Abstract: A degradable biomedical magnesium alloy drug-eluting vascular stent and a preparation method. With the total weight of a magnesium alloy being 100% for calculation, the magnesium alloy comprises the following components in percentage by weight: 3.0-6.0% of Gd, 2.5-5.5% of Y, 1.0-3.0% of Li, 0.3-1.0% of Zn, 0.2-1.0% of Zr, and the balance being Mg. The stent has good radial support strength and strain dispersion capability by means of finite element design. After a protective coating is used, the corrosion resistance of the magnesium alloy stent is greatly improved. An arsenic trioxide/rapamycin and tacrolimus composite drug sustained-release system is used to fully adapt to the damage repair process of blood vessels. An implantation result of large animals shows that the vascular stent system has a good anti-restenosis treatment effect.

Abstract: Novel tools and techniques are provided for implementing protection of at least one tissue layer of a medical device or implant during crimping of the medical device or implant. In various embodiments, an implant tissue protection tool may include an outer portion configured to surround one or more outer segments of at least one tissue layer of a medical device to be implanted into a body of a subject and at least one protrusion (which may be affixed to a surface of the outer portion) configured to minimize or prevent occurrence (or likelihood of occurrence) of the at least one tissue layer (in some cases, leaflet material, or the like) of the medical device passing through at least one opening defined by a frame structure of the medical device during crimping of the medical device by a crimping device in preparation for implantation into the body of the subject.

Abstract: Intravascular delivery systems, devices, and methods are disclosed herein. A representative delivery device can include an inner shaft defining a lumen extending along a length of the delivery device, an outer shaft surrounding the inner shaft along at least a portion of the length of the delivery device, and a tip portion distal to the outer shaft. The inner shaft can include a recess configured to receive a self-expandable implant. The outer shaft can be retractable relative to the inner shaft, and can include a functional member that provides increased tensile strength to the outer shaft, and a coil. The tip portion can extend to a distal terminus of the delivery device and include a cross-sectional dimension that tapers in a distal direction.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides orthotic devices wearable on a user's hand and wrist. In one example, an orthotic device includes a brace and multiple finger extension assemblies. The brace includes a first portion and a second portion connected to the first portion and arranged to respectively cover a top portion and a bottom portion of the user's hand and wrist, a closure mechanism configured to form a closure between the first portion and the second portion, and a thumb support configured to prevent thumb flexion of the user's thumb. Each of the plurality of the finger extension assemblies includes a tensioning member, at least one finger band movably connected to the tensioning member and wearable on a phalange of the finger, and a tension control member configured to apply and control a tension on the finger band to cause extension of the finger to a desired position.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a self-aligning joint assistance device and, more particularly, to a self-aligning joint assistance device, wherein the joint assistance device is worn on a joint of the human body, such as the knee joint connecting the thigh and the lower leg, and assists the movement of the joint. The present disclosure provides the advantage of high user friendliness by enabling automatic self-alignment and movement in response to the complex movement of a human joint having a high degree of freedom and providing assistance in the movement of the joint. In addition, the present disclosure has the advantage of having a relatively simple and uncomplicated structure, being able to be fabricated at a relatively low cost, and assisting the function of the joint of a user at a very high degree of freedom in response to the movement of the joint.

Abstract: An orthosis device that can include a strut member, a housing member, a cuff member, and a locking mechanism. The strut member can have an extension portion and footplate portion. The strut member can include a track portion extending along a first side of the extension portion. The track portion can extend a pre-determined distance along the extension portion. The extension portion can extend in a first direction generally perpendicular from the footplate portion. A portion of the strut member can pass through a cavity in the housing member and allow for the adjustability of the height of the housing member along the extension portion. The locking mechanism can engage the track portion to lock the housing member at various positions along the track as desired by the user. The orthosis device can include a secondary housing member to provide additional support component for a user.

