Temperature Detection Patents (Class 600/549)
  • Patent number: 10198670
    Abstract: What is disclosed is a system and method for isolating blood vessels in a thermographic image of a patient's breast or any other muscular region of the body. A thermographic image of a patient is received. A temperature-based analysis is performed on the image to detect vessel pixels. An intensity-based method analysis is performed on the image. A shape-based analysis is also performed to detect pixels of vessel-like structures. Candidate pixels which satisfy one or more of intensity-based or temperature-based or shaped-based criterion are identified. A constraint of local maximallity is thereafter imposed on each candidate pixel that satisfies both criterion to eliminate spurious non-vessel pixels. Candidate pixels which satisfy both criterion are then marked with a different color such that the vessel structures in the breast tissue can be visually differentiated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Inventor: Siva Teja Kakileti
  • Patent number: 10188301
    Abstract: The present invention resides in one aspect in a device for monitoring luminal esophageal temperatures in a patient. The device includes a probe adapted to be inserted into an esophagus of the patient. The probe extends between a proximal end and a distal end. A first temperature sensor and a second temperature sensor are coupled to the probe. An electrode is also coupled to the probe. The second temperature sensor is displaced from the first temperature sensor along a longitudinal axis of the probe. A controller processes information received by the electrodes and the temperature sensors. The controller generates a live and continuously updating three dimensional anatomic map and three dimensional thermal map of the esophagus based at least in part on the information received from the temperature sensors and the electrodes. The thermal map and the anatomic map are displayed on a video monitor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: St. Jude Medical, Cardiology Division, Inc.
    Inventor: Joseph Tiano
  • Patent number: 10173040
    Abstract: In general, the invention is directed to a technique for percutaneously introducing a stimulation lead into a target stimulation site via the epidural region proximate the spine of a patient. The process of introducing the stimulation lead may include the use of a hollow stimulation lead introducer, which comprises an elongated sheath and an elongated dilator. The dilator fits within the sheath and serves to widen a path through the epidural region for the introduction of a stimulation lead. At least a portion of the stimulation lead introducer has an oblong cross-section, allowing passage of stimulation leads such as paddle leads. The stimulation lead introducer may enter the epidural region proximate a spine of a patient via a guidewire. The stimulation lead introducer provides a path through the epidural region of a patient to a target stimulation site. A stimulation lead may travel through the path to reach the target stimulation site where it may provide therapy to the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2019
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Charmaine K. Harris, Joseph J. Klein
  • Patent number: 10154816
    Abstract: An adhesive wearable device includes a cover assembly, a sensor assembly and an electronic module. The cover assembly includes a top cover. The top cover defines an accommodating chamber and a plurality of exhaust holes. The sensor assembly includes a sensor board, and an adhesive pad mounted under the sensor board. The sensor board defines a plurality of through-holes. A bottom surface of the sensor board is equipped with a plurality of sensor units. The adhesive pad defines an opening corresponding to the sensor units, a plurality of perforations and guiding channels extending radially from the opening to the perforations. The electronic module is disposed on and is electrically connected with the sensor board. The cover assembly covers up the sensor assembly and the electronic module. The exhaust holes are communicated with the opening by virtue of the accommodating chamber, the through-holes, the perforations and the guiding channels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2018
    Assignee: Cheng Uei Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: James Lee, Kuo Yang Wu, Wen Bing Hsu, Chen Mo Chiang
  • Patent number: 10136857
    Abstract: A wearable system and methods for measuring physiological data from a device worn about a body part of a user is provided comprising a base module, a first sensor module, and a second sensor module. The base module comprises a display and a base computing unit. The first sensor module measures a gravitational force experienced by the device. The second sensor module is spatially positioned relative to the base module and over a portion of the body part for measuring one or more physiological characteristics calibrated based on the gravitational force measured with the first sensor module. The base module is adjustably positioned by the user relative to the second sensor module such that the sensor module maintains its positioning over the body part for sufficient contact with the body part for accurate measurements of physiological data regardless of the anthropometric size of the body part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2018
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Frank Settemo Nuovo, Sheldon George Phillips, James Schuessler
  • Patent number: 10126182
    Abstract: A light emitting thermometer system includes a digital thermometer that has a rear end, a probe end and a display. The probe end may be placed into contact with an animal. A lighting unit is provided and the lighting unit is coupled to the digital thermometer. Thus, the lighting unit may selectively illuminate the animal when the probe end is placed into contact with the animal. The lighting unit includes a light emitter that is removably coupled to the lighting unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2018
    Inventor: Wendy Dutterer
  • Patent number: 10117606
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure include detecting a concurrent occurrence of a decrease in monitored analyte level and a corresponding decrease in monitored on-skin temperature, confirming a presence of an impending hypoglycemic condition, and asserting a notification corresponding to the confirmed impending hypoglycemic condition. Devices, methods, systems and kits incorporating the same are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2018
    Assignee: Abbott Diabetes Care Inc.
