Abstract: A prosthetic foot with a base spring having a forefoot area and a heel area, a connecting means arranged above the base spring and used to fasten the prosthetic foot to a prosthesis, and a frontal support, at the upper end of which the connecting means is arranged and which, at its lower end, is secured on a torsion element that can twist amount the longitudinal axis of the prosthetic foot. The torsion element is designed as a leaf spring arrangement secured to the base spring at one end in the heal area or in the forefoot area.

Abstract: The disclosed invention is an innovative, cost-efficient driving mechanism for the prosthetic hand industry that makes the use of only one motor to individually control each digit on a prosthetic hand separately. The use of the novel magnetic actuation system, locking mechanism, and spline nut and shaft configuration coupled with the single motor greatly reduces the weight, size and power usage of the prosthetic, increases functionality, minimizes noise, increases and speeds and forces, and orients the parts of the device in a manner that creates an aesthetically appealing design.

Abstract: A prosthetic device includes first and second regions divided by a longitudinal line extending between the first and second ends of the device. The device has a continuously knit elasticized fabric layer including a first set of yarns located about a circumference of the device through the first and second regions. The fabric layer has different knit structures in the first and second regions to obtain different elasticity while sharing the first set of yarns so that the first region has a first elasticity, and the second region has a second elasticity greater than the elasticity of the first region. An elastomeric layer secures an interior surface of the fabric layer.

Abstract: A percutaneous heart valve for deployment within a body cavity is described. The percutaneous heart valve includes an expandable frame having a plurality of cells adapted for allowing the frame to expand and collapse. A one-way valve is positioned within the expandable frame. The frame includes a proximal anchoring portion and a distal anchoring portion. The distal anchoring portion includes a plurality of distal anchors, each distal anchor having at least a portion positioned radially outwardly from the frame and extending in a direction that is substantially parallel with a longitudinal axis. The distal anchors preferably bend radially outwardly before bending to extend toward the proximal anchoring portion. Radial expansion of the frame causes the proximal and distal anchoring portions to move closer together for capturing body tissue therebetween, thereby anchoring the percutaneous heart valve to the body tissue.

Abstract: A tack device for holding plaque against blood vessel walls in treating atherosclerotic occlusive disease can be formed as a thin, annular band of durable, flexible material. The tack device may also have a plurality of barbs or anchoring points on its outer annular periphery. The annular band can have a length in the axial direction of the blood vessel walls that is about equal to or less than its diameter as installed in the blood vessel. A preferred method is to perform angioplasty with a drug eluting balloon as a first step, and if there is any dissection to the blood vessel caused by the balloon angioplasty, one or more tack devices may be installed to tack down the dissected area of the blood vessel surface, in order to avoid the need to install a stent and thereby maintain a ‘stent-free’ environment.

Abstract: A fenestrated aortic cuff is configured to be delivered endovascularly to a target region, deployed, fastened, and sealed to a vessel wall, e.g., in a neck region of an aortic aneurysm. Example fenestrated cuffs provide a suitable landing zone for a commercially available endograft, which may be, in some cases, positioned below or above the renal arteries in order to complete exclusion of an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) or a thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA), respectively, from systematic circulation. In some cases, fenestrated cuff function is facilitated and improved by employing active fixation and sealing mechanisms, including, e.g., helical fasteners, which may allow deployment of the fenestrated cuff in short neck regions with limited sealing area.

Abstract: An intravascular device for keeping open a previously constricted site within a vessel is provided. The device includes an expandable substantially tubular body having a distal end and a proximal end. The device also includes a flexible amorphous glass coated metallic wire netting system that is circumferentially disposed about the body, and extends beyond at least one of the distal end or proximal end. The amorphous glass coated metallic wire netting system can expand along with the body to smooth tissue intrusion and minimize release of tissues debris at the site from closing the lumen of the vessel. The netting system can include a plurality of pores to permit communication between fluid flow within the vessel and the vessel wall, and at least one pharmacotherapeutic agent for the treatment or prevention of certain conditions. A method for placing the device at a site of interest is also provided.

Abstract: A system for deploying a shape memory catheterization device within a patient, includes a catheter for endovascular insertion of the shape memory catheterization device. A heat source heats the shape memory catheterization device above the transition temperature. A transformation data generator includes a circuit driver for driving a circuit that includes at least one inductive element of the shape memory catheterization device and a detection circuit for generating transformation data based on an inductance of the at least one inductive element, wherein the transformation data indicates a shape transformation of the shape memory catheterization device from a catheterization shape to a transformed shape.

