicola John Policicchio
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Patent number: 9833119Abstract: A dual sided reusable floor-cleaning cloth having outer layers which are preferably made of woven material which can be fastened by Velcro or the like without limitation, thereby combining the cloth and rod handle into a set. The cleaning cloth is dual sided providing additional benefits such as increasing durable use of the cloth.Type: GrantFiled: September 6, 2016Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Inventor: Shelley Angela Thomas
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Patent number: 9833120Abstract: A dishwasher has a liquid supply system with a first conduit portion through which the liquid passes, and an air supply system with a second conduit portion through which the air passes. The first conduit portion at least partially forms the second conduit portion to define a thermal transfer interface. A heating system includes a heating element provided on the thermal transfer interface. Activation of the heating element provides heat to both the liquid supply system and the air supply system.Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 2013Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Assignee: Whirlpool CorporationInventors: Alvaro Vallejo Noriega, Rodney M. Welch
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Patent number: 9833121Abstract: A vent fan for use with the dishwasher and providing a vent door covering the opening associated with a motorized fan employs a mechanical coupling between the fan motor and vent door to eliminate the need for a separate vent door actuator by using energy of the fan motor to accomplish the actuation.Type: GrantFiled: August 14, 2012Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Assignee: Illinois Tool Works, Inc.Inventors: Michael K. Hintz, Jeffrey J. Krieger, Kenyon A. Hapke
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Patent number: 9833122Abstract: A dishwasher includes a wash tub, a lower basket, a first upper basket, a second upper basket, and movement parts. The wash tub defines a space in which dishes are washed. The lower basket is disposed in the wash tub. The first upper basket is disposed over the lower basket inside the wash tub to define a first lower reception space together with the lower basket. The second upper basket is disposed over the lower basket side by side with the first upper basket to define a second lower reception space. The movement parts move the first upper basket above or below the second upper basket to increase the first lower reception space.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2013Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.Inventors: Gapsu Shin, Moonkee Chung
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Patent number: 9833123Abstract: A dishwasher appliance and a method for mounting a slide rail within a dishwasher appliance are provided. A rack assembly of the dishwasher appliance includes a bracket with a post. A slide rail is mounted to the bracket, and the slide rail and the bracket are positioned within a wash chamber of the dishwasher appliance. The post extends through the tub, and a sleeve is positioned opposite the bracket on the tub and engages the post. The sleeve hinders retraction of the post through the tub.Type: GrantFiled: January 8, 2014Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Assignee: Haier US Appliance Solutions, Inc.Inventors: Ryan Joseph Shaffer, Eugenio Gomez, A. Vinodh Magimai Raj, Benjamin Carl Maddux, Brian David Sanzone
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Patent number: 9833124Abstract: An endoscope system having: an endoscope having: an endoscope insertion section wherein the endoscope defines a channel having a distal opening in the endoscope insertion section; and a first inductance element arranged to the channel, and configured to receive a high-frequency power to generate an AC magnetic field; and a treatment tool having: a treatment tool insertion section configured to be movably inserted in the channel; an electrically powered treatment device attached to the treatment tool insertion section; and a second inductance element arranged to the treatment tool insertion section, wherein the second inductance element is electrically connected to the electrically powered treatment device, and wherein the second inductance element is inductively coupled to the first inductance element such that the AC magnetic field induces an electromotive force to generate an induced current in the second inductance element to power the electrically powered treatment device.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2015Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Assignee: OLYMPUS CORPORATIONInventors: Shoei Tsuruta, Yuta Sugiyama, Akira Matsui
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Patent number: 9833125Abstract: An imaging device for imaging a portion of a patient's vasculature with an imaging element may include a proximal portion having a relatively higher stiffness that provides rigidity for pushing the imaging device through a patient's vasculature, and may include a distal portion having a relatively lower stiffness that enables threading through a curved vasculature of the patient. The imaging device also may include a transition region disposed between the proximal portion and the distal portion.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2013Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Assignee: Volcano CorporationInventors: Jeremy Stigall, Maritess Minas