    Inventors: Benjamin Jay Feldman, Adam Heller, Namvar Kiaie
  • Patent number: 10098708
    Abstract: A dental device capable of monitoring at least one characteristic of the dental device. The characteristics are monitored by the use of microchips; radio frequency identification devices (RFID), bar codes, resistors, diodes, semiconductors, and magnetic strips.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2018
    Assignee: INTER-MED, INC.
    Inventor: Gary J. Pond
  • Patent number: 10085694
    Abstract: A medical device for monitoring physical, chemical, or biological characteristics of an organ, such as the urinary bladder. The medical device may include an elongate member having a proximal end and a distal end. The device may further include an end-effector assembly extending distally from the distal end of the elongate member. The end-effector assembly may also include a plurality of sensing elements for detecting abnormal organ function. Each of the plurality of sensing elements may include one or more of mechanical, visual, chemical, and biological sensors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2018
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.
    Inventors: Sandra Nagale, Ruth Cheng
  • Patent number: 10076238
    Abstract: Systems and methods for visualizing ablated tissue are disclosed. In some embodiments, a system for imaging tissue comprising: a catheter having a distal end and a proximal end; an inflatable balloon disposed about the distal end of the catheter; and an optical housing extending from the distal end of the catheter into the balloon, the optical housing being configured to position inside the balloon a light source for illuminating a tissue outside the balloon and a camera for imaging the illuminated tissue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Assignees: The George Washington University, LuxCath, LLC
    Inventors: Omar Amirana, Kenneth C. Armstrong, Matthew W. Kay, Marco A. Mercader, Terrance J. Ransbury, Narine Sarvazyan
  • Patent number: 10039929
    Abstract: Methods and devices for pelvic floor tissue treatment involve positioning at least one applicator adjacent to the pelvic floor tissue and transferring energy into the tissue, causing a biological effect in the tissue. The applicator may have a detachable part which can be changed to better provide specific treatments. The detachable part may contain at least one energy delivery element providing one type of energy for use in providing the treatment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2018
    Assignee: BLT Holdings Limited
    Inventors: Tomá{hacek over (s)} Schwarz, Lucia Kosturiakova, Jan Milichovsky
  • Patent number: 10024730
    Abstract: A polyacrylamide tissue phantom embedded with multi-formulated thermochromic liquid crystals for use in the evaluation of RF ablation therapies is provided. The tissue phantom approximates the properties of biological tissue, and therefore provides a suitable substitute for use in testing the effects of RF and other energy-emitting devices on biological tissue. Also provided is a system for using the tissue phantom in the evaluation of RF therapies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2018
    Assignee: Medtronic Ablation Frontiers LLC
    Inventors: Aaron R. Strunk, Alex Novichenok
  • Patent number: 10016235
    Abstract: An endoscope system having: an endoscope having: a first transmission electrode arranged to a channel defined by the endoscope; and a second transmission electrode arranged to the channel, wherein the first transmission electrode and the second transmission electrode are electrically connected to the power source; and a treatment tool having: a first reception electrode arranged to a treatment tool insertion section, and spaced apart from the first transmission electrode to form a first capacitor; a second reception electrode arranged to the treatment tool insertion section, and spaced apart from the second transmission electrode to form a second capacitor; and an electrically powered treatment device configured to be moved by the treatment tool insertion section, wherein the electrically powered treatment device is electrically connected to the first reception electrode and the second reception electrode to be powered to perform a treatment on a subject.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2018
    Assignee: OLYMPUS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Shoei Tsuruta, Yuta Sugiyama, Akira Matsui
  • Patent number: 10016237
    Abstract: A microwave ablation system includes an energy source adapted to generate microwave energy and a power splitting device having an input adapted to connect to the energy source and a plurality of outputs. The plurality of outputs are configured to be coupled to a corresponding plurality of energy delivery devices. The power splitting device is configured to selectively divide energy provided from the energy source between the plurality of energy devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2018
