Head Or Part Thereof Patents (Class 434/270)
  • Publication number: 20120276511
    Abstract: A wearable wound simulant for simulating a battlefield wound is presented. The simulant facilitates a graphically and functionally realistic medical training tool. The simulant includes a skin replica and a wound. The skin replica is shaped to conformably contact and cover a body region either in part or whole. The skin replica further includes a plurality of bendable layers arranged to approximately replicate the visual and tactile properties of human tissue and at least one tear resistant layer composed of a fabric material disposed between two bendable layers. At least one tear resistant layer is less stretchable than the elastic limit of the bendable layers so as to prevent failure thereof. The bendable and tear resistant layers form a self-sealing structure. A three-dimensional wound structure is disposed along the skin replica so as to replicate the appearance and functionality of a penetrating or non-penetrating injury.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2012
    Publication date: November 1, 2012
    Applicant: Techline Technologies, Inc. DBA MPS Techline of Pennsylvania, Inc.
    Inventors: David Parry, Daniel Parry
  • Patent number: 8235728
    Abstract: An apparatus for teaching and practicing an ophthalmologic surgical technique of creating the continuous curvilinear capsulorhexis comprises a flexible and removable cellophane-type cover, which is wrapped substantially around a putty-like malleable body to mimic the human anterior lens capsule and lens anatomy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Inventors: Stuart Stoll, Alexander Hatsis, Carlos Montoya, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20120088215
    Abstract: An otoscopic model is disclosed herein. In one embodiment, the otoscopic model includes an artificial ear, an artificial head and at least one tympanic membrane portion. The artificial ear includes a base portion and an ear portion extending from the base and having ear-like features including an auditory canal. The artificial head includes an opening adapted to receive the base portion. The at least one tympanic membrane portion includes an artificial tympanic membrane. The tympanic membrane portion is configured to be coupled with the artificial ear such that the artificial tympanic membrane is located relative to the auditory canal in a generally anatomically correct manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2011
    Publication date: April 12, 2012
    Applicant: COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY RESEARCH FOUNDATION
    Inventors: Fausto Bellezzo, Dean A. Hendrickson
  • Patent number: 8149236
    Abstract: Conventional information processing apparatuses have the problem of not being able to easily extract and observe a three-dimensional region of interest from 3D voxel data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: National University Corporation Nara Institute of Science and Technology
    Inventors: Megumi Nakao, Kotaro Minato
  • Publication number: 20120070814
    Abstract: A head model according to one example of an embodiment is a head model that may be provided for use in the calibration for a brain-imaging device, where a part corresponding to the skull and a part corresponding to at least one specific region of the brain are each formed by a continuous cavity with no cuts other than an opening for liquid injection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 6, 2010
    Publication date: March 22, 2012
    Inventors: Hidehiro Iida, Mayumi Nakazawa, Etsuko Imbayashi, Kenji Ishida
  • Patent number: 8055487
    Abstract: Methods of selecting a configuration of fixation and compression screws for a bone plate to be installed on a bone of a patient. A computer or website allows a user to load images of a fractured bone and specify a particular configuration of fixation and compression screws with a plate on the loaded bone. The computer replicates stresses imposed on the bone by regular activities using finite element analysis and provide information about the suitability of the selected configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Assignee: Smith & Nephew, Inc.
