Patents Issued in May 17, 2018
  • Publication number: 20180132812
    Abstract: A medical imaging apparatus may include an image processor configured to generate an image based on data acquired by an X-ray detector, wherein the image processor determines a magnitude of a noise signal of a scout image of an object, determines a physical quantity of the object corresponding to the determined magnitude of the noise signal, determines an energy value of a monochromatic image by comparing the determined physical quantity of the object and a preset reference physical quantity, and generates the monochromatic image corresponding to the determined energy value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2017
    Publication date: May 17, 2018
    Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Baeg Gi MIM
  • Publication number: 20180132813
    Abstract: Disclosed are an X-ray irradiating device having a function of selecting an automatic radiographic mode and an X-ray imaging method using the same. The X-ray irradiating device includes an X-ray source, a motion sensor configured to detect an X-ray source pointing direction, and a controller configured to select any one of a plurality of radiographic modes according to a pointing angle signal received from the motion sensor. The X-ray imaging method, which uses the above described X-ray imaging apparatus, includes setting a reference plane as a reference value for a pointing angle in which an X-ray source is directed, detecting the pointing angle relative to the reference plane by using a motion sensor and selecting a radiographic mode corresponding to the detected pointing angle, and performing a radiography by controlling the X-ray source with a set value corresponding to the selected radiographic mode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2016
    Publication date: May 17, 2018
    Applicants: VATECH Co., Ltd., VATECH EWOO Holdings Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hyungkeun LIM, Jinpyo CHUN
  • Publication number: 20180132814
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, a medical image diagnostic apparatus includes a holding device, a driving unit, a first encoder, a second encoder, and processing circuitry. The holding device holds an X-ray generator and an X-ray detector such that the X-ray generator and the X-ray detector are rotatable. The driving unit transmits a rotating force of a driving motor to a rotation axis through a power transmission mechanism. The first encoder detects a rotation of the driving motor. The second encoder detects a rotation of the rotation axis. The processing circuitry detects an abnormal state of the power transmission mechanism, based on a time difference between a first pulse output from the first encoder and a corresponding second pulse output from the second encoder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2017
    Publication date: May 17, 2018
    Applicant: Toshiba Medical Systems Corporation
    Inventors: Koji NODA, Tsuyoshi KOJIMA, Toshio MUROI, Shinji NISHIZAWA, Yoshihito ABE, Junko SHIBATA
  • Publication number: 20180132815
    Abstract: A sound localization system includes a multi-mic sound collector and a computing device. The multi-mic sound collector includes a carrier and a plurality of sound receivers removably attached to the sound receivers. The computing device includes a data communicator, a synchronizer, and a processor. The data communicator receives preprocessed audio data from the multi-mic sound collector. The synchronizer synchronizes the preprocessed audio data. The processor analyzes the synchronized audio data to identify and localize a target audio feature. A sound localization method of the sound localization system is also provided. The present invention facilitates monitoring of the functioning or physiological signs of a monitored subject and allows early detection and diagnosis of abnormalities or diseases.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2017
    Publication date: May 17, 2018
    Inventors: KUN-HSI TSAI, SHENG-HSIANG KUNG, SHIH-CHENG LAN, YUN-FAN CHANG
  • Publication number: 20180132816
    Abstract: The imaging system includes a wire, a second signal transmission unit and a computer system. At least one first signal transmission unit is disposed on the wire which is configured to enter a blood vessel in a human body. The second signal transmission unit is disposed outside of the human body. The computer system is electrically connected to the second signal transmission unit. The first signal transmission unit emits a first signal, the second signal transmission unit receives the first signal, and the computer system generates a first image according to the first signal. The second signal transmission unit emits a second signal, and receives a reflection signal corresponding to the second signal. The computer system generates a second image according to the reflection signal, and merges the first image with the second image as a third image for rendering a position of the wire in the human body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2016
    Publication date: May 17, 2018
    Inventors: Ming-Hui CHEN, Wei-Te CHEN, Hui-Hua CHIANG
  • Publication number: 20180132817
    Abstract: Provided is a non-invasive system and method of determining muscle tissue size based on image processing. The method includes receiving at least one ultrasound scan image of at least a portion of a skin layer as disposed above one or more additional tissue layers, the image provided by a plurality of pixels. The method continues by introducing noise into the pixels of the image and thresholding the pixels of the image to provide a binary image having a plurality of structural elements of different sizes. The method continues with morphing the structural elements of the binary image to remove small structural elements and connect large structural elements. With this resulting image, the method distinguishes muscle tissue from remaining elements and determines the muscle tissue size. Associated apparatuses and computer program products are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2017
