Patents Issued in February 19, 2019
  • Patent number: 10207095
    Abstract: Described herein are implantable ports including a housing with a fluid receptacle, a port stem in fluid communication with the fluid receptacle, and a septum covering the fluid receptacle. The ports may be configured to reduce the priming volume by including a plurality of fluid-locked chambers and/or one or more base mats. The ports may also include a hydrophobic coating on one or more surfaces thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Assignee: C. R. Bard, Inc.
    Inventors: William R. Barron, Terri C. Bateman, Jared M. Crosby, Aaron M. Krimme, Jonathan Oldham, Jorge L. Saltos
  • Patent number: 10207096
    Abstract: A male luer connector includes a body having a first end configured to be connected to a fluid line, a second end opposed to the first end, and a body longitudinal axis. The second end is configured to be inserted into and form a luer slip connection with a female luer connector. The male luer connector also includes a locking collar that is connected to the body in a manner such that the locking collar rotates about the longitudinal axis. In some cases, the body second end does not protrude beyond a plane that is transverse to the longitudinal axis and that includes an end face of the locking collar, and/or when male and female connectors are engaged, the locking collar engages an outer surface of the female fluid line connector and is deformed by the engagement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Assignee: Fresenius Medical Care Holdings, Inc.
    Inventors: Lynn E. Jensen, Melvin D. Jensen
  • Patent number: 10207097
    Abstract: Embodiments of a tamper-proof adapter can be configured to provide interconnection of medical tubing or other devices with varying fitting or coupling types. In one embodiment, the adapter can permanently couple a first male Luer fitting to a second male ISO 80639-6 compliant fitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Assignee: Smiths Medical ASD, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph Lesser, Mark Darst Rice, Sameer Mangal
  • Patent number: 10207098
    Abstract: This application describes example antimicrobial compositions that may be used alone or in combination with catheters and catheter insertion sites. According to another aspect, the application describes catheters which may employ one or more protection devices, such as cleaning caps, protective caps or both.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Assignee: Hyprotek, Inc.
    Inventor: Patrick O. Tennican
  • Patent number: 10207099
    Abstract: A closure assembly for a medical fitting including a cap, connectable in flow restricting relation to the fitting and adjustably connected to an end section having a base removably connected thereto. A primary drive assembly and a secondary drive assembly are each independently disposed in interconnecting relation between the cap and the end section. The primary and secondary drive assemblies are respectively structured to facilitate fastening and unfastening of the fitting and the cap upon oppositely directed, relative rotation between the fitting and the cap in a fastening direction and in an unfastening direction. An exterior housing may be fixedly connected to the end section and includes a hollow interior dimensioned to receive and/or retained the cap and the base therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Inventor: Patrick Vitello
  • Patent number: 10207100
    Abstract: The present invention is an injection port with an articulated stopcock allowing a syringe to be connected to an IV line and, depending upon the orientation of the stopcock, allow (1) bidirectional flow of fluid through the stopcock into the IV line, (2) no flow or (3) unidirectional flow of fluid through the stopcock and into or out of the IV line. The invention is particularly useful for using a syringe for aspirating an IV line and then injecting a medicine from the syringe into the IV line. Once a syringe is connected, the invention allows one-handed manipulation of the articulated stopcock into the three orientations by simply moving the connected syringe into one of the three orientations, thereby eliminating the need for using two hands—one to operate the syringe and the other to operate the handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Assignee: Quest Medical, Inc.
