Measuring Electrical Impedance Or Conductance Of Body Portion Patents (Class 600/547)
  • Patent number: 10226210
    Abstract: A method of measuring Bone Mineral Density (BMD) including providing a model of a plurality of constituents of at least a portion of a subject body, the model including at least one bone constituent, injecting electric current into the portion of the subject body using a current injection electrode, such that at least part of the current flows through the at least one bone constituent, measuring a value of electric potential at a surface of the subject body using a pickup electrode, using a value of the injected electric current as input to a model of the at least a portion of a subject body, and calculating a value of conductance of the bone constituent corresponding to a value of the injected electric current and the measured value of the electric potential. Related apparatus and methods are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2019
    Assignee: OsteoSee Ltd.
    Inventors: Shimon Arad (Abboud), Sharon Zlochiver, Muhammad Mahajna
  • Patent number: 10182740
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides apparatuses and computer readable media for measuring sub-epidermal moisture in patients to determine damaged tissue for clinical intervention. The present disclosure also provides methods for determining damaged tissue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2019
    Assignee: Bruin Biometrics, LLC
    Inventors: Ya-Chen Tonar, Shannon Rhodes, Marta Clendenin, Martin Burns, Kindah Jaradeh
  • Patent number: 10178961
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides apparatuses and computer readable media for measuring sub-epidermal moisture in patients to determine damaged tissue for clinical intervention. The present disclosure also provides methods for determining damaged tissue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2019
    Assignee: Bruin Biometrics, LLC
    Inventors: Ya-Chen Tonar, Shannon Rhodes, Marta Clendenin, Martin Burns, Kindah Jaradeh
  • Patent number: 10159528
    Abstract: A method and apparatus that utilizes a force-time integral for real time estimation of steam pop in catheter-based ablation systems. The apparatus measures the force exerted by a contact ablation probe on a target tissue and an energization parameter delivered to the ablation probe. The exerted force and energization parameter can be utilized to provide an estimation of the probability of steam pop. In one embodiment, the force and energization metrics can be used as feedback to establish a desired contact force and energization level combination to prevent steam popping.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2018
    Assignee: ST JUDE MEDICAL INTERNATIONAL HOLDING S.À R.L.
    Inventors: Giovanni Leo, Hendrik Lambert
  • Patent number: 10151724
    Abstract: Methods for distinguishing between an aqueous non-blood sample (e.g., a control solution) and a blood sample are provided herein. In one aspect, the method includes using a test strip in which multiple current transients are measured by a meter electrically connected to an electrochemical test strip. The current transients are used to determine if a sample is a blood sample or an aqueous non-blood sample based on characteristics of the sample (e.g., amount of interferent present, reaction kinetics, and/or capacitance). The method can also include calculating a discrimination criteria based upon these characteristics. Various aspects of a system for distinguishing between a blood sample and an aqueous non-blood sample are also provided herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2018
    Assignee: LIFESCAN IP HOLDINGS, LLC
    Inventors: Ronald C. Chatelier, Alastair M. Hodges
  • Patent number: 10143416
    Abstract: A method for characterization of a patient's esophagus may include receiving data measured by an impedance and high resolution manometry catheter in an esophagus in which the data may be representative of a pressure and/or an impedance associated with a swallowing event. The method may also include determining a cross-sectional area of the esophagus based on the received data and a pre-determined amount of a bolus consumed during the swallowing event. Systems and apparatus for characterizing a patient's esophagus may also include measuring data with a high resolution manometry catheter to determine the cross-sectional area, work, and compliance of the esophagus as a function of time during a swallowing event. Averaged data may establish a database of normal values for work done and compliance and allow for comparison of a patient to normal pathology.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2018
    Assignee: The Regents of the University of California
    Inventor: Valmik Bhargava
  • Patent number: 10098556
    Abstract: The present disclosure introduces systems and methods to measure fluid in a body segment. In one embodiment, a computer system used to measure fluid in a body segment is described. A current generation module may be used to emit an electrical through at least one body segment. The electrical current may be used to measure fluid-volume content of the at least one body segment. An electrode module having a plurality of electrodes may be attached to the current generation module. A signal-processing module may be used to measure changes in the electrical current through at least one body segment. Further, an impedance module may be used to calculate fluid-volume change in at least one body segment and determine the flow of fluid through the at least one body segment. Other embodiments also are described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2018
    Assignee: King Saud University
    Inventor: Mamdouh Monif Monif
  • Patent number: 10092227
    Abstract: A handheld device measures all vital signs and some hemodynamic parameters from the human body and transmits measured information wirelessly to a web-based system, where the information can be analyzed by a clinician to help diagnose a patient. The system utilizes our discovery that bio-impedance signals used to determine vital signs and hemodynamic parameters can be measured over a conduction pathway extending from the patient's wrist to a location on their thoracic cavity, e.g. their chest or navel. The device's form factor can include re-usable electrode materials to reduce costs. Measurements made by the handheld device, which use the belly button as a ‘fiducial’ marker, facilitate consistent, daily measurements, thereby reducing positioning errors that reduce accuracy of standard impedance measurements. In this and other ways, the handheld device provides an effective tool for characterizing patients with chronic diseases, such as heart failure, renal disease, and hypertension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2018
    Assignee: TOSENSE, INC.