Abstract: The invention comprises an elastomeric athletic or orthopedic brace, support for a joint complex and is a network of interlinking elastomeric bands that extend radially from a hub member having a section of reduced rigidity to support a joint in tension but provide for controlled hinging about an axis defined through the hub member. In particular, the brace is provided for an ankle.

Abstract: In one embodiment, the orthotic device can include a powered hand portion, a switching element, and a controller. The wearer can interact with the switching element to generate input signals for adjusting an operation of the powered hand portion. The controller can receive the input signals and generate control signals to accordingly adjust the operation of the powered hand portion. In some embodiments, a powered hand portion can be comprised of a plurality of linkages and at least one powered actuator to assist with an opening and closing of the hand portion. The plurality of linkages can be operated by at least one electric motor with quick-connect elements to link onto fingers of a user. In some embodiments, an electrically-actuated clutch mechanism can be affixed to an upper arm section and a lower arm section of an orthotic device. The clutch mechanism can be configured into different positions.

Abstract: A body wearable brace, e.g. for resisting involuntary motion, adapted for allowing a user wearing the brace on his arm to dynamically move his or her upper arm, forearm, wrist and hand, comprising: an upper arm piece; a hand piece; an elbow flexion-extension joint that is rotatable relative to the upper arm piece around a first axis of rotation; a forearm pronation-supination joint that is rotatable relative to the forearm pronation-supination joint and the elbow flexion-extension joint around a second axis of rotation; an extension element extendable in a longitudinal direction; a wrist flexion-extension joint that is rotatable around a third axis of rotation. A first portion of the wrist flexion-extension joint is directly or indirectly connected to the extension element, and a second portion of the wrist flexion-extension joint is directly or indirectly connected to the hand piece.

Abstract: A therapeutic footwear device used to stretch the muscles of the foot to assist with correcting and rehabilitating deformities and pain conditions in the feet, legs, and back of the user. The device includes a rigid base which supports the user's foot, straps that spread the user's toes, and inserts and contours that elevate the user's toes to assist in stretch during rest, during exercise performance, and during medical treatment.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a back support brace and a method of wearing the same. The back support brace includes a central brace portion formed to rest in abutting support of the back of the person, a pair of adjustable side straps configured to removably attach to the central brace portion on either side thereof and adapted to releasably engage together about the waist of the person, and a means for adjusting the size of the pair of adjustable side straps according to size of the back of the person. In accordance with the present invention, each of the pair of adjustable side straps is contructed and formed having an elasticized insert incorporated into a longitudinal section of the side strap along a lower half thereof to better fit and conform to the transitional area between the waist and hip of the person when the straps are engaged thereby enhancing the comfort of the wearer while reducing unwanted movement of the engaged straps and undesired migration of the back support brace once set in place.

Abstract: Described herein are devices, systems, and methods for applying a tension force to various tissues. The devices may be delivered in a minimally invasive fashion and used to manipulate tissues in the nose, ear, and throat. Force may be maintained by the devices for a time period that allows shaping, compression, or approximation of tissues.

Abstract: The utility model relates to the technical field of hydrotherapy cups, in particular to a hydrotherapy cup, which comprises a hydrotherapy cup shell, wherein a contact colloid is clamped at the bottom of the hydrotherapy cup shell, a power compartment is arranged at the upper end of the hydrotherapy cup shell, the hydrotherapy cup shell, the power compartment and the contact colloid form a cavity with holes at the bottom end, the holes are used for air and water circulation, and bubbles are generated by the air circulation in the water and then have a massage effect; the power compartment comprises an intake pipe and an exhaust pipe connected with the cavity, a fixed cover is clamped at the upper end of the hydrotherapy cup shell, the power compartment is located in the fixed cover, and a control panel is inlaid in the middle of the fixed cover; the utility model can increase the effects of massage and water bath, so that the user is more comfortable.