    Inventor: Anthony James
  • Publication number: 20110236866
    Abstract: An anesthetic injection training and testing system that allows a practitioner to simulate local anesthetic injections. The anesthetic injection training and testing system may operate in a testing mode or practicing mode. A model of a dental patient has locators dispersed within the model to represent deposition sites for anesthetic. A test tool operated by a practitioner is used to simulate an injection. The test tool operates in cooperation with the locators in order to determine the status of the simulated injection. The test tool and locators may use metal detection to determine the status.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2010
    Publication date: September 29, 2011
    Inventors: Gregory L. Psaltis, Dayna L. Dayton
  • Patent number: 7988452
    Abstract: A test head (10) for breathing mask testing includes a hard head part (12) formed of a hard material and includes a face side (18) and a soft face front (14) of a defined thickness applied to the face side (18) of the hard head part (12). The soft face front (14) has a simulated human face surface defining a mask seal contact surface (22). A breathing mask testing system is also provided including the testing head (10) including a human face surface defining a mask seal contact surface (18) and a mouth opening connected to a respiration tube (50). A testing device (32) is provided with a test head adapter (30) protruding from the testing device (32). The hard head part (12) has a support portion (29) with an adapter interface for the adapter (30). The adapter interface includes a rotational position fixing mechanism for fixing the hard head part (10) to the adapter (30) in one of a plurality of rotational positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: Dräger Safety AG & Co. KGaA
    Inventors: Roland Eiwen, Björn Ehler
  • Publication number: 20110165547
    Abstract: A training model for use in training to perform a medical procedure which is invasive of a skull, such as the insertion of an external ventricular drain or the evacuation of a subdural hematoma. The training model may comprise a base component defining a training component receptacle and a training component for mounting in the training component receptacle and comprising a skull section. Alternately, the training model may comprise the skull section or the training component in isolation. The skull section comprises an outer skull layer, a middle skull layer and an inner skull layer. The outer skull layer is constructed of an outer skull material which simulates osseous tissue when penetrated. The middle skull layer is constructed of a middle skull material which simulates marrow tissue when penetrated. The inner skull layer is constructed of an inner skull material which simulates osseous tissue when penetrated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2010
    Publication date: July 7, 2011
    Inventor: Darrin Allan HUDSON
  • Patent number: 7909610
    Abstract: A computer aided system of orthopedic surgery is disclosed and omnidirectional osteogenesis is provided as an example thereof. To perform this surgery a craniofacial anatomic surgical simulator (CASS) is described, in which simulator a stereolithographic medical model is mounted. The medical model hereof is modified for this purpose so that pre-operative intra-oral devices, including custom-fitted fixation plates, can be crafted. An occlusal splint formed on the stereolithographic model acts as an armature for a docking bar which is, during the surgical operation, rigidly affixed to the fixation plate(s). The CASS, in one embodiment hereof, includes an indexing means for alignment of the stereolithographic model. The CASS also simulates the temporomandibular joint and fixedly mounts segments of the model in a post-operative condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2011
    Assignee: Amato Craniofacial Engineering, LLC
    Inventor: Cyrus J. Amato
  • Publication number: 20100330546
    Abstract: The present invention is an obstructive sleep apnea demonstration model device for a user and a patient. The device includes a vertical display stand with a horizontal base, a vertical front surface and a horizontal flange, a vertical side profile base with a removed oral cavity portion attached to the display stand and disposed within the horizontal flange, a top movable side piece with an upper lip, a set of upper teeth, a hinge and a palate. The device also includes a back elongated movable side piece disposed behind the top side piece that hinges on the palate, a chin assembly side piece with a chin, a lower lip, a set of lower teeth and a tongue and an intraoral appliance that is placed between the upper teeth and the lower teeth to treat the patient with an obstructive sleep apnea condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2010
    Publication date: December 30, 2010
    Inventors: Charles Richard Lloyd, Richard Klein
  • Patent number: 7850455
    Abstract: Aspects of the present invention are directed to an anatomical model for training that includes a head portion; at least one auricle portion; at least one ear canal; and at least one cartridge. The at least one cartridge may be adaptable to mimic at least one pathology of the human ear, such as an eardrum perforation, a middle ear fluid, a cholesteatoma, a tumor, or earwax.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Assignee: University of Virginia Patent Foundation
    Inventors: Shayn Peirce Cottler, Bradley W. Kesser, Brian B. Hughley, Meg G. Keeley
  • Patent number: 7794230
    Abstract: A system and method of modeling a circulatory system including a regulatory mechanism parameter. In one embodiment, a regulatory mechanism parameter in a lumped parameter model is represented as a logistic function. In another embodiment, the circulatory system model includes a compliant vessel, the model having a parameter representing a change in pressure due to contraction of smooth muscles of a wall of the vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2010