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Robert J. Behnke, II, Mani N. Prakash, Jeffrey L. Jensen, Francesca Rossetto, Joseph D. Brannan
  • Patent number: 10004428
    Abstract: A sensor-based quantification and analysis system includes an input device including a plurality of sensors that generate an input based on a force. The input device also includes a transmission device that transmits force information based on the input. The system also includes an output device that receives the force information. A processing unit selects, for each of the plurality of sensors, one of a plurality of levels of a likelihood of tissue damage based on the force and a predetermined time period. Further, the output device includes a display that presents or logs the one of the plurality of levels of the likelihood of tissue damage for each of the plurality of sensors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2018
    Assignee: Orpyx Medical Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Breanne Everett, Marcel Groenland
  • Patent number: 9974477
    Abstract: A renal denervation catheter includes a catheter shaft, at least one ablation member, and a sensor, and is operable to perform a renal denervation procedure. The catheter shaft includes a distal end portion insertable into a renal artery. The at least one ablation member is positioned at the distal end portion of the catheter shaft and operable to ablate renal nerves along a wall of the renal artery. The sensor provides information that correlates to blood flow in the renal artery. A change in blood flow rate in the renal artery resulting from the ablation is indicative of the efficacy of the renal denervation procedure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2018
    Assignee: ST. JUDE MEDICAL, CARDIOLOGY DIVISION, INC.
    Inventors: Martin Cholette, Sergio Shkurovich
  • Patent number: 9958341
    Abstract: A method can include, in response to a power supply voltage transition, setting a temperature window to a first temperature range by operation of a temperature circuit formed on a semiconductor device. In response to a temperature of the semiconductor device being determined to be outside of the first temperature range, changing the temperature range of the temperature window until the temperature of the semiconductor device is determined to be within the temperature window.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2018
    Inventor: Darryl G. Walker
  • Patent number: 9952270
    Abstract: An electronic device may include a shaft insertable into a target area, and an electronic component configured to generate a signal. The electronic component may be on or within the shaft. The electronic device may also include at least one antenna on or within the shaft. The electronic device may also include a receiver operatively coupled to the antenna. The receiver may monitor an electrical characteristic of the antenna to identify an effect of an electromagnetic field on the electrical characteristic of the antenna. The electronic device may also include a processor communicatively coupled to the receiver. At least one of the receiver and the processor may predict an effect of the electromagnetic field on the signal generated by the electronic component, based at least in part on the effect of the electromagnetic field on the electrical characteristic of the antenna.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2018
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.
    Inventor: Russell P. Dresher
  • Patent number: 9939334
    Abstract: A thermometer includes a processing unit configured to receive a plurality of timed apart temperature readings from first and second sensors and a processor calculates heat flux value, Q, and obtains values of the heat flux vs. temperature (Q vs. Ts.) as the temperature approaches a steady state. The processor empirically predicts the steady state temperature of the sensor Ts, using the peak value of the values of Q vs. Ts. The processor may also empirically calculate a bias value as a function of the peak value of Q vs. Ts. The bias value represents the difference between the temperature reading (Ts) at steady state and core temperature of the subject and is added to the steady state temperature to arrive at core.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: Medisim, LTD.
    Inventor: Moshe Yarden
  • Patent number: 9925001
    Abstract: A renal nerve ablation device may include an elongate tubular member having a distal region. An expandable member may be coupled to the distal region. One or more active electrodes may be coupled to the expandable member. One or more ground electrodes may be coupled to the expandable member. The one or more active electrodes and/or the one or more ground electrodes may be oriented helically about the length of the expandable member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2018
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.