Abstract: A method of scanning stoma and peristomal topography and generating representations thereof. The method can comprise taking a three-dimensional scan of a person's stoma and peristomal areas to generate a set of data points in space. The data points can correspond to points along physical external surfaces of the stomal and peristomal areas. The set of data points can be mapped into a three-dimensional point cloud. The data points of the point cloud can reflect relative sizes, shapes, convexity characteristics, and topographies of features along external surfaces of the stoma and peristomal areas. The point cloud can be converted into a digital three-dimensional solid body model. A physical three-dimensional representation can be created which can be representative of the person's stoma and peristomal areas. The physical three-dimensional representation can be used for evaluating concepts for implementation in ostomy appliances.

Abstract: A urine collection and drainage apparatus for draining urine from an individual includes a liner with a top surface and a bottom surface and being elongated between a pair of ends. A pad is coupled to the top surface of the liner, and a drain tube extends through the liner and the pad. The drain tube is in fluid communication with a top side of the pad, and the drain tube has an open distal end with respect to the pad which has a size such that the open distal end is configured for inserting into an adapter of a suction device such that the drain tube is in fluid communication with the suction device.

Abstract: An example fluid collection assembly includes a fluid impermeable layer that at least defines a chamber, at least one opening, and a fluid outlet. The fluid collection assembly also includes at least one porous material disposed in the chamber. The porous material includes at least one vertical nonwoven material that includes a plurality of fibers.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a body-worn urinal for a female patient, wherein same can be easily worn not only when the patient is lying, but also moving; same does not cause irritation, pain, or other types of inconvenience; even when worn for a long period of time, same has excellent ventilation; an embedded infrared sterilizer can be used to sterilize same and for treatment; and same thus enables both natural urination and sanitary maintenance/management.

Abstract: The present invention provides a bruxism relieving device and a bruxism management system. The bruxism relieving device is a device for relieving bruxism that occurs during sleep, and comprises: a mounting module that, when the bruxism occurs, is installed in the oral cavity to sense an oral state to relieve the bruxism; and a control module provided in the mounting module to control the mounting module step by step to alleviate the bruxism on the basis of oral information sensed by the mounting module.

Abstract: A tray for securing an implantable device to a carrier member includes a slot configured to retain the carrier member and a receptacle adjacent the slot. The carrier member surrounds a shaft of the implantable device. The receptacle has a first width at a proximal end of the receptacle to receive first and second arms of the implantable device in an initial state in which the first and second arms extend substantially perpendicularly from the shaft. The receptacle has a second width at a distal end of the receptacle for receiving the first and second arms of the implantable device in a collapsed state in which the first and second arms are folded against the shaft such that the carrier member can be slid over the first and second arms to retain the first and second arms. The second width is less than the first width.

Abstract: A wearable thermoregulation device configured to be worn on the body of a user with a thermoelectric device that is configured to controllably heat and cool a control surface, a power source that is configured to provide power to operate the thermoelectric device and either heat or cool the control surface, a controller that is configured to control the thermoelectric device, one or more sensors such as a skin temperature sensor that is configured to sense skin temperature over time, an accelerometer, and/or a pulse oximeter, and a carrier structure that carries the thermoelectric device, the power source, the sensor(s), and the controller. The carrier structure is configured to be removably carried on the body of a user such that the heated and cooled control surface and the temperature sensor and/or pulse oximeter are in direct contact with the user's skin. The sensor(s) are isolated from effects generated by the thermoelectric device.

Abstract: A system and method for treating spinal injuries comprising one or more cold pack bags placed on the spine after injury to minimize swelling. By adding cold packs to the spinal packaging process of spinal immobilization, the victim gains valuable time needed to get to a trauma center before swelling can cause secondary permanent damage.

Abstract: A device for exchanging heat with a subject having skin is provided. The device includes a heat exchanging member having a heat transfer surface configured to form a heat conducting interface with the subject's skin. The device further includes a substantially flexible sensing device disposed in the interface between the heat exchanging member and the subject's skin. The sensing device is configured to measure a parameter of the interface without substantially impeding heat transfer between the heat exchanging member and the subject's skin.