    Inventors: Matthew Banet, Marshal Singh Dhillon, Susan Meeks Pede, Lauren Nicole Miller Hayward, Arthur Deptala, Jonas Dean Cochran
  • Patent number: 10085641
    Abstract: A method for obtaining physiological data from a medical sensor device includes detecting a proximity of the medical sensor device by an electronic computing device. After the proximity is detected, a message is received from the medical sensor device. A determination is made as to whether the received message includes configuration information for a wireless communication link. When the received message includes the configuration information for the wireless communication link, the wireless communication link is used to receive physiological data from the medical sensor device and the received physiological data is processed at the electronic computing device. When the received message does not include configuration information for the wireless communication link, a determination is made as to whether the received message includes physiological data. When the received message includes the physiological data, the physiological data is processed at the electronic computing device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2018
    Assignee: WELCH ALLYN, INC.
    Inventors: Steven D. Baker, David Harmon Olson
  • Patent number: 10058266
    Abstract: A signal process system and the method for the same and a biological resistance detection device and element used to perform corresponding signal process for sensory signal sensed by a sensor, wherein a minor AC electrical signal is injected into a biological tissue to be measured in order to sense the sensory signal of the biological tissue to be measured by means of the principle of Ohm's Law. Moreover, the sensory signal may be processed to restore a biological property of the measured biological tissue and to create an equivalent circuit parameter model representative of the biological property.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2018
    Assignee: NATIONAL CHENG KUNG UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Shuenn-Yuh Lee, Tsung-Han Tsai
  • Patent number: 10028699
    Abstract: An adherent device is configured to adhere to the skin of the patient with an adherent patch, for example breathable tape, coupled to at least four electrodes. The device comprises impedance circuitry coupled to the at least four electrodes and configured to measure respiration of the patient to detect sleep apnea and/or hypopnea. The impedance circuitry may be used to measure hydration of the patient. An accelerometer can be mechanically coupled to the adherent patch such that the accelerometer can be coupled to and move with the skin of the patient. Electrocardiogram circuitry to generate an electrocardiogram signal may be coupled to at least two of the at least four electrodes to detect the sleep apnea and/or hypopnea.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2018
    Assignee: MEDTRONIC MONITORING, INC.
    Inventors: Imad Libbus, Yatheendhar D. Manicka, Mark J. Bly
  • Patent number: 10027447
    Abstract: Circuits are used to sense and compensate or mitigate the imbalance errors, hence restoring the intended benefits of differential processing. In particular, the impedance mismatch between the positive and negative branches of a balanced system is sensed by digitizing an error voltage developed by injecting suitable common mode stimuli. The mismatch is then trimmed out by introducing and properly setting up a digitally controlled impedance that counters the original impedance mismatch and hence rebalances the signal path on-situ and prior to exercising the signal processing chain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2018
    Assignee: ANALOG DEVICES, INC.
    Inventor: Gabriele Manganaro
  • Patent number: 10016607
    Abstract: Techniques are provided for use with an implantable medical device for assessing stroke volume or related cardiac function parameters such as cardiac output based on impedance signals obtained using hybrid impedance configurations that exploit a multi-pole cardiac pacing/sensing lead implanted near the left ventricle. In one example, current is injected between a large and stable reference electrode and a ring electrode in the RV. The reference electrode may be, e.g., a coil electrode implanted within the superior vena cava (SVC). Impedance values are measured along a set of different sensing vectors between the reference electrode and each of the electrodes of the multi-pole LV lead. Stroke volume is then estimated and tracked within the patient using the impedance values. In this manner, a hybrid impedance detection configuration is exploited whereby one vector is used to inject current and other vectors are used to measure impedance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2018
    Assignee: PACESETTER, INC.
