Abstract: To provide a practical technique for assisting the motion of the upper body of a subject or improving a posture. An upper body assisting device includes shorts 19 and an upper body strap 30. The upper body strap is secured to the shorts 19 at the front of the left thigh, and passes from the left thigh along a location near the left greater trochanter to the left ilium, the right shoulder, the front of the right underarm, the back of the left underarm, the left shoulder, and the right ilium. The upper body strap passes from the right ilium to the front of the right leg along the greater trochanter, and then is secured to the shorts 19 at the front of the right leg.

Abstract: The lumbar support assistive device includes a plastic rigid main member having a half-fusiform whose front side curves in accordance with human spine. A trough is provided along the front side extended in an axial direction to a bottom side of the main member. A number of forward bulging semi-ellipsoidal elements are arranged at intervals in two columns along lateral sides of the trough. The semi-ellipsoidal elements closer to a bottom of the main member are wider and higher; and the semi-ellipsoidal elements closer to a top of the main member are narrower and lower, and they are closer to the semi-ellipsoidal elements in the other column These semi-ellipsoidal elements provide massaging effect and support to corresponding intervertebral discs of the spine. The semi-ellipsoidal elements also raise the lumbar support assistive device to provide enhanced ventilation so that wearing the lumbar support assistive device would not feel sultry.

Abstract: A headrest device includes a headrest (1) which is movably mounted on a back support (3) associated with a harness (4) for holding the back support on the back of a user. The headrest is mounted to elastically slide in longitudinal translation along the back support and is elastically attached to the back support in an articulated manner to tilt transversely. The headrest is used continuously according to the movements of the head in extension thereof towards a nominal resting position. The device may include a first torsion spring acting antagonistically in relation to the transverse tilting movements of the headrest and a compression spring acting antagonistically in relation to the longitudinal translation movements of the headrest. The two springs act synchronously during operation, continuously tracking movements of the head of the wearer in relation to a nominal rest position, with non-sliding support at the back of the head.

Abstract: Introduced here are pressure-mitigation apparatuses for mitigating the pressure applied to a human body by the support surface of an object. The pressure-mitigation apparatus can include a series of chambers that can be individually controlled to vary the pressure therein. By varying the chamber pressure, the main point of pressure applied by the support surface to the human body may be moved across the surface of the human body. An attachment apparatus may be used to securely adhere the pressure-mitigation apparatus to the support surface.

Abstract: A surgical chin strap for stabilizing a patient's head and airway to improve oxygen delivery during surgery includes a chin cup, a first cranial strap, and a second cranial strap. The chin cup is terminally connected to the first cranial strap and the second cranial strap. The chin cup is secured about a patient's chin, while the free ends of the first cranial strap and the second cranial strap are affixed to a table. The first cranial strap includes a first fastener and a first plurality of restraining holes for securing the first cranial strap to the table. The second cranial strap includes a second fastener and a second plurality of restraining holes for securing the second cranial strap to the table. A third cranial strap may be used to stabilize the patient's forehead; the third cranial strap running perpendicular to the first cranial strap and the second cranial strap.

Abstract: A structure includes a first frame having a shape to fit around, or over, a body part, the first frame further comprising a first surface configured to dock with a docking surface of a second frame configured to receive and support the body part. The structure also includes a material attached to the first frame for fitting to the body part; and at least one attachment mechanism coupled to the first frame and configured to attach the first frame to the second frame when the first surface of the first frame is docked with the docking surface of the second frame, wherein the at least one attachment mechanism is configured to flex or pivot, relative to a lateral edge of the first frame, to attach the first frame to the second frame when the first surface of the first frame is docked with the docking surface of the second frame.

Abstract: An ostomy appliance includes a pouch and a filter construction. The pouch is adapted to collect body waste and has a vent opening provided to allow gas to exit the pouch. The filter construction has a first foil layer secured to a second foil layer to form an enclosure, with a pre-filter inside of the enclosure. The first foil layer and the second foil layer are both liquid and gas impermeable. Multiple gas-inlet holes are formed through one or both of the first foil layer and the second foil layer. A gas-outlet is formed through the second foil layer in communication with the vent opening of the pouch. The filter construction is attached to the pouch only in an area immediately surrounding the vent opening such that a majority of the filter construction is substantially free-hanging relative to the pouch.