Abstract: A drug delivery device includes a drug delivery assembly configured to receive a portion of a head of a patient and mounted to a helmet or support. The drug delivery assembly includes one or more imaging devices configured to have an eye of the patient in a field of view thereof, an injection assembly configured to receive a drug to be injected, and a staging assembly including one or more actuators configured to position the injection assembly relative to the eye of the patient. A controller receives one or more images from the one or more imaging devices; detects a location of a limbus of the eye of the patient in the one or more images; and activate the one or more actuators to drive a needle into a placement location on the eye of the patient and dispense a drug into the eye through the needle.

Abstract: An ocular implant including a drug releasing element and having an inlet portion and a Schlemm's canal portion distal to the inlet portion, the inlet portion being disposed at a proximal end of the implant and sized and configured to be placed within an anterior chamber of a human eye, the Schlemm's canal portion being arranged and configured to be disposed within Schlemm's canal of the eye when the inlet portion is disposed in the anterior chamber.

Abstract: A system for assisting a surgeon performing intraocular surgery on an eye of a medical patient includes a robotic arm and a tool assembly at a working end of the robotic arm. The tool assembly can include a proximal end mounted to the robotic arm's working end, a distal end, and a narrow elongate support member extending between the tool assembly's proximal and distal ends. A motion controller is operable to move the robotic arm to extend the distal end and at least a portion of the support member through an incision site in a surface of the patient's eye, thereby to locate a visualization element at the distal end of the tool member at a position inside the patient's eye.

Abstract: Phacoemulsification apparatus, consisting of a phacoemulsification probe having a distal end including a combination of a needle and a sleeve, the combination being configured for insertion into an eye of a patient, and being configured for fluid transfer between the eye and the combination. The apparatus has an ultrasound actuator configured to vibrate the needle, a first sensor configured to output a first indication indicative of physical contact between the needle and a lens of the eye, and a second sensor configured to output a second indication indicative of a parameter associated with the fluid transferred by the combination. A microcontroller is configured to receive the first and the second indication, to calculate a threshold for the first indication in response to the second indication, and to activate and deactivate the ultrasound actuator in response to the first indication crossing the threshold.

Abstract: A hollow tip (10, 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, 10E, 10F, 10G) for use with a cannula (20, 20D, 20E, 20F, 20G) includes a sheath portion (30, 30A, 30B, 30C, 30D, 30E, 30F, 30G) for being affixed around an end of the cannula (20, 20D, 20E, 20F, 20G) and defining a central axis (38, 38A, 38B, 38C, 38D, 38E, 38F, 38G). The tip (10, 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, 10E, 10F, 10G) includes a terminal portion (34, 34A, 34B, 34C, 34D, 34E, 34F, 34G) extending from the sheath portion (30, 30A, 30B, 30C, 30D, 30E, 30F, 30G) along the central axis (38, 38A, 38B, 38C, 38D, 38E, 38F, 38G). The terminal portion (34, 34A, 34B, 34C, 34D, 34E, 34F, 34G) and the sheath portion (30, 30A, 30B, 30C, 30D, 30E, 30F, 30G) define an internal passage (42, 42A, 42B, 42D, 42E, 42F, 42G) communicating with at least one port (46, 46A, 46B, 46C, 46D, 46E, 46F, 46G) in the terminal portion (34, 34A, 34B, 34C, 34D, 34E, 34F, 34G) to permit fluid communication through the tip (10, 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, 10E, 10F, 10G).

Abstract: In certain embodiments, a system for calibrating the focal point of a laser beam comprises a laser, focusing optics, detector optics, a two-photon absorption (TPA) detector, and a computer. The laser generates the laser beam. The focusing optics direct the focal point of the laser beam along a z-axis towards a zero-surface corresponding to a zero-plane, and receives a portion of the laser beam reflected by the zero-surface. The detector optics receive the reflected portion from the focusing optics, and directs the reflected portion towards a TPA detector. The TPA detector senses the peak intensity of the reflected portion, which indicates a proximity of the focal point to the zero-surface, and generates a signal representing the peak intensity of the reflected portion. The computer determines whether the focal point of the laser beam is calibrated in response to the signal representing the peak intensity.