    Inventor: Xiaoyi Min
  • Patent number: 10004408
    Abstract: In one aspect, a photoplethysmograph system to measure a user's heart rate includes one or more light-emitting diodes (LED) that provide a constantly-on light signal during a measurement period. The one or more light-emitting diodes are in optical contact with an epidermal surface of the user. The one or more light-emitting diodes emit a light signal into the tissue of the user, and wherein the tissue contains a pulsating blood flow. A light-intensity sensor circuit converts the reflected LED light from the tissue into a second signal that is proportional to a reflected light intensity. The second signal includes a voltage or current signal. A computer-processing module calculates the user's beat-to-beat heart rate from the second current signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2018
    Assignee: ReThink Medical, Inc.
    Inventor: Reza Naima
  • Patent number: 10006950
    Abstract: The disclosure provides a circuit for impedance measurement. The circuit includes an excitation source that generates an excitation signal. A switched resistor network is coupled to the excitation source, and generates an output signal in response to the excitation signal. A sense circuit is coupled to the switched resistor network, and generates a sense signal in response to the output signal. A comparator is coupled to the sense circuit, and generates a clock signal in response to the sense signal. A mixer is coupled to the sense circuit, and multiplies the sense signal and the clock signal to generate a rectified signal. A low pass filter is coupled to the mixer and filters the rectified signal to generate an averaged signal. A processor is coupled to the low pass filter and measures a body impedance from the averaged signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2018
    Assignee: Texas Instruments Incorporated
    Inventors: Anand Hariraj Udupa, Jagannathan Venkataraman, Hussam Ahmed P, Sandeep Kesrimal Oswal
  • Patent number: 9974463
    Abstract: A device for determining muscle condition of a region of tissue. The device comprises an electrical impedance myography (EIM) portable probe bearing an electrode array. The electrode array comprises excitation electrodes used to apply multi-frequency electrical signals to the region of tissue and pickup electrodes that are used to collect electrical signals resulting from the application of the multi-frequency electrical signals to the region of tissue. To improve accuracy and reproducibility of EIM measurements, the electrode array is reconfigurable to select different subsets of excitation and pickup electrodes so that the electrodes are oriented differently with respect to muscle fibers. Additional devices may be associated with the EIM probe to measure such parameters as temperature, moisture content of the region, quality of contact of electrodes of the electrode array with a surface of the region and pressure with which the EEM probe is applied to the region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2018
    Assignees: Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Inc., Massachusetts Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Seward B. Rutkove, Joel L. Dawson
  • Patent number: 9974489
    Abstract: Described is an infant monitoring and alerting system capable of determining an absence of movement by an infant. When an absence of movement is detected the monitor attempts to stimulate movement using stimuli that may include a vibration, an audible alert, or a visual alert. If no movement is detected in response to the stimuli, the monitor may provide another instance of stimuli which may include stimuli at an elevated intensity or additional and/or different stimuli. The additional instance of stimuli may further attempt to stimulate movement by the infant and may also function as an alert to the caregiver that their attention may be required.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2018
    Assignee: CIRCUS WORLD DISPLAYS LTD.
    Inventor: Rajesh Jain
  • Patent number: 9970843
    Abstract: Each of a plurality electronic circuit devices fixed to a structural component of a physical structure can be scanned a first time, using a radio frequency (RF) scanner to receive, from each of the plurality of electronic circuit devices, first data indicating a first measured electrical impedance of a respective conductor connected to the electronic circuit device and an identifier assigned to the electronic circuit device. For each of the plurality of electronic circuit devices, the first data indicating the first measured electrical impedance and the identifier assigned to the electronic circuit device can be stored to a first memory. The first data indicating the first measured electrical impedance and the identifier for each of the electronic devices can form a baseline measurement of the electronic circuit devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2018
    Assignee: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION
    Inventor: Bruce H. Hyre
  • Patent number: 9962550
    Abstract: Systems and methods for providing rate responsive pacing therapy to a heart of a patient. One example method for providing rate responsive pacing therapy includes sensing cardiac electrical data with a leadless cardiac pacemaker (LCP) that is implanted within or proximate the heart. From this location, the LCP may provide pacing therapy to the heart based at least in part on the sensed cardiac electrical data. An implantable medical device located remotely from the heart may sense patient activity, and may wirelessly communicate patient activity data from the implantable medical device to the LCP, sometimes using conducted communication. The LCP may be then determine an adjustment to the provided pacing therapy (e.g. adjust the pacing rate) based at least in part on the received patient activity data signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2018
    Assignee: CARDIAC PACEMAKERS, INC.