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Patent number: 9833126Abstract: A balloon access device for use with an endoscope is disclosed. A transparent balloon attached to the distal end of the endoscope allows a user to both separate collapsed intestinal tissue and visualize the path of the endoscope without administering insufflation gas to the collapsed area of a patient. The attachment of the balloon to the endoscope is achieved by the various embodiments of the balloon access device disclosed herein.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2014Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Assignee: Visualization Balloons, LLCInventor: Boris Reydel
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Patent number: 9833127Abstract: There is provided a wire connection device including an outer frame that has a tubular shape, and a plurality of contacts that are provided in the outer frame, and that have a plurality of pairs of differential contacts to which a plurality of pairs of differential signals are respectively allocated, and a plurality of ground contacts each to which ground is allocated. When viewed from a direction along a central axis of the outer frame, the plurality of contacts are arranged side by side in two rows in a manner that the differential contacts of each pair can be adjacent to each other and in a manner that the number of the ground contacts adjacent to one of the differential contacts of each pair is equal to the number of the ground contacts adjacent to the other one of the differential contacts of the pair.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 2015Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Assignees: SONY OLYMPUS MEDICAL SOLUTIONS INC., SONY CORPORATIONInventors: Kei Tomatsu, Taichi Hirano, Akira Matsuda
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Patent number: 9833128Abstract: A stopcock for a channel that guides a flux medium in a medical endoscope, the stopcock having a housing accommodating a plug rotatable about an axis in a conical seat penetrated by the channel, wherein the housing has a bearing collar adjacent to the conical seat in the direction of the axis, in which bearing collar a handle body is mounted to be rotatable about the axis, the handle body supporting a handle outside the housing and rotationally coupled to the plug displaceable in direction of the axis and resiliently supported relative thereto, wherein the handle body has a radially elastic detent device engaging a circumferential inner groove of the bearing collar to be locking in direction of the axis, wherein the plug is arranged and configured bring the detent device out of engagement with the bearing collar upon displacement in direction of the axis into an unlocked position.Type: GrantFiled: February 10, 2015Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Assignee: OLYMPUS WINTER & IBE GMBHInventor: Pieter Brommersma
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Patent number: 9833129Abstract: An endoluminal crawler used in endoscopic procedures includes a body and an actuation unit. The body includes a tubular portion. The actuation unit includes an actuator providing a rotational output and a traction belt. The traction belt includes a traction portion and an engaging portion. The traction portion protrudes out of a slot defined in the tubular portion and the engaging portion operatively engages the actuator.Type: GrantFiled: April 1, 2016Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Assignee: Covidien LPInventors: Frank J. Viola, James M. Power
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Patent number: 9833130Abstract: Devices and methods of identifying and treating bodily passages, such as sinus cavities, are provided. More particularly, irrigation devices and methods useful in the identification and treatment of bodily passages, such as sinus cavities, are provided. The irrigation devices comprise an elongate tubular member and an optical fiber which assist with the transcutaneous identification and/or treatment of a bodily passage.Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 2015Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Assignee: COOK MEDICAL TECHNOLOGIES LLCInventors: Darin Schaeffer, Patrick C. Melder, Thomas Cherry
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Patent number: 9833131Abstract: A steerable device, such as a steerable catheter, may include a control handle and an insertion shaft extending outwardly therefrom. In use, the insertion shaft is navigated to an area of interest for examination and/or treatment thereof. The steerable device may include a steering system that controls the deflection angle of the distal end of the insertion shaft in two or more non-planar directions for navigating the insertion shaft to the area of interest. The steering system may also include a locking mechanism for arresting or partially arresting the movement of the distal end of the insertion shaft in a first direction independent of arresting or partially arresting the movement of the distal end in a second non-planar direction.Type: GrantFiled: September 15, 2015Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.Inventors: John Golden, Mark Monroe