    Assignee: University of Vermont and State Agricultural College
    Inventors: William D. Lakin, Scott A. Stevens
  • Patent number: 7731499
    Abstract: An ultrasound simulator to train radiologists and technologists to locate and recognize patent and fused cranial sutures. The model is formed, for example, using specially fabricated heads or from life-sized plastic doll heads. Simulated suture lines are cut in the heads in anatomically correct positions. The typical end-to-end morphology of the sagittal and metopic sutures and the typical beveled appearance of the paired coronal and lambdoid sutures are created by angling the cutting blade. The hypoechoic appearance of patent sutures in ultrasound images is simulated by filling the gaps that were formed by cutting with a hypoechoic material. Fused echoic sutures are simulated by leaving that portion of the doll's head uncut, or by filling the openings with an echoic material. When imaged using ultrasound, the portions cut and filled with a hypoechoic material are readily distinguishable from uncut portions, and from portions cut and filled with an echoic material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2010
    Assignee: University of Washington
    Inventors: Raymond W. Sze, Anh-Vu Ngo
  • Publication number: 20100120007
    Abstract: A fluid percussion system for modeling penetrating brain injury includes a fluid percussion device that takes inputs in the form of pressurized gas and electrical signals from a computer and outputs a single hydraulic pulse, or multiple hydraulic pulses in quick succession. The fluid percussion device may include a pneumatic cylinder assembly and a hydraulic cylinder assembly that is actuated by the pneumatic cylinder assembly to produce the hydraulic pulse(s) of pressurized fluid. Each pulse may be used to rapidly inflate and deflate an attached balloon (representing a brain penetrating device). The balloon may be inserted in a test specimen, and the rapid inflation and deflation of the balloon creates a lesion that simulates a penetrating brain injury. A calibration system that employs an optical sensor may be used to determine maximum balloon diameter achieved during rapid inflation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2008
    Publication date: May 13, 2010
    Applicant: The MITRE Corporation
    Inventors: Steven M. TASKOVICS, Brett H. Kobelin, Marc S. Pepi, Steven R. Mitchell
  • Publication number: 20090208915
    Abstract: A system for medical training includes an anatomical simulator modeled after at least a portion of a body, the simulator including at least one external surface, and at least one cavity in fluidic communication with the external surface via a cavity. The system further includes at least one internal sensor positioned at an internal location of the anatomical simulator, the internal sensor positioned to receive an internal input based on forces applied from within the cavity, at least one external sensor positioned at an external location of the anatomical simulator and to receive an external input based on forces applied to the external surface, and a feedback display system in communication with the sensors to simultaneously record external sensor readings from the at least one external sensor and internal sensor readings from the at least one internal sensor and at least one time measurement device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2009
    Publication date: August 20, 2009
    Inventor: Carla M. Pugh
  • Patent number: 7500755
    Abstract: A display apparatus includes a half mirror for allowing light incident from the rear to pass through to the front and reflecting light incident from the front toward the front, a display section placed at the rear of the half mirror, an image pickup section for picking up an image of the user and generating user image data, an image data retention section for retaining a plurality of pieces of attachment member image data, an image combining section for combining the attachment member image data selectively read from the image data retention section and the user image data to generate combined image data, and an image display control section for displaying the combined image data on the display section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2009
    Assignees: Pioneer Corporation, Pioneer Design Corporation
    Inventors: Hideaki Ishizaki, Wataru Takahashi, Kuniko Ushiro, Yuki Nagai
  • Patent number: 7494342
    Abstract: Provided is a demonstration apparatus comprising a top subassembly and a bottom subassembly. The top subassembly includes a reservoir adapted to contain a consumer product to be demonstrated. The consumer product has efficacy to produce a consumer-desired effect that is directly or indirectly observable. The bottom subassembly includes a vial containing a contaminant upon which the consumer product produces the consumer-desired effect. The top sub assembly and bottom subassembly are coupled to a reservoir seal element. Upon activation of the demonstration apparatus, the consumer product flows into the bottom subassembly and contacts the contaminant to produce the consumer-desired effect. Also provided, are a method of use for the demonstration apparatus and a kit containing the demonstration apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2009
    Assignee: The Clorox Company
    Inventors: Jennifer C. Julian, Elias A. Shaheen, Alan J. Fujii
  • Patent number: 7493835
    Abstract: A newborn dummy used in a dynamic test comprises a head, a spine member including a neck member connected to the head, a trunk mounted on said spine member at a lower part of the neck member and provided so as to cover the spine member and spaced apart from the spine member. An abdomen pressure sensor is provided close to the spine member at a part corresponding to an abdomen in the trunk so as to be spaced apart from the trunk.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2009
    Assignee: Graco Children's Products Inc.