    Inventors: Martin R. Willard, Henry H. Lee, Derek C. Sutermeister
  • Patent number: 9918644
    Abstract: The blood circulation in a body part may be affected by various factors such as burns, vibration, smoking, drugs, physical activity, adhesion, medical treatment, acupuncture, light therapy, ambient temperature, injuries such as sprains and broken bones, diseases and various foodstuffs. The invention relates to a method for examining the surface temperature of a body part due to such factors. The method according to the invention comprises an initial period in which the body part is positioned in a background screen and photographed with a thermographic camera, an exposure period in which body part is exposed to a refrigerant for a predetermined exposure time, a recovery period in which body part is repositioned in the background screen and photographed or filmed with a thermographic camera. The invention also relates a system for examination of the surface temperature of a body part according to the method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Assignee: Performance in Cold AB
    Inventor: Anders Linné
  • Patent number: 9918637
    Abstract: A system for monitoring patient physiological data is disclosed herein. The system comprises a wireless patient monitoring device with a known device identity having a first sensor for retrieving patient physiological data, and a data reception device comprising a processor for processing data received via a wireless communication protocol from the patient monitoring device and a memory for storing the known patient monitoring device identity, the memory being connected to an identity input device for entering the known patient monitoring device identity. The data reception device can receive and process identification data to obtain a patient monitoring device identity and to compare said identity with the stored known identity. When the identity matches, the data reception device is allowed to receive and process the retrieved patient physiological data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Otto Valtteri Pekander, Kristian Matti Karru
  • Patent number: 9916424
    Abstract: A system and method for predicting an onset of an exacerbation in a patient is provided. The method includes monitoring core body temperature of the patient; monitoring breath temperature of the patient; calculating a relationship, or a change in relationship, between the core body temperature and the breath temperature of the patient; and detecting the onset of the exacerbation, when the calculated relationship, or a change in relationship, satisfies a predetermined criteria.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips N.V.
    Inventors: Amy Oi Mee Cheung, Jasper Klewer, Maryam Atakhorrami
  • Patent number: 9897620
    Abstract: A gas detection device and a gas inlet module thereof are provided. The gas detection device includes a case, a flow disturbing element, a check film and a detector. The case includes a cavity and an exhaust hole. The flow disturbing element is for making a to-be-measured gas vertically enter the cavity. The check film is connected to the flow disturbing element for make the vertical to-be-measured gas flow into the cavity in one-way. The detector is disposed within the cavity and positioned between the exhaust hole and the check film for detecting a property of the to-be-measured gas. The exhaust hole is for making the to-be-measured gas be exhausted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2018
    Assignee: HTC CORPORATION
    Inventors: Chung-Ju Wu, Sheng-Chieh Lin, Yao-Ting Tseng, Pin-Chung Sun, Chien-Lung Huang
  • Patent number: 9888958
    Abstract: A forceps includes an end effector assembly including first and second jaw members. One or both of the jaw members is moveable relative to the other between a spaced-apart position and an approximated position for grasping tissue therebetween. One or both of the jaw members includes a jaw frame including an engagement recess defined on each lateral side thereof and a replaceable component configured for slidable positioning about the jaw frame. The replaceable component includes an outer jaw housing having an engagement tang disposed on each lateral side thereof. The engagement tangs are configured to engage the engagement recesses of the jaw frame upon slidable positioning of the replaceable component about the jaw frame to secure the replaceable component to the jaw frame. The replaceable component includes an electrically conductive tissue sealing plate engaged to the outer jaw housing to define a tissue sealing surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: COVIDIEN LP
    Inventors: Allan J. Evans, Peter M. Mueller, Peter D. Gadsby
  • Patent number: 9872636
    Abstract: A sensor-based quantification and analysis system includes an input device including a plurality of sensors that generate an input based on a force. The input device also includes a transmission device that transmits force information based on the input. The system also includes an output device that receives the force information. A processing unit selects, for each of the plurality of sensors, one of a plurality of levels of a likelihood of tissue damage based on the force and a predetermined time period. Further, the output device includes a display that presents or logs the one of the plurality of levels of the likelihood of tissue damage for each of the plurality of sensors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2018