Abstract: A stent graft system for intraluminal deployment in an aorta and a branch vessel includes an aorta stent graft with a fenestration aligned with a branch vessel and a branch vessel prosthesis with a flaring portion at a proximal end and a tubular portion. When deployed, the flaring portion of the branch vessel prosthesis is retained within the aorta stent graft, and the tubular portion extends through the fenestration and into the branch vessel. The system includes at least one positional indicator, including a positional indicator associated with the branch vessel prosthesis for indicating the position of a point along the branch vessel prosthesis predetermined for optimal alignment with the fenestration during deployment.

Abstract: A system for endoluminal delivery of a medical device, wherein the medical device includes a bifurcated stent graft having a trunk, a first leg and a second leg shorter than the first leg. The system includes a sheath having a tubular wall having a cylindrical inner surface defining a lumen for receiving the stent graft therein to constrain the stent graft toward a delivery configuration suitable for endoluminal delivery, and a generally cylindrical core member extending through the lumen. The core member has a first annular surface for engaging an end of the first leg. The core has a second annular surface for engaging an end of the second leg while at least the end of the second leg remains constrained by the sheath.

Abstract: A stent delivery system includes a wire collection device which is constructed with a thumbwheel coupled to a collection spindle that is rotatable to collect a retraction wire about the collection spindle. A proximal end of an outer stent-constraining sheath is coupled to the collection spindle by the retraction wire and a distal end of the outer sheath retractably surrounds a distally-disposed self-expanding stent. The wire collection device includes a first set of gears at a higher gear ratio and a second set of gears at a lower gear ratio. Stent deployment speed may be controlled or varied by switching or alternating between engaging the first of gears and the second set of gears, thereby accommodating changing resistance as the outer sheath is retracted and releases binding force of the stent.

Abstract: A wire collection device for a stent delivery system includes a plurality of nested wire collection drums with a first drum concentric in a second drum. A thumbwheel coupled to the first drum can rotate to actuate rotation of the first drum to collect the retraction wire around the diameter of the first drum. A catching mechanism can rotate about the first drum to engage a catch portion of the second drum and actuate rotation of the second drum to collect the retraction wire around the outer diameter of the second drum. This increases the collection diameter of the retraction wire to provide a mechanical advantage for sheath retraction.

Abstract: A stent delivery system includes a wire collection device which is constructed with a thumbwheel coupled to a collection spindle that is rotatable to collect a retraction wire about a varying collection diameter of the collection spindle. A proximal end of an outer stent-constraining sheath is coupled to the collection spindle by the retraction wire and a distal end of the outer sheath retractably surrounds a distally-disposed self-expanding stent. The collection spindle includes a substantially constant outer diameter greater than the varying collection diameter, and the varying collection diameter increases from a first end of the spindle towards a second end of the spindle along a spiral groove formed between the varying collection diameter and the substantially constant outer diameter in a manner that provides substantially constant rotating force on the thumbwheel, thereby accommodating changing resistance as the outer sheath is retracted and releases binding force of the stent.

Abstract: Stent delivery systems and methods for making and using the same are disclosed. An example stent delivery system may include an inner member having a proximal end. A sleeve may be coupled to the inner member adjacent to the proximal end. A deployment sheath may be disposed about the inner member. A gear rack assembly may be coupled to the deployment sheath. A stent may be disposed between the inner member and the deployment sheath. A handle may be coupled to the inner member and to the deployment sheath. The handle may include an actuation member. The actuation member may be coupled to the gear rack assembly so that actuation of the actuation to member shifts the longitudinal position of the gear rack assembly and the deployment sheath. An engagement mechanism may be coupled to the gear rack assembly. The engagement mechanism may be configured to engage the sleeve of the inner member so that proximal retraction of the gear rack assembly results in proximal retraction of the inner shaft.

Abstract: An apparatus for use in a stomach of a subject includes a balloon adapted for placement in the stomach and having an opening to an interior of the balloon, an internal tube in the interior of the balloon with a proximal end coupled to the opening of the balloon, and an inflation tube. The inflation tube has a distal end in the interior of the balloon and a proximal end that can receive a fluid on an exterior of the balloon. The inflation tube can stretch from the stomach to a mouth of the subject to facilitate inflation of the balloon and has a resting position that is substantially within the interior of the balloon. The internal tube is disposed around at least a portion of the inflation tube that is in the interior of the balloon.

