Patents Issued in February 13, 2018
  • Patent number: 9889303
    Abstract: A method for sensing far-field R-waves in a leadless, intracardiac pacemaker implanted in an atrium of a patient's heart may involve sensing an electrical signal generated by the heart with two electrodes and a first sensing channel and/or a second sensing channel of the pacemaker, comparing a first timing marker from the first sensing channel with a second timing marker from the second sensing channel, and either determining that the sensed signal is a P-wave, if the first and second timing markers indicate that the sensed signal was sensed by the first and second sensing channels within a predetermined threshold of time from one another, or determining that the sensed signal is a far-field R-wave, if the sensed signal is sensed by the second sensing channel and not sensed by the first sensing channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark L. Brown, Saul E. Greenhut, Troy E. Jackson
  • Patent number: 9889304
    Abstract: The present disclosure describes a medical device to provide neurostimulation therapy to a patient's brain. The device can be surgically implanted and can remain in the patient until end of life. The present disclosure also describes accessories which guide the implantation of the device, and the components that form a leadless stimulator implantation kit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: ALEVA NEUROTHERAPEUTICS
    Inventor: Andre Mercanzini
  • Patent number: 9889305
    Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for managing patient activated capture of transient data by an implantable medical device (IMD). The systems and methods collect transient data using the IMD. The collected transient data is stored in a temporary memory section of the IMD. The IMD receives a patient activated storage request including activation information related to a patient designated trigger point from an external device. The IMD transfers a segment of the transient data from the temporary memory section to a long-term memory, wherein the segment of transferred transient data is based on the trigger point. The activation information includes an elapsed time corresponding to a duration of time between entry of the trigger point and issuance of the patient activated storage request by an external activation device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: Pacesetter Inc.
    Inventors: Heidi Hellman, Joanna Urbanski, Simon Skup
  • Patent number: 9889306
    Abstract: A hermetically sealed feedthrough for attachment to an active implantable medical device includes a dielectric substrate configured to be hermetically sealed to a ferrule or an AIMD housing. A via hole is disposed through the dielectric substrate from a body fluid side to a device side. A conductive fill is disposed within the via hole forming a filled via electrically conductive between the body fluid side and the device side. A conductive insert is at least partially disposed within the conductive fill. Then, the conductive fill and the conductive insert are co-fired with the dielectric substrate to form a hermetically sealed and electrically conductive pathway through the dielectric substrate between the body fluid side and the device side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: Greatbatch Ltd.
    Inventors: Robert A. Stevenson, Xiaohong Tang, William C. Thiebolt, Christine A. Frysz, Keith W. Seitz, Richard L. Brendel, Thomas Marzano, Jason Woods, Dominick J. Frustaci, Steven W. Winn
  • Patent number: 9889307
    Abstract: The present invention is related to an implantable medical device. The medical device comprises an implantable component having a receiver unit; an external charging module having a power transmitter unit; and a data module having a data transmitter unit. The units are configured to establish a transcutaneous communication link over which data and power is transmitted on a single frequency channel via a time interleaving scheme comprising successive frames each divided into at least two time slots, and wherein one or more of the time slots in each frame is allocated to the data transmitter unit, and wherein one or more of the time slots in each frame is allocated to the power transmitter unit, and wherein data and power are transmitted by the transmitter units during their allotted time slots.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: Cochlear Limited
    Inventor: Werner Meskens
  • Patent number: 9889308
    Abstract: A system is provided for driving an implantable neurostimulator lead, the lead having an associated plurality of electrodes disposed in at least one array on the lead. The system comprises an implantable pulse generator (IPG), the IPG including an electrode driver, a load system for determining load requirements, an IPG power coupler, and an IPG communication system. The system also includes an external unit, which includes an external variable power generator, an external power coupler, an external communication system, and a controller for varying the power level of the variable power generator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: Syntilla Medical LLC