    Assignee: Orpyx Medical Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Breanne Everett, Marcel Groenland
  • Patent number: 9848932
    Abstract: An ablation electrode system includes a handle assembly; a needle electrode assembly supported in and extending from the handle assembly. The needle electrode assembly includes an outer tube having at least a conductive distal tip and defining a cavity therein; and an inner tube disposed at least partially within the cavity of the outer tube and defining a lumen therein. The ablation electrode assembly includes a hub assembly fluidly connected to the needle electrode assembly. The hub assembly defines a first chamber and a second chamber; wherein the proximal end portion of the inner tube is in fluid communication with the first chamber and the proximal end portion of the outer tube is in fluid communication with the second chamber. The ablation electrode assembly includes a first fluid conduit fluidly connected to the first chamber; and a second fluid conduit fluidly connected to the second chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2017
    Assignee: Covidien AG
    Inventors: Arnold V. Decarlo, Gene H. Arts
  • Patent number: 9844486
    Abstract: A vibratory massaging device having a spaced plurality of proximity sensors distributed on a massaging surface of the device, and a control circuit operative for controlling vibratory intensities in response to activation of particular ones of the sensors being close to a user's body parts being massaged. The device can be configured as a dildo, including both main and secondary vibrators, the secondary vibrator being within an arm portion that is configured for clitoral stimulation. At least one of the vibrators is automatically driven at increased intensity as penetration increases.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2017
    Assignee: American Lantex Corp.
    Inventor: Calvin Spencer Lee
  • Patent number: 9835506
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for estimating the thermophysical properties of a material (?) that incorporates at least one temperature sensor (1, 2, 3) and one point heat source (4), the distance between the at least one temperature sensor (1, 2, 3) and the point heat source (4) being known. The method includes the steps of: expression of the theoretical temperature as a function of time at the at least one temperature sensor (1, 2, 3) when the point heat source (4) is activated, said expression depending on the thermophysical parameters of the material (?); acquisition of a plurality of temperature measurements by the at least one temperature sensor (1, 2, 3) over a time period during which the point heat source (4) is activated; and determining of the values of the thermophysical parameters of the material (?), such that the difference between the theoretical temperatures obtained via said expression and the temperatures that are actually measured is minimal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2017
    Assignees: Institut de Radioprotection et de Sûreté Nucléaire, Universite D'Aix-Marseille
    Inventors: Serge Pons, Mickaël Coutin, Sébastien Luciani, Christophe Le Niliot, Fabrice Rigollet
  • Patent number: 9820814
    Abstract: Devices and methods for cooling microwave antennas are disclosed herein. The cooling systems can be used with various types of microwave antennas. One variation generally comprises a handle portion with an elongate outer jacket extending from the handle portion. A microwave antenna is positioned within the handle and outer jacket such that cooling fluid pumped into the handle comes into contact directly along a portion of the length, or a majority of the length, or the entire length of the antenna to allow for direct convective cooling. Other variations include cooling sheaths which form defined cooling channels around a portion of the antenna. Yet another variation includes passively-cooled systems which utilize expandable balloons to urge tissue away from the surface of the microwave antenna as well as cooling sheaths which are cooled through endothermic chemical reactions. Furthermore, the microwave antennas themselves can have cooling lumens integrated directly therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2017
    Assignee: COVIDIEN LP
    Inventors: Roman Turovskiy, Steven Kim, Mani N. Prakash, Francesca Rossetto
  • Patent number: 9814514
    Abstract: An electrosurgical device is disclosed. The electrosurgical device includes a handle, a shaft extending distally from the handle, and an end effector coupled to a distal end of the shaft. The end effector comprises a first electrode and a second electrode. The second electrode includes a first position and a second position. The second electrode is configured to move from the first position to the second position when a force is applied to the end effector by a tissue section. The first electrode and the second electrode define a treatment area when the second electrode is in the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2017
    Assignee: Ethicon LLC
    Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, David C. Yates, Chester O. Baxter, III, John V. Hunt, Jennifer M. Mallow, Barry C. Worrell, Taylor W. Aronhalt, Kevin L. Houser
  • Patent number: 9801542
    Abstract: A heart monitoring system for a person includes one or more wireless nodes; and wearable appliance in communication with the one or more wireless nodes, the appliance monitoring vital signs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2017
    Assignee: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS N.V.