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Patent number: 9833132Abstract: An imaging unit includes: a columnar optical member including an incident surface on which light is incident, a reflecting surface for reflecting the light incident from the incident surface in a direction different from the incident surface, and an emission surface for causing the light incident from a direction orthogonal to the incident surface and reflected from the reflecting surface to travel in a straight line and emitting the light to the outside; an imaging device including a light receiving unit, formed on a surface of the imaging device, for receiving the light emitted from the emission surface and performing photoelectric conversion on the light; and a cylindrical imaging holder, protruding from at least part of an outer edge of one end in line with a side surface shape of the optical member, for defining the position of the incident surface and holding the optical member.Type: GrantFiled: May 7, 2014Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Assignee: OLYMPUS CORPORATIONInventors: Nau Satake, Tsutomu Sasamoto
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Patent number: 9833133Abstract: A dental light comprises at least one light emitting diode light source configured to produce a light beam and at least one collimating lens system situated to receive the light beam. The collimating lens system is configured to collect and collimate the light beam. The collimating lens system can additionally modify the beam through controlled diffusion or shape the beam using an aperture.Type: GrantFiled: October 11, 2016Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Assignee: A-dec, Inc.Inventors: Christopher C. Stone, Takaaki Nakagawa, Eric Bube, Randall Joel Lonsdale, Patrick W. Berry, Ryan M. Williams, Joseph Van Domelen, Jason Alvarez, Jonathan E. Myers
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Patent number: 9833134Abstract: A protective cap for use on arthroscopic instruments and sheaths disposed over arthroscopic instruments. The cap protects the distal end of the instrument from accidental damage caused by other instruments used during a surgical procedure. The cap has a flange disposed within an inner diameter of a bore within the cap to prevent the sheath from being pushed into the cap.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2015Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Assignee: Cannuflow, Inc.Inventor: Theodore R. Kucklick
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Patent number: 9833135Abstract: An optical apparatus applied to ophthalmology detection is disclosed. The optical apparatus includes a first light source module, a second light source module, and an interference module. The first light source module is formed by a laser light source and lens units and used to emit a first light signal. The second light source module is formed by fiber units and lens units. The second light source module is coupled to the first light source module in series. The second light source module is used to receive a first light signal and emit a second light signal. The interference module is coupled to the second light source module and used to receive the second light signal and provide a first incident light and a second incident light to an object to be detected and a reference mirror respectively.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 2014Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Assignees: Crystalvue Medical CorporationInventors: William Wang, Chung-Ping Chuang, Meng-Shin Yen, Chung-Cheng Chou, Sheng-Lung Huang, Kuang-Yu Hsu, Chien-Chung Tsai, Tuan-Shu Ho
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Patent number: 9833136Abstract: The present application discloses methods and systems to track the anterior segment while establishing a position of the delay which will permit good control of the placement of anterior segment structures. This allows accurate dewarping by maximizing the amount of corneal surface that is imaged as well as reducing or eliminating overlap between real and complex conjugate images present in frequency-domain optical coherence tomography. A method to dewarp surfaces given partial corneal surface information is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2014Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Assignee: Carl Zeiss Meditec, Inc.Inventor: Homayoun Bagherinia
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Patent number: 9833137Abstract: A computerized method for administering a low luminance dysfunction test, comprising the steps of: (a) displaying a first character in a color at a first acuity level against a display having a luminance level; (b) receiving a first input signal from a patient via an input device, where the input signal is indicative of whether the patient recognizes the first character displayed in the first acuity level; (c) displaying a second character in the color at a second acuity level against the display having the luminance level; (d) receiving a second input signal from the patient via the input device, where the input signal is indicative of whether the patient recognizes the second character displayed at the second acuity level; and, (e) calculating a score based on the first and second input signals.Type: GrantFiled: May 1, 2015Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Assignee: Innova Systems, Inc.Inventor: Cheryl Nordstrom