    Inventors: Kenzou Kassai, Sachiyo Suzuki
  • Publication number: 20080241808
    Abstract: The present invention provides systems and methods to teach individuals information about items, including the human body and body parts utilizing edible prototypes, such as body parts constructed of chocolate. According to one embodiment, an educational learning kit is provided for teaching the different parts, textures and workings of at least one part of the human body, the kit comprising: an edible prototype of a body part, having at least two layers and being anatomically correct in texture and placement and an educational card corresponding to the body part containing information the contains information including the function of the body parts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2008
    Publication date: October 2, 2008
    Inventor: Anthony Badalucca
  • Publication number: 20080176198
    Abstract: A dental anesthesia simulator for dental procedure training is provided comprising a dental mannequin constructed of an acrylic material, comprising an upper and lower jaw portion covered by replaceable mucous membrane textures; a flexible position sensor for determining the location of an instrument, wherein the sensor means is located between the upper and lower jaw portions and the replaceable mucous membrane textures; and a processor means for processing information from the flexible position sensor regarding the location of the instrument.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2007
    Publication date: July 24, 2008
    Inventors: Murtuza Ansari, Abrar Adil
  • Patent number: 7291016
    Abstract: This invention relates to a device for simulating life-like conditions during eye surgery. The device includes a prosthetic head which includes an eye socket coupled to a fluid line adapted to create negative pressure or a vacuum in the eye socket. An eye for practicing surgical techniques can be placed in the socket and negative pressure used to hold the eye in the socket in a manner which feels analogous to the way an eye feels to a surgeon operating on a live human.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2007
    Assignee: United States of America as Represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventor: Clifton S. Otto
  • Patent number: 7191110
    Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for modeling circulation in a living subject. The method includes the steps of developing a model for living subjects in general and correcting the model to substantially conform to the overall cerebral physiology of the living subject. The method further includes the step of calculating a cerebral flow of the living subject based upon the corrected model and a selected cerebral blood flow perturbation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2007
    Assignee: University of Illinois, Board of Trustees
    Inventors: Fady T. Charbel, Marlyn E. Clark, Lewis Sadler, Noam Alperin, Francis Loth, Meide Zhao
  • Patent number: 7164347
    Abstract: A mannequin suitable for use as a hairdressing training tool including a head component, a hair portion, sensors for sensing undesirable characteristics such as high temperature or rapid movement, and signalling means for indicating the same to a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2007
    Inventor: Beverely Nita
  • Patent number: 6997718
    Abstract: An infant simulator with a neck linkage connecting the head to the torso which includes at least (a) a longitudinally extending central shaft fixedly attached to the torso proximate the lower end of the central shaft, (b) a socket fixedly attached to the head, (c) a ball fixedly attached to the central shaft and pivotally captured within the socket for permitting pivoting of the socket relative to the central shaft as between a longitudinally aligned central rest position and a longitudinally angled position, and (d) preferably a spring coaxially positioned around the central shaft and captured between the socket and the upper end of the central shaft, whereby the spring biases the socket into the longitudinally aligned central rest position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Assignee: Realityworks, Inc.