    Inventors: Harry Dellamano, Kenneth Lyle Reed, Robert Raymond Bulger, Claire Denault, Michael Steven Colvin, Paul Griffith, Francis Menezes
  • Patent number: 9889309
    Abstract: Method and apparatus for detecting electric energy delivered to the heart of a body when performing defibrillation. The method comprises the steps of applying a defibrillator with electrodes placed on opposite sides of the heart; applying an apparatus on the body and between said electrodes for detecting and measuring electric and/or magnetic fields; performing defibrillation by delivering electric energy to the body; detecting electric energy running through the heart with said apparatus, and indicating electric energy applied to the heart. The apparatus for performing the method comprises detection and indications means for performing the method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: Lærdal Medical AS
    Inventor: Helge Fossan
  • Patent number: 9889310
    Abstract: An implantable medical device housing has an outer surface and an inner surface that defines an interior cavity. A wire is coupled to the housing outer surface. The wire wholly defines an open aperture for receiving a fixation member. The wire includes a first wire end, a second wire end, and an annular loop between the first and second ends. A cover extends over at least the first end and the second end of the wire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew J Ries, Richard P Nelson, Kamal Deep Mothilal
  • Patent number: 9889311
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention include systems, protective casings for smartphones, and associated methods to enhance use of an automated external defibrillator (AED) device before arrival of emergency medical personnel. A system can include a smartphone and a protective casing abuttingly contacting one or more side portions of the smartphone and retaining the smartphone positioned therein. The smartphone can include a defibrillation control module to control defibrillation of a victim of sudden cardiac arrest. The protective casing can include sensors, capacitors, and extendable electrode pads. The protective casing further can include a check module to determine whether the victim's heart rhythm requires an electrical shock to reestablish a normal heart rhythm, a space module to measure presence and amount of preselected materials relatively near the system, and a shock module to activate the one or more capacitors and generate an electrical current to deliver an electrical shock to the victim's chest.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil Company
    Inventors: Samantha J. Horseman, Curtis Gonter
  • Patent number: 9889312
    Abstract: Systems and methods involve an intrathoracic cardiac stimulation device operable to provide autonomous cardiac sensing and energy delivery. The cardiac stimulation device includes a housing configured for intrathoracic placement relative to a patient's heart. A fixation arrangement of the housing is configured to affix the housing at an implant location within cardiac tissue or cardiac vasculature. An electrode arrangement supported by the housing is configured to sense cardiac activity and deliver stimulation energy to the cardiac tissue or cardiac vasculature. Energy delivery circuitry in the housing is coupled to the electrode arrangement. Detection circuitry is provided in the housing and coupled to the electrode arrangement. Communications circuitry may optionally be supported by the housing. A controller in the housing coordinates delivery of energy to the cardiac tissue or cardiac vasculature in accordance with an energy delivery protocol appropriate for the implant location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: Cardiac Pacemakers, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey P. Bodner, Randy Bierwerth
  • Patent number: 9889313
    Abstract: A medical device such as an external defibrillator delivers electrical therapy using a special pulse sequence. The special pulse sequence includes a defibrillation shock that is automatically followed by a quick succession of automatic post-shock anti-tachycardia (APSAT) pacing pulses. Because of the pacing pulses, the defibrillation shock can be of lesser energy than an equivalent defibrillation shock of a larger energy. Accordingly, the external defibrillator can be made physically smaller and weigh less, without sacrificing the therapeutic effect of a larger external defibrillator that would deliver a defibrillation shock of higher energy. As such, the defibrillator is easier to configure for transporting, handling, and even wearing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: WEST AFFUM HOLDINGS CORP.