    Inventors: Michael J. Kane, Jeffrey E. Stahmann, Keith R. Maile
  • Patent number: 9955894
    Abstract: Methods and systems are presented for determining physiological information in a physiological monitor. A physiological signal (e.g., an EEG signal) received from a subject is wavelet transformed and first and second related features that vary in scale over time are identified in the transformed signal. First and second coupled ridges of the respective first and second related features may also be identified in the transformed signal. A non-stationary relationship parameter is determined and is indicative of the relationship between the first and second features and/or between the first and second ridges. Physiological information, which may be indicative of a level of awareness of a subject, is determined based on the non-stationary relationship parameter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2018
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Paul S. Addison, James N. Watson
  • Patent number: 9955896
    Abstract: The system and method may measure and monitor physiological changes in a body. In some embodiments, the system and method may measure the impedance at a site in the body. In some embodiments, the system and method identify, quantify, and localize leaks from a site following surgery, measure cardiac contractility, or lung compliance. In an embodiment, the system includes a measuring device with one or more sensors embedded in a porous matrix. Changes in the electrical properties of one or more sensors may be used to determine the presence of leaks from a site following surgery, measure cardiac contractility, or lung compliance, depending on the position of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2018
    Assignee: Board of Regents of the University of Texas System
    Inventor: Daniel T. DeArmond
  • Patent number: 9956025
    Abstract: A method, system, and device for predicting lesion quality. Specifically, lesion quality may be predicted based on an assessment of pulmonary vein occlusion using injection of an impedance-modifying agent and evaluation of changes in impedance measurements recorded by an electrode located distal to an occlusion element of the treatment device used to inject the impedance-modifying agent. The quality of the occlusion may be rated based on the changes in impedance over time within the pulmonary vein. For example, the quality of the occlusion may be rated as being good, fair, or poor. This assessment may be quickly and easily communicated to an operator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2018
    Assignee: Medtronic Cryocath LP
    Inventors: Nicolas Coulombe, Jean-Pierre Lalonde
  • Patent number: 9960791
    Abstract: An RFIC with memory is described where the memory can be used to house a look-up table for tuning components designed into the RFIC, providing a customized tuning circuit for antenna and transceiver front-end tuning applications. The look-up table can be loaded at wafer level during the manufacturing process to customize an RFIC design for a specific antenna system. The memory can be used to restrict or tailor the tuning range of tunable capacitors and switches within the RFIC to optimize performance in the end application. The resident memory will improve signaling latency when tuning for time critical applications such as channel tuning in a cellular communication system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2018
    Assignee: ETHERTRONICS, INC.
    Inventors: Laurent Desclos, Sebastian Rowson, Jeffrey Shamblin, Olivier Pajona
  • Patent number: 9949663
    Abstract: One embodiment of an apparatus for analysis of body composition and hydration status by detecting resistance of the human subject at zero and infinite frequency including a method for measuring indirectly extracellular water mass, intracellular water mass, lean body mass, and body fat mass; daily changes of extracellular water mass, intracellular water mass, lean body mass, and body fat mass; and acute changes of extracellular water mass and intracellular water mass; and for individualized calibration of these indirect measurements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2018
    Assignee: ORI DIAGNOSTIC INSTRUMENTS, LLC
    Inventor: Zsolt Peter Ori
  • Patent number: 9949662
    Abstract: Aspects of the present disclosure are directed to a CPU and a memory circuit that has user-corresponding data stored on the memory circuit, and a platform over which a plurality of electrodes are interleaved, and configured for engaging the user. While the plurality of electrodes is concurrently contacting a limb or other extremity of the user, measurement signals are obtained from the plurality of electrodes. Based on a plurality of impedance-measurement signals being obtained from the electrodes, signals are generated that correspond to cardiovascular timings of the user. In such aspects of the present disclosure, pulse characteristic signals are determined based on the plurality of impedance-measurement signals. One of the pulse characteristic signals is extracted, and used as a timing reference to extract and process another pulse characteristic signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2018
    Assignee: Physiowave, Inc.