    Inventors: Bao Tran, Ha Tran
  • Patent number: 9786148
    Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods for monitoring health parameters of an individual, including circumferential changes to a portion of the individual's body, are provided herein. A monitoring device includes: a stretchable component configured to fit securely around a body portion, and a sensor module coupled thereto. The sensor module is configured to obtain and transmit a circumference measurement of the body portion. The sensor module may be further configured to obtain and transmit measurements of one or more additional parameters. A related monitoring system includes the described monitoring device and a mobile computing device. The mobile computing device is configured, at least in part, to: process the circumference measurements to identify and analyze any change in circumference of the body portion, and generate a relevant alert output. Methods performed by the various devices and systems are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2017
    Assignee: Plethy, Inc.
    Inventors: Raja Sundaram, Paul Chirico, Bohdan Chopko, Samuel Linton, John Kraczkowsky
  • Patent number: 9773135
    Abstract: Systems and methods for collecting and/or managing data are provided. The system includes a plurality of radio frequency identification (RFID) tags attached to a plurality of machines. Each of the plurality of RFID tags includes a tag ID. The system also includes a mobile data collector configured to take a measurement of one or more operating conditions of the plurality of machines and to read the tag ID from a proximal one of the plurality of RFID tags. The system also includes a computing device including a processor and a memory storing a database, the database associating the tag ID of each of the plurality of RFID tags with the one of the plurality of machines to which it is attached. Further, the computing device is configured to receive the measurement and the tag ID from the mobile data collector and analyze the one or more operating conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2017
    Assignee: AKTIEBOlAGET SKF
    Inventor: Jonathan David Murphy
  • Patent number: 9741228
    Abstract: A system and method for facilitating personal safety tracking monitoring via an apparatus with multiple sensors are disclosed. The sensors may include a water sensor, an accelerometer, a water pressure sensor, an ambient temperature sensor, and/or any other sensors. The apparatus may be configured to generate various alerts in response to signals generated by the sensors. For example, the apparatus may generate a drowning alert when a submersion signal is generated and a drowning acceleration signature is detected in the same period. As another example, an abduction alert may be generated when an abduction acceleration signature and an out-of-boundary situation is detected for the apparatus. The alerts generated by the apparatus may be transmitted to a server or a client device associated with the apparatus for further processing, which may include generating a notification for presentation on the client device in response to an alert being received from the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Assignee: iSHADOW Technology Inc.
    Inventors: Stuart Reich, Dee Narla
  • Patent number: 9737263
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to footwear for monitoring health condition of foot of a user. The footwear comprises one or more image capturing devices and a control unit. The image capturing devices are placed at predefined locations in the footwear to capture one or more images of the foot, when the user is wearing the footwear. The control unit is configured to receive the captured images from the image capturing devices. The captured images are compared with one or more pre-stored images of a healthy foot to identify differences between the captured images and the pre-stored images. The control unit detects health condition of the foot of the user based on the differences. Further, the control unit provides a notification about the health condition of the foot to a computing device associated with the user or one or more care providers of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Assignee: WIPRO LIMITED
    Inventors: Vijay Kumar, Santhosh Kumar Madathil, Thomas Chittakattu Ninan
  • Patent number: 9724159
    Abstract: An ablation device includes a feedline including an inner conductor having a distal end, an outer conductor coaxially disposed around the inner conductor, and a dielectric material disposed therebetween, an elongated electrically-conductive member longitudinally disposed at the distal end of the inner conductor and having a proximal end, a first balun structure disposed over a first portion of the outer conductor and positioned so that a distal end of the first balun structure is located at a first distance from the proximal end of the electrically-conductive member and a second balun structure disposed over a second portion of the outer conductor and positioned so that a distal end of the second balun structure is located at a second distance from the proximal end of the electrically-conductive member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2017
    Assignee: COVIDIEN LP
    Inventor: Joseph D. Brannan
  • Patent number: 9668655
    Abstract: A temperature probe for monitoring temperatures of a surface of a tissue or organ within the body of a subject includes a section with a substantially two-dimensional arrangement and a plurality of temperature sensors positioned across an area defined by the substantially two-dimensional arrangement. Such an apparatus may be used in conjunction with procedures in which thermal techniques are used to diagnose a disease state or treat diseased tissue. Specifically, a temperature probe may be used to monitor temperatures across an area of a surface of a tissue or organ located close to the treated tissue to prevent subjection of the monitored tissue or organ to potentially damaging temperatures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2017