    Inventors: Joseph L. Sullivan, David Thomas Brown, David Peter Finch
  • Patent number: 9889314
    Abstract: Provided is a color light therapy device. The color light therapy device includes: a body that is used by being attached to a color light therapy portion of a human body by using a double-sided adhesive tape, a hydrogel pad, or an air suction plate, and includes a printed circuit board (PCB) that supplies driving power to a light source that emits color light in a given wavelength range to perform color light therapy on the human body; and a power jack that is connected to the PCB of the body through an electric wire. Since a user may use the color light therapy device by connecting the power jack to a mobile phone, a PC, a laptop, a tablet PC, a smartphone, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a vehicle, or a socket at home while carrying the color light therapy device, anyone may conveniently use the color light therapy device to perform color light therapy on the human body without exchanging or charging a battery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: COLOR SEVEN CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Nam Gyun Kim, Kyong Jun Park
  • Patent number: 9889315
    Abstract: An oral treatment device that emits light onto a user's teeth. The oral treatment device includes an intraoral mouthpiece comprising: a lamp comprising: a flexible sheet body having a front surface and a rear surface; and a plurality of light emitting diodes embedded within the flexible sheet body that generate light which is emitted from the rear surface of the flexible sheet body. The flexible sheet body comprises: a flexible lens plate formed of a biocompatible material. The plurality of light emitting diodes are printed to the front surface of the flexible lens plate, the rear surface of the flexible lens plate forming the rear surface of the flexible sheet body. The rear surface of the flexible sheet body of the lamp having a concave curvature and being exposed so as to form a light emitting surface of the mouthpiece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: Colgate-Palmolive Company
    Inventors: Scott Demarest, Francis Tatu, Mark Bartlett, Scott Mosby, Mark Lowenthal
  • Patent number: 9889316
    Abstract: Embodiments described herein provide methods for treating various conditions and diseases using an optical signal. In one or more embodiments an apparatus is providing having an optical window, which is used to deliver an optical signal to provide stimulation to one or more tissue sites in the body such as the brain, optic nerve, eye, ganglia, spine, or other like site. The optical signals can be used to treat a variety of neurological diseases and conditions including epilepsy, migraine headaches and chronic pain. In particular applications the optical signals can be used to treat, inhibit or prevent epileptic or other neurological seizures by providing an optical input to a foci or surrounding tissue in the brain causing the seizure. The optical signal may also be combined with an electrical signal to produce an aggregate effect in tissue for treating the disease or condition such as a neurological disease or condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: InCube Labs, LLC
    Inventor: Mir Imran
  • Patent number: 9889317
    Abstract: Systems and methods for generating a radiation treatment plan using inverse planning objectives that are automatically determined based on patient data and the physical capabilities of the radiation treatment system are provided. In particular, the planned target volumes and organ-at-risk (OAR) volumes are used to automatically partition the OAR volumes into one or more avoidance volumes, for which particular inverse planning objectives are established based on the physical capabilities of the treatment system. As an example, an inverse planning objective may include establishing a particular dose gradient over one or more avoidance volumes. Because such inverse planning objectives are based on conditions and constraints of the treatment system physics, rather than a desired percentage of the prescribed dose, they may be referred to as “physical objectives.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation
    Inventors: Edward T. Bender, Jacob Hoberg
  • Patent number: 9889318
    Abstract: Edema in tissue of a patient undergoing a course of radiation therapy or treatment can be estimated based on one or more MRI measurements used to measure changes in fluid content of various tissues. A correlation between observed changes in edema and one or more delivered fractions of radiation can be used to drive one or more clinical actions. Methods, systems, articles of manufacture, and the like are described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: ViewRay Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: James F. Dempsey
  • Patent number: 9889319
    Abstract: A particle beam irradiation apparatus radiates a particle beam plural times per one irradiation position. A storage unit stores a dose to be radiated each of the times (divisional target dose). A dose monitor measures the dose of the particle beam radiated to the irradiation position. At the first time of radiation, a controller outputs an interruption signal when the dose measured by the dose monitor reaches the divisional target dose. The dose monitor measures a dose (excessive dose) radiated after the interruption signal is outputted until the particle beam is actually interrupted. Then, it is defined: Corrected Dose value=Divisional Target Dose?Excessive Dose Value. Instead, it may be defined: Corrected Dose value=Divisional Target Dose?Excessive Dose Estimation Value. At the second time of radiation, the controller outputs an interruption signal when the dose measured by the dose monitor reaches the corrected dose value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC CORPORATION
    Inventors: Yusuke Sakamoto, Yuehu Pu, Hisashi Harada, Taizo Honda
  • Patent number: 9889320
    Abstract: A beam shaping assembly for neutron capture therapy includes a beam inlet, a target having nuclear reaction with an incident proton beam from the beam inlet to produce neutrons forming a neutron beam defining a main axis, a moderator adjoining to the target, a reflector surrounding the moderator, a thermal neutron absorber adjoining to the moderator, a radiation shield arranged inside the beam shaping assembly and a beam outlet. The neutrons are moderated to epithermal neutron energies. The reflector leads the neutrons deviated from the main axis back, and a gap channel is arranged between the moderator and the reflector. The thermal neutron absorber is used for absorbing thermal neutrons so as to avoid overdosing in superficial normal tissue during therapy. The radiation shield is used for shielding leaking neutrons and photons so as to reduce dose of the normal tissue not exposed to irradiation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: NEUBORON MEDTECH LTD.