    Inventors: Laurent B. Giovangrandi, Gregory T. Kovacs, Robert Bruce Darling
  • Patent number: 9943241
    Abstract: Aspects of the present disclosure are directed toward obtaining a plurality of impedance-measurement signals while a set of at least three electrodes are concurrently contacting a user. Additionally, various aspects of the present disclosure include determining a plurality of pulse characteristic signals based on the plurality of impedance-measurement signals. One of the pulse characteristic signals is extracted from one of the impedance-measurement signals and is used as a timing reference to extract and process another of the pulse characteristic signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2018
    Assignee: Physiowave, Inc.
    Inventors: Laurent B. Giovangrandi, Gregory T. Kovacs, Robert Bruce Darling
  • Patent number: 9943352
    Abstract: A device, system and method for temperature-based lesion formation assessment and mapping functionality using an accessory usable with an over-the-wire balloon catheter. The device may include a first annular element, a plurality of wires coupled to the first annular element, and a second annular element, the plurality of wires passing from the first annular element through the second annular element and into an elongate wire conduit coupled to the second annular element. At least one of the plurality of wires may include at least one temperature sensor and/or at least one mapping electrode. The first annular element coupled to an outer surface of a sheath. As a balloon catheter is advanced out of the sheath lumen, the distal tip of the catheter engages the second annular element and pushes the wires out of the sheath lumen, everting them over the balloon of the catheter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2018
    Assignee: Medtronic CryoCath LP
    Inventor: Teresa Mihalik
  • Patent number: 9936922
    Abstract: Methods and systems for the determination and representation of anatomy anatomical information are disclosed herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: BOSTON SCIENTIFIC SCIMED, INC.
    Inventors: Doron Harlev, Alpar Csendes, Zsolt Badics
  • Patent number: 9913614
    Abstract: Systems and methods for monitoring the condition of electrodes used in biological signal measurement are provided. One method includes applying a first test signal having a first frequency to at least one of a plurality of electrodes and applying a second test signal having a second frequency to at least one of the plurality of electrodes. Both frequencies are below a frequency range associated with the biological signal. The method further includes capturing the biological signal while applying the plurality of test signals and generating an output signal that includes both the measured biological signal and the plurality of test signals. The method further includes retrieving an output amplitude for each of the plurality of test signals from the output signal and calculating an estimated impedance for each of the plurality of electrodes based on the retrieved output amplitudes of the plurality of test signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: MORTARA INSTRUMENT, INC.
    Inventor: David W. Mortara
  • Patent number: 9913612
    Abstract: The invention provides a sensor for measuring both impedance and ECG waveforms that is configured to be worn around a patient's neck. The sensor features 1) an ECG system that includes an analog ECG circuit, in electrical contact with at least two ECG electrodes, that generates an analog ECG waveform; and 2) an impedance system that includes an analog impedance circuit, in electrical contact with at least two (and typically four) impedance electrodes, that generates an analog impedance waveform. Also included in the neck-worn system are a digital processing system featuring a microprocessor, and an analog-to-digital converter. During a measurement, the digital processing system receives and processes the analog ECG and impedance waveforms to measure physiological information from the patient. Finally, a cable that drapes around the patient's neck connects the ECG system, impedance system, and digital processing system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: TOSENSE, INC.
    Inventors: Matthew Banet, Susan Meeks Pede, Marshal Singh Dhillon, Kenneth Robert Hunt
  • Patent number: 9916421
    Abstract: The description relates to surgical computer systems, including computer program products, and methods for implant planning using corrected captured joint motion information. Data representative of a corrected limb pose at a plurality of poses within a range of motion of a joint associated with a particular individual is captured, the joint comprising a first bone and a second bone, while the first bone, the second bone, or both are subject to a corrective force aligning the first and second bones in a desired alignment. The first bone of the joint is represented. The second bone of the joint is represented. A first implant model is associated with the representation of the first bone. A second implant model is associated with the representation of the second bone. Based on the captured data, a relationship is determined between the first implant model and the second implant model at one or more poses of the plurality of poses within the range of motion of the joint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: MAKO Surgical Corp.