    Inventors: Timmothy Allen Boettcher, Jeremiah R. Bauer, Shane Edward Mooney, Joel Brian Roberts, Michael John Zaborowski
  • Patent number: 6957961
    Abstract: A manikin system is provided for testing product safety, and a method of making the manikin system is also provided. The manikin system includes a trunk portion and a plurality of body portions. The plurality of body portions includes a neck portion detachably connected to the trunk portion, a pair of arm portions detachably connected to the trunk portion, a hand portion detachably connected to each arm portion, a pair of leg portions detachably connected to the trunk portion, and a foot portion detachably connected to each leg portion. The body portions and trunk portion are formed of a bio-simulating material. Each of the body portions has selected characteristics and is removable and replaceable with another body portion having different characteristics. The manikin may provide accurate measurement of physical effects of hazardous conditions on a child and flexible and offer flexibility to change manikin test fixtures easily.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2005
    Assignee: Ram Consulting, Inc.
    Inventors: John E. Owens, Scott M. Milkovich, Daniel K. Stool
  • Publication number: 20040175685
    Abstract: An ultrasound simulator to train radiologists and technologists to locate and recognize patent and fused cranial sutures. The model is formed, for example, using specially fabricated heads or from life-sized plastic doll heads. Simulated suture lines are cut in the heads in anatomically correct positions. The typical end-to-end morphology of the sagittal and metopic sutures and the typical beveled appearance of the paired coronal and lambdoid sutures are created by angling the cutting blade. The hypoechoic appearance of patent sutures in ultrasound images is simulated by filling the gaps that were formed by cutting with a hypoechoic material. Fused echoic sutures are simulated by leaving that portion of the doll's head uncut, or by filling the openings with an echoic material. When imaged using ultrasound, the portions cut and filled with a hypoechoic material are readily distinguishable from uncut portions, and from portions cut and filled with an echoic material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2003
    Publication date: September 9, 2004
    Applicant: University of Washington
    Inventors: Raymond W. Sze, Anh-Vu Ngo
  • Patent number: 6582232
    Abstract: A model for demonstrating referred pain. A human cranium and jaw are jointed to show a temporomandibular joint and tensionable connectors show muscles such as a trapezius muscle, neck muscle and jaw muscle. Tension can be regulated to demonstrate the effect on muscle stress and subsequent pain when the temporomandibular joint is in central relation or is out of central relation with the teeth maintained in central occlusion. The model allows a patient, student or clinician to visualize and demonstrate the concept of muscle tension resulting from jaw position and referred pain. A method and apparatus is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2003
    Inventor: Marshall James Ney
  • Publication number: 20020164569
    Abstract: A paper-skull-model system for constructing a model of the human skull includes a plurality of elements representing various parts of the skull and adapted to be attached to each other. Each of the elements is adapted to be physically manipulated by a user of the system and has at least one marking disposed thereon. The system includes also a set of instructions to instruct the user how to physically manipulate each of the elements with respect to each marking and attach the elements together to construct the skull.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2002
    Publication date: November 7, 2002
    Inventors: Berlalan Dudas, John D. Colombo
  • Publication number: 20010008756
    Abstract: A device for training physicians in tympanocentesis is disclosed. The device includes an outer member resembling a side profile of a child's head and shoulder's area. The outer member is attached to a surface portion to define a receiving area for receiving a slidable inner member. A replica of at least an eardrum and ear canal of a child's inner ear is associated with the sliding inner member. A training portion of the inner member supports a simulated inner ear, positions the simulated inner ear to a desired position adjacent the outer ear of the outer member, and acts as a holder for the training cartridges used with the training device. The cartridges simulate the “look and feel” of popping through the tympanic membrane. The cartridges include one or more training areas. Two color distinct training materials are maintained within each training area of the top member of the cartridge. The first training material represents a desired safe puncture area for performing tympanocentesis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2001
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Inventors: Mitchell Auran, Steven Stull, Michael Pichichero
  • Patent number: 6241526
    Abstract: A device for training physicians in tympanocentesis is disclosed. The device includes an outer member resembling a side profile of a child's head and shoulder's area. The outer member is attached to a surface portion to define a receiving area for receiving a slidable inner member. A replica of at least an eardrum and ear canal of a child's inner ear is associated with the sliding inner member. A training portion of the inner member supports a simulated inner ear, positions the simulated inner ear to a desired position adjacent the outer ear of the outer member, and acts as a holder for the training cartridges used with the training device. The cartridges simulate the “look and feel” of popping through the tympanic membrane. The cartridges include one or more training areas. Two color distinct training materials are maintained within each training area of the top member of the cartridge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2001
    Assignee: Outcomes Management Educational Workshops, Inc.