    Assignee: CIRCA Scientific, LLC
    Inventor: Shawn P. Fojtik
  • Patent number: 9664021
    Abstract: A method for enhancing the recovery of hydrocarbon deposit includes the step of sensing a material property of an underground volume. A three-dimensional map identifying the spatial variation in the sensed material property of the underground volume is generated. Propagating electromagnetic radiation is transmitted in the volume based on the map. The propagating electromagnetic radiation transmission is varied in at least one of frequency, polarization, wavelength, frequency, amplitude, mode, and phase in response to the variation in the material property of a region within the volume to which the propagating electromagnetic radiation is directed. Accordingly, the volume is heated in a spatially varying manner to heat material in the volume and thereby induce the flow of hydrocarbon deposits from the volume.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2017
    Assignee: Elwha LLC
    Inventors: Roderick A. Hyde, Nathan P. Myhrvold, Lowell L. Wood, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9664574
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing a thermometer probe includes: obtaining a hollow housing having an open end and a curved inner surface; obtaining a flexible detecting component having an adhesive layer; obtaining an insertion component; detachably attaching the flexible detecting component to the insertion component; inserting the insertion component, having the flexible detecting component attached thereto, through the open end of the hollow housing and into the hollow housing such that the adhesive layer is disposed between the insertion component and the inner surface; and adhering, via the adhesive layer, the flexible detecting component to the curved inner surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2017
    Assignee: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS INCORPORATED
    Inventor: Sreenivasan K Koduri
  • Patent number: 9652949
    Abstract: The present invention includes systems and methods for enhancing audience sensory experience. Light-emitting diodes and vibrators may activate on an audience member shirt when an actor receives a hit while wearing a shirt having sensors. The audience member may choose to receive input from a particular actor's shirt. The audience member may also choose to view a replay of an event and activate the associated light-emitting diodes and vibrators.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2017
    Assignee: PROSPORTS TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: John E. Cronin, Nick Reasner
  • Patent number: 9629586
    Abstract: System, devices and methods are presented that integrate stretchable or flexible circuitry, including arrays of active devices for enhanced sensing, diagnostic, and therapeutic capabilities. The invention enables conformal sensing contact with tissues of interest, such as the inner wall of a lumen, a nerve bundle, or the surface of the heart. Such direct, conformal contact increases accuracy of measurement and delivery of therapy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: MC10, Inc.
    Inventors: Roozbeh Ghaffari, Bassel de Graff, Gilman Callsen, William J. Arora, Benjamin Schlatka, Eugene Kuznetsov
  • Patent number: 9618401
    Abstract: The technology provides an external device for estimating a core body temperature of a human subject. The wrist monitor device includes a casing sized and shaped to fit onto a wrist of a human subject. The casing has a first face and a second face. In addition there is a cavity in the casing that houses a heat trap. The heat trap has an opening oriented to receive incoming thermal energy from the skin and a shell of a thermal-insulation material that has an inner thermal energy-reflective surface. Detected temperature data is compiled in a database and used to estimate whether an identified individual has a core body temperature indicative of a fever.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2017
    Inventor: Alan C. Heller
  • Patent number: 9592007
    Abstract: A wearable system and methods for measuring physiological data from a device worn about a body part of a user is provided comprising a base module and sensor module. The base module comprises a display and a base computing unit. The sensor module is spatially positioned relative to the base module and over a portion of the body part for measuring one or more physiological characteristics. The base module is adjustably positioned by the user relative to the sensor module such that the sensor module maintains its positioning over the body part for sufficient contact with the body part for accurate measurements of physiological data regardless of the anthropometric size of the body part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2017
    Assignee: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Frank Settemo Nuovo, Sheldon George Phillips
  • Patent number: 9592092
    Abstract: According to some embodiments, a medical instrument (for example, an ablation device) comprises an elongate body having a proximal end and a distal end, an energy delivery member positioned at the distal end of the elongate body, a first plurality of temperature-measurement devices carried by or positioned within the energy delivery member, the first plurality of temperature-measurement devices being thermally insulated from the energy delivery member, and a second plurality of temperature-measurement devices positioned proximal to a proximal end of the energy delivery member, the second plurality of temperature-measurement devices being thermally insulated from the energy delivery member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2017
    Assignee: Advanced Cardiac Therapeutics, Inc.