Abstract: Surgical apparatus for performing a microsurgery including a cannula having an intraocular portion. The intraocular portion connects to an infusion tube. The intraocular portion includes fenestrations at its distal end. The intraocular portion receives fluid through the infusion tube and dispenses the fluid through the fenestrations lessening the flow at an infusion site in an eye. The surgical apparatus includes a vitreous cutter. The vitreous cutter includes a suction tube at one end and a shaft at another end. The cutting port cuts vitreous into smaller pieces or a laser that liquefies the vitreous. The shaft receives the cut vitreous pieces and the suction tube draws out the cut vitreous pieces from the eye. The surgical apparatus includes a vitreoretinal surgical tool having a vitreoretinal cutter. The vitreoretinal cutter has a scissor-like or forceps-like mechanism. The vitreoretinal cutter holds and/or cuts a membrane in the eye during the microsurgery.

Abstract: The invention relates to a planning device for generating control data for a laser device of a treatment apparatus for refractive correction of an eye. The treatment apparatus (10) has a laser device (20) for modifying the cornea of the eye A by irradiating it with a pulsed laser beam (22), and a control device (30) for controlling the laser device. The control device is designed to control the laser device with a view to focusing the laser beam on target points of the cornea and modifying the cornea by means of photodisruption. The planning device is designed to determine at least one three-dimensional pattern of target points of the cornea, wherein the intrastromal photodisruption of a region of the cornea predefined by the pattern brings about a refractive correction of the eye treated by a pretreatment. A treatment apparatus, a method for generating control data, a method for refractive correction of an eye, and computer program products are also provided.

Abstract: In certain embodiments, an ophthalmic surgical system for adjusting a dimension of an eye includes a camera and a computer. The camera generates a surgical image of the eye in contact with a patient interface, which distorts the cornea. The surgical image includes the pupil with a real pupil diameter. The computer accesses a diagnostic image of the eye with the cornea having a natural curvature. The natural curvature affects the real pupil diameter to yield a diagnostic pupil diameter of the diagnostic image that is different from the real pupil diameter of the surgical image. The computer adjusts the real pupil diameter of the surgical image using an eye model to yield a refracted pupil diameter that takes into account the curvature of the cornea and uses the refracted pupil diameter to compensate for the difference between the diagnostic and real pupil diameters.

Abstract: Provided are goggles which protect a user's face from external substances. The goggles may include a frame part coupled along an edge of a lens part and a moisture removal part detachably attached to the frame part, wherein the moisture removal part may automatically remove moisture inside the frame part by discharging the moisture inside the frame part to an outside.

Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods can be employed to facilitate therapeutic procedures in the inner ear in order to treat otic disorders including, but not limited to, hearing loss and other car disorders. In some examples, the systems and methods include instruments and techniques that can be used to minimize the invasiveness of procedures performed in the inner ear.

Abstract: Wound closure systems, kits comprising the elements of the system and the method of closing wounds using the system, said wound closure system comprising a liquid curable skin bonding adhesive component and a waterproof, natural and/or synthetic skin bonding film wound dressing or covering component.

Abstract: Disclosed embodiments relate to apparatuses and methods for wound treatment. In certain embodiments, a negative pressure wound therapy apparatus can include a wound dressing comprising an absorbent layer comprising a plurality of portions of absorbent material that can be physically separate from each other. In some embodiments, a wound treatment apparatus can include an absorbent layer comprising a compressed portion configured to impede the flow of fluid therethrough. In some embodiments, a wound treatment apparatus can include an absorbent layer and spacer layer positioned side by side.