    Inventors: Mitchell Auran, Steven Stull, Michael Pichichero
  • Patent number: 6238215
    Abstract: An infant simulator comprising a doll equipped with a realistically floppy neck and a means for sensing and recording or reporting instances in which the head has not been properly supported during handling and allowed to flop into an unacceptable bent position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Assignee: BTIO Educational Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Mary M. Jurmain, John C. Fusi
  • Patent number: 6192329
    Abstract: Children, particularly those younger than 4 years, frequently place foreign objects such as toys and small parts of consumer products in their mouths, nasal cavities and ear canals. These actions not infrequently lead to injury or death. To asses the risk of injury or death in children at the critical stages of child development, accurate computerized and physical models of anatomical areas including the oral cavity, orbit, ear canal and nasal passages that are most often severely injured by foreign body impaction are created. These computer and physical anatomical models are used in combination with computer and physical models of products to assess the possible hazards inherent in a product design and to communicate the risks associated with product design to manufacturers and marketing groups.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2001
    Assignee: Risk Analysis & Management
    Inventors: Eugene Rider, Daniel K. Stool
  • Patent number: 6089873
    Abstract: An infant simulator comprising a doll equipped with a realistically floppy neck and a means for sensing and recording or reporting instances in which the head has not been properly supported during handling and allowed to flop into an unacceptable bent position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2000
    Assignee: Baby Think It Over, Inc.
    Inventors: Mary M. Jurmain, John C. Fusi
  • Patent number: 5997307
    Abstract: A medical teaching apparatus enables medical students, physicians, and surgeons to hone their skills of examination and surgical procedures upon the human ear. This includes the tympanic membrane and also some structures of the human middle ear such as the malleus, the incus, and the stapes bones. The apparatus is in the form of a "book" like structure including two generally rectangular plates which can be joined by a hinge. When the book sections are closed one upon the other, abutting surfaces mate to sandwich a sheet of film therebetween that simulates a patient's tympanic membrane. Each of the sections has correspondingly sized and shaped openings through which a surgeon can insert an examination instrument or different types of surgical probes and instruments. One of the book sections carries an insert plug that reproduces structure of the patient's middle ear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1999
    Inventor: Francis E. LeJeune, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5941757
    Abstract: An infant simulator comprising a doll equipped with a realistically floppy neck and a means for sensing and recording or reporting instances in which the head has not been properly supported during handling and allowed to flop into an unacceptable bent position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 24, 1999
    Assignee: Baby Think It Over, Inc.
    Inventors: Mary M. Jurmain, John C. Fusi
  • Patent number: 5846087
    Abstract: An anatomical simulator useful in training proper tracheostomy and nasogastric tube placement and tracheostomy tube cuff inflation is disclosed. The simulator includes a simulated trachea and simulated esophagus separated by a simulated tracheoesophageal wall. The simulated wall is flexible, such that when a tracheostomy tube is positioned therein and a cuff thereon is overinflated, the wall extends outwardly in the direction of the simulated esophagus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 8, 1998
    Assignee: Passy-Muir, Inc.
