Body Suits Patents (Class 600/20)
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Patent number: 12239174Abstract: Medical protective clothing, including a protective clothing body. The protective clothing body includes a hood part, a neck part, a top, pants, shoe cover parts, and sleeves, and is formed by sewing the hood part, the neck part, the top, the pants, the shoe cover parts and the sleeves in sequence. The hood part includes an air exchange assembly. The sidewall of the top is separated from the back of the medical personnel by means of airbag ribs, thus preventing the sweaty back from being in contact with the sidewall of the top to make the people feel uncomfortable when the protective clothing is worn for a long time in summer.Type: GrantFiled: February 9, 2023Date of Patent: March 4, 2025Assignee: WUXI CENTER FOR DISEASE CONTROL AND PREVENTIONInventor: Chao Shi
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Patent number: 12209336Abstract: Garments having active and passive knitted rows can provide desired levels of compression. Garments made of active and passive knitted rows can provide dynamic levels of compression with respect to both location and over time to address a variety of conditions.Type: GrantFiled: February 24, 2022Date of Patent: January 28, 2025Assignee: Regents of the University of MinnesotaInventors: Rachael Margaret Granberry, Kevin Eschen, Julianna Abel, Bradley Holschuh
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Patent number: 12128268Abstract: A hands-free human exercise apparatus and method, including a method of use. The stretching apparatus and method promote beneficial stretching of ambulatory muscles for a broad spectrum of users, to maintain and increase flexibility and dexterity, improved joint health, mobility, or pain management, and facilitating greater balance and proprioception and stimulating rehabilitation. The apparatus includes a multi-directional, multi-configurable, and adjustable harness comprising a one or dual strap configuration having a unique multi-joint activating foot anchor. The apparatus and method facilitate stretching of a single leg, or both legs, through the ambulatory chain of muscles and joints, and with the foot anchor exploiting the flexion of the spine, full extension of the leg and pelvis, and the full flexion of the user's foot.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2022Date of Patent: October 29, 2024Inventor: Teo Biele
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Patent number: 11910864Abstract: A helmet assembly for a spacesuit or other protective suit is disclosed. In embodiments, the helmet assembly includes an external face shield attachable to the spacesuit and providing the spacesuit user with a forward field of view. The helmet assembly includes suit status displays hard-mounted to the external face shield at a periphery or edge of the forward field of view (e.g., upper, lower, left, right). Each suit status display includes a linear or one-dimensional array of individual light emitting diodes (LED) in communication with a suit controller of the spacesuit. Each LED array receives from the suit controller suit status data (e.g., consumables levels, suit performance, position data) communicated to the user by illuminating one or more of the individual LED units.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2021Date of Patent: February 27, 2024Assignee: Rockwell Collins, Inc.Inventor: Christopher A. Keith
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Patent number: 11889875Abstract: Acceleration protective trousers or G-protective trousers are double-walled forming airtight compartments. The trousers include an air-permeable, tear-resistant, fire-resistant and low-stretch synthetic textile material, and the trousers are provided with compartments which can be inflated into a circular cross-section. These compartments act as muscles by two opposite edges being pulled together and the adjacent pieces of textile material being stretched. These compartments extend along the trouser legs and are connected at the upper end of the trouser legs. The compartments on the outer sides of the trouser legs extend upwards from the groins and terminate in a bag-like bladder towards the lower abdomen. On the rear side of the trousers they communicate with one another via a connecting channel. A coccyx channel branches off downwards and extends towards the crotch. The compartments communicate via at least one hose with raccord with an automatically meterable compressed air supply.Type: GrantFiled: August 25, 2020Date of Patent: February 6, 2024Inventor: Patrick G. Beyeler
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Patent number: 11834182Abstract: A protective aviation garment is designed to protect a crewmember during flight. The garment includes a bladder layer which retains a pressurized fluid and applies pressure to the user. The bladder layer is semi-permeable, being impermeable to both oxygen and nitrogen and permeable to water vapor. A first fluid tube is formed as part of the bladder layer to deliver the pressurized fluid to the interior of the bladder layer. A cover layer is formed from a fire-retardant fabric surrounding the exterior of the bladder layer. The cover layer is sealed around the first fluid tube and allows the first fluid tube to pass therethrough. The thigh seals are configured to seal the bladder layer to the user such that the bladder layer forms a lower volume and an upper volume. The first fluid tube delivers the first pressurized fluid to the lower volume.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 2021Date of Patent: December 5, 2023Assignee: David Clark Company IncorporatedInventor: Shane E. Jacobs