    Inventor: Christopher E. Harton
  • Patent number: 10207101
    Abstract: A system for suppressing vestibular activity of a human subject includes an electronics module configured to generate one or more electrical stimulation signals. A plurality of electrodes each placed proximate a predetermined location on a head of a human subject is configured to deliver the one or more electrical stimulation signals to the predetermined location to suppress vestibular activity of the human subject.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Assignees: Vivonics, Inc., Mayo Foundation For Medical Education and Research
    Inventors: Anna M Galea, Michael J. Cevette, Gaurav N. Pradhan, Jan Stepanek, Daniela Cocco, Sarah Oakley Holbert, Linsey S. Scheibler, Jamie M. Bogle
  • Patent number: 10207102
    Abstract: Methods and devices are provided for activating brown adipose tissue (BAT) using electrical energy. In general, the methods and devices can facilitate activation of BAT to increase thermogenesis. The BAT can be activated by applying an electrical signal thereto that can be configured to target sympathetic nerves that can directly innervate the BAT. The electrical signal can be configured to target the sympathetic nerves using fiber diameter selectivity. In other words, the electrical signal can be configured to activate nerve fibers having a first diameter without activating nerve fibers having diameters different than the first diameter. Sympathetic nerves include postganglionic unmyelinated, small diameter fibers, while parasympathetic nerves that can directly innervate BAT include preganglionic myelinated, larger diameter fibers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Assignee: Ethicon LLC
    Inventors: Jason L. Harris, Tamara C. Baynham
  • Patent number: 10207103
    Abstract: Implementations described and claimed herein provide thin film devices and methods of manufacturing and implanting the same. In one implementation, a shaped insulator is formed having an inner surface, an outer surface, and a profile shaped according to a selected dielectric use. A layer of conductive traces is fabricated on the inner surface of the shaped insulator using biocompatible metallization. An insulating layer is applied over the layer of conductive traces. An electrode array and a connection array are fabricated on the outer surface of the shaped insulator and/or the insulating layer, and the electrode array and the connection array are in electrical communication with the layer of conductive traces to form a flexible circuit. The implantable thin film device is formed from the flexible circuit according to the selected dialectic use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Assignee: PACESETTER, INC.
    Inventors: John R. Gonzalez, Jeffrey Urbanski, Tommy Cushing
  • Patent number: 10207104
    Abstract: A bipolar cardiac lead (100) is provided and includes a connector pin (112), a connector insulator (116), and a ring connector (130). The connector pin (112) has a proximal end and a distal end, and the proximal end is configured to engage an electrical stimulation device. The connector insulator (116) is coupled to the distal end of the connector pin (112) and may define a bore (118) configured for receiving a portion of the connector pin (112). The connector insulator (116) provides electrical insulation between the connector pin (112) and the ring connector (130). The ring connector (130) is coupled to the connector insulator (116) with a snap-fit connection and may be disposed around a portion of the connector insulator (116). The bipolar cardiac lead (100) may be an active or a passive lead.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Assignee: SHANGHAI MICROPORT MEDICAL (GROUP) CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Grace Ying Yang Jang
  • Patent number: 10207105
    Abstract: An extractor for removing an implanted lead from a patient. The extractor includes a lumen dimensioned to receive the lead therein, a cutter at the distal portion for cutting tissue adjacent the lead, a distal clamping structure and a proximal clamping structure The proximal clamping structure and lead are relatively movable to extract the lead.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Assignee: Talpanetics BV
    Inventors: Menno Kalmann, Wieger Kaptein, Amit Ben Dror
  • Patent number: 10207106
    Abstract: Devices, systems and methods are disclosed for treating or preventing gastroparesis, functional dyspepsia, and other functional gastrointestinal disorders. The methods comprise transmitting impulses of energy non-invasively to selected nerve fibers, particularly those in a vagus nerve. The methods provide damaged interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC) with trophic factors via vagal afferent nerve fibers, thereby reversing ICC damage, and as a consequence improving gastric motility. The methods also increase levels of inhibitory neurotransmitters in the brain so as to decrease neural activity within the area postrema, or they deactivate a resting state neural network containing parts of the anterior insula and anterior cingulate cortex, which will thereby reduce abnormal interoception and visceral hypersensitivity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Assignee: Electrocore, LLC
    Inventors: Bruce J. Simon, Joseph P. Errico, John T. Raffle
  • Patent number: 10207107
    Abstract: An electrostimulation apparatus may comprise a control unit, a power supply and a carrier separated or combined. The control unit is configured to provide the electrical current to an electrode layer settled on or inside the carrier, and the power supply is configured to heat a heating piece settled on or inside the carrier. The carrier has a plurality of connecting portions which are configured to electrically connect to the control unit, the power supply, the heating piece and the electrode layer. Furthermore, the electrode layer is electrically connected to the control unit through the connecting portions, and also the heating piece is electrically connected to the power supply through the connecting portions. Also, the heating piece and the electrode layer are attached on the carrier, and the carrier can be used to serve both training and treatment purposes for a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Inventors: Quanqin Dai, Pu Jiang
  • Patent number: 10207108
    Abstract: Described here are systems, devices, and methods for implanting a nasal stimulator into nasal tissue and electrically stimulating nasal tissue. In some variations, a nasal microstimulator implantation system may comprise an implantation tool and an implantable microstimulator. An implantation tool may comprise a shaft and features to releasably attach a microstimulator. A microstimulator may comprise a passive stimulation circuit and one or more electrodes. In other variations, a nasal implantation system may additionally comprise one or more additional devices, such as a controller, an electrical probe, and/or a dissection tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Assignee: Oculeve, Inc.