    Inventors: Robert Van Vorhis, Timothy Blackwell
  • Patent number: 9907514
    Abstract: Described is an infant monitoring and alerting system capable of determining an absence of movement by an infant. When an absence of movement is detected the monitor attempts to stimulate movement using stimuli that may include a vibration, an audible alert, or a visual alert. If no movement is detected in response to the stimuli, the monitor may provide another instance of stimuli which may include stimuli at an elevated intensity or additional and/or different stimuli. The additional instance of stimuli may further attempt to stimulate movement by the infant and may also function as an alert to the caregiver that their attention may be required.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2018
    Assignee: CIRUS WORLD DISPLAYS LTD.
    Inventor: Rajesh Jain
  • Patent number: 9901778
    Abstract: In some embodiments, an automated system comprises one or more biometric sensors, an interactive screen, and an exercise routine generation application communicable with a mobile application. In some embodiments, the mobile application receives data from an automated station and displays exercise routines, other exercise information, or both. In some embodiments, the mobile application includes a scanner to scan labels, other indicia, or physical or other features of an exercise machine or other exercise apparatus to identify the machine or apparatus. In some embodiments, the mobile application communicates with one or more local or remote databases identifying differing exercise facility locations within a geographic area and identifying exercise apparatus available in each of the differing facilities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2018
    Assignee: Fit Intuition, LLC
    Inventors: Ryan M. Krueger, Lee Huber, Ralph Krueger
  • Patent number: 9901283
    Abstract: The invention relates to a system for the consolidation of a bone structure, comprising: a system for determining the quality of the bone structure, including a body, first and second electrodes arranged on the body, an electric generator for applying an electric current, a measurement device for measuring the electric current, and a processing device for determining an electrical magnitude representative of the aptitude of the bone structure for allowing electric current to pass therethrough and for delivering a signal representative of the quality of the bone structure, using the determined electrical magnitude; and a device selected from between an electrical stimulation device for applying an electric bone-growth stimulation and a fixation device for immobilizing the bone structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2018
    Assignee: LOUIS VUITTON MALLETIER
    Inventors: Maurice Bourlion, Stéphane Bette
  • Patent number: 9904321
    Abstract: Embodiments of wearable electronic devices, components thereof, and related systems and techniques are disclosed herein. For example, a wearable electronic device may include a wearable support structure having a first surface and a second surface; a first electrode located at the first surface, wherein, when the wearable electronic device is worn by a user on a portion of the user's body, the first electrode is arranged to contact the user's skin in the portion of the user's body; a second electrode located at the second surface, wherein, when the wearable electronic device is worn by a user on the portion of the user's body, the second electrode is arranged to not contact the user's skin in the portion of the user's body; and a resistance switch having first and second input terminals coupled to the first and second electrodes, respectively. Other embodiments may be disclosed and/or claimed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2018
    Assignee: INTEL CORPORATION
    Inventors: Thorsten Meyer, Dirk Plenkers, Hans-Joachim Barth, Bernd Waidhas, Yen Hsiang Chew, Kooi Chi Ooi, Howe Yin Loo
  • Patent number: 9895578
    Abstract: In some embodiments, an automated system comprises one or more biometric sensors, an interactive screen, and an exercise routine generation application communicable with a mobile application. In some embodiments, the mobile application receives data from an automated station and displays exercise routines, other exercise information, or both. In some embodiments, the mobile application includes a scanner to scan labels, other indicia, or physical or other features of an exercise machine or other exercise apparatus to identify the machine or apparatus. In some embodiments, the mobile application communicates with one or more local or remote databases identifying differing exercise facility locations within a geographic area and identifying exercise apparatus available in each of the differing facilities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2018
    Assignee: Fit Intuition, LLC
    Inventors: Ryan M. Krueger, Lee Huber, Ralph Krueger, Frederick G. Nesemeier
  • Patent number: 9895078
    Abstract: A body impedance measuring apparatus includes: a first module including a first input electrode and a first output electrode which are configured to contact a subject; a second module including a second input electrode and a second output electrode which are configured to contact the subject; a connection member configured to connect the first module to the second module and adjust a distance between the first module and the second module; and a measuring unit configured to apply a current to the first and second input electrodes, detect a voltage between the first and second output electrodes, and determine a body impedance of a subject based on the detected voltage. At least a component of the measuring unit is disposed in the first module and is electrically connected to the second module through the connection member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2018