    Publication date: May 17, 2018
    Inventors: Pierre Sarnow, Stephen S. Kurtz, Andrew D. Jackson, Wayne Phillips
  • Publication number: 20180132818
    Abstract: The present invention discloses an ophthalmic device with a retinal vascularization monitoring system and associated methods. In some embodiments, the ophthalmic device can be a contact lens with a retinal vascularization monitoring system that can be used to monitor temporal changes of a pulsating vessel forming part of the retinal vascularization. Further, the retinal vascularization monitoring system may include elements for delivering a signal, including an audible and/or visual message, to the user that can be useful for identifying abnormal conditions such as a cardiac failure without delay. The audible and/or visual messages can be signals communicated to the user using one or both of the ophthalmic device and a wireless device in communication with the ophthalmic device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2018
    Publication date: May 17, 2018
    Inventor: Randall Braxton Pugh
  • Publication number: 20180132819
    Abstract: This document provides devices and methods for interventional treatment of heart conditions. For example, this document provides devices and methods that enhance intra-cardiac echocardiography visualization of interventional devices such as trans-septal puncturing needles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2016
    Publication date: May 17, 2018
    Applicant: Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research
    Inventor: Peter M. Pollak
  • Publication number: 20180132820
    Abstract: An ultrasound transducer module includes: an ultrasound transducer configured to transmit and receive ultrasound; a substrate electrically connected with the ultrasound transducer and including a first wiring pad at a portion different from a connection portion with the ultrasound transducer; and a casing that includes an accommodation hole for accommodating the ultrasound transducer and the substrate and that includes a holding hole continued to the accommodation hole and capable of holding a portion of the substrate, the casing having a plurality of electrode pads provided on an outer surface of the casing and having a plurality of second wiring pads provided in the holding hole, each second wiring pad being electrically connected with a corresponding electrode pad among the plurality of electrode pads, and electrically connected with the first wiring pad.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2017
    Publication date: May 17, 2018
    Applicant: OLYMPUS CORPORATION
    Inventor: Kei IRIE
  • Publication number: 20180132821
    Abstract: An ultrasound calibration system employs a calibration phantom (20), an ultrasound probe (10) and a calibration workstation (40a). The calibration phantom (20) encloses a frame assembly (21) within a calibration coordinate system established by one or more phantom trackers. In operation, the ultrasound probe (10) acoustically scans an image of the frame assembly (21) within an image coordinate system relative to a scan coordinate system established by one or more probe trackers. The calibration workstation (40a) localizes the ultrasound probe (10) and the frame assembly image (11) within the calibration coordinate system and determines a calibration transformation matrix between the image coordinate system and the scan coordinate system from the localizations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2014
    Publication date: May 17, 2018
    Inventors: EHSAN DEHGHAN MARVAST, SHYAM BHARAT, AMIR MOHAMMAD TAHMASEBI MARAGHOOSH, GREGORY COLE, JOCHEN KRUECKER
  • Publication number: 20180132822
    Abstract: An ultrasound apparatus includes a base, a housing extending upwardly from the base and having opposed lateral sides, the housing being configured to support an operator console and display, and a storage bin received in a recess in the housing. The storage bin is movable from a first position in which the storage bin is received within the recess of the housing, and a second position in which the storage bin extends from one of the lateral sides of the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2016
    Publication date: May 17, 2018
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: PHILIP STANKARD, ROBERT ANDREW MEURER, MURIEL SHIELDS
  • Publication number: 20180132823
    Abstract: An ultrasound measurement device and related method for ultrasonic measurement are provided. In one embodiment the device includes a first ultrasound transducer and a second ultrasound transducer spaced from the first ultrasound transducer and configured to receive a plurality of ultrasound signals transmitted from the first ultrasound transducer through a fixed object. The device further includes means for moving at least one of the transducers relative to the object over an area of the object such that each of the plurality of ultrasound signals travels through a different location within the area. In this manner, the device achieves the functionality of array transducers with transducers having fewer transducer elements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2018
    Publication date: May 17, 2018
    Inventors: Jonathan J. Kaufman, Gangming Luo