Abstract: Disclosed embodiments relate to apparatuses and methods for wound treatment. In certain embodiments, a negative pressure wound therapy apparatus includes one or more electronic components configured to be incorporated into layers of the wound dressing or integrated on top of the wound dressing. In some embodiments, a negative pressure source is incorporated into the wound dressing. The negative pressure source can be sealed between two moisture vapor permeable cover layers or enclosed in a moisture vapor permeable pouch, and may be received in a recess of an absorbent layer or spacer layer of a wound dressing apparatus.

Abstract: In one embodiment, an anatomical support device includes an elongate body. The elongate body includes a first portion extending along a longitudinal axis between a first end and an oppositely positioned second end, a first wing extending transversely from the first portion, and a second wing extending transversely from the first portion. An adhesive material is positioned on at least a portion of one side of the elongate body. The elongate body is rigid in a first direction extending in-line with the longitudinal axis and is stretchable in a second direction extending transversely to the longitudinal axis.

Abstract: Provided herein are smart functional fabrics and therapeutic/diagnostic garments which utilize flexible wireless electronic devices to enhance functionality, for example, by measuring key therapy parameters and providing data to clinicians, and methods utilizing such devices. The provided methods are designed to avoid patient discomfort and decrease harm or irritation caused by garments which utilize bulkier, more rigid sensors. Additionally, the described devices are multiplexed to allow for sensing of multiple parameters of therapeutic interest and combinations of measured data for new clinical metrics.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to an apparatus for manufacturing an absorbent core for an absorbent product, said absorbent core includes a fibrous material and particles dispersed throughout at least a portion of said fibrous material. The disclosure also relates to a particle redirector and a method of redirecting particles.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing disposable wearable articles includes: a step of carrying in a continuous direction a first continuous web for forming pocket members; a step of forming a pocket web by placing a first elastic member in a stretched state on the first continuous web; a cutting step of successively cutting the pocket web to obtain pocket members with a predetermined length; an orientation changing step of changing the orientation of the pocket members by turning the pocket member so that a carrying direction of the pocket member aligns with a width direction of the pocket member; a repitch step of increasing a spacing between mutually adjacent pocket members; and a placement step of placing the pocket members across a pair of three-dimensional gathers, wherein the cutting step, the orientation changing step, and the placement step are performed on a suction drum.

Abstract: “Incontinence detection system” is the title of our invention, described herein, which is designed to work along with any commercially available brief, for people having incontinence issues. The purpose of this complete incontinence management system is to provide a cost-effective solution by using sensor technology that automatically alerts caregivers to change the residents' diapers at precisely the right time. It uses a sensing system that wirelessly transmits individual wetness alerts to an application on a remote device. The system is ready for immediate use when detached from the soaked diaper, and brief changes are made at appropriate times offering the highest level of care to residents. The Pod allows for faster service delivery, less time spent in a wet brief, bringing great relief to residents and caregivers alike.

Abstract: Garments include a fluid retention assembly coupled to an interior side of a garment base, with said coupling not being present on an exterior side of the garment base. The fluid retention assembly includes two fluid-retention zones of different absorbencies. One or more fluid retention assemblies may be located anywhere on the garment, without being limited to positioning near edges or apertures. A moisture-impermeable layer of the fluid retention assembly separates the interior side of the garment base from the fluid retention zones, such that the moisture-impermeable layer is configured to restrict and/or at least substantially prevent fluid from exiting the fluid retention assembly to the exterior side of the garment base.

Abstract: An injury contact prevention band includes an injury cover portion, a fastening portion, and a hard cover portion. The injury cover portion covers a part of a body including an injury, has flexibility, elasticity and a thickness through which an injury opening hole cuts to expose the injury. The fastening portion fastens the injury cover portion to the body. The hard cover portion covers an outer surface of the injury cover portion, has hardness and a thickness through which an injury opening hole opening cuts. The fastening portion includes first and second fastening members and a connecting member. The first fastening member extends from an end of the injury cover portion. The second fastening member extends from another end of the injury cover portion. The connecting member detachably connects an end of the first fastening member and an end of the second fastening member to each other.

