| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US09398960B2 |
Multi-piece intervertebral implants
Intervertebral implants for implanting into an intervertebral space are provided. The implants can comprise one or more layers that are operably attached to one another. An implant can comprise a first layer having a first mating surface that mates with a second mating surface of a second layer. The first mating surface and the second mating surface can have features that allow them to complement each other. The implants can include one or more bore holes for receiving a fixation member. The bore holes can be horizontal, vertical or diagonal. In some cases, the bore holes will be blind bore holes. |
| US09398957B2 |
Femoral and tibial bases
Various embodiments are directed to femoral and tibial bases that form structures of an implantable mechanical energy absorbing system. According to one embodiment, the bases include a low-profile body having a elongate and a curved body portion. One end of the base is elevated as compared to another end. An inner surface of the low-profile body has a raised portion extending along the elongate, straight portion of the low-profile body. The bases also include a plurality of openings positioned along the low-profile body for alignment and purposes of affixation to body anatomy. |
| US09398956B2 |
Fixed-bearing knee prosthesis having interchangeable components
A fixed-bearing prosthesis includes a femoral component having a medial condyle surface and a lateral condyle surface. The knee prosthesis also includes a bearing having a medial bearing surface configured to articulate with the medial condyle surface of the femoral component, and a lateral bearing surface configured to articulate with the lateral condyle surface of the femoral component. A tibial tray is secured to the bearing. The tibial tray has a platform with an elongated stem extending downwardly from a lower surface thereof. A posterior buttress extends along a posterior section of the perimeter of the tray's platform, and an anterior buttress extends along an anterior section of the perimeter of the tray's platform. Differently-sized tibial trays are interchangeable with differently-sized bearings. |
| US09398951B2 |
Self-actuating sealing portions for paravalvular leak protection
A prosthetic heart valve for replacing a native valve includes a collapsible and expandable stent having a proximal end and a distal end, and a valve assembly including a plurality of leaflets, the valve assembly being disposed within the stent. The heart valve further includes a plurality of elongated legs each with a first end coupled to the stent and a free end, the elongated legs being configured to transition from an extended configuration to a relaxed configuration. A sealing portion connected to the plurality of legs forms a sealing structure when the legs transition to the relaxed configuration to reduce perivalvular leakage between the implanted valve and surrounding tissue. |
| US09398945B2 |
Vascular implant retrieval assembly and method
A retrieval assembly for retrieving an implanted device includes an outer catheter; an interior tube arrangement with a first tube extending through the catheter lumen and having a first distal end, and with a second tube having extending through the catheter lumen outside the first tube. The second tube has a distal portion extending distally past the first distal end with a bend toward the first tube axis and with a second distal end. An entangling element is configured to be advanced through the second tube past the second distal end and to be at least partially retracted into the second tube. A withdrawal tool configured for engaging the implanted device and for at least partially retracting the implanted device into the first tube. The entangling element may have a distal flexible coil, and the withdrawing tool may have a distal pickup hook. |
| US09398944B2 |
Lock bar spring and clip for implant deployment device
A system for closing an aperture in a biological tissue includes an implant deployment device with a frame arm and a clip operably disposed on the frame arm. A mesh attachment apparatus has a clip press with a body portion including a recess and at least one chamfered press operably disposed in the recess. The chamfered press is configured to move between an extended position protruding at least partially from said recess and a retracted position. The mesh attachment apparatus is configured to move the clip from an open position to a closed position to facilitate loading an implant onto the implant deployment device. |
| US09398942B2 |
Surgical implant
An implant is provided for maintaining the position of pelvic organs, such as components of the urinary tract. The implant contacts the anterior surface of the urethra and is anchored to the pelvic fascia and the periurethral fascia. A method of anchoring the pelvic organs is also provided, involving inserting the implant via an anterior approach, avoiding complications and side effects that result when implants are inserted through the wall of the vagina. |
| US09398939B2 |
Dynamic dental crown
An artificial tooth system, including a denture-engaging body portion, a first recess formed in the denture-engaging body portion, and a pivot base positioned within the first recess and operationally connected to the denture-engaging body portion. A generally spherical ball connector extends from the pivot base. A pivot platform is pivotably connected to the generally spherical ball portion and a resilient ring is positioned around the generally spherical ball connector and situated between the pivot base and the pivot platform. A membrane is sealingly connected around the pivot base and the pivot platform. The tooth also includes a crown portion with a second recess formed in the crown portion, wherein the pivot platform is positioned within the second recess. |
| US09398937B2 |
Operating room environment
A method serves to facilitate communication between members of an operating team in an operating room. Among others the method supports operation of different devices and expression of different command by gazing at a proper area on the monitor. |