  • Publication number: 20180132824
    Abstract: An ultrasonic transducer device includes a first substrate that is provided with a plurality of ultrasonic transducer elements arranged in a matrix, and a plurality of first wires via which the ultrasonic transducer elements are electrically connected to each other as a plurality of serial sets, and a second substrate that is provided to overlap the first substrate, and is provided with a plurality of second wires intersecting the first wires in a plan view from a thickness direction of the first substrate and third wires via which the first wires are electrically connected to the second wires.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2017
    Publication date: May 17, 2018
    Applicant: SEIKO EPSON CORPORATION
    Inventor: Jiro TSURUNO
  • Publication number: 20180132825
    Abstract: An ultrasonic diagnosis/treatment device includes a placement surface formed of an inner surface of a sphere; a plurality of ultrasonic transducers placed on the placement surface so that a focal point of an ultrasonic wave to be emitted is located at a position that is near an outside of an outer surface of a subject and is spaced apart from the outer surface by a predetermined distance; and a control part configured to control transmission and reception of each of the ultrasonic transducers. The control part includes a diagnosis mode in which at least one ultrasonic transducer is oscillated toward a diagnosis region within a subject and a reflected wave from the diagnosis region is received by the at least one ultrasonic transducer to visualize the reflected wave, and a treatment mode in which the at least one ultrasonic transducer is oscillated toward an inside of the subject.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 6, 2016
    Publication date: May 17, 2018
    Inventor: Katsuro TACHIBANA
  • Publication number: 20180132826
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, an ultrasonic probe includes a plurality of piezoelectric elements, a substrate, an intermediate layer and a backing member. A plurality of piezoelectric elements are arranged at a predetermined pitch. A substrate is arranged on a back surface of the plurality of piezoelectric elements and includes signal lines for signal transmission with the plurality of piezoelectric elements and a wiring pattern for extracting a signal outside of the probe. An intermediate layer is arranged on a back surface of the substrate and in which a plurality of layer members are arranged in an array direction of the piezoelectric elements at the predetermined pitch. A backing member is arranged on a back surface of the intermediate layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2017
    Publication date: May 17, 2018
    Applicant: Toshiba Medical Systems Corporation
    Inventors: Yuya Nagasaki, Kiri Hyomoto, Koichi Shibamoto, Kentaro Tsuzuki
  • Publication number: 20180132827
    Abstract: An ultrasonic unit includes a first and a second ultrasonic wave transmission and reception portions that transmit ultrasonic waves to a subject and receive ultrasonic waves reflected from the subject, a first sound guide portion through which ultrasonic waves transmitted and received by a first ultrasonic wave transmission and reception portion pass, and a second sound guide portion through which ultrasonic waves transmitted and received by a second ultrasonic wave transmission and reception portion pass, in which a distance between the first sound guide portion and the second sound guide portion is gradually reduced toward the subject.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2017
    Publication date: May 17, 2018
    Inventors: Daisuke NAKANISHI, Kanechika KIYOSE
  • Publication number: 20180132828
    Abstract: A method of controlling an ultrasound imaging apparatus includes setting a region of interest on a contrast-enhanced image or an ultrasound image that is registered and displayed; obtaining feature information of the contrast-enhanced image or the ultrasound image from the set region of interest; detecting at least one region, in which feature information similar to the feature information of the region of interest is obtained; and displaying the at least one region that is detected.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2017
    Publication date: May 17, 2018
    Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Jong-geun PARK, Ho-kyung KANG, Jung-ho KIM
  • Publication number: 20180132829
    Abstract: In accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure, an ultrasound imaging apparatus comprising: a display portion configured to display an ultrasonic image of a heart of an object; an input portion configured to receive a command for setting a region of interest (ROI) of the displayed ultrasonic image of the heart; and a controller configured to set the ROI of the ultrasonic image of the heart based on the command for setting the ROI input through the input portion and control at least one image of the set ROI and the ultrasonic image of the heart to be displayed together on the display portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2017
    Publication date: May 17, 2018
    Inventors: Sung Wook PARK, Jin Yong LEE, Jin Ki PARK, Ji-Hyun YOON, Sang-Eun LEE, Hyuk-Jae Chang, Nam-Sik Chung, In-Jeong Cho
  • Publication number: 20180132830