    Inventors: Yuan-Hao Liu, Pei-Yi Lee
  • Patent number: 9889321
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to agents for dyeing keratin fibers, in particular human hair, containing, in a cosmetic carrier (a) at least one direct dye of formula (I), wherein Het 1, Het 2 represent a cationic heterocycle, and A1, A2, independently of one another, represent a grouping of formulas (VIII) or (IX), wherein n represents a whole number of between 2-6, and m, p, independently of one another, represent the numbers 2 or 3.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: Henkel AG & Co. KGaA
    Inventors: Antje Gebert-Schwarzwaelder, Helmut Giesa, Melanie Moch
  • Patent number: 9889322
    Abstract: A centrifugal brake assembly comprises at least one pawl, at least one biasing member, and a rotor. The at least one pawl includes a base from which a circular portion and a triangular protrusion extend to form a notch. The rotor includes at least one receiving portion having a notched portion to receive the circular portion. One of the at least one pawl and the rotor has a slotted portion, and the at least one biasing member is seated within the slotted portion. Another of the at least one pawl and the rotor has a protrusion at least partially extending within the slotted portion. The notch engages a stop member and the base contacts the rotor when the at least one pawl is in an engaged position to reinforce engagement of the stop member by the at least one pawl.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: D B Industries, LLC
    Inventor: Scott C. Casebolt
  • Patent number: 9889323
    Abstract: A multi-member assembly including a first structural member, a second structural member opposed from the first structural member, a crossover seal positioned between the first and second structural members, wherein the crossover seal defines a bore, and an end cap including a cap portion and a plug portion protruding from the cap portion, wherein the plug portion is at least partially received in the bore such that the cap portion bridges the first and second structural members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Scott M. Livingston, Jack W. Mauldin, Robert P. Lotter, Paul B. Philipp, Khalid S. Alshobber, John N. Harris
  • Patent number: 9889324
    Abstract: A fire protection device for small electrical devices provided with a housing. The fire protection device includes a bursting capsule featuring a hollow space that is completely enclosed and delimited by a vessel wall, wherein a liquid is disposed in the hollow space. The liquid breaks the vessel wall at a predetermined trigger temperature due to thermal expansion thereby causing the bursting capsule to rupture. When the vessel wall ruptures and releases the liquid it has a fire preventing effect and/or a fire extinguishing effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: JOB Lizenz GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Bodo Müller, Jürgen Teschner, Rüdiger Klug
  • Patent number: 9889325
    Abstract: The invention relates to a set of extendable ladders, in particular firefighting ladders, consisting of at least two ladder parts, each part being formed from side rails and rungs running between the side rails, and the uppermost ladder part is formed from at least two ladder sections interconnected by an articulated link, the articulation axis of which runs substantially parallel with the rungs, and when the uppermost ladder part has been fully retracted into the ladder part lying below, the first ladder section and the second ladder section overlap the ladder part lying below.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: Rosenbauer International AG
    Inventors: Christoph Speck, Stefan Ziegelmeyer, Thomas Mueller
  • Patent number: 9889326
    Abstract: Noise and room air overpressure on discharge of a gas extinguisher system is reduced. During the discharge, an extinguishing fluid is conveyed from a pressurized container via a container valve and line system to an extinguishing nozzle. At the beginning of the discharge the extinguishing fluid is predominantly present in the line system in liquid phase and after discharge it assumes a predominantly gaseous phase. In a phase transition period, which is accompanied by a significant reduction in the extinguishing fluid mass flow and a significant increase in the noise and the room air pressure, the mass flow is then reduced or stopped. Due to the reduction of the mass flow, the sound level of the noise arising is advantageously reduced to a value of a maximum of 100 dB and the room air pressure to an overpressure value ranging from 200 to 1000 Pa.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: Siemens Schweiz AG
    Inventors: Gerd Huelsen, Benno Rupp
  • Patent number: 9889327
    Abstract: An adjustable bracket includes a first bracket portion with a first leg and a first bar element, a second bracket portion with a second leg and a second bar element, and a hub assembly supported on at least one of the first and second bracket portions. The hub assembly can be configured to couple a flexible hose to the adjustable bracket. The first bar element can be telescopically received by the second bar element so that a distance between the first and second legs is selectively adjustable. A fastener can fix the first and second bar elements in a desired relationship. The hub assembly can include first and second support members that are pivotably connected to rotate between open and closed positions. The second support member may have a slot that allows the second support member to rotate and move laterally with respect to the first support member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: FLEXHEAD INDUSTRIES, INC.