Abstract: A sleep apnea device includes a bite block, a plurality of receivers coupled to a lingual surface of the bite block, a plurality of transition pieces corresponding to the plurality of receivers. Each transition piece may include a vertical portion coupled to a corresponding receiver of the plurality of receivers, a horizontal portion configured to extend from the vertical portion, and a dam securing member fixed to one of the vertical portion, the horizontal portion, or both the vertical portion and the horizontal portion. The device may also include a plurality of base connectors corresponding to the plurality of transition pieces, a base coupled to the plurality of base connectors, and a resilient dam configured to be releasably secured by each dam securing member of the plurality of transition pieces. A kit including the sleep apnea device is also disclosed.

Abstract: Disclosed is a drug release device and uses of such a device. The device comprises a drug release component and a support. The drug release component comprises one or more thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) polymers and one or more drugs wherein at least one of the TPE polymers is a styrenic TPE block co-polymer (TPE-S). The drug release component is impregnated with the one or more drugs and is moulded to the support.

Abstract: An implant device is includes an expandable balloon configured to expand in response to internal pressure applied thereto. A flexible tether is fixed to an end of the expandable balloon, and the flexible tether is buckled and packed into the expandable balloon causing the expandable balloon to expand.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for hyperthermal treatment of pruritus by applying a treatment surface with a size between 1 cm2 and 18 cm2, whereby the treatment surface during the treatment phase is held at a temperature between 40° C. and 65° C. for 2 seconds to 12 seconds, preferably 4 seconds to 6 seconds. The device according to the invention allows a significant relief of itching over large areas of the skin and an effective treatment of pruritus, chronic pruritus, dermatitis, allergies, and cnidarian stings.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for hyperthermic treatment of itching, for example following insect bites, wherein during the treatment a treatment surface is regulated at a temperature of preferably between 42° C. and 56° C. for a period of 2 sec to 12 sec and a hardware-implemented temperature monitor limits the maximum temperature of the treatment surface and a safety fuse shuts off the device in the case of a short-circuit or uncontrolled continuous heating.

Abstract: An apparatus that includes a frame is for securely holding the medication pad with a moisturized medication compartment held by a holder. The frame holds the medication pad to apply the medication to the eyes wherein the frame further includes a controllable heating element for heating the medication pad. The medication pad further comprises a moisturized compartment containing moisturized extracts of herbal medication for generating and applying a medication steam to the eyes when the heating element is controlled to apply heat to the medication pad.

Abstract: A DVT and temperature therapy system. A temperature therapy blanket includes a fluid bladder for delivering hot and/or cold therapy to a patient. The temperature therapy blanket may also include an air bladder for providing compression. The DVT system functions independently of the temperature therapy. This Abstract is provided to comply with rules requiring an Abstract that allows a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain subject matter of the technical disclosure. This Abstract is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. 37 CPR 1.72(b).

Abstract: A system for cooling or heating a body part includes at least one bladder, a pump, a heat exchanger, a first fluid line in fluid communication with the heat exchanger and the at least one bladder, a second fluid line in fluid communication with the at least one bladder and the heat exchanger, a main reservoir and a separator. The heat exchanger is in fluid communication with the pump. The first fluid line is located downstream from the heat exchanger and the second fluid line is located downstream from the at least one bladder when the system is operating to cool or heat the body part. The separator is in fluid communication with the main reservoir and the pump and is located below the main reservoir to receive fluid under the influence of gravity from the main reservoir and to deliver fluid to the pump via gravity.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for accomplishing fluid drainage and localized cooling of the central nervous system broadly encompassing an intrathecal catheter assembly accomplishing drainage and cooling, and a console apparatus that may contain control, cooling, and drainage subsystems, and use thereof.

Abstract: Systems for dense phase transport of frozen and other particles to the respiratory system include a particle source, a delivery chamber for metering boluses of the particles from the source, and a transfer tube for fluidized transport of the particles to a patient interface. A controller may be provided to adjust the rate and amount of the bolus deliver to a patient to control core body temperature and for other purposes.