    Abstract: A method for reconstructing displacement and strain maps of human tissue of a subject in vivo or other objects includes applying a mechanical deformation for a target area, imaging tissues while deformation is applied on the target area, measuring the axial and lateral displacements and axial, lateral, and shear strains of tissue in the target area, differentiating between tissues of different stiffness and strain responses, and labeling tissues of different stiffness and strain responses. In some embodiments, displacement and strain imaging are performed using a high-resolution, high-speed, highly-accuracy hierarchy recursive displacement tracking from conventional ultrasound brightness mode images. Particularly, this invention relates to the reconstruction of displacement and strain images from conventional ultrasound B-mode images acquired using any ultrasound machine of different manufacturers without the need to use carrier signals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 2, 2017
    Publication date: May 17, 2018
    Inventors: Ahmed M Ehab Mahmoud, Mohamed Tarek Mohamed Ali
  • Publication number: 20180132831
    Abstract: Provided is an ultrasound diagnosis apparatus including: an ultrasound probe configured to acquire ultrasound image data by transmitting ultrasound signals to an object and detecting reflected signals corresponding to the transmitted ultrasound signals; a processor configured to obtain an elastography image based on the ultrasound image data; and a display configured to display the elastography image. The processor is further configured to determine, based on the elastography image, a region of interest (ROI) for acquiring shear wave elasticity measurement data and a focusing position of a focus beam for performing shear wave elasticity measurement, and the ultrasound probe is further configured to emit the focus beam onto the focusing position and acquire shear wave elasticity measurement data.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2017
    Publication date: May 17, 2018
    Applicant: SAMSUNG MEDISON CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Sun-mo YANG, Seong-chul SHIN, Dong-il AHN
  • Publication number: 20180132832
    Abstract: The disclosure is directed to a novel Doppler ultrasound system and method for monitoring physiological parameters, such as blood flow and heart rate in which signal clarity and accuracy is improved by actively filtering out system, environmental and background signal noise.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 15, 2017
    Publication date: May 17, 2018
    Inventor: Nigel AJ Gough
  • Publication number: 20180132833
    Abstract: An automatic robotic apparatus for conducting a minimally invasive surgical procedure includes a robotic arm having a movable member made as the multilink active actuator. The end portion of the multilink active actuator is provided with the connector to which the hollow head for a needle biopsy is attached. The operation of the U-shaped head is under full control of the robotic apparatus computer system. Results of pre-procedure studies of a site of interest and the progression of the surgical procedure are displayed on a monitor of the computer system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2016
    Publication date: May 17, 2018
    Inventor: Dmitrii Viktorovich ALENKIN
  • Publication number: 20180132834
    Abstract: A surgical device for operating on tissue comprises an end effector, a shaft, and an interface assembly. The shaft comprises an articulation section operable to provide deflection of the end effector relative to the longitudinal axis of the shaft. The interface assembly comprises a plurality of pulleys associated with drive shafts driven by an external system. The pulleys are operable to cause rotation of one or both of the shaft or end effector. The pulleys are further operable to cause articulation of the articulation section. The interface assembly further comprises drive components operable to cause movement of components of the end effector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 15, 2017
    Publication date: May 17, 2018
    Inventor: Shailendra K. Parihar
  • Publication number: 20180132835
    Abstract: A collapsible medical device and associated methods of occluding an abnormal opening in, for example, a body organ, wherein the medical device is shaped from plural layers of a heat-treatable metal fabric. Each of the fabric layers is formed from a plurality of metal strands and the assembly is heat-treated within a mold in order to substantially set a desired shape of the device. By incorporating plural layers in the thus-formed medical device, the ability of the device to rapidly occlude an abnormal opening in a body organ is significantly improved.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2017
    Publication date: May 17, 2018
    Inventors: Kurt Amplatz, Xiaoping Gu, John C. Oslund, Gary A. Thill
  • Publication number: 20180132836
    Abstract: A device for closing at least one opening leading to an anatomical cavity is delivered via a catheter positioned in a first opening leading to the anatomical cavity. An orientation control unit is positioned within the anatomical cavity. The orientation control unit defines an orientation of a portion of a tissue surface within the anatomical cavity that is skewed with respect to the first opening and orients a closure member of the device with the tissue surface. An occluding member and a constricting unit of the device are positioned within the anatomical cavity with the occluding member blocking a portion of an opening that is constricted by the constricting unit. An intermediate member of the device is positioned within the anatomical cavity and a closure unit employing at least one piercing element pierces through the intermediate member into a tissue wall surrounding the anatomical cavity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2018
    Publication date: May 17, 2018
    Inventor: Samuel LICHTENSTEIN
  • Publication number: 20180132837