    Inventors: Manfred Franke, James Donald Loudin, Janusz Kuzma, Paul Taehyun Yun, Douglas Michael Ackermann
  • Patent number: 10207109
    Abstract: A neuromodulation system comprises electrical terminals configured for being respectively coupled to electrodes. The system further comprises modulation output circuitry configured for respectively outputting individual electrical pulse trains in timing channels to the electrical terminals, wherein each of the pulse trains has a modulation pulse, and at least one of the pulse trains has a charge recovery pulse associated with the modulation pulse of the respective pulse train. The neuromodulation system further comprises control circuitry configured for controlling the modulation output circuitry in a manner that sequentially outputs the modulation pulses of the respective pulse trains to a common set of the electrical terminals without an intervening charge recovery pulse, and outputting the charge recovery pulse(s) to the common set of the electrical terminals subsequent to the sequential modulation pulses, thereby creating a combined electrical pulse train at the common set of electrical terminals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation Corporation
    Inventors: Changfang Zhu, Que T. Doan
  • Patent number: 10207110
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a device, and method for treating heart failure by electrically modulating a splanchnic nerve with an implantable device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Assignee: Axon Therapies, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Gelfand, Tamara Colette Baynham, Howard Levin
  • Patent number: 10207111
    Abstract: Embodiments are directed to a computer implemented neural stimulation system having a first module configured to derive neural data from muscle contractions or movements of a subject. The system further includes a second module configured to derive a neural state assessment of the subject based at least in part on the neural data. The system further includes a third module configured to derive at least one neural stimulation parameter based at least in part on the neural state assessment. The system further includes a fourth module configured to deliver neural stimulations to the subject based at least in part on the at least one neural stimulation parameter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Assignee: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Guillermo A. Cecchi, James R. Kozloski, Clifford A. Pickover, Irina Rish
  • Patent number: 10207112
    Abstract: Methods of nerve signal differentiation, methods of delivering therapy using such nerve signal differentiation, and to systems and devices for performing such methods. Nerve signal differentiation may include locating two electrodes proximate nerve tissue and differentiating between efferent and afferent components of nerve signals monitored using the two electrodes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Assignee: MEDTRONIC, INC.