    Assignee: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Kunsun Eom, Jungmok Bae, Kak Namkoong, Yeolho Lee, Seongho Cho
  • Patent number: 9895069
    Abstract: The present disclosure introduces systems and methods to measure fluid in a body segment. In one embodiment, a computer system used to measure fluid in a body segment is described. A current generation module may be used to emit an electrical through at least one body segment. The electrical current may be used to measure fluid-volume content of the at least one body segment. An electrode module having a plurality of electrodes may be attached to the current generation module. A signal-processing module may be used to measure changes in the electrical current through at least one body segment. Further, an impedance module may be used to calculate fluid-volume change in at least one body segment and determine the flow of fluid through the at least one body segment. Other embodiments also are described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2018
    Assignee: King Saud University
    Inventor: Mamdouh Monif Monif
  • Patent number: 9892248
    Abstract: A refrigerator includes a handgrip arranged on one side of a door to open and close a storage compartments, a measurer configured to measure fingerprints and body composition of a user when the user grabs the handgrip, a display configured to display the measured body composition information, and a controller configured to recognize the user based on the measured fingerprints and store the measured body composition information as information regarding the recognized user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Jong-won Park, Hiroshi Awata, Kwan-joon Kim, Hyun-ki Kim
  • Patent number: 9888863
    Abstract: A device for measuring an electrical impedance of biologic tissue may include electrodes configured to contact the biologic tissue and generate a differential voltage thereon. The device may include a first circuit coupled to the electrodes and configured to force an oscillating input signal therethrough, and a differential amplitude modulation (AM) demodulator coupled to the plurality of electrodes. The differential AM demodulator may be configured to demodulate the differential voltage, and generate a base-band signal representative of the demodulated differential voltage. The device may further include an output circuit downstream from the differential AM demodulator and may be configured to generate an output signal representative of the electrical impedance as a function of the base-band signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: STMICROELECTRONICS S.R.L.
    Inventors: Pasquale Biancolillo, Stefano Rossi, Giuseppe Bruno, Angelo Recchia
  • Patent number: 9877685
    Abstract: A biosignal measuring method and apparatus are provided. The biosignal measuring method includes verifying whether a measured biosignal is in a range, and controlling an operation of the biosignal measuring apparatus when the measured biosignal deviates from the range based on a result of the verifying.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2018
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Ui Kun Kwon, Sang Joon Kim, Jong Wook Lee
  • Patent number: 9872980
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides neurostimulation systems and methods. A neurostimulation system includes at least one anode, at least one cathode, the at least one anode and the at least one cathode configured to apply electrical stimulation to a patient, and a controller electrically coupled to the at least one anode and the at least one cathode, the controller configured to determine when one of the at least one anode and the at least one cathode fails, measure, in response to the determination, a quantity indicative of a charge density of the applied electrical stimulation, compare the measured quantity to a predetermined limit, and perform at least one action when the measured quantity exceeds the predetermined limit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2018
    Assignee: PACESETTER, INC.
    Inventors: Lanitia Ness, Martin Cholette
  • Patent number: 9872632
    Abstract: An electric impedance tomography device with chest electrodes, a display and a control and analyzing unit to determine a time series of a global ventilation curve from the sequence of reconstructed matrices as a time series of the mean impedance change or of a measured respiration volume, to divide an inspiration or expiration phase into a number of steps of equal volume change, to determine the times corresponding to these steps, to determine the change in local impedance between these times for each image element, the ratio of this local change in impedance to the global ventilation curve to form a local sequence of relative impedance changes of the image element as a function of the steps of equal volume change, to determine a scalar indicator characteristic as a function of the steps of equal volume change and to display each image element based on the respective scalar indicator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2018
    Assignee: Draegerwerk AG & Co. KGaA
    Inventors: Yvo Gärber, Ola Stenqvist
  • Patent number: 9872987
    Abstract: An approach to treating congestive heart failure includes monitoring pulmonary congestion. Monitoring pulmonary congestion includes sensing a physiologic parameter using a sensor implanted within the patient. The method further comprises delivering a congestive heart failure therapy using a stimulator implanted within the patient. Delivering the congestive heart failure therapy includes delivering electrical stimulation to the patient using the sensed parameter to control the congestive heart failure therapy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2018
    Assignee: Cardiac Pacemakers, Inc.