    Abstract: Embodiments relate to delivery systems for accessing a blood vessel. The delivery systems include a shaped accessory sheath having a default shape that may be temporarily altered to facilitate insertion through a patient's blood vessel and returned to the default shape after insertion to facilitate a medical procedure. Some of the present accessory sheaths are configured to have their default shapes altered via a dilator having a stiffness greater than that of a corresponding portion of the accessory sheath. Others of the present accessory sheaths are configured to have their respective default shapes altered by a shape memory material (SMM) that alters shape responsive to changes in certain condition(s) such as temperature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2016
    Publication date: May 17, 2018
    Inventors: Scot K. Mathena, Richard L. McClure
  • Publication number: 20180132838
    Abstract: A surgical instrument assembly including a housing containing a specimen retrieval bag and pliable spring, a distal end including a non-blunt tip and a deployment mechanism. The specimen retrieval bag is moved from the stowed position within a hollow housing to a deployed position by sliding a rod from a retracted position within the hollow housing to an extended position that projects at least partially out of the hollow housing. Two portions of a flexible support ring unfold under spring bias from a folding position as the rod enters the extended position to open a mouth of the specimen retrieval bag. The distal end of the assembly has a non-blunt tip which is shaped to puncture human skin. The deployment mechanism may include a rod, slide, grip or handle. The specimen retrieval bag may be comprised of more than one material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2016
    Publication date: May 17, 2018
    Applicant: Beacon Surgical Instruments, LLC
    Inventors: Sundaram Ravikumar, Guy Osborne, Henry Allan Alward
  • Publication number: 20180132839
    Abstract: A surgical robot system includes a robot having a robot base and a robot arm coupled to the robot base, and a surgical retractor. The surgical retractor includes a retractor frame, a coupler, blades, a force and/or torque sensor, and a force and/or torque feedback determination unit. The retractor frame includes arms that are translatably and/or pivotably connected to the retractor frame. The coupler releasably attaches the retractor frame to the robot arm. The blades are each coupled to and extend away from a distal end of one of the arms. The force and/or torque sensor is connected to the blades and indicates an amount of force and/or torque being applied to the blades from contact with material of a surgical site. The force and/or torque feedback determination unit determines the amount of force and/or torque being applied to the blades based on the indication.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2017
    Publication date: May 17, 2018
    Inventors: Adam Friedrich, Neil R. Crawford, Kevin Zhang, Sanjay Joshi, Norbert Johnson, Weston Healy
  • Publication number: 20180132840
    Abstract: A surgical instrument includes a first member including a groove. A second member includes an aperture and teeth configured to slidably engage the groove. A third member is positioned in the aperture and includes a passageway defining a first longitudinal axis and a flange. A fourth member is positioned in the passageway and includes a lip that engages the flange. The lip extends at an acute angle relative to a second longitudinal axis defined by the fourth member. A fifth member is rotatably disposed in the passageway and includes a first end surface that engages a second end surface of the fourth member defined by the lip. In a first configuration, the fourth member extends perpendicular to the first longitudinal axis. In a second configuration, the fourth member extends at an acute angle relative to the first longitudinal axis. Systems and methods are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2017
    Publication date: May 17, 2018
    Inventor: Craig Lauchner
  • Publication number: 20180132841
    Abstract: A soft anchor for tissue repair that includes a flexible sheath that has first and second flared open ends and a tubular middle portion therebetween. A method of tissue repair includes loading the soft anchor with a flexible strand; installing the pre-loaded soft anchor into a pre-drilled hole in bone; and tensioning at least one free end of the flexible strand thereby rolling the first and second flared open ends and bunching the flexible sheath to fix the soft anchor in the hole in bone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 11, 2016
    Publication date: May 17, 2018
    Inventor: Peter J. Dreyfuss
  • Publication number: 20180132842
    Abstract: A suture delivery system is described. The system includes an anchor and a cooperating driver, the driver facilitating a delivery of the anchor into the abdominal cavity. The system allows for the deployment of a suture internally into an abdominal wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2017
    Publication date: May 17, 2018
    Inventors: Ronan KEATING, Gerard RABBITTE, Barry RUSSELL
  • Publication number: 20180132843
    Abstract: The present invention includes a suture article and a suture placement device adapted to insert into opposing tissue surfaces the anchors of a suture article having anchors on its terminal ends, the device comprising in general terms: (a) an optional handle portion; (b) an insertion portion extending from the handle having a distal end comprising anchor-directing portions that diverge from one another so as to form a V-shape, adapted to releasably engage the anchors; and (c) a hollow cinching cannula/suture conduit slidingly engaged by the handle portion so as to be moveable between a position relatively nearer the handle and a position relatively nearer the insertion portion distal end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2017