    Inventors: Xiaohong Zhou, Lilian Kornet, Richard N. M. Cornelussen, Robert W. Stadler
  • Patent number: 10207113
    Abstract: A system for an electrical neurostimulator coupled to a plurality of electrodes. The system comprises a user-controlled input device configured for generating directional control signals. The system further comprises control circuitry configured for sequentially defining a plurality of different ideal bipole/tripole configurations relative to the plurality of electrodes in response to the directional control signals, generating a plurality of stimulation parameter sets respectively corresponding to the plurality of ideal bipole/tripole configurations, each stimulation parameter set defining relative amplitude values for the plurality of electrodes that emulate the respective ideal bipole/tripole configuration, and instructing the electrical neurostimulator to convey electrical energy to the plurality of electrodes in accordance with the plurality of stimulation parameter sets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation Corporation
    Inventors: Dongchul Lee, Changfang Zhu
  • Patent number: 10207114
    Abstract: A system for an neurostimulator coupled to electrodes. The system comprises a input device configured for generating directional control signals, and memory storing ideal multipole configurations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation Corporation
    Inventor: Dongchul Lee
  • Patent number: 10207115
    Abstract: The present invention relies on a controller-transmitter device to deliver ultrasound energy into cardiac tissue in order to directly improve cardiac function and/or to energize one or more implanted receiver-stimulator devices that transduce the ultrasound energy to electrical energy to perform excitatory and/or non-excitatory treatments for heart failure. The acoustic energy can be applied as a single burst or as multiple bursts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Assignee: EBR Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Debra S. Echt, Richard E. Riley, Mark W. Cowan, Axel F. Brisken
  • Patent number: 10207116
    Abstract: An intracardiac ventricular pacemaker is configured to operate in in a selected one of an atrial-tracking ventricular pacing mode and a non-atrial tracking ventricular pacing mode. A control circuit of the pacemaker determines at least one motion signal metric from the motion signal, compares the at least one motion signal metric to pacing mode switching criteria; and responsive to the pacing mode switching criteria being satisfied, switches from the selected one of the non-atrial tracking pacing mode and the atrial tracking pacing mode to the other one of the non-atrial tracking pacing mode and the atrial tracking pacing mode for controlling ventricular pacing pulses delivered by the pacemaker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Todd J Sheldon, Yong K Cho, Wade M Demmer, Mark K Erickson, Vincent E Splett
  • Patent number: 10207117
    Abstract: Embodiments presented herein are generally directed to techniques for the transfer of isochronous stimulation data over a standardized isochronous audio or data link between components of an implantable medical device system. More specifically, as described further below, a first component is configured to generate dynamic stimulation data based on one or more received sound signals. The first component is configured to obtain static configuration data and to encode the dynamic stimulation data and the static configuration data into a series of isochronous wireless packets. The first component is configured to transmit the series of wireless packets over an isochronous wireless channel to a second component of the implantable medical device system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Assignee: Cochlear Limited
    Inventors: Werner Meskens, Koen Van Herck
  • Patent number: 10207118
    Abstract: The disclosure describes techniques for associating therapy adjustments with posture states using a timer. The techniques may include detecting a patient adjustment to electrical stimulation therapy delivered to the patient, sensing a posture state of the patient, and associating the detected adjustment with the sensed posture state if the sensed posture state is sensed within a first period following the detection of the adjustment and if the sensed posture state does not change during a second period following the sensing of the sensed posture state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventor: Dennis M. Skelton
  • Patent number: 10207119
    Abstract: Implementations described and claimed herein provide implantable electronic devices having a thin film feedthrough and methods of manufacturing the same. In one implementation, an implantable electronic device includes a housing enclosing one or more internal electronic components within a hermetic environment. A feedthrough port is defined in a wall of the housing. A thin film feedthrough has a feedthrough body extending through the feedthrough port. The feedthrough body provides one or more electrical pathways between external contacts and internal contacts. The external contacts are disposed outside the hermetic environment, and the internal contacts are electrically connected to the one or more internal electronic components at an internal connection junction. A hermetic junction is disposed in the feedthrough port isolating the thin film feedthrough from the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Assignee: PACESETTER, INC.