    Inventors: Stephen Mitchell, Mike Dooley, Odair Dafonseca, Yoram Ringer
  • Patent number: 9889328
    Abstract: A connecting structure between a jumping mat and a frame in a trampoline, comprises an elastic element connected to the frame, the elastic element having at least one positioning element; and a connecting element connected to the jumping mat, the connecting element having at least one limiting element for engaging one of the plurality of positioning elements and thus connecting the elastic element to the connecting element. A trampoline using the connecting structure is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Inventor: Xiaoping Tang
  • Patent number: 9889329
    Abstract: A free weight barbell with an elongated bar with two rotating weight sleeves and with axially moveable hand grips mounted on the bar located inside the weight sleeves. Each hand grip is attached to the distal end of an elongated rack that extends centrally and longitudinally inside the barbell. The inside ends of the two racks extend to or slightly beyond the bar's center axis. The bar is circular in cross-section and made of solid material with two axially aligned channels formed on opposite sides. The two channels extend from the ends of the lifting bar to a center adapter located over the bar's center axis. The hand grips slide over the ends of the bar and the two racks are inserted into the two opposite channels. The two hand grips and the two racks are coupled to a disc gear that controls the resistance forces exerted on the sliding racks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Inventor: Samuel L Ernst
  • Patent number: 9889330
    Abstract: A deadlift bar includes a rectangular frame formed by front, rear, left, and right members. The frame includes a plurality of legs spaced about the frame to establish a gap between the frame and the ground, making it easier to grip the deadlift bar once the weights are loaded onto the device. Mounted to the left and right members and extending outwardly from the frame are first and second platforms, each of which may be formed by a pair of angled protruding arms joined at their respective ends by a connecting member. The platforms also include a pair of legs at the juncture of the arms with the connecting member to support the device and prevent bowing when weights are mounted thereon. Each platform further includes a support column extending upwardly from the connecting member, vertically at its base and then at an incline extending upwardly and away from the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Inventor: Erik C. Mann
  • Patent number: 9889331
    Abstract: A dumbbell with a selectable number of weight disks includes a handle with pins projectable in opposing directions, a base assembly for accommodating two sets of weight disks standing upright, and having through-going openings. Neighbouring weight disks have mutually cooperating connecting arrangements which axially interconnect the weight disks but which permit radial separation. The projection lengths of the pins are stepwise selectable in order thereby to permit selection of the number of weight disks carried on the handle. The handle has, in opposing ends, connecting arrangements for interconnecting with the connecting arrangements of the innermost weight disks in the base assembly. Further, the space between the connecting arrangements of the handle is free through 360° about the handle throughout its entire length, the openings of the weight disks being centrally located.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Inventor: Tomas Svenberg
  • Patent number: 9889332
    Abstract: An exercise device (100) is supportable by a swivel mount (116) attached to a karabiner (114) and the swivel mount is arranged to lock under load at 90° increments. The device includes a rotatable reel (103) arranged to have a pair of inelastic straps (113a, 113b) rotationally wound thereabout from opposite directions. The reel is rotatable in conjunction with a locking mechanism consisting of a toothed sprocket wheel (104) secured to the reel and a manually operable slideable shaft (106) that is located within a barrel (107). Slots (136, 139) in the shaft and barrel, respectively, permit rotational movement of the sprocket wheel and, hence, reel (103) so that the straps (113a, 113b) may have their length altered against the bias of a coil spring unit (111). Translational movement of the shaft (106) within the barrel (107) causes the full diameter of the shaft (106) to engage between adjacent teeth of the sprocket wheel to lock the reel (103), thereby preventing further adjustment of the straps (113a, 113b).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Inventor: Robert Gary Bowles
  • Patent number: 9889333
    Abstract: A treadmill which utilizes provides for a connection between the floor stand and the treadbase which is toward the front end of the treadbase and provides for generally improved support of the front end of the treadbase at higher angles by providing that the lift mechanism is attached to the treadbase at two fixed points a fixed distance from each other. The lift mechanism then utilizes two different motions, the extension of an extension arm and the rotation of a rigid arm, to produce lift. The rotation of the rigid arm generally utilizes a wheel in an enclosed raceway attached to the floor stand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: True Fitness Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Jared Kueker, Yu Hsin Wang, Kuo Ti Huang