    Publication date: May 17, 2018
    Inventor: Charles P. Chalekson
  • Publication number: 20180132844
    Abstract: A suture and a suture retainer are positioned relative to body tissue. Ultrasonic vibratory energy is utilized to heat the suture retainer and effect a bonding of portions of the suture retainer to each other and/or to the suture. Portions of the body tissue may be pressed into linear apposition with each other and held in place by cooperation between the suture and the suture retainer. The suture retainer may include one or more portions between which the suture extends. The suture retainer may include sections which have surface areas which are bonded together. If desired, the suture may be wrapped around one of the sections of the suture retainer. The suture retainer may be formed with a recess in which the suture is received. If desired, the suture retainer may be omitted and the sections of the suture bonded to each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 2017
    Publication date: May 17, 2018
    Inventors: Peter M. Bonutti, Larry Crainich, Robert C. Allman, Kevin Allaire
  • Publication number: 20180132845
    Abstract: In various embodiments, a layer of material can comprise a body, a proximal end portion, and a distal end portion. The proximal end portion can be releasably secured to a staple cartridge of a surgical end effector, and the distal end portion can be releasably secured to an anvil of the surgical end effector. The layer of material can comprise a tissue thickness compensator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2017
    Publication date: May 17, 2018
    Inventors: Katherine J. Schmid, Jeffrey S. Swayze, Cortney E. Henderson, Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Charles J. Scheib
  • Publication number: 20180132846
    Abstract: An improved system for connecting a DC bus cable and a remote motor drive includes a capacitance module and an extension module that may each be mounted adjacent to the remote motor drive. The capacitance module includes a first DC bus connector and a second DC bus connector. The first DC bus connector includes a terminal block configured to receive a pair of conductors for the DC bus. The first DC bus connector further includes a pair of intermediate bus bars where each of the intermediate bus bars are connected at a first end to the terminal block and at a second end to a circuit board contained within the capacitance module. Traces on the circuit board are routed between the second ends of the intermediate bus bars and the second DC bus connector. The second DC bus connector is configured to be connected to DC bus bars.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2018
    Publication date: May 17, 2018
    Inventors: Patrick Ozimek, John Balcerak, Jeremiah Kopiness, Vinod Bhansali, Shailendra Shukla, Magesh Subbarao Rengabashyam
  • Publication number: 20180132847
    Abstract: A surgical stapling apparatus for progressively stapling and forming an incision in body tissue is provided. The apparatus includes a body portion and a tool assembly supported on the body portion. The apparatus further includes an input cam member slidable within the body portion, a drum member rotatably supported within the body portion, and an output cam member slidable within the body portion. The drum member is coupled to the input cam member such that linear movement of the input cam member effects rotatable movement of the drum member. The output cam member is coupled to the drum member such that rotatable movement of the drum member effects linear movement of the output cam member. Linear movement of the input cam member effects movement of an anvil in relation to a cartridge between unclamped and clamped positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2018
    Publication date: May 17, 2018
    Inventor: Stanislaw Kostrzewski
  • Publication number: 20180132848
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a body, a shaft assembly, a stapling head assembly, and an anvil. The stapling head assembly includes an annular deck member, a plurality of staples, and a driver. The deck member includes a deck surface that has a curved profile defined by a curve extending from the inner diameter of the deck member to the outer diameter of the deck member. The deck member further includes an outer array of staple openings and an inner array of staple openings. The driver is operable to drive the staples through the staple openings. The anvil is operable to compress tissue against the first deck surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2016
    Publication date: May 17, 2018
    Inventors: Christopher C. Miller, Frederick E. Shelton, IV
  • Publication number: 20180132849
    Abstract: An anvil for a circular surgical stapler includes an anvil surface and an anvil shaft. The anvil surface defines an inner annular array of staple forming pockets and an outer annular array of staple forming pockets. The inner annular array of staple forming pockets includes a plurality of staple forming pocket pairs. The outer annular array of staple forming pockets also includes a plurality of staple forming pocket pairs. The outer annular array of staple forming pockets is arranged in a mirrored symmetry with the inner annular array of staple forming pockets. The anvil shaft is configured to couple with a stapling head assembly of a surgical stapler.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2016