    Inventors: Jeffrey Urbanski, Theodore Alfonso, John R. Gonzalez
  • Patent number: 10207120
    Abstract: An electronic medical system is described. The system comprises an external RF power transmitter configured to emit a first power signal via an electromagnetic coupling, said RF power transmitter being configured to emit said first energy signal with a power no greater than 1 W. The system further comprises an implantable medical device comprising: at least one receiver antenna configured to receive said first energy signal via an electromagnetic coupling; an RF power receiver module configured to extract a second energy signal having a power of at least 1 mW and to be powered by said second energy signal; a power actuator module, operatively connected to the RF power receiver module, powered by said second energy signal. The power actuator module is configured to deliver a medical treatment to at least a target tissue of a patient on the basis of a control signal generated by the RF power receiver module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Inventors: Carlo Guardiani, Daniele Piazza, Paolo Menegoli, Leonardo Clementi
  • Patent number: 10207121
    Abstract: An electronic medical system is described. The system comprises an external RF power transmitter configured to emit a first power signal via an electromagnetic coupling, said RF power transmitter being configured to emit said first energy signal with a power no greater than 1W. The system further comprises an implantable medical device comprising: at least one receiver antenna configured to receive said first energy signal via an electromagnetic coupling; an RF power receiver module configured to extract a second energy signal having a power of at least 1 mW and to be powered by said second energy signal; a power actuator module, operatively connected to the RF power receiver module, powered by said second energy signal. The power actuator module is configured to deliver a medical treatment to at least a target tissue of a patient on the basis of a control signal generated by the RF power receiver module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Inventors: Carlo Guardiani, Daniele Piazza, Paolo Menegoli, Leonardo Clementi
  • Patent number: 10207122
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for delivering electromagnetic signals configured specifically to accelerate the asymmetrical kinetics of the binding of intracellular ions to their respective intracellular buffers, to enhance the biochemical signaling pathways plant animal and human molecules, cells, tissues, organs, portions of entire organisms and entire organisms employ for growth, repair and maintenance. Described herein are devices and methods that utilize repetitive bursts of waveforms configured to maximize the bound concentration of intracellular ions at their associated molecular buffers to enhance the biochemical signaling pathways living systems employ for growth, repair and maintenance. For example the systems and methods described herein may drive the binding of calcium to calmodulin (CaM), thereby enhancing the CaM-dependent nitric oxide (NO)/cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) signaling pathway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Assignee: Endonovo Therapeutics, Inc.
    Inventor: Arthur A. Pilla
  • Patent number: 10207123
    Abstract: A skull-implantable magnet assembly for delivering a static magnetic field to a patient's brain, comprising a rod-shaped magnet housed within a skull screw, removably attached to a casing housing at least one flat magnet, is described. Details of the exterior construction are discussed, as well as magnet arrangements and methods of treating a brain tumor or neurological ailment of a patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Assignees: National Guard Health Affairs, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center
    Inventor: Imran Khurshid Alam
  • Patent number: 10207124
    Abstract: A laser light irradiation device is disclosed, which can include an optical guide having a columnar portion and transmitting laser light through the columnar portion; a reflecting portion having a reflecting surface that reflects the laser light transmitted through the optical guide; and a transmitting portion having a window part and disposed between the columnar portion of the optical guide and the reflecting portion in such a manner that one end of the transmitting portion is in contact with the columnar portion, the transmitting portion transmitting the laser light emitted from the columnar portion to the reflecting portion and transmitting the laser light reflected by the reflecting surface to cause the laser light to be radiated to an external through the window part. A diameter of the reflecting surface gradually becomes smaller as distance from a boundary between the transmitting portion and the reflecting portion increases.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Assignee: TERUMO KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Katsuhiko Shimizu, Yuuichi Tada, Yuuki Itou, Kazuyuki Takahashi
  • Patent number: 10207125
    Abstract: A portion of a treatment device for treating bacteria may be coupled with the bacteria through direct or indirect contact. Mechanical stress energy and electromagnetic energy are generated with the treatment device, and are transmitted from the treatment device to the bacteria during the coupling. The bacteria are treated with both the mechanical stress energy and the electromagnetic energy to produce a killing effect on the bacteria. A treatment device may include a mechanical stress energy emitting portion, an electromagnetic energy emitting portion, and a contacting portion for coupling into direct or indirect contact with the bacteria and transmitting mechanical stress energy to the bacteria during the coupling. The mechanical stress energy emitting portion and the electromagnetic energy emitting portion are operable to treat the bacteria with a combination of mechanical stress energy and electromagnetic energy to produce a killing effect on the bacteria.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Assignee: PHOTOSONIX MEDICAL, INC.