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Patent number: 11786686Abstract: An interface assembly comprises a nasal mask that includes a seal having a rolling portion. The rolling portion of the seal rolls over a portion of a clip that secures the seal to a frame. The frame has a ball and socket connection to a connector. The connector comprises an elbow having integrally formed exhaust holes and a swivel.Type: GrantFiled: April 23, 2020Date of Patent: October 17, 2023Assignee: Fisher & Paykel Healthcare LimitedInventors: Craig Robert Prentice, Bernard Tsz Lun Ip, Richard Boyes, Thomas Richardson, Gareth McDermott
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Patent number: 11344084Abstract: A boot-binding system includes a sole plate, integrated into an inner boot, that mates to a second sole plate that may be integrated into the floor of a pressurized vehicle or integrated into an outer boot configuration also referred to as a surface boot, a spring loaded pin/bushing arrangement couples the sole plates, while a latching mechanism located on the surface boot sole plate captures the heel of the inner boot sole plate against a spring loaded heel plate integrated into the surface boot sole plate that presses upwards against the inner boot heel.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 2020Date of Patent: May 31, 2022Inventors: Thomas J Stapleton, Lynne Ann Stapleton
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Patent number: 11331529Abstract: A physical training system includes a belt for fixing around the waist of a person and that includes a plurality of belt extension straps each adapted for fixing with the belt at any location therearound and preferably adjustable in length. Two shoes are adapted for wearing on the person's feet, each shoe including at least four attachment loops at opposing quadrants of the shoe and optional shoe extension straps. A plurality of elastomeric bands are selectively fixable between any of the belt extensions straps and the attachment loops or shoe extension straps of the shoes. A shoulder harness comprising two straps is included for attachment to and positioning of the belt. As such, in use, the person while running experiences resistance as each leg extends into a fully extended position, and a reduction or cessation of resistance as each leg retracts into a non-extended position.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2020Date of Patent: May 17, 2022Inventor: Christopher T. Cranke
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Patent number: 11280031Abstract: Garments having active and passive knitted rows can provide desired levels of compression. Garments made of active and passive knitted rows can provide dynamic levels of compression with respect to both location and over time to address a variety of conditions.Type: GrantFiled: July 16, 2018Date of Patent: March 22, 2022Assignee: Regents of the University of MinnesotaInventors: Rachael Margaret Granberry, Kevin Eschen, Julianna Abel, Bradley Holschuh
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Patent number: 11097142Abstract: The exercise device of the present invention has a first assembly with a first strap configured to encircle a user's first bodily appendage, such as a thigh or a foot, with the first strap having a first attachment ring. The exercise device also has a second assembly with a second strap configured to encircle a user's second bodily appendage, such as a foot, with the second strap having a plurality of second attachment rings. The exercise device also has one or more elastic resistance bands configured for connecting at one end to the first attachment ring and at an opposite second end to one of the plurality of second attachment rings. Exercises with the device have the user moving between starting positions and finishing positions against the resistance of the bands.Type: GrantFiled: May 28, 2019Date of Patent: August 24, 2021Inventor: Rebecca Shouhed
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Patent number: 10881606Abstract: A composition for transdermal delivery, particularly iontophoretic transdermal delivery, having at least one cationic active agent or a salt thereof. The composition comprises at least one cationic active agent or a salt thereof, at least one polyamine and/or polyamine salt, water or an aqueous solvent mixture, and optionally one or more additives. Use of the composition as a component of a transdermal patch or of an iontophoretic transdermal patch is also provided, as well as the use of the composition in a method for transdermally or iontophoretically administering cationic active agents. A method for determining the in vitro skin permeation properties of an active agent-containing iontophoretic composition is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 2009Date of Patent: January 5, 2021Assignee: LTS Lohmann Therapie-Systeme AGInventors: Christoph Schmitz, Mohammad Sameti, Andreas Koch, Michael Horstmann
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Patent number: 10881607Abstract: The invention relates to a composition for transdermal delivery, particularly iontophoretic transdermal delivery, of at least one cationic active agent or a salt thereof. The composition includes at least one cationic active agent or a salt thereof, at least one polyamine or/and polyamine salt, water or an aqueous solvent mixture, and optionally one or more additives. The invention further relates to the use of such composition as a component of a transdermal patch or of an iontophoretic transdermal patch, as well as to the use of such composition in a method for transdermally and/or iontophoretically administering cationic active agents. The invention further includes methods for determining the in vitro skin permeation properties of an active-agent-containing iontophoretic composition.Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 2019Date of Patent: January 5, 2021Assignee: LTS Lohmann Therapie-Systeme AGInventors: Christoph Schmitz, Mohammad Sameti, Andreas Koch, Michael Horstmann