  • Patent number: 9889334
    Abstract: A treadmill may comprise a drive motor positioned and configured to drive a treadbelt, and an electrical current sensor configured to measure the electrical current utilized by the drive motor. The treadmill may also include a computer programmed and configured to analyze the measured electrical current usage by the drive motor to determine the weight of a person positioned on the treadbelt. A person's weight may be determined by driving the treadbelt with the drive motor while a person is positioned on the treadbelt, measuring an electric current utilized by the drive motor, and analyzing the measured electric current to determine the weight of the person positioned on the treadbelt of the treadmill. Additionally, the measured weight may be utilized to calculate calorie expenditure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: ICON Health & Fitness, Inc.
    Inventors: Darren Ashby, Greg Law
  • Patent number: 9889335
    Abstract: An exercise device with a crank housing supporting a pedal crank having a pair of opposing pedals that are pivotally mounted to the pedal crank. A first strut extends from the crank housing and is jointed to a second strut by a coupling that selectively allows the struts to rotate relative to each other so that the device may be folded into a planar configuration or extended and locked into place for use of the pedal crank. A cross-member is positioned at the end of each strut to form legs for supporting the pedal crank in an upright position. A strap may be coupled to one of the pair of legs for additionally securing the exercise device to an airline seat. A tensioner is associated with the crank housing for selectively increasing and decreasing the force needed to turn the pedal crank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Inventor: Robin Palmer
  • Patent number: 9889336
    Abstract: A chain wheel locking device of an exercise apparatus includes a wheel frame mounted on a main frame of the exercise apparatus, wherein the wheel frame is a U-shaped structure and has two supports corresponding to each other. The exercise apparatus includes a chain wheel axle rotatably extending through a chain wheel and the two supports. The chain wheel axle has two opposite ends each having a locking device mounted thereon for positioning the chain wheel axle and preventing the chain wheel axle from being moved relative to the wheel frame such that a tension of a chain on the chain wheel is maintained to prevent the chain from being detached from the chain wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Inventor: Ya-Chi Chen
  • Patent number: 9889337
    Abstract: An exercise device with a crank housing supporting a pedal crank having a pair of opposing pedals that are pivotally mounted to the pedal crank. A first strut extends from the crank housing and is jointed to a second strut by a coupling that selectively allows the struts to rotate relative to each other so that the device may be folded into a planar configuration or extended for use. A cross-member is positioned at the end of each strut to form legs for supporting the pedal crank in an upright position. A tensioner is associated with the crank housing for selectively increasing and decreasing the force needed to turn the pedal crank. A telescoping arm may be used to interconnect the exercise device to a table or seat so that it can be folded and stored under the table or seat, and unstowed and unfolded for easy use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Inventor: Robin B. Palmer
  • Patent number: 9889338
    Abstract: A foam roller exercise device is provided for allowing a user to stretch anatomical muscles and performing traction along a vertebral spine of the user. The foam roller exercise device includes a first large elongated body portion taking a semi-cylindrical shape, forms into two second parallel small elongated semi-cylindrical body portions, both body portions meeting the elongated central inner groove. The user applies a downward pressure with the body onto the device, causing both parallel elongated body portions to open outwardly, thereby carrying the force to stretch onto the user's body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Inventor: Chang Jun Yu
  • Patent number: 9889339
    Abstract: A stepping device includes a first step tread at a first step height and defining a first opening, and a first trampoline mat suspended within the first opening. The stepping device also includes a second step tread at a second step height which is spaced apart at a single riser height from the first step height. The second step tread defines a second opening and a second trampoline mat is suspended within the second opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: ICON Health & Fitness, Inc.