Abstract: A wheelchair securement system for a vehicle is provided, comprising a latch configured to grasp an axle of a wheelchair, actuators operatively coupled to the latch; and a controller configured to generate control signals that control movement of the actuators to place the latch in an operative position before the wheelchair enters the vehicle, the operative position comprising a location where the axle of the wheelchair can be grasped securely. Further, A method for securing a wheelchair in a vehicle is provided, the method comprising receiving wheelchair settings of a wheelchair to be secured in a vehicle, generating control signals according to the wheelchair settings, and communicating the control signals to an actuator of a wheelchair restraint, wherein the actuator moves the wheelchair restraint to secure the wheelchair according to the control signals.

Abstract: A powered balancing mobility device that can provide the user the ability to safely navigate expected environments of daily living including the ability to maneuver in confined spaces and to climb curbs, stairs, and other obstacles, and to travel safely and comfortably in vehicles. The mobility device can provide elevated, balanced travel.

Abstract: A multi-mode wheelchair includes a frame, two front wheels, two rear wheels and two driver units. The frame includes an intermediate unit for interconnecting two side units. The intermediate unit is movable between a collapsed position and an extended position. The front wheels are connected to the side units. The rear wheels are connected to the side units. The driver units are connected to the side units. Each of the driver units includes a motor located in a corresponding one of the rear wheels and a brake operable to stop the motor. The driver units are located between the rear wheels. A distance between the driver units is larger than a breadth of a user when the intermediate unit is in the extended position.

Abstract: Embodiments described herein are directed to posture assistance devices that may include a motor coupled to a frame, where the frame attaches to a wheelchair. In some cases, the devices include a shaft coupled to the motor, where the motor is configured to rotate the shaft. The devices can also include an extension arm attached to the frame, where the extension arm includes a redirection surface. The extension arm can be selectively adjustable to change the distance between the redirection surface and the shaft. The devices can also include a connection line coupled to the shaft and configured to engage with the redirection surface, such that rotation of the shaft changes a length a fed-out portion of the connection line. The connection line can also include an attachment mechanism that couples the connection line to a user.

Abstract: Provided is a fixing member used in a support structure (100) for a bed. The support structure includes a lower frame (10), an upper frame (20), a raising/lowering mechanism (30) configured to raise and lower the upper frame with respect to the lower frame and including a support shaft (312) extending in a width direction of the bed, and a supported member (221, 222) fixed to the upper frame and supported by the support shaft. The support shaft moves in a longitudinal direction of the bed while supporting the supported member when the upper frame is raised and lowered. The fixing member includes a plurality of fixing tools (S11 to S14) configured to fix the supported member to the upper frame. Each of the plurality of fixing tools includes a flexure element (SB) fixed to the upper frame at one end and fixed to the supported member at the other end, and a strain gauge (SG) attached to the flexure element.

Abstract: A modular patient support apparatus includes mechanisms, which provide advanced kinematics for moving portions of the patient support apparatus. The patient support apparatus includes a releasing assembly connected to the head deck section that assists in the raising and lowering of the head deck section by unlocking an adjustable-length strut. The patient support apparatus includes an over-center calf deck section mechanism that assists the user in pulling or holding calf deck section up when at or near a flat position, reducing the amount of input force needed to articulate the calf deck section, and self-retracting the calf deck section down when the calf deck section is at or near the fully articulated position.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an anti-bedsore device, characterised in that it comprises: an internal surface, an external surface, and a plurality of ribs made from an elastic material, attached to the internal surface and to the external surface, and located within the space defined between both surfaces, and oriented radially with respect to a central point, such that the space defined between the two surfaces forms a first cushioning chamber for cushioning a weight that is resting upon one of the surfaces.