    Inventors: Mark E. Schafer, Tessie Brown McNeely
  • Patent number: 10207126
    Abstract: Systems and methods that facilitate visualization and identification of lumens of a multi-lumen brachytherapy device are disclosed. In one embodiment, visualization and identification can be attained by modifying a feature of at least one of the lumens relative to the other lumens. The feature may include a marking on the lumen, a diameter of the lumen or a composition of the lumen. In an additional embodiment, for brachytherapy devices in which multiple lumens are coupled to a distal end point such as a rigid connection member, visualization and identification of the lumens can be attained by modifying a feature of the rigid connection member. It will be readily appreciated that visualization and identification can be further enhanced through a combination of two or more of the techniques described herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Assignee: CYTYC CORPORATION
    Inventor: Maria Benson
  • Patent number: 10207127
    Abstract: Radiation therapy devices, systems and methods are in general sheet-like form, are characterized by flexibility, and include at least one spacer that can be a balloon or bubble that assists in placement of radio therapeutic members at desired treatment locations along or around a limb, within an existing body cavity, or at a site that was formed under a patient's skin for treatment purposes. Sarcoma treatment is particularly conducive to treatment by these devices, systems and methods. One or more detectors, such as microdiodes, are accommodated when desired on the device, and a hyperthermia tube or the like is also includable that delivers hyperthermia treatment for the target treatment site or sites. Data collected by the detector allows the medical professional to monitor radiation treatment and, when desired, interaction between hyperthermia treatment and radiation delivery by the radiation treatment member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Inventor: Mark A. D'Andrea
  • Patent number: 10207128
    Abstract: A fall protection device, including: a housing; a hub rotatable with respect to the housing; a line wrapped around the hub and configured to pay out from and retract into the housing, an engagement mechanism configured to prevent rotation of the hub and further payout of the line; and an adjustment mechanism configured to adjust a length of the line paid out from the housing, the adjustment mechanism comprising: (i) at least one gear attached to the housing; (ii) a pivot having a track configured to interact with the at least one gear and pivot as the at least one gear rotates; and (iii) an arm configured to urge at least a portion of the engagement mechanism causing it to move into an engagement position, to thereby prevent further rotation of the hub and payout of the line from the fall protection device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Assignee: MSA Technology, LLC
    Inventor: Mitchell H. Hetrich
  • Patent number: 10207129
    Abstract: The present disclosure is a face seal (FS) device for filtering face piece respirators (FFR) of all types, that corrects inner face seal leakage (FSIL) of particulate material that occurs due to well documented failures in FS designs of the prior art. The present disclosure differs from those of the prior art in having compensatory accentuations at locations along the entire 360 deg. FS inner perimeter that are based on specific details of facial human anatomy which are known to be sites of FSIL. The FS is also constructed of a heat activated thermoplastic copolymer that enables the device to be custom fitted to the user's face. Experimental data, confirmed with workplace protective factor (WPF) studies, show a 60-240 fold improved performance over FS designs of the prior art.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Inventor: Richard H. Koehler
  • Patent number: 10207130
    Abstract: A user insertion system, that includes (a) a belay tether connectable to a support and configurable for descending a user; (b) an attachment device installable onto the support between the support and the belay tether; (c) a user braking device connectable between the belay tether and the user; and (d) a tip resistant system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Assignee: United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Air Force
    Inventors: Cory Alan Cooper, Darren Craig Tidwell, Garrett Fritzsche, Christopher Yooshin Jang, Brock M. Flieger, Alan James Vaillencourt, Jr., Miranda Leigh Bray, Shane Michael Riley, Nathanael Jordan Szuch, Philip T. Strunk
  • Patent number: 10207131
    Abstract: An anchorage connector for use in a height safety system is provided. The anchorage connector comprises an energy absorbing, deformable, corrugated enclosed chamber having a first end and a second end, and at least one anchorage attachment point, at one end or both ends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Assignee: 1078955 BC LTD.
    Inventors: Jack Yi Yo Tsai, Bryan Willis Robinson
  • Patent number: 10207132
    Abstract: Self-closing vent assemblies configured to provide ventilation during normal ambient conditions and to close during a fire are provided. In one embodiment, the self-closing vent assembly includes a base vent plate having a plurality of apertures and a floating vent plate having a plurality of apertures offset from the apertures in the base vent plate. The floating vent plate is configured to move between a first position spaced apart by a distance from the base vent plate and a second position abutting the base vent plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Assignee: FLANNERY, INC.