Abstract: A system for therapy of the eye by treating tissue with therapeutic radiation using nonlinear interaction. A laser device is provided, which delivers the therapeutic radiation. The therapeutic radiation is focussed by a focussing device in an image field, and xy scanners and z scanners shift the focus laterally and longitudinally within a treatment volume. The therapeutic radiation is either a second short pulse radiation or a first short pulse radiation, each of which have a spectral centroid within a wavelength range defined by the short pulse properties. The system is particularly corrected with regard to longitudinal chromatic aberrations and lateral chromatic aberrations such that the spectral characteristic curves of the two aberrations each have a local extreme within the wavelength ranges, and a certain tolerance within the wavelength ranges is not exceeded, therefore the characteristic curves are very shallow.

Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods for treating a glaucomatous eye are provided. An amount of pulsed laser energy is delivered to the pars plana of the eye by a hand-holdable device which comprises a hand-holdable elongate member and a contact member disposed on an end of the elongate member. A contact surface of the contact member is placed in direct contact with the eye so that a reference edge of the contact member aligns with the limbus and a treatment axis defined by the elongate member is angularly offset from the optical axis of the eye. The amount of pulsed laser energy delivered is insufficient to effect therapeutic photocoagulation but is sufficient to increase uveoscleral outflow so as to maintain a reduction from pre-laser treatment intraocular pressure. Amounts of pulsed laser energy will be transmitted to a circumferential series of tissue regions of the eye.

Abstract: Devices, methods, and kits for ocular drug delivery are described herein. In some embodiments, a method includes inserting a distal end portion of a puncture member into an eye to define a delivery passageway within the eye. The delivery passageway extends through ha sclera of the eye and a choroid of the eye. The delivery passageway is less than about 1.5 mm. The method further includes conveying a substance into a subretinal space within the eye via the distal end portion of the puncture member.

Abstract: An eye drop guide includes a frame including at least one eye-covering member, and a plurality of apertures arranged in columns, each column having multiple apertures, the apertures in each column being vertically offset from apertures in adjacent columns.

Abstract: A method for refilling a lens of an eye or increasing the elasticity of a lens of an eye includes removing a central portion of the lens core through the eye's cornea, a capsulorhexis in the eye's lens capsule and a gullet extending at least partially through the cortex of the lens. The lens is then refilled with a synthetic lens material. Sufficient lens core is left in place so that the synthetic material is not in contact with a lens capsule of the eye. The synthetic material used for refilling may be selected and may be formed in a shape and thickness so as to affect the refractive characteristics of the lens. An endocapsular lenticule may be inserted in the lens to affect the refractive characteristics of the lens.

Abstract: Devices and methods for inserting a pre-loaded intracanalicular plug for the treatment of dry eyes. In one embodiment, an intracanalicular plug inserter device includes: (a) an elongate body having a longitudinal axis, the body having: an inserter end, wherein the inserter end has an opening therein; and a distal end, wherein the distal end is longitudinally opposing the inserter end; and (b) a plug ejector, wherein the plug injector comprises: a slider; and a rod coupled to a first end of the slider, wherein the plug ejector is configured to be moveable between a first position adjacent an opening in the inserter end and a second position that is further from the opening. The plug is mounted within the body and abuts first end of the rod adjacent the opening in the inserter end.

Abstract: Systems and methods for increasing the amplitude of accommodation of an eye, changing the refractive power of lens material of a natural crystalline lens of the eye, and addressing presbyopia are is provided. Generally, there are provided methods and systems for delivering a laser beam to a lens of an eye in a plurality of laser shots, which are in precise and predetermined patterns results in the weakening of the lens material.

Abstract: The amount of energy to provide optical breakdown can be determined based on mapped optical breakdown thresholds of the treatment volume, and the laser energy can be adjusted in response to the mapped breakdown thresholds. The mapping of threshold energies can be combined with depth and lateral calibration in order to determine the location of optical breakdown along the laser beam path for an amount of energy determined based on the mapping. The mapping can be used with look up tables to determine mapped locations from one reference system to another reference system.

Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for protecting eyes from radiation, in particular for protecting the lenses of the eyes of medical personnel from x-ray radiation or other ionizing radiation during medical examinations. The apparatus is easy to handle and ensures shielding of the eyes from x-ray radiation, but nonetheless offers the best working and viewing conditions for the wearer. This is achieved by a housing made of a shell-type frame, which encloses the eye area and laterally the temples of the wearer, and a support device for placement on the head and with a nose rest for positioning on the bridge of the nose. The frame includes a frontal opening, in which a shield opaque to x-ray radiation is fitted, and at least one video playback device is arranged on the rear side of the shield, facing toward the eyes, inside the frame, and being coupled to an optical recording device or a camera, which is arranged on the side of the shield that faces away from the wearer.

Abstract: A route guidance and obstacle avoidance system for the visually impaired includes a main body assembly worn around the body of the user and a headset assembly worn around the head of the user. The system incorporates obstacle avoidance technology and navigation technology to generate a 3D audio output to a user so as to generate an audible virtual environment reflective of the physical environment of the user. The assemblies include line of sight sensors, a central processing unit, a navigation module, and a camera assembly. Obstacles are detected and classified with a location and distance, and are concurrently processed with real time navigation that is adjusted to instruct not only how to get to a location but also how to avoid obstacles.

Abstract: The embodiment of the present disclosure discloses an intelligent blind guide method and apparatus, and relates to the field of artificial intelligence, so as to solve the problem that an intelligent blind guide system requires the whole-process intervention of an artificial customer service staff, which results in high work intensity. The intelligent blind guide method includes: obtaining a confidence of an intelligent blind guide according to sensor information, wherein the confidence indicates the reliability of blind guide information generated according to the sensor information without artificial decision; generating the blind guide information according to the sensor information if the confidence is greater than or equal to a preset threshold, and importing artificial decision to generate the blind guide information if the confidence is less than the preset threshold. The embodiment of the present disclosure is applied to a blind guide helmet.

Abstract: A combination device for ear protection and visual display. The device includes an earplug configured to be removably seated with the user's ear canal, a visual display having an inner face and an outer face which serves as a platform for indicia, such as support for the user's favorite team. The device further includes a mount attached between the earplug and the display to connect the two. Methods of using the device are also provided.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a negative pressure wound closure system and methods for using such a system. Preferred embodiments of the invention facilitate closure of the wound by preferentially contracting to provide for movement of the tissue. Preferred embodiments can utilize tissue grasping elements to apply a wound closing force to the tissue.

Abstract: In some embodiments, a wound dressing that incorporates a number of sensors or sensors separate from the wound dressing can be utilized in order to monitor characteristics of a wound as it heals or to identify one or more risk factors or conditions that may precipitate a wound. In some implementations, a wound dressing configured to be positioned in contact with a wound includes a substantially flexible substrate supporting one or more sensors. The one or more sensors can include temperature sensors, conductivity sensors, multispectral optical measurements sensors, pH sensors, pressure sensors, colorimetric sensors, optical sensors, ultraviolet (UV) sensors, or infrared (IR) sensors.

Abstract: A wound dressing product that includes a substrate layer having an upper surface and a lower surface; a tacky silicone coating composition present on the upper surface and on the lower surface; and upper and lower release sheets covering the substrate and the tacky silicone coating composition on the upper and lower surfaces, respectively, and adhered to the surfaces by the tacky silicone coating composition, wherein the upper surface is less tacky than the lower surface whereby the upper release sheet can be removed from the upper surface more readily than the lower release sheet can be removed from the lower surface. Also provided are methods for making such dressings.

Abstract: Orthopedic devices and low temperature shrinking materials used in such devices are described in this application. The low temperature shrinkable materials have a shrink ratio ranging up to about 7:1 at a low temperature ranging from about 100 to about 150° F. Using these lower temperatures to shrink the materials of the orthopedic devices onto the body part of the patient has less risk of injuring the patient than previous materials. The orthopedic devices can contain different sections with higher and lower amounts of the low temperature shrinkable materials. Other embodiments are described.