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Patent number: 9833138Abstract: A medical diagnostic device and method, the device including: (a) an alternating current source, adapted to produce an alternating current; (b) an electrode arrangement having at least first and second electrodes, separated by an electrically insulating region, the arrangement having an at least semi-rigid region that fixes the electrodes in a spaced-apart manner, the arrangement adapted to contact the soft tissue on the inner surface of the eyelid; and (c) a processor, associated with the electrode arrangement, said electrodes electrically connected to the alternating current source; wherein, when the electrode arrangement is provided with the alternating current, and is disposed against the soft tissue, the soft tissue electrically bridges between the electrodes to form an electrical circuit, wherein an electrical signal is produced by the alternating current electrically passing between the electrodes via the soft tissue; wherein the processor is adapted to receive in-vivo based electrical information origType: GrantFiled: August 13, 2014Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Assignee: Z.A ArgoInventor: Zvi Nachum
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Patent number: 9833139Abstract: Apparatus and methods are described for performing structure measurement on a tear film of an eye of a subject. At least a portion of a surface of the tear film is illuminated using a broadband light source. A spectrum of light of the broadband light that is reflected from at least one point of the tear film is measured, using a spectrometer. Color information for a plurality of points of the tear film is obtained, by imaging a field of view of the tear film using a color camera. Using a processing unit, data from the color camera and data from the spectrometer that are indicative of characteristics of the tear film are received, and based upon a combination of the data received from the color camera and the data received from the spectrometer, an output is generated that is indicative of a structure of the tear film.Type: GrantFiled: August 8, 2017Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Assignee: ADOM, Advanced Optical Technologies Ltd.Inventors: Yoel Arieli, Yoel Cohen, Shlomi Epstein, Dror Arbel, Ra'anan Gefen
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Patent number: 9833140Abstract: Portable corneal topographers and portable corneal topographer modules are disclosed. In one embodiment, a corneal topographer module comprises a housing having a first aperture and a second aperture formed therethrough; and a plurality of optical components disposed within the housing. The plurality of optical components are arranged to direct light generated by a light source through the first aperture to the cornea via a first optical channel when a cornea of a patient's eye is located adjacent to the first aperture; and direct reflected light from the cornea into the housing through the first aperture and to a light detector of a mobile device via a second optical channel when the corneal topographer module is mechanically coupled to the mobile device.Type: GrantFiled: January 8, 2016Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Assignee: SMART VISION LABS, INC.Inventor: Yaopeng Zhou
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Patent number: 9833141Abstract: A system for processing heart rate measurement data measured during a physical exercise of a user. The system includes a server computer configured to: associate, during a registration procedure for a measurement device of a user, a device identifier of the measurement device with a user account of the user stored in the server computer; receive a device identifier and real-time heart rate measurement data over a network connection; identify the user's measurement device from the received device identifier; and store the received heart rate measurement data to the user account of the user on the basis of the association between the received device identifier and the corresponding user account.Type: GrantFiled: August 1, 2013Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Assignee: POLAR ELECTRO OYInventors: Ville Kampman, Tuomas Jomppanen
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Patent number: 9833142Abstract: Provided are embodiments of systems, computer medium and computer-implemented methods for monitoring the health of an employee. A method for monitoring the health of an employee including collecting health data corresponding to at least one of biometric health data and biomechanical health data for an employee acquired via a plurality of health sensors located throughout the employee's workstation, determining a health profile for the employee based at least in part on the collected health data, and serving, to an employee computer for display, health profile content comprising an avatar configured to communicate information relating to the health profile for the employee. The plurality of health sensors including at least one of biometric sensors and biomechanical sensors.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 2012Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil CompanyInventor: Samantha J. Horseman