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Patent number: 10688334Abstract: A stretch exercise system includes a waist harness, an upper limb extension unit having a right and a left upper limb elastic straps which are set symmetrically on the waist harness, a wrist loop, a lower limb extension unit having a right and a left lower limb elastic strap units which are set symmetrically on the waist harness, two Achilles tendon retro-stretch angle units connecting with the right and the left lower limb elastic strap units respectively, and two sole fastening units set thereon respectively to hold feet of a user. When the system is operated, a static balance is reached with a force applied on the upper limb extension unit and a force applied on the Achilles tendon retro-stretch angle units by the user.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 2018Date of Patent: June 23, 2020Inventor: Yu-Fen Huang
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Patent number: 9700750Abstract: A fitness device comprises a waist belt configured to fit around a user's waist and at least one resilient leg loop member. The resilient leg loop member has a proximal end movably anchored to the waist belt at a posterior position. The resilient leg loop member has an opposite distal end configured for coupling with one of the user's feet. The fitness device causes a predetermined resistance force to be generated against the user's movement when the user extends the leg loop member beyond its length at rest. In some embodiments, two resilient leg loop members are provided. Methods of using the exercise device are also described.Type: GrantFiled: January 16, 2014Date of Patent: July 11, 2017Assignee: Star Body LLCInventors: Dominic Banks, Manju Morrissey
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Patent number: 9326911Abstract: A compression integument for applying controllable intermittent sequential compression to the limbs of a user comprises an elongated fabric body sized to encircle a limb of a user, one or more compressible pads affixed to a surface of the fabric body facing the limb when the fabric body is wrapped around the limb; one or more tensioning elements integrated into the fabric body or compressible pads and arranged to encircle the limb when the fabric body is wrapped around the limb, and a micro-processor based actuator for selectively actuating the one or more tensioning elements to reduce the effective diameter of the tensioning elements encircling the limb, to thereby apply pressure to the limb by way of the compressible pads.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 2013Date of Patent: May 3, 2016Assignee: Recovery Force, LLCInventors: Matthew W. Wyatt, Lewis Tyson Ross
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Patent number: 9271890Abstract: A compression garment apparatus for a body part of an human and/or animal having a flexible backing, attaching means, a segmented flex frame, and a shape memory alloy on the segmented flex frame. The shape memory alloy can be connected to two terminals on the frame forming a circuit. A controller can be connected to the terminals applying current to the shape memory alloy at defined intervals providing intermittent, sequenced, or continuous compression therapy.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 2015Date of Patent: March 1, 2016Assignee: Compression Kinetics, Inc.Inventors: John C. Pamplin, Robert Glenn Dennis
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Patent number: 9186536Abstract: A training device includes a belt for attachment about the waist of a user. The belt includes a first end and a second end. The training device also includes a plurality of resilient straps positioned between the belt and a first foot engaging platform and a second foot engaging platform.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2013Date of Patent: November 17, 2015Inventor: Kenneth L. Strachan
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Patent number: 9070270Abstract: Methods, systems, and products track equipment used during surgical procedures. An allowable zone associated with a surgical procedure is identified. The allowable zone determines where surgical items may be used during the procedure. A location of a surgical item is determined. When the location is outside the allowable zone, an alarm is triggered to indicate the surgical item is moving outside the allowable zone towards an area in which the surgical item may not be used.Type: GrantFiled: July 14, 2014Date of Patent: June 30, 2015Assignee: AT&T Intellectual Property I, L.P.Inventors: Barrett M. Kreiner, Jonathan L. Reeves
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Publication number: 20130310633Abstract: —The suit according to the invention consists of a sheath of an expansible material, which has compartments formed by virtue of the sheath being doubled. A strip of textile material is applied to the inside, or outside, of the sheath. These compartments consist of the same material as the sheath or of an expansible knitted fabric. Flexible tubes which expand under pressure are introduced into these compartments. The first-mentioned compartments, with material which can expand on one side, act as so-called spacers and act as displacers for tightening the protective suit over the wearer's body. The second-mentioned compartments act as muscles and press locally onto the wearer's body. The compartments are drawn together and tighten the sheath to generate an altitude-optimized pressure. These second-mentioned compartments tighten the acceleration protection suit to an increasing extent until the tension ? around the wearer's body builds up the internal pressure.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 18, 2011Publication date: November 21, 2013Applicant: G-NIUS LTD.Inventor: Andreas Reinhard