| US09398929B2 |
Pin impactor
A multi-pin pin impactor and method of use are described. The pin impactor includes a body which can be held by a user and manipulated to re-position the pin impactor during use. First and second pin holders are attached to the body and each include a pin release mechanism effective to releasably retain a pin within the pin holder. An impaction can have a force applied to apply a driving force to a one of the pins. In use, a first pin held by the pin impactor is introduced into an aperture in a surgical instrument mounted on a bone. A force is applied to the pin impactor to drive the first pin into the bone. The orientation or position of the pin impactor is changed to introduce a second pin held by the pin impactor into a second aperture in the surgical instrument without re-loading the pin impactor and a force is applied to the pin impactor to drive the second pin into the bone. |
| US09398926B2 |
Interspinous stabilization device
An interspinous stabilization device includes: (1) a supporting member with a top surface and a bottom surface both being configured to engage spinous processes; (2) two side members connected to the supporting member; (3) a fastener attached to the side members; and optionally (4) two extendable arms each secured on one of the side members. |
| US09398919B2 |
Customized patient-specific revision surgical instruments and method
A surgical instrument including a customized patient-specific guide block is disclosed. The customized patient-specific guide block includes a first surface, a bone-facing surface, a second surface positioned opposite the first surface and the bone-facing surface, and a guide pin hole extending between the second surface and the bone-facing surface. The first surface has a customized prosthesis-specific negative contour shaped to match a corresponding contour of a prosthetic component, and the customized prosthesis-specific negative contour includes a concave surface shaped to match a convex surface of the corresponding contour of the prosthetic component. A method of performing an orthopaedic surgical procedure is also disclosed. |
| US09398917B2 |
Endoscopic surgical clip applier
An apparatus for application of surgical clips is provided and includes a lockout system selectively engageble with a pusher bar to prevent the pusher bar from returning to a home position and to prevent a trigger from completing a full stroke when a plurality of clips are substantially exhausted. The apparatus may include a trip mechanism including a trip lever biased into contact with the pusher bar, wherein distal movement of the drive bar moves the trip mechanism until the trip lever engages a lip of the pusher bar and in turn distally moves the pusher bar. The apparatus may include a wedge plate including a distal end placeable between spaced-apart jaw members, wherein the wedge plate is moved proximally to withdraw the distal end thereof from between the jaw members when a drive channel is moved in a distal direction. |
| US09398915B2 |
Loading a tissue closure device onto a delivery device
A compression tool is configured to compress one or more components of a delivery device, such as a closure element and one or more flanges of a pusher tube. The compression tool includes clamping means configured to close or release with rotation of actuating means (e.g., rotating means). In a closed position, the clamping means can sufficiently compress the one or more components of the delivery device so that a technician can easily position a garage tube about the compressed delivery device components. The assembled delivery device (or assembled garage tube) can then be removed from the compression tool upon reverse rotation of the actuating means, and subsequent opening of the clamping means. |
| US09398908B2 |
Integrated fan drive system for cooling tower
A drive system for driving a fan in a wet cooling tower, wherein the fan has a fan hub and fan blades attached to the fan hub. The drive system has a high-torque, low speed permanent magnet motor having a motor casing, a stator and a rotatable shaft, wherein the rotatable shaft is configured for connection to the fan hub. The drive system includes a variable frequency drive device to generate electrical signals that effect rotation of the rotatable shaft of the motor in order to rotate the fan. |
| US09398907B2 |
Suturing device
A suturing device for suturing a portion of biological tissue includes a needle attached to a suture, a needle holder that releasably holds the needle, and a needle driver adapted to be advanced and retracted substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the suturing device. A distal needle holder adapted to releasably hold the needle is positioned in a distal position relative to the portion of biological tissue and a distal end of the needle driver is positioned in a proximal position relative to the portion of biological tissue. The needle is positioned in either the proximal position or the distal position. The needle driver is moved longitudinally in a first direction along a path substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis such that the needle and suture pass through the portion of biological tissue, thereby forming a suture incision through which the suture passes. By repeating the above-described processes, a series of stitches is thereby formed. |
| US09398900B2 |
Device and method for treating varicose veins
A surgical instrument for treatment of superficial varicose veins in a body is provided. The surgical instrument includes at least one vein-engaging element disposed within or on a housing being adapted for insertion into a tissue. The at least one vein-engaging element is operable to a vein-engaging state whereby it protrudes from the housing at a length thereof. |
| US09398897B2 |
Ultrasonic sensor, measuring device, and measurement system