Abstract: Disclosed embodiments relate to apparatuses and methods for wound treatment. In certain embodiments, a negative pressure wound therapy apparatus includes one or more wound dressings configured to be used to treat surgical wounds including post-breast surgery wounds. In some embodiments, a single negative pressure source can be used with one or more wound dressing to treat one or more wounds.

Abstract: An intelligent diaper includes an inner layer configured to be substantially liquid-pervious; a transparent outer layer configured to be substantially liquid-impervious; a middle layer disposed between the inner layer and the transparent outer layer and configured to absorb liquid from a diaper wearer's body; a core member disposed between the transparent outer layer and the middle layer, and the core member including an identification zone having a 2D barcode, a color calibration zone, and a test zone having two spaced test paper strips; urine indication strips disposed between the transparent outer layer and the middle layer and being adjacent to the core member; a negative comparison zone having two spaced negative color comparison cards; and a positive comparison zone having two spaced positive color comparison cards. Color of the urine indication strips changes in response to expelled waste.

Abstract: A sensor system for detecting a property of or within an absorbent article may comprise an absorbent article and a sensor. The absorbent article may comprise a garment-facing layer and an absorbent assembly. The sensor may be disposed in and/or on the absorbent article. The sensor may be separable from the absorbent article. The sensor may be configured to sense a change in condition within the absorbent article.

Abstract: A sensor system for detecting a property of or within an absorbent article may comprise an absorbent article and a sensor. The absorbent article may comprise a garment-facing layer and an absorbent assembly. The sensor may be disposed in and/or on the absorbent article. The sensor may be separable from the absorbent article. The sensor may be configured to sense a change in condition within the absorbent article.

Abstract: A patterned apertured web is disclosed. The patterned apertured web includes a plurality of land areas in the patterned apertured web and a plurality of apertures defined in the patterned apertured web. At least some land areas of the plurality of land areas surround at least some apertures of the plurality of apertures. The patterned apertured web has an Effective Open Area in the range of about 3% to about 30%, according to the Aperture Test herein. The patterned apertured web has a plurality of Interaperture Distances, according to the Aperture Test herein. The Interaperture Distances have a distribution having a median and a mean, wherein the mean is different than the median. The plurality of apertures include a first set of apertures defining a first shape and a second set of apertures defining a second shape. The first shape is positioned within the second shape.

Abstract: A composite includes a first substrate and a second substrate joined in a bonding region, wherein the first substrate comprises a first Peak Force Tensile Strength and the second Peak Force Tensile Strength. The first Peak Force Tensile Strength is greater than or equal to the second Peak Force Tensile Strength. The bonding region has a Bond Density of about 10% to about 22%; and a Composite Tensile Strength at Peak Force that is within about 15% of the second Peak Force Tensile Strength.

Abstract: Improved absorbent core components including multiple layers configured to enhance fluid handling properties. The layers include absorbent material layers, with or without absorbent material-free lanes. The layers also include nonwoven layers, including air-through nonwovens, bulkified nonwovens, slitted nonwovens, and bulky nonwovens.

Abstract: An absorbent article includes: a main body (8) including a liquid permeable top sheet (3), a liquid impermeable back sheet (2), and an absorbent body (4) interposed between the top sheet and the back sheet; and a hip-holding portion (H), wherein the main body has a shape having a predetermined length in a front-back direction and a predetermined width in a direction orthogonal to the front-back direction, and wherein the hip-holding portion includes a side region protruding from a side of a rear portion of the main body, the side region including a first projection (41) that includes a portion having a largest width from a center line in the front-back direction of the main body, a first recess (51) that is located adjacent to and forward of the first projection, and a second projection (52) that is located adjacent to and forward of the first recess, and wherein the back sheet in the side region has a slip preventive portion for securing the absorbent article, the slip preventive portion being disposed so as

Abstract: A disposable undergarment having fastening means comprising a landing area and a pair of fasteners, wherein the landing area and the fasteners include multiple indicia for providing alignment at least in two, bi-directional orientations for horizontal and vertical alignment thereof.