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Patent number: 8366600Abstract: A patch and compositions for iontophoresis of triptan compounds are described.Type: GrantFiled: June 19, 2008Date of Patent: February 5, 2013Assignee: NuPathe Inc.Inventors: Terri B. Sebree, Michael Horstmann, Mohammad Sameti
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Patent number: 7556040Abstract: A hyperbaric capsule has a base forming a seat that can be enclosed by an elongate oval canopy having a large transparent window formed therein. The bottom of the front of the canopy is pivotally attached to the front of the base by a hinge assembly and can be locked in the closed position on the base by a plurality of latches that are conjointly operated by an external lever and an internal lever. The weight of the canopy upon opening is borne by a pair of side gas or spring struts.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2003Date of Patent: July 7, 2009Assignee: Oxygen Therapy International Pty Ltd.Inventors: Allan Dolph Meyer, Norman Michael Berry, Martin James Davidson
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Publication number: 20080275291Abstract: An acceleration protection suit having a sparingly extensible outer layer with veins running essentially along a bodily axis of a wearer which deforms when pressurized in such a way as to generate a tension in the sparingly extensible outer layer, with which pressure can be exerted on the wearer to offset G-forces. Means are provided for tightening and adjusting the protective suit to the wearer. At least part of the veins are permeable to gas at least in spots on a side facing the wearer so that the wearer can be air-conditioned by exiting gas when the veins are pressurized.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 13, 2005Publication date: November 6, 2008Applicant: Yamanashi UniversityInventor: Andreas Reinhard
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Patent number: 7270125Abstract: The invention enables testing of nearly all aircrew equipment including COMBAT EDGE system components which include a mask, a G-suit, communication systems, and a goggle. A gas system includes an input filter, a first compressor comprising at least one blower, preferably three blowers connected in series, a second compressor, a first flow sensor, a second flow sensor, a first flow valve, a second flow valve, a regulator, a first pressure sensor, a second pressure sensor, a first pressure valve, a second pressure valve, and a controller. The second compressor produces a lower flow at a higher pressure than the first compressor. When the G-suit inflates, initially there is a large change in volume without much change in pressure, and then, as the G-suit fills and becomes firm, the change in volume slows down and the rate of the pressure increases. A normal breathing test, a preflight test, a fit test, a G-suit leak test and two dynamic flow leak tests are conducted.Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 2004Date of Patent: September 18, 2007Assignee: Scot IncorporatedInventor: Clifford L. Jordan
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Patent number: 6993791Abstract: An altitude protection device for an acceleration protection suit having a plurality of liquid-filled veins is comprised of a bladder inserted in a pocket. A spacer fabric that is non-compressible under the loads to be provided is enclosed in the pocket and defines a minimum volume inside the bladder. The bladder is closed off or opened relative to surrounding air in the aircraft cabin via a valve that is opened if a rate of pressure change in the cabin is less than or equal to a presettable maximum value, and closed if the rate of pressure change is greater than the value. If the valve closes and the pressure falls further, air located in the bladder inflates the bladder and pocket, increasing tensile stress in the fabric, and thereby raising the internal pressure of the veins resulting in increased internal pressure in the entire acceleration protection suit.Type: GrantFiled: July 15, 2002Date of Patent: February 7, 2006Assignee: LSS Life Support Systems AGInventors: Andreas Reinhard, Wendelin Egli
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Patent number: 6757916Abstract: A pressure-applying garment particularly suited for locating and applying pressure to transmitters is formed by a main inflatable bladder inflated to first pressure to press its inner wall toward a wearer and conform the inner wall to contours of said wearer and to apply the desired pressure between the wearer and a transmitter interposed between the main bladder and the wearer. A plurality of auxiliary inflatable bladders positioned relative to the main bladder and oriented to having their inner walls facing toward said wearer. The auxiliary bladders are provided with separate inflating systems so that at least some of said auxiliary bladders are inflated to a selected pressure different from (higher than) the first pressure to deform inner wall of its auxiliary bladder to conform with and press towards adjacent portions of said wearer and preferably to apply the desired pressure between the wearer and a transmitter interposed between the auxiliary bladder and the wearer.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 2002Date of Patent: July 6, 2004Assignee: Mustang Survival Corp.Inventors: Donald Mah, Rita Ciammaichella, Ping Yin Sheu