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Patent number: 9833143Abstract: 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: June 5, 2014Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Assignee: DexCom, Inc.Inventors: Mark Brister, Paul V. Neale, Peter C. Simpson, James H. Brauker, James Patrick Thrower, Mark Shults, Rathbun K. Rhodes, Paul V. Goode, Jr., Arnold L. Holmquist
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Patent number: 9833144Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure provide for probes, methods of using the probe, methods of making the probe, method of imaging a condition (e.g., pre-cancerous tissue, cancer, or a tumor), methods of planning resection of a brain tumor, methods of imaging a brain tumor, and the like.Type: GrantFiled: January 6, 2012Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Assignee: The Board of Trustees of the Leland Stanford Junior UniversityInventors: Moritz F. Kircher, Adam de la Zerda, Jesse Jokerst, Cristina Zavaleta, Sanjiv S. Gambhir
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Patent number: 9833145Abstract: Provided are a method for simultaneously detecting fluorescence and Raman signals for multiple fluorescence and Raman signal targets, and a medical imaging device for simultaneously detecting multiple targets using the method. The method includes: injecting at least one marker particle comprising Raman markers and receptors into the body of an animal, which can be a human; irradiating a laser beam onto the body of the animal; and detecting the optical signals emitted by the marker particle after the irradiation of the laser beam separately as fluorescence signals and Raman signals. The simultaneous detection of multiple targets may be performed even without scanning optical signals emitted by the marker particle individually with different optical fibers. As an examination may be performed by injecting surface-enhanced Raman marker particles, weak Raman signals may be augmented so as to obtain a more accurate diagnosis result in real time.Type: GrantFiled: January 4, 2017Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Assignee: SNU R&DB FOUNDATIONInventors: Dae Hong Jeong, Keon Wook Kang, Dong Soo Lee, Yoon Sik Lee, Gun Sung Kim, Bong Hyun Jun, Jin Chul Paeng, Ho Young Lee, Yun Sang Lee
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Patent number: 9833146Abstract: A surgical system configured for treating tissue is provided. The surgical system includes a laser source and a laser scalpel. The laser scalpel is adapted to couple to the laser source and is operable in two modes of operation, a first mode of operation to analyze tissue of interest and a second mode of operation to treat tissue of interest. The laser scalpel includes a housing having first and second fiber optic cables extending therethrough. Each of the first and second fiber optic cables operable under the first mode of operation to collect information pertaining to at least one optical property of tissue of interest and at least one of the first and second fiber optic cables also operable under the second mode of operation to treat the tissue of interest.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 2012Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Assignee: COVIDIEN LPInventor: Andy S. Lin
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Patent number: 9833147Abstract: A mammography device is disclosed. The mammography device includes a container configured to surround the breast and a plurality of optical fibers attached to be directed inward in the container and configured to perform radiation and detection of light. The container has a base member having an opening, a plurality of annular members continuously disposed to come in communication with the opening, and a bottom member disposed inside the annular member spaced the farthest distance from the base member. The annular members and the bottom member are configured to relatively displace the adjacent annular member on the side of the base member or the base member in a communication direction. Some of the plurality of optical fibers is attached to the plurality of annular members.Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 2012Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Assignee: HAMAMATSU PHOTONICS K.K.Inventors: Toshihiko Suzuki, Yutaka Yamashita, Yukio Ueda, Etsuko Yamaki, Daisuke Yamashita, Kenji Yoshimoto, Harumi Sakahara, Hiroyuki Ogura, Hatsuko Nasu
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Patent number: 9833148Abstract: Systems and methods for photoacoustic imaging are provided. Photoacoustic signals are excited from a body and the excited photoacoustic signals are detected with a low coherence interferometer system serving as a photoacoustic detector. Cross-sectional images of the body are then reconstructed by the system from the detected photoacoustic signals.Type: GrantFiled: August 13, 2012Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Assignee: University of Washington Through its Center For CommerciallzationInventor: Ruikang K. Wang