Abstract: A refastenable disposable garment defines a longitudinal direction and a transverse direction, and comprises a first waist region contiguous with a first waist edge. The first waist region defines first and second side edges transversely spaced apart and defines first and second surfaces. The first waist region is elastomeric proximal both the first and second side edges. The garment can include a second waist region and a crotch region that interconnects the first and second waist regions. The garment comprises non-extensible, relatively rigid first and second fastening components attached to the first surface of the first waist region adjacent the first and second side edges, respectively. The first waist region defines first and second flange portions transversely outward of the first and second fastening components, respectively. Each flange portion is transversely curled toward the second surface. A process for making such an article is also disclosed.

Abstract: A disposable absorbent underwear product includes a garment layer, an absorbent insert, a non-woven patch, and a barrier. The absorbent insert has a fluid-impermeable base layer, an absorbent core, and a fluid-permeable top layer. The non-woven patch covers an end of the absorbent insert. A first portion of the non-woven patch is adhered to both the fluid-permeable top layer of the absorbent insert and the garment layer with an adhesive. A second portion of the non-woven patch is free and forms a pouch. An end portion of the absorbent core is disposed adjacent to the second portion of the non-woven patch. The barrier extends along a width of the absorbent insert. The barrier extends through the fluid-permeable top layer of the absorbent core and connects the fluid-impermeable base layer and the one non-woven patch to direct fluid flow to the absorbent core and militate against fluid overflow.

Abstract: Provided herein is a balanced locking pawl. In particular, the center of gravity of the locking pawl is located at or near the pivot point of the locking pawl. The balanced approach allows for a faster locking response during the rebound (whiplash/return) forces of a crash.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a wheelchair lift device, more particularly, to a folding wheelchair lift device that is independently operable by a wheelchair user without the wheelchair user exiting their chair. The wheelchair lift apparatus, in various embodiments, may include a linkage frame having a nesting linkage geometry; linkage frame components with alignment and locking features; an extension handle having alignment and locking features; and an adjustable telescopic axle-rest assembly having alignment and locking features.

Abstract: A mobile chair apparatus is described that comprises a drive assembly that preferably includes one or more moveable foot pedals, and drive wheels which rotate in response to rotation of the foot pedals by the mobile chair occupant, and a steering assembly which comprises two steering wheels and at least one tiller, configured such that forward and backward movement of said tiller will translate into movement of both steering wheels, wherein the drive assembly and the steering assembly concurrently enable the mobile chair occupant to propel and steer the mobile chair apparatus without assistance from another person.

Abstract: A mobile device includes a body, a motor, a transmission assembly and two driven components. The motor and the transmission assembly are disposed at the body. The transmission assembly includes a differential, two shafts and two stoppers. The differential is coupled to the motor. The two shafts are respectively coupled to the two opposite sides of the differential. The two stoppers are respectively disposed corresponding to the two shafts. The two driven components are respectively connected to the two shafts. When one of the two shafts is locked by the corresponding stopper, the motor may still drive the other shaft and the driven component connected thereto to rotate relative to the body through the differential. A transmission assembly is also provided.

Abstract: A disclosed vehicle wheel assembly includes a plurality of wheels, a plurality of rotary drive modules each having a respective rotation axis, and a plurality of rotatable arms, wherein each arm is arranged to extend radially from a rotation axis of a respective rotary drive module to couple the respective rotary drive module to a respective wheel. Each rotary drive module is operable to drive rotation of a respective rotatable arm about the rotation axis of the drive module, to thereby rotate a respective wheel about the rotation axis. A control module can sense stepped terrain, and control each rotary drive module to enable a vehicle to travel over the stepped terrain.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a wheelchair brake assembly comprising a seat brake system and a wheel frame brake system. The seat brake system and the wheel frame brake system are separable from each other. The seat brake system comprises a caregiver brake lever and an actuating member, the caregiver brake lever being coupled to the actuating member. The wheel frame brake system comprises a brake transmission assembly, a first brake mechanism and a second brake mechanism which are adapted to be provided on a first wheel and a second wheel of the wheelchair respectively. The brake transmission assembly is coupled to the first brake mechanism and the second brake mechanism. The brake transmission assembly comprises an actuating lever having a first free end and a second end. The second end is coupled to the first brake mechanism and the second brake mechanism.