    Inventors: Imad Libbus, Quan Ni, Kent Lee
  • Patent number: 9848817
    Abstract: A gas supply apparatus includes: a gas supply conduit for supplying a gas to a digestive tract; a pressure detecting device which detects a pressure in the digestive tract; a flow regulating device which regulates a gas amount supplied from the gas supply source to the digestive tract via the gas supply conduit; a first control device which controls the flow regulating device according to a result detected by the pressure detecting device to supply the gas into the digestive tract so that the pressure inside the digestive tract becomes a set pressure; a second control device which controls the flow regulating device to supply a fixed gas amount into the digestive tract; and a gas supply mode switching device which switches between gas supply modes including a mode for executing control by the first control device and a mode for executing control by the second control device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2017
    Assignees: FUJIFILM Corporation, OSAKA UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Nobuyuki Torisawa, Kentaro Hayashi, Manabu Miyamoto, Kiyokazu Nakajima
  • Patent number: 9844347
    Abstract: Differences of electromagnetic (EM) properties between healthy and cancerous tissues allow detection of abnormal conditions occurring in a tissue of an animal, for example, intra-operative cancer detection. By using a time-varying EM field, electrical eddy currents are generated in the tissue sample, and assessed using phase-sensitive detection. In some aspects, a change in phase shift between the voltage in a receiver coil and the voltage in a driver coil provide a direct and immediate indication of differences in EM properties of specimens.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2017
    Inventors: Vishwanath Subramaniam, Joseph West, Jennifer McFerran Brock, Emily Sequin, Duxin Sun, Peng Zou, Travis Hamilton Jones
  • Patent number: 9839370
    Abstract: Method for bio impedance measurement on a skin surface of a living body, using a bio impedance measurement device having a sensing electrode and a pilot electrode, includes the steps of placing the sensing electrode and pilot electrode on the surface of the body; providing a guard electrode adapted to separate the surface in at least two zones, among which a sensing zone including the sensing electrode and a current injection zone including the pilot electrode; providing a controller, electrically connected to the electrodes, adapted to control the current source; and controlling the potential of the guard electrode, at least at given stopping frequencies, in order to stop current from flowing from one zone to the other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2017
    Assignee: CSEM CENTRE SUISSE D'ELECTRONIQUE ET DE MICROTECHNIQUE SA—RECHERCHE ET DÉVELOPPEMENT
    Inventor: Olivier Chételat
  • Patent number: 9833169
    Abstract: A method of locating a tip of a central venous catheter (“CVC”) having a distal and proximal pair of electrodes disposed within the superior vena cava, right atrium, and/or right ventricle. The method includes obtaining a distal and proximal electrical signal from the distal and proximal pair of electrodes and using those signals to generate a distal and proximal P wave, respectively. A deflection value is determined for each of the P waves. A ratio of the deflection values is then used to determine a location of the tip of the CVC. Optionally, the CVC may include a reference pair of electrodes disposed within the superior vena cava from which a reference deflection value may be obtained. A ratio of one of the other deflection values to the reference deflection value may be used to determine the location of the tip of the CVC.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2017
    Assignee: Bard Access Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter M. Rothenberg
  • Patent number: 9820674
    Abstract: An apparatus for determining cardiac performance in the patient includes a plurality of electrodes adapted to be placed in the patient and in communication with a heart chamber of the patient for measuring conductance and blood volume in the heart chamber of the patient; and a processor for determining instantaneous volume of the ventricle based on measurement of complex admittance at a plurality of frequencies to identify mechanical strength of the chamber, the processor in communication with the electrodes. A method for determining cardiac performance in a patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2017
    Assignee: Board of Regents, The University of Texas System
    Inventors: Marc D. Feldman, Jonathan W. Valvano, John A. Pearce, Chia-Ling Wei
  • Patent number: 9807585
    Abstract: An electronic device and a method for recognizing an electronic device are provided. The method includes transmitting a first packet including information associated with communication in a shorter range than a range that is set for short-range communication or receiving a second packet transmitted with low energy, determining a distance to the electronic device having transmitted the received second packet based on the information associated with the communication in the shorter range than the set range, when the information associated with the communication in the shorter range than the set range is included in the received second packet, and controlling a transmission power to transmit the first packet to be transmitted over the determined distance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2017
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Ho-Chang Chae