Abstract: There are provided orthopedic devices suitable for the treatment of degenerative joint disease of the metatarsal phalangeal joints, in particular for the treatment of capsulitis. These orthopedic devices have a base portion designed to be placed under the foot only in the metatarsal area. A digit loop surrounding a toe is used to hold the base portion in the proper location. In one embodiment the digit loop is molded to or is an actual part of the base. The loop is preferably made of a gel material and provides cushioning in the toe because the gel dissipates the pressure. In another embodiment the digit loop is a detachable, adjustable loop. The device includes a raised cushioning pad of appropriate height and size affixed to the upper side of the base and resting against the foot when in use. The orthopedic device is preferably made entirely from a low-profile, viscoelastic gel.

Abstract: Disclosed is an anchoring element for engagement with a base plate for a collecting bag for human body wastes. Also disclosed is a kit for securing collecting bags for human body wastes to skin, comprising an anchoring element and an adhesive base plate and optionally a collecting bag for the human body wastes.

Abstract: An implant for treating obstructive sleep apnea includes a first chamber containing an incompressible fluid, a second chamber containing a compressible fluid, and a flexible diaphragm separating the first and second chambers. The incompressible fluid is in communication with the compressible fluid via the flexible diaphragm. The first chamber has a first volume that remains constant in response to an external force applied upon the implant and the second chamber has a second volume that is changeable when the external force is applied upon the implant. The flexible diaphragm is extendible into the second chamber for reducing the second volume of the second chamber and compressing the compressible fluid within the second chamber. The compressible fluid within the second chamber provides less resistance to flexing during initial flexing of the implant and more resistance to flexing during further flexing of the implant.

Abstract: Cosmetic method and apparatus are provided that can provide cooling and/or freezing of skin tissue proximal to the skin surface to generate an appearance of lightening or reduced pigmentation in the skin. The skin can be cooled to a temperature of less than about ?5 degrees Celsius for a duration of about one minute or less, using a plurality of cooled contact surfaces, each having a width between about 2 mm and about 20 mm. A cooling arrangement can be provided to provide controlled heat removal from the skin tissue being treated. A sensor can optionally be provided to detect freezing of tissue proximal to the cooled surfaces.

Abstract: A method of decreasing intraocular pressure (IOP) in an eye of a patient in need thereof includes implanting a first lacrimal implant through an upper punctum and into an upper lacrimal canaliculus of the eye of the patient. The method may further comprise implanting a second lacrimal implant through a lower punctum and into a lower lacrimal canaliculus of the eye of the patient, and releasing, on a sustained basis a therapeutically effective amount of an intraocular pressure-reducing therapeutic agent.

Abstract: An ophthalmic system (100) having an ophthalmic cassette (104) for operative engagement with an ophthalmic apparatus (102) is disclosed. The ophthalmic cassette (104) includes a cassette body (108) having a manifold (124) defining an inlet port (180) in fluid flow communication with first and second fluid pathways (120/122) which are in selective fluid flow communication with respective first and second storage chambers (116/118) such that fluid enters either the first storage chamber (116) or the second storage chamber (118). The ophthalmic apparatus (102) is operable to permit alternate fluid flow communication between the inlet port (108) and either the first storage chamber (116) or the second storage chamber (118) during operation of the ophthalmic system (100).

Abstract: An eye treatment system having a handpiece, a console, a cassette, and a pump formed by the engagement of the cassette with the console. The pump having a head having a plurality of projections disposed to rotate about an axis, a ramp disposed near the rotating projections, and a resilient channel configured to transfer fluid when engaged by the ramp and the plurality of projections. The ramp having an entrance, a central, and an exit portion. The entrance portion has an arcuate extent over which the projections close the channel as the head rotates. The central portion has an arcuate extent over which the channel is sealed by the projections as the head rotates. The exit portion has an arcuate extent over which the projections open the channel as the head rotates. The arcuate extent of the entrance portion is unequal to the arcuate extent of the exit portion.

Abstract: Methods of implanting an iris-expanding medical device in an eye. The methods can use an inserter which includes an inserter handle and a cannula attached to the inserter handle. Once inserted, the iris-expending medical device can maintain a pupil in an extended position during an ophthalmic procedure such as phacoemulsification.

Abstract: An ophthalmic surgical probe for treating an eye of a patient includes a body, a cutting element extending distally from the body (the cutting element having a sleeve member with a port at an end), an inner member disposed within the sleeve member (the inner member being movable axially with respect to the sleeve member to open and close the port), and an actuating element secured to the inner member (the actuating member configured for operation in both a resonant mode and a non-resonant mode).