    Inventor: Barry Rutherford
  • Patent number: 10207133
    Abstract: A smart fluid application nozzle consisting of an optical based event locating system, a multi-port nozzle block, and a port switching mechanism is disclosed by the present application. The smart nozzle utilizes a unique arrangement of discharge ports, allowing the angle of the discharge agent to be controlled without moving the nozzle housing. Multiple ports are activated per event to create a uniform fluid distribution within the discharging jet while controlling the discharge angle, which cannot be achieved through a single port discharge. Upon receiving a detection signal, the event locating system determines the spatial location of the event region and activates the appropriate discharge ports, thereby directing agent toward the event zone and applying fluid while minimizing damage to nearby areas. The use of the system may be used wherever the precise directed application of as fluid is desired including, fire suppression.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Assignee: ESI Energy Solutions, LLC.
    Inventor: Peter Disimile
  • Patent number: 10207134
    Abstract: At least one embodiment comprises a testing system for a fire suppression system which can comprise at least one fluid conduit having a first end and a second end with an isolating valve and at least one pressure regulating valve coupled to the conduit. A tap is coupled to the fluid conduit, and is positioned between the first end and the second end and be for selectively allowing fluid to flow out from the fluid conduit to allow fluid to flow past the pressure regulating valve. The process for testing a fire suppression system can comprise the following steps: connecting at least one first valve to a fluid conduit, disconnecting sprinkler heads from the fluid conduit, flowing water through the pressure regulating valve determining the flow rate through the pressure regulating valve, and determining the pressure downstream of the pressure regulating valve, stopping testing, and then reporting the results.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Assignee: LUND FIRE PRODUCTS CO. INC.
    Inventors: Richard F. Alexander, Ian R. Alexander, Lawrence I. Karp
  • Patent number: 10207135
    Abstract: A portable water storage system for draining and refilling building fire protection systems is provided. The system includes a tank for storing fire protection system water, a hose connecting the building fire protection system to the tank. A vacuum pump is configured to draw a low pressure on the fire protection system. A water pump is configured to return the water of the fire protection system from the tank to the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Inventors: Jason Payton, Mike Payton, Tim Duquette
  • Patent number: 10207136
    Abstract: A fire safety protection evaluation system includes at least one horizontal collection device and at least one vertical collection device. The at least one horizontal collection device includes a liquid collection pan with a substantially horizontal opening, a first storage container in communication with the liquid collection pan, and a first measuring device to measure an amount of liquid in the first storage container and/or a rate of liquid entering the first storage container. The at least one vertical collection device includes a substantially vertical liquid collection surface extending between a top edge and a bottom edge, a trough located along the bottom edge to collect liquid from the substantially vertical collection surface, and a second measuring device to measure an amount of liquid and/or a rate of liquid collected by the trough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Assignee: Factory Mutual Insurance Company
    Inventors: Hong-Zeng Yu, Stephen P. D'Aniello
  • Patent number: 10207137
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide a safety system for coupling a rider to an amusement attraction with a track assembly including a junction box, and a plurality of control surfaces. The plurality of control surfaces includes slideable and rollable control surfaces. The safety system includes a carriage system for coupling the rider to the track assembly including a main support assembly, and a rolling safety mechanism including a rotatable element. The rotatable element includes a track engagement surface including rolling and sliding surfaces. In some embodiments, the rolling safety mechanism includes a plurality of pucks. Some embodiments include a rolling safety mechanism with a partially truncated ellipsoidal member rotatably mounted to a control support. In other embodiments, the rolling safety mechanism includes two partially truncated ellipsoidal members each positioned at substantially opposite ends of a support frame that includes at least one lanyard support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Assignee: WHITEWATER WEST INDUSTRIES LTD.