    Inventor: Andrew J. Scherer
  • Patent number: 5810601
    Abstract: A dental hygiene display for instructing and educating children on the proper toothbrush stroke technique, brushing duration, and stroke location including a human mouth figure with toothbrush motion simulation utilizing a liquid crystal display a speech processor and a piezo-electric sound emitting devise. The toothbrush stroke movements are simulated by multiple liquid crystal display segments activated and de-activated in sequence. The multiple liquid crystal display is repeated at various locations within the mouth. Additionally, a microprocessor circuit is provided for controlling of the crystal displays, brush stroke, speed, duration, and location within the mouth, as well as the speech processor and the piezo-electric sound emitting device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1998
    Inventor: John Miles Williams
  • Patent number: 5766017
    Abstract: A dental teaching and practicing simulator comprising a stationery work bench having a work surface and a completely enclosed storage compartment. The storage compartment has a door with locking means thereon to restrict access to the storage compartment. The dental simulation and teaching equipment is mounted on a slide mechanism which can be stored within the compartment and slid out therefrom for utilization. The dental simulation and teaching equipment comprises a mannequin head, a torso, handpieces, and vacuum tools which are normally used in dentistry. The dental simulation and teaching equipment can be stored and locked in the storage compartment such that access thereto is limited. Thus, a safe and secure environment is provided for the equipment until its authorized use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1998
    Assignee: Nevin Laboratories, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert L. Nevin, Denis M. Sexton
  • Patent number: 5704791
    Abstract: A virtual surgery system or virtual testing system provides a simulation or test based on image data. A simulator combined with a real exam requires simulation tasks by a test taker. Additionally, a surgical procedure may be simulated using image data of a patient in devices simulating the physical instruments a surgeon uses in performing the actual procedure, for example. The user input device, such as a mouse, three dimensional mouse, joystick, seven dimensional joystick, fall size simulator, etc., can be used in a virtual simulation to move through the image data while the user looks at the data and interaction of the input device with the image data on a display screen. Force feedback can be provided based on based on physical constraint models (of the anatomy, for example), or based on edge and collision detection between the virtual scope or virtual tool used by the operator and walls or edges of the image data in the image space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 6, 1998
    Inventor: Robert G. Gillio
  • Patent number: 5662477
    Abstract: A puppet for demonstrating the preferred positioning of oral anatomical structures (e.g., mouth, tongue, hard palate, incisor teeth) when making various audible phonetic sounds. Generally, the puppet comprises a puppet body having an upper jaw, a lower jaw, an oral cavity, a tongue, and at least one tooth extending downwardly from the upper jaw. A hand insertion passageway is formed in the puppet body and leads into a plurality of digit-receiving spaces or pouches formed in the upper jaw, tongue and lower jaw. Thus, the user's hand may be inserted into the puppet such that selected digits of the user's hand become positioned within selected ones of the digit-receiving spaces. Thereafter the digits of the user's hand may be moved or manipulated to cause the desired movement and relative positioning of the oral anatomical structures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 2, 1997
    Inventor: Janet A. Miles
  • Patent number: 5513992
    Abstract: The apparatus includes a probe that has an area of linear contact with the skin of a mannequin along a longitudinal axis. The mannequin includes means for activation of a group of at least two sensors by the probe. The invention provides for at least two probe orientations. The apparatus further allows one to visualize deep organs with images of real clinical cases that are stored in a audio-visual memory.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 7, 1996
    Inventor: Denis Refait
  • Patent number: 5505623
    Abstract: An anatomical display apparatus includes a three-dimensional model simulating at least a portion of a human or animal body and within which is located a body part, region, tissue and/or organ of interest. A plurality of images of the body part, each showing the body part in a different state or condition such, for example, as before, during and/or after a therapeutic treatment, are carried on a movable support disposed within the model. The support is selectively movable under user manipulation or control so as to transport a selected one of the plural images into suitable juxtaposition with an opening or passageway defined in and through the model and thereby permit an observer located externally of the model to view the selected image within the model through the passageway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 9, 1996
    Inventors: Milton Chernack, Daniel Stool, Therese Santoro
  • Patent number: 5380207