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Patent number: 6742193Abstract: A method of fabricating an articulated joint for a pressure vessel, especially a pressure suit, by separately forming a structural fabric and a gas barrier layer into a series of alternating peaks and valleys. The structural fabric can be formed into the three dimensional shape by patterning or heat shrinkage. The resulting articulated joint, pressure vessels and pressurized suits are also described.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2001Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Assignee: ILC Dover, Inc.Inventors: David Graziosi, Donald R. Cohee, Steven M. Lloyd
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Patent number: 6695762Abstract: An anti-G pressure garment system incorporates an inflatable pressure bladder covering portions of the wearer's body. The bladder is provided with an area made of a first material formed by a flexible air and liquid impermeable, vapor permeable, micro-porous material that facilitates the passage of water vapor therethrough whereby pressurized gas will be retained by the said bladder and water vapor adjacent said inside layer will pass through said material into the interior of the bladder. The bladder also includes a second area made of liquid impermeable, air and water vapor permeable material so that the second area permits a preselected amount of controlled leakage from the bladder to the wearer while maintaining adequate pressure in the bladder.Type: GrantFiled: December 5, 2002Date of Patent: February 24, 2004Assignee: Mustang Survival CorpInventors: Donald Mah, Paul Higginbotham, Jason Bryan Leggatt, Ping Yin Sheu
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Patent number: 6450944Abstract: The suit according to the invention comprises, as well as a textile lining and a skin made of low stretch textile material, a double walled skin lying between them, made of moderately stretchable watertight material. The latter is made of walls, which are joined together at connection positions for instance by welding. The mutually communicating hollow spaces arising thereby in the double walled skin are filled with a fluid. The suit is closed by zip fasteners (17, 19) and by shoulder straps (18). Short zip fasteners (26) in the crotch facilitate putting on the suit. The front part (20), armlets (21) thorax part (24) can be equipped with various structures of connecting positions, which however are arranged similarly on both halves of the suit. All the named parts (20, 21, 24) can be provided each with two valves (22, 23) for filling with the fluid and for ventilation.Type: GrantFiled: April 26, 2000Date of Patent: September 17, 2002Assignee: LSS Life Support Systems AGInventor: Andreas Reinhard
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Patent number: 6419622Abstract: The suit according to the invention comprises, as well as a textile lining and an oversuit, an active part lying between them. This is at least partly made from a layer (3) on the body side and a layer (4) away from it, both of a fluid-tight, low stretch textile material, which are connected to each other at connection positions (6) by gluing, welding or sewing and thereby create hollow spaces (5), which are filled with fluid through valves (16, 17). Between regions, which comprise the layers (3, 4), for instance the upper part (14) and the front part (15), joining parts can be arranged, which transmit tensile forces only. This builds up a compensating pressure proportional to the acceleration working in the momentary and local direction on the parts of the body lying beneath and thus takes the load off the organism of the pilot arising from the effects of such accelerations.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2000Date of Patent: July 16, 2002Assignee: LSS Life Support Systems AGInventor: Andreas Reinhard
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Patent number: 6387704Abstract: For use in a sorption analysis system, a method compensating for measuring error due to the time-dependent evaporation of liquid coolant and the resulting change in the level of the coolant and temperature increase around the stem of the sample cell, during a gas sorption analysis of a sample in the sample cell. This error compensation does not inhibit coolant evaporation and is without recourse to mechanical means or other physical contrivances for causing the system to act as if the coolant were not evaporating. This method employs fixed and time-dependent data, including: changing coolant level and sample cell stem temperature changes, both of which can be obtained off-line, cold zone volume changes, and volumes of adsorptive gas transferred into the sample cell, to generate progressive error correction; whereby, system output is being corrected throughout the duration of the sorption analysis.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 2000Date of Patent: May 14, 2002Assignee: Quantachrome CorporationInventors: Martin A. Thomas, Nicholas N Novella, Seymour Lowell
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Patent number: 6325754Abstract: The active part of the suit comprises in part one layer (3, 4) facing the body and another one facing away from it, both of a gas-tight, low stretch textile material, which are joined together at connecting positions (6) by gluing, welding or sewing and thereby create hollow spaces (5), which are connected together via valves (18) and can be put under pressure. Between the regions, which comprise the layers (3, 4)—bands (11, 12)—connecting parts (7) are arranged, which transmit tensile forces only. If the hollow spaces (5) are put under a gas pressure proportional to the z-acceleration, then the suit builds up a compensating applied pressure and thus frees the organism of the pilot from the loading effects of such accelerations. By a suitable choice of the width of the bands (11, 12) in conjunction with the radius of the enclosed part of the body a compensating pressure to the hydrostatic pressure, proportional to the acceleration, of the body fluids can be set up.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2000Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Assignee: LSS Life Support Systems AGInventors: Andreas Reinhard, Wendelin Egli