    Publication date: May 17, 2018
    Inventors: Christopher C. Miller, Frederick E. Shelton, IV
  • Publication number: 20180132850
    Abstract: A surgical instrument configured for use in a surgical procedure is disclosed herein. The surgical instrument comprises a housing, a first sensor configured to detect a condition of the surgical instrument, and a second sensor configured to detect the condition of the surgical instrument. The surgical instrument further comprises a processor, wherein the processor is located within the housing. The first sensor and the second sensor are in signal communication with the processor. The processor receives a first signal from the first sensor and a second signal from the second sensor. The processor is configured to utilize the first signal and the second signal to determine the condition and communicate instructions to the surgical instrument during the surgical procedure in view of the condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2017
    Publication date: May 17, 2018
    Inventors: Richard L. Leimbach, Shane R. Adams, Mark D. Overmyer, Frederick E. Shelton, IV
  • Publication number: 20180132851
    Abstract: A surgical stapling apparatus. Various embodiments include a rotatable elongated body that extends from a rotatable shroud on handle assembly and has a distal end configured for attachment to a disposable loading unit. The apparatus further includes a lockable rotation system for selectively locking the rotatable shroud to prevent rotation thereof about a longitudinal axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 20, 2017
    Publication date: May 17, 2018
    Inventors: Steven G. Hall, Randall J. Tanguay, Jeffrey D. Messerly, Galen C. Robertson, Andrew M. Zwolinski, Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Geoffrey C. Hueil, Mark S. Ortiz, Douglas B. Hoffman, Patrick A. Weizman, Dean B. Bruewer, Gregory B. Blair
  • Publication number: 20180132852
    Abstract: Described herein is conduit material that causes minimal inflammatory reaction, and serves as a structural guide for regenerating nerve tissue (e.g., axons). Thus, the invention is directed to methods of treating a nerve injury in an individual in need thereof. The methods employ an isolated, naturally occurring epineural sheath, and can be used, for example, to regenerate nerve tissue in an individual in need thereof. Also provided herein is a device for harvesting an epineural sheath.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2017
    Publication date: May 17, 2018
    Inventors: Maria SIEMIONOW, Krzysztof SIEMIONOW
  • Publication number: 20180132853
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a body, a shaft assembly, a stapling head assembly, and an anvil. The stapling head assembly includes a deck member, a plurality of staples, and a driver. The deck member includes a deck surface, an outer annular array of staple openings formed through the deck surface, an inner annular array of staple openings formed through the deck surface, and a plurality of recesses formed in the deck surface. At least a portion of the recesses are positioned between at least some of the staple openings. The driver is operable to drive the staples through the staple openings. The anvil is operable to compress tissue against the deck surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2016
    Publication date: May 17, 2018
    Inventors: Christopher C. Miller, Frederick E. Shelton, IV
  • Publication number: 20180132854
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a body, a shaft assembly, a stapling head assembly, and an anvil. The stapling head assembly includes a deck member, a plurality of staples, and a driver. The deck member includes a first deck surface, a second deck surface, an outer annular array of staple openings formed through the deck surfaces, an inner annular array of staple openings formed through the deck surfaces, and a plurality of stand-off features extending distally from the second deck surface. The second deck surface is recessed relative to the first deck surface. The driver is operable to drive the staples through the staple openings. The anvil is operable to compress tissue against the deck surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2016
    Publication date: May 17, 2018
    Inventors: Christopher C. Miller, Frederick E. Shelton, IV
  • Publication number: 20180132855
    Abstract: An open-close-repeatable rotatable hemoclip for the gastrointestinal tract with electrocoagulation is provided by the present invention, including a clamping assembly, a tightening assembly, an insulating outer tube assembly and a handle assembly. The clamping assembly is rotatable and open-close-repeatable under actions of the handle assembly, the insulating outer tube assembly and the tightening assembly. An electrode is arranged inside the handle assembly. The electrode is electrically connected to the clamping assembly through the insulating outer tube assembly and the tightening assembly. The hemoclip of the present invention can be easily rotated inside the human body according to various angle requirements. When a flaky and irregular bleeding occurs, a high frequency electric power can be introduced for an electrocoagulation hemostasis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2017
    Publication date: May 17, 2018
    Applicant: Zhejiang Chuangxiang Medical Technology Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Qing XU
  • Publication number: 20180132856