    Inventors: Dorin Panescu, Jessi E. Johnson, Eric Andrew Schultheis, Josef Vincent Koblish
  • Patent number: 9554769
    Abstract: The apparatus for assessing the risk of cerebrovascular diseases comprises a sensor part 1, a circuit part 2, a computation part 3 and an output part 4, where the circuit part 2 is a functional part for driving the sensor part 1 and transmitting a signal detected at the sensor part 1 to the computation part 3 and comprises a transmission circuit 21, a first receiving circuit 22, a second receiving circuit 23 and the like. The transmission circuit 21 is in connection with a transmission device 111 and a transmission device 121, for driving these devices to generate a continuous wave. A rate wave form computation part 31 is in connection with the first receiving circuit 22 and the second receiving circuit 23 to obtain the frequency of the reflected continuous wave as detected with the receiving units 112 and 122. Comparing the frequency with the frequency from the transmission circuit 21, the variation of the frequency is detected. Based on these values, blood flow rate “v” can be determined.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: SEIKO INSTRUMENTS INC.
    Inventors: Tsutomu Kamei, Kohji Murata, Takahiko Nakamura
  • Patent number: 9554855
    Abstract: A microwave ablation system includes an energy source adapted to generate microwave energy and a power splitting device having an input adapted to connect to the energy source and a plurality of outputs. The plurality of outputs are configured to be coupled to a corresponding plurality of energy delivery devices. The power splitting device is configured to selectively divide energy provided from the energy source between the plurality of energy devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: COVIDIEN LP
    Inventors: Robert J. Behnke, II, Mani N. Prakash, Jeffrey L. Jensen, Francesca Rossetto, Joseph D. Brannan
  • Patent number: 9504602
    Abstract: An improved heating pad which minimizes or eliminates skin burns due to improper uses in three ways: by monitoring an absolute temperature of each surface of the heating pad; by monitoring a temperature difference between each surface of the heating pad, where a small temperature difference indicates that both sides of the heating pad are covered; and by monitoring the duty cycle of a heating element, where a large off portion of the duty cycle indicates both sides of the heating pad are covered.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2016
    Assignee: Triodyne Safety Systems, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Ralph Lipsey Barnett, James R. Wingfield
  • Patent number: 9462411
    Abstract: A system (10) and method (30) comprises a detector that is configured to enable a mode of a first device (14) and/or to enable a mode of a second device (15) responsive to a detection that a proximity criterion is satisfied between the first device and an entity (Entity 1) and responsive to at least one of a position, velocity and a Time-of-Day and where the second device is not the entity and is not associated with the entity, and where the entity is not involved in providing a communications service to the first and/or second device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2016
    Assignee: Telcom Ventures, LLC
    Inventors: Peter D. Karabinis, Rajendra Singh
  • Patent number: 9453913
    Abstract: A target is provided having a retroreflector. A body is provided having a spherical exterior portion, the body containing a cavity. The cavity is sized to hold the retroreflector, the cavity open to the exterior of the body and having at least one surface opposite the opening, the retroreflector at least partially disposed in the cavity, wherein the retroreflector and at least one surface define a space therebetween. A transmitter is configured to emit an electromagnetic signal. A first actuator is configured to initiate emission of the electromagnetic signal, wherein the transmitter and the first actuator are affixed to the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2016
    Assignee: FARO TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: Peter G. Cramer, Robert E. Bridges, Nils P. Steffensen, Robert C. Mehler, Kenneth Steffey, John M. Hoffer, Jr., Daniel G. Lasley