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Patent number: 6290717Abstract: A disposable esophageal probe having dual temperature elements is connected to a cooling catheter controller via a reusable interconnect line to provide redundancy in temperature feedback to the controller, namely, to provide both a control temperature feedback signal and an alarm temperature feedback signal to the controller.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 1999Date of Patent: September 18, 2001Assignee: Alsius CorporationInventor: Peter J. Philips
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Patent number: 6290642Abstract: The suit according to the invention comprises, as well as a textile lining and an oversuit, an active part lying between them. This is at least partly made from a layer (3) on the body side and a layer (4) away from it, both of a fluid-tight, low stretch textile material, which are connected to each other at connection positions (6) by gluing, welding or sewing and thereby create hollow spaces (5), which are filled with fluid through valves (16, 17). Between regions, which comprise the layers (3, 4), for instance the upper part (14) and the front part (15), joining parts can be arranged, which transmit tensile forces only. This builds up a compensating pressure proportional to the acceleration working in the momentary and local direction on the parts of the body lying beneath and thus takes the load off the organism of the pilot arising from the effects of such accelerations.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2000Date of Patent: September 18, 2001Assignee: LSS Life Support System AGInventors: Andreas Reinhard, Wendelin Egli
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Patent number: 6245009Abstract: A wearable life support system integrates an antigravity compensation apparatus for providing counter-pressures on the human body in response to antigravity conditions with an environmental defense apparatus for providing operational conditions to a human within the life support system. A filtration apparatus removes harmful conditions from breathable gas provided to a human within the system. A temperature control apparatus maintains operational conditions to a human within system. A vision maintenance and protection apparatus is kept clear through use of a demisting apparatus that prevents visual distortion of a visor covering the human visual field. The Demisting apparatus is integratable with a wearable life support system that provides environmental defense and/or antigravity compensation to the human user. A portable environmental apparatus provides ground and back-up life sustaining conditions to a human within wearable life support systems.Type: GrantFiled: August 10, 1999Date of Patent: June 12, 2001Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Air ForceInventors: Thomas W. Travis, Thomas R. Morgan, Richard White, Yasu Tai Chen, Robert S. Hoskins
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Patent number: 6021519Abstract: An apparatus for protecting a wearer against positive acceleration comprises:a trouser having inflatable pockets and a control unit having an outlet communicating with the pockets, an inlet communicating with a source of pressurized gas and an inertia body for sensing acceleration. The control unit inflates the pockets with pressurized gas under a pressure which increases responsive to positive acceleration according to a predetermined law when the positive acceleration exceeds a predetermined threshold higher than 1 g and modifies the predetermined law following detection of a degree of acceleration which is negative or lower than another threshold lower than 1 g.Type: GrantFiled: August 13, 1998Date of Patent: February 8, 2000Assignee: IntertechniqueInventor: Michel Bardel
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Patent number: 5997465Abstract: The invention relates to a device (1, 3, 37) for exerting an external pressure on a human body part. The device, which is designed to surround the body part with comfortable fit, comprises components (15, 19 and 28) of memory material, such as memory metal. By heating the components, e.g. by conducting electric current through them, they will assume a different shape, e.g. a shorter length, the device being adapted to be contracted so as to "squeeze" the body part. When the components are thereafter cooled, they will resume their previous shape and the contraction ceases. The device is intended, inter alia, to prevent pooling of blood in body parts of a pilot when subjected to G-forces, and to increase, by recurring contractions, the blood circulation in the body parts surrounded by the device.Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 1996Date of Patent: December 7, 1999Assignee: FFV Aerotech ABInventors: Steven J. Savage, Willy Johansson
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Patent number: 5984858Abstract: The invention provides an article of manufacture comprising a substantially non-immunogenic knee meniscal xenograft for implantation into humans. The invention further provides methods for preparing a knee meniscal xenograft by removing at least a portion of a meniscus from a non-human animal to provide a xenograft; washing the xenograft in saline and alcohol; and subjecting the xenograft to at least one treatment selected from the group consisting of exposure to ultraviolet radiation, immersion in alcohol, ozonation, and freeze/thaw cycling. In addition to or in lieu of the above treatments, the methods include a cellular disruption treatment and glycosidase digestion of carbohydrate moieties of the xenograft followed by treatment of carbohydrate moieties of the xenograft with capping molecules. The invention also provides articles of manufacture produced by one or more of the above-identified methods of the invention.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 1998Date of Patent: November 16, 1999Assignee: Crosscart, Inc.Inventor: Kevin R. Stone