    Inventor: Melanie Douglass
  • Patent number: 9889340
    Abstract: A web-based platform and method for personalizing the training regimen of an athlete. The platform includes a processor and a training log server for maintaining an athlete profile that includes a training record updatable by the athlete and a training plan supplied by a coach.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Inventor: Todd Martin
  • Patent number: 9889341
    Abstract: The present description relates to a dysphagia rehabilitation apparatus to help tongue muscle rehabilitation exercise during dysphagia rehabilitation. More particularly, it relates to a device that when a patient wearing the dysphagia rehabilitation device contacts the tongue to a position sensing unit configured on the front of a mask, a sensing single according to a change of a physical value of resistance corresponding to the tongue's touching position from the position sensing unit. Then a control unit of a remote device generates a control signal through the transmitted sensing signal, thereby the remote device controls rehabilitation, games and programs of similar functions thereof and induce patient's interest of rehabilitation. Thus, effect of rehabilitation is improved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: INJE UNIVERSITY INDUSTRY—ACADEMIC CORPORATION FOUNDATION
    Inventors: Chi Woong Mun, Min Jae Kang, Sun Joung An, Yong Hee Han, Tae Hyung Kim
  • Patent number: 9889342
    Abstract: In a multi-piece solid golf ball having a core, a cover and an intermediate layer therebetween, letting Hc be the JIS-C hardness at the core center, H12 be the JIS-C hardness at a position 12 mm from the core center and Ho be the JIS-C hardness at the core surface, the core has a hardness profile which satisfies the conditions 0?H12?Hc?15, 15?Ho?H12?30, (Ho?H12)?(H12?Hc)?10 and 20?Ho?Hc?40. Also, letting A be the value represented by (Ho?H12)?(H12?Hc), the spin index of the ball, defined as the dynamic coefficient of friction for the ball multiplied by A, is at least 3.0. This golf ball can satisfy at a high level the flight and control performance relied on by professional golfers and skilled amateurs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: Bridgestone Sports Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Akira Kimura, Toru Ogawana, Katsunobu Mochizuki
  • Patent number: 9889343
    Abstract: Embodiments relate to a concept for an elastically deformable item of sports equipment comprising at least one deformable electromagnetic coil structure around a curved surface within the item of sports equipment, such that the at least one electromagnetic coil structure forms a three-dimensional curve having non-vanishing geometric torsion and curvature to provide an elongation reserve related to a maximum deformation of the item of sports equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: FRAUNHOFER-GESELLSCHAFT ZUE FOERDERUNG DER ANGEWANDTEN FORSCHUNG E.V.
    Inventors: Reiner Retkowski, Markus Hartmann
  • Patent number: 9889344
    Abstract: A system for measuring and displaying the pressure of conventional American-style footballs in real time to game officials and spectators continuously. The value of the football's pressure is measured by physical contact with a Durometer and calculated using a CPU configured with software. Game officials may view the football's pressure locally. A transceiver device continuously transmits the value of the football's pressure, ID, time and date to remote receivers where game officials and spectators may continuously monitor the football's pressure remotely.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Inventors: Lawrence Maxwell Monari, Lawrence Scott Monari
  • Patent number: 9889345
    Abstract: A disc retriever includes an extendable, telescoping pole and a rigid hook configured to interface with various types of disc golf discs and secure a disc within the retriever by reaching across and/or under the disc, receiving the disc into an opening of the hook, and retaining the disc golf disc within the opening of the hook by at least one of gravity, pressure, and/or friction while the pole is pulled and/or manipulated by a user to retrieve the disc golf disc from the unreachable area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Inventor: Ryan Chabot
  • Patent number: 9889346
    Abstract: A ball striking device, such as a golf club head, has a face with a striking surface configured for striking a ball and a channel extending across a portion of the sole. The channel may be recessed from the sole and have a depth, wherein the channel comprises a center portion extending across a center of the sole, a heel portion extending from a heel end of the center portion toward the heel, and a toe portion extending from a toe end of the center portion toward the toe. The channel may have a width defined between a front edge and a rear edge, and a cross-sectional shape, wherein the cross-sectional shape of the center portion of the channel is substantially semi-circular, and wherein the cross-sectional shape of the channel is different at the heel and toe portions than at the center portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: Karsten Manufacturing Corporation