Abstract: An apparatus for LASIK is equipped with the following: a first laser radiation source for generating first laser radiation pulses; first means for guiding and shaping the first laser radiation pulses; a second laser radiation source for generating second laser radiation pulses; second means for guiding and shaping the second laser radiation pulses; a controller with: a first treatment program for controlling the first means and the first laser radiation pulses for the purpose of producing an incision in the cornea, the first treatment program generating regular corneal surface structures; a second treatment program for controlling the second means and the second laser radiation pulses for the purpose of reshaping the cornea and changing its imaging properties; and a third treatment program which controls the second means and the second laser radiation pulses for the purpose of removing the aforementioned regular structures.

Abstract: A laser apparatus is controlled by a control program that operates to use laser radiation to generate an incision figure in the cornea of an eye, the incision figure including an incision that bounds a corneal tissue volume. The control program operates to move the radiation focus in a radiation propagation direction successively in a plurality of superposed planes such that the radiation focus is moved without motion control in the propagation direction. The control program provides, for each plane, for a meandering scan path of the radiation focus that extends outside the tissue volume. The control program operates to allow through to the eye, in each plane, at least such radiation pulses that generate the first incision and to blank, in at least a fraction of the planes, at least a fraction of radiation pulses assigned to regions of the path that are at a distance from the incision.

Abstract: A system and method for performing a femto-fragmentation procedure on tissue in the crystalline lens of an eye requires that a laser beam be directed and focused to a focal point in the crystalline lens of the eye. The focal point is then guided, relative to an axis defined by the eye, to create a segment cluster by causing Laser Induced Optical Breakdown (LIOB) of tissue in the crystalline lens. The resultant segment cluster includes a plurality of contiguous, elongated segments in the crystalline lens that are individually tapered from an anterior end-area to a posterior end-area. Specifically, this is done to facilitate the removal of individual segments from the segment cluster in the crystalline lens.

Abstract: Systems and methods for delivering a foamed fluid to a wound of a patient (e.g., through a wound dressing covering the wound and coupled to the skin around the wound).

Abstract: Systems, apparatuses, and methods for closing an opening through a surface of a tissue site are described. The system includes a sealing member adapted to cover the opening to form a sealed space and a negative-pressure source adapted to be fluidly coupled to the sealed space to provide negative pressure to the sealed space. The system also includes a contracting layer adapted to be positioned adjacent the opening and formed from a material having a firmness factor and a plurality of holes extending through the contracting layer to form a void space. The holes have a perforation shape factor and a strut angle causing the plurality of holes to collapse in a direction substantially perpendicular to the opening. The contracting layer generates a closing force substantially parallel to the surface of the tissue site to close the opening in response to application of the negative pressure.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are several embodiments of a negative pressure appliance and methods of using the same in the treatment of wounds. Some embodiments are directed to improved fluidic connectors or suction adapters for connecting to a wound site, for example using softer, kink-free conformable suction adapters.

Abstract: A disposable diaper (10) includes a pair of leg stretch units (75) extending along the leg opening (35) and can expand and contract in the product longitudinal direction. A separation distance (D2) between the ends the leg stretch units (75) in the rear waistline region 30 is longer than the separation distance (D1) between the ends of the leg stretch units (75) in the front waistline region (20). The leg stretch units extending from the crotch region towards the rear waistline region are convex outwardly in the product widthwise direction. The leg stretch units extending from the crotch region towards the front waistline region are convex towards an inner side in the product widthwise direction.

Abstract: A simple disposable absorbent article including a chassis and an absorbent assembly. The chassis includes a water-impermeable sheet folded laterally inward at both of its side edges to form opposing side flaps. Each side flap is attached to the interior surface of the chassis adjacent to its end edges. Each side flap has a longitudinally extending elastic gathering member attached adjacent to its proximal edge. The absorbent assembly is smaller in width and in length than the chassis. The side edges and end edges of the absorbent assembly may be disposed proximally relative to the respective side edges and end edges of the chassis. The absorbent assembly includes an absorbent core that may contain superabsorbent particles, which may be contained inside pockets. The chassis may be extensible. The absorbent assembly may be in a cruciform pattern to the chassis to allow portions of the chassis to extend laterally.

Abstract: A substantially planar absorbent core (28) comprising a core wrap (16, 17) enclosing an absorbent material (60), the absorbent core having a longitudinal axis (80) and comprising a front region (81), a back region (83) and a middle region (82), each region having an equal length (L/3) along the longitudinal axis, wherein the absorbent material is substantially free of cellulose fibers and forms a pattern of absorbent material areas. The pattern comprises on each side of the longitudinal axis at least one longitudinally-extending curved area (601a, 601b) in the middle region of the core, and at least one longitudinally-extending straight area (602a, 602b) in the front region and/or back region of the core.