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Patent number: 5961441Abstract: The present invention is directed to a surgical otoscope for examining and operating upon the external ear canal and tympanum. The surgical otoscope comprises an optical diagnostic instrument and an adapter member attached thereto. An image conveyer and a light transmitter are located within the optical-diagnostic instrument and extend therefrom and into the adapter member. The adapter member includes extendable and retractable surgical instrumentation and a suction tube. The combination of optical diagnostic and surgical instrumentation in the same device a enables a physician to simultaneously examine and operate upon the external ear canal and tympanum. Accordingly, the physician may selectively use the instruments while viewing the areas to be examined or operated upon through the same device.Type: GrantFiled: June 11, 1996Date of Patent: October 5, 1999Assignee: Todd R. PlumbInventors: Todd R. Plumb, Denise Balls, Dale C. Dunn, Carlos Garrido, Matthew W. McClelland, Rodolfo Pena, W. Douglas Stout
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Patent number: 5961442Abstract: A control device for admitting compressed air into anti-g pilot pants to reduce the effects of forces of acceleration on the pilot. Flight maneuvers with rapid change from negative to positive acceleration shall be made possible by the present invention over a broader range than before. To achieve this, the control device is provided with control means (5-10, 13, 14) for detecting changes in acceleration from negative to positive values, which bring about an additional admission of pressure over a limited period of time with a profile decreasing over time at rates of acceleration change above a predetermined value.Type: GrantFiled: June 23, 1998Date of Patent: October 5, 1999Assignee: Drager Aerospace GmbHInventor: Rudiger Meckes
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Patent number: 5832919Abstract: A portable enclosure system and method for providing a suitable breathing atmosphere therein includes a chamber. The chamber may assume a variety of shapes. An electric fan and filter assembly is provided and is attached to the chamber by way of a flexible air hose. The fan draws air into the fan and filter assembly and exhausts it into the air hose through a filter. The filtered air travels into the chamber thus providing a positive pressure within the chamber. The positive pressure within the chamber forces unwanted particulates out of the chamber by way of exhaust ports and prevents unwanted particulates from entering the chamber. In providing an enclosure filled with a suitable breathing environment, the chamber is placed on a substantially flat surface. The fan is turned on and the chamber is allowed to be purged of unwanted allergens. The fan remains on to maintain a positive pressure within the chamber and provide a steady supply of fresh filtered air.Type: GrantFiled: April 16, 1996Date of Patent: November 10, 1998Inventors: Yoshimi Kano, Isao Yamada
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Patent number: 5538001Abstract: A pressure breathing mask, particularly an aircrew oxygen mask, includes an exoskeleton (10), a flexible facepiece (11) with an oxygen delivery connection (15), an inflatable bladder (20) positioned between the exoskeleton (10) and a rigid intermediate member (30), the intermediate member (30) bearing on the facepiece (11), and means (21, 23) for automatically inflating the bladder (20) when oxygen is delivered under pressure to the mask.Type: GrantFiled: January 26, 1995Date of Patent: July 23, 1996Assignee: The Secretary of State for Defence in Her Britannic Majesty's Government of the United Kingdom of Northern Ireland and Great BritainInventor: Peter C. Bridges
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Patent number: 5355878Abstract: A facemask incorporating breathing equipment for use with a flying helmet (2) comprises a rigid outer shell (4) in which a flexible face-piece (3) is housed whose periphery makes an airtight seal with the pilot's face (1). The face-piece (3) includes an inhalatory valve (11) and an expiratory valve (9) and the rigid shell (4) is attached to the helmet (2) by a harness (5) which keeps the shell (4) at a fixed distance from the helmet (2). Inflatable means (15, 20) are provided between the shell (4) which are inflated to press the periphery (14) of the face-piece towards the pilot's face when the pressure of breathable gas supplied to the interior of the mask and to said inflatable means increases above that required for normal breathing.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 1993Date of Patent: October 18, 1994Assignee: Cam Lock (UK) Ltd.Inventors: Joseph A. Griffiths, Donald M. Smeaton
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Patent number: 5342583Abstract: An automatic stool and urine disposing apparatus provides disposal even if a patient is unconscious or is disabled, without requiring the help of a care taker. This apparatus is composed of a wearing section, a disposal device installed in an aperture in the wearing section, a washing device incorporated in the disposal device, and a driving section for operating the device. The wearing section includes a disposing device having a fan operated by a motor, a water detecting sensor, a discharge aperture, and washing water and air supply holes. Also attached to the wearing section is an inflatable pressing tube which prevents leakage. The driving section includes relays for operating the disposing device in response to the presence of material to be disposed.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 1992Date of Patent: August 30, 1994Inventor: Jong E. Son