    Abstract: A device for a tissue channel includes a device frame, a shape memory polymer foam segment coupled to the device frame, and an attachment structure coupled to the device frame. The device frame includes a proximal structure, a distal structure, and an intermediate structure coupled to the proximal structure and the distal structure. The proximal structure is configured to collapse to fit into a delivery structure and expand to block migration of the proximal structure. The distal structure is configured to collapse to fit into the delivery structure and expand to block migration of the distal structure. The intermediate structure is configured to fit in the tissue channel upon device deployment. The shape memory polymer foam segment is configured to compress to fit into the delivery structure and occlude the channel. The attachment structure is configured to attach and detach the device from a delivery guide.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2016
    Publication date: May 17, 2018
    Inventors: Mark A. Wierzbicki, Duncan Maitland, Matthew W. Miller, Andrea D. Muschenborn, Landon Nash, Jason M. Szafron, Todd Landsman
  • Publication number: 20180132857
    Abstract: An occlusion clip comprising: (a) a first elongated occlusion arm; (b) a second elongated occlusion arm; (c) a first elongated biasing arm coupled to a distal portion of the first elongated occlusion arm; (d) a second elongated biasing arm coupled to a distal portion of the second elongated occlusion arm, where a proximal portion of the first elongated biasing arm is coupled to a proximal portion of the second elongated biasing arm, where the first elongated occlusion arm extends parallel to the first elongated bias arm along a majority of its length, and where the second elongated occlusion arm extends parallel to the second elongated bias arm along a majority of its length.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2018
    Publication date: May 17, 2018
    Applicant: AtriCure, Inc.
    Inventors: Frank M. Fago, Kimberly Gray
  • Publication number: 20180132858
    Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for repairing a heart valve, such as a mitral, tricuspid or aortic valve, using an adjustable and removable implant that can be delivered to the heart through the apex in a simplified and non-invasive manner. The implant can include a prosthetic valve portion coupled to a proximal end of a shaft, and an anchor portion coupled to a distal end of the shaft. The prosthetic valve can be suspended within an opening of the heart valve while the anchor portion is affixed to the apex of the heart. When the implant is deployed, a distance between the prosthetic valve portion and the anchor portion can be adjusted, and/or the implant or a portion thereof can be rotated to thereby change the position of the prosthetic valve within the heart valve. This can allow correcting for post-implantation movements of the implant to mitigate potential complications.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2017
    Publication date: May 17, 2018
    Inventors: James E. Coleman, Christy Cummins
  • Publication number: 20180132859
    Abstract: Devices and methods for treating vascular defects, such as, for example, balloon-type aneurysms, are described herein. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes an insertion portion and an expandable implant. The expandable implant is configured to be deployed in an aneurysm and is coupled to the insertion portion. The expandable implant has a first portion and a second portion coupled to the first portion. The expandable implant is movable between a first configuration in which the first portion and the second portion are substantially linearly aligned and a second configuration in which the second portion at least partially overlaps the first portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2017
    Publication date: May 17, 2018
    Inventors: Maria G. Aboytes, Arturo S. Rosqueta
  • Publication number: 20180132860
    Abstract: A lung volume-reducing elastic implant (2) and a lung volume-reducing instrument; the lung volume-reducing elastic implant (2) is tubular and comprises a proximal implant end (201), an elastic deformation part (205) and a distal implant end (202); the elastic deformation part (205) is located between the proximal implant end (201) and the distal implant end (202), and the elastic deformation part (205) has a shape memory characteristic; the lung volume-reducing elastic implant (2) is opened at the proximal implant end (201); the elastic deformation part (205) is provided with a plurality of grooves (204) at intervals along the longitudinal direction thereof; each groove (204) communicates with the tube cavity of the elastic deformation part (205); the lung volume-reducing instrument comprises the lung volume-reducing elastic implant (2) and a delivery device (1) matching same; the delivery device (1) comprises a guidewire (101) and a hollow push piece (110); the lung volume-reducing elastic implant (2) is det
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2015
    Publication date: May 17, 2018
    Applicant: Lifetech Scientific (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Weilin LIN, Siyi LI, Anning LI
  • Publication number: 20180132861
    Abstract: A device for closing the left atrial appendage. The device has a flexible and elongate pulling element fixed to a flexible material layer connected fixed to a self-expanding stent. The closure implant can be drawn back into the lumen of a catheter by the pulling element, and in so doing the stent framework can be transferred into a compressed state. The device enables a monitored and controllable release of the closure implant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 15, 2017
    Publication date: May 17, 2018
    Inventors: Nicolas Degen, Jens Ulmer