Abstract: Absorbent cores for disposable absorbent articles are provided. The absorbent cores each comprise at least two absorbent structures comprising a substrate layer and an absorbent layer, of which one absorbent structure comprises channels and one is free of channels.

Abstract: The present disclosure is directed, in part, to an absorbent article comprising a liquid pervious material, a liquid impervious material, and an absorbent core disposed at least partially intermediate the liquid pervious material and the liquid impervious material. The absorbent article comprises one or more nonwoven substrates each comprising one or more layers of fibers. A plurality of the fibers each comprise a plurality of fibrils extending outwardly from a surface of the fibers. The plurality of fibrils comprise a lipid ester.

Abstract: An emergency drag stretcher is disclosed that combines a base panel formed of a flexible sheet material and a harness including an inflatable bladder. The harness securely restrains an individual, allowing for drag or vertical lift rescue.

Abstract: A wheelchair lift (1) includes a platform assembly (10) to receive a wheelchair, the platform assembly (10) being made from aluminum, a supporting assembly (20) to moveably hold the platform assembly (10), the supporting assembly (20) being made from aluminum, and a coupling device (30) to pivotably couple the platform assembly (10) to the supporting assembly (20), the coupling device (30) being made from one of steel or high strength aluminum or titanium or magnesium or combinations thereof. The platform assembly (10) includes a number of profiles (101, . . . , 107) of aluminum. The coupling device (30) is fixed to a first one of the plurality of profiles (101) of the platform assembly (10), and is pivotably coupled to the supporting assembly (20).

Abstract: An adjustable wheelchair for ready assembly in accordance with embodiments of the invention are disclosed. In one embodiment, the wheelchair includes, an undercarriage including, a horizontal axle including a first end segment telescopically coupled to a body segment and a second end segment telescopically coupled to the body segment opposite the first end segment allowing for adjustment of the wheelchair width, and a tongue including a body segment telescopically coupled to an end segment allowing for adjustment of the wheelchair length, and a seat post including an end segment telescopically coupled to a body segment allowing for adjusting the wheelchair seat height; and a pair of wheels; and a swivel wheel coupled to the tongue of the undercarriage to support the wheelchair and provide mobility; and a seat bottom coupled to the end segment of the seat post for load-bearing support; and a seatback rotatably coupled to the seat bottom.

Abstract: Adjustable article of furniture comprising at least one adjustable element and furnished with an actuator system comprising at least one electrically driven linear actuator with an electrical motor and an electrical controller with an operation device, wherein the system in equipped with a battery pack for operating the system during mobile situations, where a mains supply is not readily available. The battery pack is equipped with a frontend, which allows for the battery pack to be retrofitted on existing actuator systems, without compromising the functionality of the actuator system in connection with charging of the battery. Moreover, the frontend is adapted to facilitate continued viewing of remaining power on the battery pack even though the technology of the battery pack is replaced, e.g. from lead battery to lithium ion battery.

Abstract: A patient transport incubator (PTI) suitable for MRI device having an open bore; the PTI comprises an inner volume having a first set of dimensions, adapted by means of shape and size to accommodate a patient or accommodate at least a portion of an MRI-compatible neonate's cradle, the inner volume is further covered by an envelope having a second set of dimensions, adapted by means of shape and size to be temporarily introduced within the open bore; wherein at least a portion of the envelope comprises MRI safe thermo-isolating and noise reducing foam. The invention will increase the safety and comfort of MRI scanning of neonates.

Abstract: A driving device includes a wearable mechanism that is worn on a wearing part, an actuator that drives the wearable mechanism, and first and second force sensors that are provided on the wearable mechanism and detect a force. The first and second force sensors are provided at positions at which a first detected value obtained from the first force sensor and a second detected value obtained from the second force sensor are changed in response to a motion of the wearing part. When a difference between the first and second detected values is less than a pre-decided first threshold value and the first or second detected value is greater than a pre-decided second threshold value, the actuator drives the wearable mechanism so that the second detected value is constant.

Abstract: A combination walker and cane includes a pair of inverted, U-shaped frame members, each having a horizontal handlebar with a front leg and a rear leg depending therefrom. One of the rear legs is detachable from the remainder of the corresponding frame member to form a walking cane, if desired. Accordingly, a user can operate the walker in a conventional fashion, or detach the rear leg to form a walking cane.