    Inventors: Joshua M. Boggs, Eric A. Larson, Andrew G. v. Oldknow, Michael T. Prichard, Nathaniel J. Radcliffe, Robert M. Boyd
  • Patent number: 9889347
    Abstract: Embodiments of golf club face plates with internal cell lattices are presented herein. Other examples and related methods are also disclosed herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: Karsten Manufacturing Corporation
    Inventors: Eric J. Morales, Erik M. Henrikson
  • Patent number: 9889348
    Abstract: Provided is a golf club head which produces an improved hitting sound obtained without impairing the appearance of the sole section. A golf club head having a hollow portion (i) formed therein has a sole portion (5) which forms the bottom surface of the head. The sole portion (5) includes a thin-wall portion (8) and a thick-wall portion (9) which has a greater thickness than the thin-wall portion (8). The golf club head is characterized in that a portion of the inner surface of the thick-wall portion (9), the portion facing the hollow section, has a rib (10) secured to the portion by welding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: DUNLOP SPORTS CO. LTD.
    Inventor: Yuki Motokawa
  • Patent number: 9889349
    Abstract: A golf club head comprising a body and a plurality of stiffening members is disclosed herein. The body comprises a face section, a sole section, and a crown section or a return section, and also defines a hollow interior. Each of the plurality of stiffening members extends from the crown section or return section to the sole section to reduce stresses placed on the face during impact with a golf ball. The stiffening members preferably are preloaded, and may be tightened using a tool. Each of the stiffening members has a midsection that is preferably selected from the group consisting of a solid metal rod, a hollow metal tube, and a spring, and each preferably is composed of a titanium alloy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: Callway Golf Company
    Inventors: James A. Seluga, Matthew Myers, Patrick Dawson
  • Patent number: 9889350
    Abstract: A golf club head includes: a sole; a crown; a toe; a heel opposite the toe; a strike face generally bounded by a face perimeter edge, the strike face comprising a geometric center; a rear portion; and a substantially enclosed interior cavity at least partially delimited by the sole, the crown, the strike face, and the rear portion. The golf club head also includes at least one rib having a first portion secured to the strike face, having a second portion secured to the crown, and being positioned such that a location on the strike face laterally spaced toe-ward from the geometric center by no less than 0.4 in is associated with a COR value no less than 0.825.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: SRI SPORTS LIMITED
    Inventors: Robert J. Horacek, Nathaniel J. Radcliffe, John J. Rae, Michael J. Wallans, Sam G. Lacey
  • Patent number: 9889351
    Abstract: A ball striking device includes a ball striking plate having a front surface configured to strike a ball and a rear surface opposite the front surface. The ball striking plate has a desired-contact region and a perimeter. One or more spoke-like reinforcement ribs may be located on the rear surface and may radiate away from the desired-contact region toward the perimeter. At least one of the spoke-like reinforcement ribs may be located in an upper-toe quadrant or in an upper-heel quadrant of the rear surface. One or more encircling reinforcement ribs may be located on the rear surface. The one or more encircling reinforcement ribs may be at least partially encircling the desired-contact region. A thickened portion of the ball striking plate may be positioned behind the desired-contact region of the ball striking plate. The ball striking device may be a golf club head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: Karsten Manufacturing Corporation
    Inventors: Byron C. Slaughter, William C. Knight, David N. Franklin, Jeremy Snyder
  • Patent number: 9889352
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a set of golf clubs comprising long irons, mid-irons and short irons. The irons have a progressive horizontal CG location. Preferably, the long and MID irons have a CG located between about 1 mm and 3 mm towards the hosel and the short iron CG is located between about 3 mm and 4 mm toward the hosel. Further the irons have a substantially constant blade width with progressively decreasing scoreline width.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: Acushnet Company
    Inventors: Marni Ines, Jonathan Hebreo, Michael E. Franz, Eduardo Mendoza