    Abstract: A kit for practicing ophthalmic suturing technique simulates the anterior portion of a human eye having a torn iris. The kit comprises a workpiece having a planar board with two elastic bands attached at their ends to the board in spaced, parallel relation to one another whereby the lengths of the bands between their ends may be moved with respect to the board. A transparent dome is attached at its perimeter to the board in covering, centered relation to the elastic bands. The dome includes first and second, axially aligned holes formed therethrough with the common axis of the holes extending transversely to the longitudinal extensions of the bands. The space between the elastic bands represents a tear in the iris with the transparent dome representing the anterior portion of an eye. A length of simulated suture is manipulated through the holes in the dome to close the space between the bands using a suture handling tool in the shape of a hooked crochet needle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1995
    Inventor: Steven B. Siepser
  • Patent number: 5342202
    Abstract: Process for modelling cranio-facial architecture on the basis of a lateral cephalometric X-ray by determining bony points and plotting analysis lines, measuring the angles and comparing them with thresholds and measuring the lengths and comparing the lengths with one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 30, 1994
    Inventor: Marie-Josephe Deshayes
  • Patent number: 5320535
    Abstract: A mannequin head for use in make-up practice instead of a human body. The mannequin head has at least one human-face-like face section either on the rear or front surface thereof. With the single mannequin head of this invention, a variety of make-up practice can be done. With this single mannequin of this invention, the make-up practice can be effectively done and a user can have an economical benefits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 14, 1994
    Inventor: Byueng D. Min
  • Patent number: 5320529
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for locating and surgically positioning a hole for an implant and holder in a jawbone of a patient includes constructing a model of a jawbone. A structure is located within the model depicting variations in density within the jawbone. A hole is drilled into the model based on the location of the structure. A rod is placed into the hole and a guide template is fabricated around the model which forms a bore around the rod. The guide template is placed onto the jawbone of the patient and a hole is drilled through the bore into the jawbone to make a hole in the jawbone along the same path as the hole in the model for receiving the implant and holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 14, 1994
    Assignee: Howard C. Weitzman
    Inventor: Daniel G. Pompa
  • Patent number: 5259765
    Abstract: The present invention is a biofidelic manikin neck comprising a butyl rubber beam inserted between an aluminum base and an aluminum top, with a stainless steel cable assembly in the middle of the beam connecting the top to the base. In a first preferred embodiment of the present invention, a pivot joint is bolted to a lug in the neck top. The joint is attached to a head mounting plate to provide head nodding action. An outer cylinder, comprised of a thick sheet of butyl rubber attached vertically around the head mounting plate and the neck base, allows the head moment to respond to the angle between the head and the torso. A second preferred embodiment of the present invention uses a torsion release swivel joint instead of a pivot joint, and uses additional strips of butyl rubber to stiffen the neck response. A third preferred embodiment uses a rectangular inner beam, and a roughly oval-shaped outer support structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1993
    Assignee: Simula Inc.
    Inventor: Marvin K. Richards
  • Patent number: 5238409
    Abstract: A valve means (1) is disclosed for use in a teaching manikin to simulate an open and closed airway of the human throat. The valve means comprises a section with a hollow passage and two end openings. A first opening fits onto a manikin head and a second opening seats on a sealing surface. When the head is tilted back the valve means (1) lifts to open the second end to permit the flow of air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 24, 1993
    Assignee: Actar Airforce Inc.
    Inventors: Richard A. Brault, Dianne B. Croteau
  • Patent number: 5199877
    Abstract: A "heart" unit serving as a partial analog system of the human body for demonstrating physiological events which occur during the growth of a brain tumor, including cardiac and respiratory failure during rapid tumor growth, for teaching purposes and the like, including an analog of the heart with fluid pumping means for inducing a pulsing flow; an analog of the respiratory muscles with means for inducing a secondary pressure pulse; an analog of the circulatory system including circulating fluid upon which said analog heart induces a pulsing flow and said respiratory muscles induce a pressure oscillation; an analog of the cranial cavity; an analog of a brain tumor with supplemental means for displacing a portion of the intracranial cavity; and an analog of the cerebral fluid within analog ventricles with means to flow in and out of the cranial cavity via analog subarachnoid paths to equalize cerebral pressure with the circulatory system pressure outside of the cranial cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1991
    Date of Patent: April 6, 1993
    Inventor: W. Randolph Page