Abstract: A rollator is disclosed, including first and second upright members, each including handle portions, wheels, hinges disposed between the wheels and the handle portions, channels disposed along the upright members between the hinges and the wheels, and lateral hinges orthogonal to the hinges. First and second foldable support members having wheels are attached to the hinges. At least one lateral support member is disposed between and attached to the lateral hinges, and includes an intermediate hinge. Brake systems include brake lines communicating between brake controls and brakes. In a reversible storage configuration, the foldable support members are rotated to be at least partially disposed in the channels, and the lateral hinges and intermediate hinge rotate to collapse the lateral support member, bringing the upright members with the folded foldable support members adjacent to one another.

Abstract: A nozzle can produce bubbles from a liquid saturated with gas desirable in bathing. The nozzle can have a housing forming a first chamber for receiving a liquid. The nozzle can have an intermediate chamber located between the outlet of the first chamber and the inlet of the outflow passage. The nozzle can have a generally cylindrical structure enclosing the outflow passage and having a central longitudinal axis extending into the outlet of the first chamber. The intermediate chamber can have a first wall generally perpendicular to said axis and surrounding the outlet from the first chamber and second wall spaced from said first wall and generally parallel thereto and surrounding the inlet to the outflow passage.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for increasing leakage resistance in a closed, pressurized system. The method involves providing a closed system including a container sealed with a septum having a top surface with an exposed section, which is maintained under a positive pressure of at least about 5 psig. A contact surface of a hard component is fixedly placed adjacent to or in contact with at least a portion of a border section or a central section of the exposed section of the septum, or both, to reduce the size of any bulge or deformation formed in the exposed section of the septum. The present invention also relates to a kit for increasing leakage resistance in a closed, pressurized system, which includes the hard component.

Abstract: Elements of the present invention relate to a portion control cup with multiple chambers for storing, mixing and dispensing substances. Some elements relate to a lower chamber with a removable seal and seal removal tab that can be removed through a slot in an upper chamber wall. Some elements relate to nesting characteristics of the portion control cup.

Abstract: A liquid dispensing system for oral administration comprises a dispenser and cartridges from which medicine is dispensed. Each cartridge includes a hollow shell with a septum at one end, a piston at the other end, and the medicine in a cavity between the septum and the piston. The dispenser includes receiver in which a cartridge is received, a plunger that can slide relative to the receiver and that has a plunging head that can drive the piston, and a barrel in which the cartridge, receiver and plunger can be received, at least partly. Once a cartridge has been inserted into the receiver, the receiver and cartridge are inserted into the barrel and a piercing head ruptures the septum. The plunger is pushed to drive the piston and the medicine is dispensed by the piston, through a discharge passage of the barrel.

Abstract: The disclosed pill bottle allows for timed dispensing of medicine, as programmed by a physician, pharmacist, or caregiver. The device has a slot for pill entry in any one of the walls, the slot being sealable and lockable. In an unlocked and open condition, the slot is a portal from the outside of the bottle into an inner cavity, the cavity being adapted for pill storage and extending between the slot/opening for pill entry and an exit tube. The exit tube is sized for single-file passage of a plurality of pills. A button or blocking device (defined as a mechanical and/or physical object which prevents movement of a pill out of the device) is movable only at pre-programmed intervals of time, allowing the exit of a pill or dosage of pills.

Abstract: A pacifier for dispensing medicine to a human infant is disclosed. In some embodiments, the pacifier includes a medicine container that is located between the mouth guard front side and the mouth guard rear side. In other embodiments, the pacifier includes a pacifier housing that is formed by a mouth guard flange and a cap mating and the medicine container is located in the pacifier housing interior.

Abstract: A shield for a pacifier, teether, feeding device, sippy cup or the like. The shield carries a structure that is adapted to be inserted into the mouth of a young child. There is a body defining an opening at which the structure is carried and an inner surface surrounding this opening and encompassing the perioral areas surrounding the lips. The body defines a superior portion superior to the opening and an inferior portion inferior to the opening, and defines a lateral axis passing laterally through the opening. The superior portion is generally concave laterally on both sides of the vertical midline, to define an inner surface that closely conforms to the upper lip and perioral areas. At least the part of the inferior portion close to and on either side of the vertical midline is offset outward away from the face compared to the inner surface of the superior portion that is close to and on either side of the vertical midline, to allow the mandible to move anteriorly without being inhibited by the shield.