    Inventors: Rick Briggs, Mark Weston, Hyuma Frankowski, Greg MacDougall, Daniel Brassard, Peter Petkov
  • Patent number: 10207138
    Abstract: A resistance device applied to relative rotations between a flywheel and an axis includes an inner stator, an outer rotor, a conductive wire and a magneto-rheological fluid. The inner stator is fixedly joined with the axis and includes an accommodating space surrounding the axis at a position away from the axis. The outer rotor, fixedly joined with the flywheel, encloses and rotates relative to the inner stator. An accommodating gap is formed between the outer rotor and the inner stator at a position away from the axis. The conductive wire is wound in the accommodating space, and generates a magnetic line passing the accommodating gap when applied by an electric current. The magneto-rheological fluid is filled in the accommodating gap. Thus, the outer rotor is disposed at the outer most region of the resistance device to increase the braking torque, and the magneto-rheological fluid is away from the axis to increase the braking moment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Assignee: GIANT MANUFACTURING CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Hsaio-Wen Hsu
  • Patent number: 10207139
    Abstract: A fitness training apparatus is described that can include at least one pole, at least one set of one or more adjustable members, and at least one elastic member. The at least one pole can be configured to extend from at least one vicinity of at least one shoulder of a user to another at least one vicinity of a waist of the user. The at least one set of one or more adjustable members can be adjustably coupled to the at least one pole. The at least one elastic member can be configured to be adjustably coupled to the at least one set of one or more adjustable members. Related methods, techniques, articles, systems, and apparatuses are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Inventors: Giacomo Brancato, Paul Brancato
  • Patent number: 10207140
    Abstract: A portable and kinetic motion resistance upper body invention that can be used for a variety of exercises. This invention combines dial tension adjustment clutch sheaves, a variable linear tract bearing and a one piece resistance shock-cord, together these core components achieve a unique minimal impact work-out. The multi-motion and changeable adjustments for this invention, result in a wide variety of muscular stimulation and therapeutic exercises that are non-existent in the fitness and health industry. The outcome of the mechanism can be customized for a particular sport requirement or physio and other therapeutic restorations, or even for case specific industrial and robotic counter-balancing controls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Inventor: Robert Omer Carriere, Jr.
  • Patent number: 10207141
    Abstract: This invention relates to health and fitness and more particularly to exercise methods and devices. This invention is directly related to strengthening the muscles between the shoulder blades associated with poor posture, without the use of the hands. The exercise apparatus comprises two adjustable fabric loops connected to a rubber loop. The user slips one arm into each fabric loop pulling the device up to rest on the back of the upper arms with the rubber loop resting across the front of the body just above chest height. User then contracts the shoulder blades together and down which creates resistance on the rubber loop strengthening the muscles between the shoulder blades.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Inventor: Kenneth Marshall Belveal
  • Patent number: 10207142
    Abstract: A collapsible free standing exercise apparatus for performing multiple body weight exercises is disclosed. The collapsible free standing exercise apparatus comprises a pair of hollow vertical bars separated at a predetermined distance via a connector bar assembly removably fastened at a lower portion of each hollow vertical bar. A first handle bar is removably fastened to each vertex joint on each pair of hollow vertical bars and a second handle assembly removably fastened between each pair of hollow vertical bars at a predetermined position via a support section disposed at distal ends of the second handle bar. A method of fixing the collapsible free standing exercise apparatus for use is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Inventor: Khanh Trinh Le Nguyen
  • Patent number: 10207143
    Abstract: A manually operated treadmill a deck and a tread belt encircling the deck to provide a movable, continuous running surface during operation of the treadmill. Further, the treadmill includes a transmission connecting a flywheel to the tread belt and a resistance unit disposed to adjustably apply a resistance force to the inertial motion of the flywheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Assignee: ICON Health & Fitness, Inc.
    Inventors: William T. Dalebout, Dale T. Buchanan
  • Patent number: 10207144
    Abstract: A supporting apparatus used in a treadmill positioned on a supporting surface and including a base frame, a treadbase pivotally connected to the base frame and biasable between a reclined position and an upright position and a linkage pivotally coupled between the treadbase and the base frame. The base frame includes a supporting shaft inserted through the base frame and slidably supportable on the supporting surface and defining opposing first and second supporting sections that are respectively extended out of two opposite lateral sides of the base frame in such a manner that a length of the first supporting section is greater than a length of the second supporting section when the treadbase is in the reclined position, or smaller than the length of the second supporting section when the treadbase is in the upright position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Assignee: REXON INDUSTRIAL CORP., LTD.
    Inventor: Chiung-Tung Huang