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Patent number: 5318018Abstract: An advanced aircrew protection system comprising a helmet assembly adapted to sustain a full pneumatic pressure within the helmet adjacent to the head of the wearer; a suit assembly adapted to sustain a pressure adjacent to selected parts of the body of the wearer; a neck shroud operatively coupled with the helmet assembly and the suit assembly and adapted to pneumatically isolate the helmet assembly from the suit assembly; and controller adapted to independently supply fluid under pressure to the helmet assembly and to the suit assembly. Within the helmet is a dual compartment for an independent supply of fluid to an oral nasal mask separate from the remainder of the helmet assembly.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 1991Date of Patent: June 7, 1994Assignee: Northrop CorporationInventors: Samuel C. Puma, Edwin G. Drumheller, Darold B. Cummings
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Patent number: 5314402Abstract: Inflation pressure of an aircrew G-suit is set by a servo-pressure which controls movement of inflation gas supply and vent valves 126 and 127, respectively. Servo-pressure is regulated by a torque motor controlled valve 124, 125 which receives a servo-demand signal from an electronic control unit (ECU) 123. The ECU receives an inflation pressure demand signal P.sub.DEM from an aircraft systems computer 120 which stores schedules of G-suit inflation pressure against increasing acceleration and decreasing cabin ambient pressure. The computer is programmed to look-up and output the higher one of values for inflation pressure dependent upon values of acceleration signals G.sub.Z and cabin ambient pressure signals P.sub.AMB input to the computer by sensors 121 and 122, respectively. The ECU compares an existing G-suit inflation pressure P.sub.Type: GrantFiled: June 11, 1991Date of Patent: May 24, 1994Assignee: Normalair-Garrett (Holdings) LimitedInventors: James C. Foote, Michael W. Harral, Peter J. Rowland
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Patent number: 5247926Abstract: A breathing gas regulator for regulating delivery of breathing gas to an aircrew member wearing a liquid filled G-suit includes a relay valve having a diaphragm mounted valve plate for sensing G-suit hydrostatic pressure. A bleed of breathing gas is supplied to the relay valve by way of a pneumatic link and is vented to ambient through a vent outlet. As G-suit hydrostatic pressure rises due to increasing G-load the valve plate moves towards closing the vent outlet. Above a predetermined G-load, with the vent outlet closed, a pneumatic signal is generated in the pneumatic link and is applied to an end face of a valve controlling outflow from a breathing-pressure control chamber so that pressure in the control chamber increases to set a breathing gas pressure at the regulator outlet appropriate to positive pressure breathing.Type: GrantFiled: November 26, 1991Date of Patent: September 28, 1993Assignee: Normalair-Garrett (Holdings) LimitedInventor: Michael W. Harral
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Patent number: 5238008Abstract: A flexible bladder is provided which may be positioned over the chest of a subject. The flexible bladder contains fluid having substantially the same density as the breathing gas in the subject's lungs. Pressure sensing means are connected to the flexible bladder for monitoring bladder pressure. The bladder pressure is substantially the same as the subject's lung pressure. Thus, the bladder assembly may be used for monitoring lung pressure and controlling the pressure of breathing gas to the subject.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 1991Date of Patent: August 24, 1993Assignee: Rockwell International CorporationInventors: Conrad B. Monson, William J. Adams
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Patent number: 5226410Abstract: A device providing physiological protection of aircraft pilots against the effects of altitude and accelerations includes a source of oxygen; a chest jacket fitted with at least one inflation bladder connected to a pressure reducing valve installed on a source of gas under pressure by a pipe; an oxygen mask connected to a source of oxygen by a conduit and a pressure reducing valve. The anti-g trousers include at least one inflation bladder connected to a pressure reducing valve, the bladder being mounted on a source of gas under pressure. The device further includes a mechanism to detect accelerations which delivers a signal representative of the acceleration. The device is characterized by a deformable volume located inside the inflating bladder of the chest jacket connecting the mask to the source of oxygen.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 1991Date of Patent: July 13, 1993Assignee: Etat FrancaisInventor: Daniel Fournol
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Patent number: 5170814Abstract: A high altitude G-valve produces a pressure signal in response to altitude and G-load without a connection to an external altitude sensing device. Bleed path pressure regulation by an aneroid valve and a G-sensing valve control a pilot valve which in turn controls a main valve. The main valve provides regulated air to the G-valve outlet in response to the pilot valve. A manually actuated button simulates a high-G load on the G-sensing valve to test the operation of the device.Type: GrantFiled: February 18, 1992Date of Patent: December 15, 1992Assignee: Litton Systems, Inc.Inventor: Victor P. Crome