An ultrasonic sensor includes a substrate, three or more ultrasonic arrays and a control unit. The three or more ultrasonic arrays are disposed on a surface of the substrate. The control unit is configured to control ultrasonic waves transmitted from the ultrasonic arrays. Each of the three or more ultrasonic arrays includes a linear array structure has a plurality of ultrasonic elements arranged in a corresponding one of three or more straight lines, with the three or more straight lines collectively enclosing a closed area on a plane that contains the surface of the substrate. The control unit is configured to control the ultrasonic waves transmitted from each of the three or more ultrasonic arrays so that the ultrasonic waves are transmitted within a scanning plane that contains the corresponding one of the three or more straight line and that is perpendicular to the surface of the substrate. |
| US09398894B2 |
Removable cassette for articular injection system
Systems for injecting fluids and/or other materials into a targeted anatomical location, in particular, an intra-articular space, include a handpiece assembly having a proximal end and a distal end, a needle extending from the distal end of the handpiece assembly, a fluid delivery module comprising a cassette and a fluid transfer device. A conduit is generally configured to place the fluid delivery module in fluid communication with the handpiece assembly. Medications, formulations and/or other fluids or materials contained within vials that are secured to the fluid delivery module can be selectively delivered into an anatomy through a needle located at the distal end of the handpiece assembly. In some embodiments, ultrasound or other imaging technologies can be used to locate a joint or other targeted anatomical location. |
| US09398893B2 |
System and method for diagnostic vector classification support
The diagnostic vector classification support system and method disclosed herein may both reduce the time and effort required to train radiologists to interpret medical images, and provide a decision support system for trained radiologists who, regardless of training, have the potential to miss relevant findings. In an embodiment, a morphological image is used to identify a zone of interest in a co-registered functional image. An operator's grading of a feature at least partially contained within the zone of interest is compared to one or more computer-generated grades for the feature. Where the operator and computer-generated grades differ, diagnostic support can be provided such as displaying additional images, revising the zone of interest, annotating one or more displayed images, displaying a computer-generated feature grade, among other possibilities disclosed herein. |
| US09398892B2 |
Device and method for a trackable ultrasound
The invention provides a method for adjusting the calibration of a tracked ultrasound device using the measured difference between two sets of fiducial markings in two relative positions of a tracker and an scan head of the device. The invention also provides a trackable ultrasound device that enables repeatable attachment of a tracker to a scan head, thus preserving an initial calibration between the tracker and the scan head. Furthermore, the invention provides a calibration jig that can be used to repeatably attach a tracker to an ultrasound scan head or to measure the difference between two relative positions of a tracker and a scan head. |
| US09398891B2 |
Multiple communication interface medical examination apparatus, system, and/or method
An embodiment of an auscultation device can be constructed using, at least in part, electronic components to provide improved acquisition, processing, and communication of sound signals. An input device can be used for detecting sounds, and electrical signals representing the sounds can be processed and transmitted via one or more of a plurality of substantially contemporaneously available wired and/or wireless communications interfaces. Bluetooth and/or another form of wireless communication can be employed. Such embodiments can employ, at least in part, one or more of several commercially available wired and/or wireless receiver devices, such as, without limitation, headsets and headphones, mobile phones, PDAs and/or other handheld devices, desktop, laptop, palmtop, and/or tablet computers, speakers and/or other conventional and/or specifically configured computer devices and/or electronic devices. |
| US09398890B2 |
Geometry calibration algorithm for large flat module detector CT scanner
A method for geometric calibration of a CT scanner, including, for each row of at least one row of detector cells, establishing a complete geometric description of the CT scanner, including at least one unknown geometric parameter, establishing a description of a forward projection function using the complete geometric description, acquiring actual projection coordinates of a calibration phantom placed in a scanning field of view (SFOV) on a current row of detector cells and corresponding to a plurality of angles, acquiring calculated projection coordinates of the calibration phantom on the current row of detector cells and corresponding to the plurality of angles using the description of the forward projection function, and acquiring a calibrated value for the at least one unknown geometric parameter by evaluating the at least one unknown geometric parameter based on the acquired actual projection coordinates and calculated projection coordinates via a nonlinear least square fitting algorithm. |
| US09398886B2 |
Systems and methods for imaging large field-of-view objects
An imaging apparatus and related method comprising a detector located a distance from a source and positioned to receive a beam of radiation in a trajectory; a detector positioner that translates the detector to an alternate position in a direction that is substantially normal to the trajectory; and a beam positioner that alters the trajectory of the radiation beam to direct the beam onto the detector located at the alternate position. |
| US09398885B2 |
Mobile x-ray diagnostic apparatus and method for controlling mobile x-ray diagnostic apparatus
The problem addressed by the invention is to always keep an imaging angle of an X-ray detector to an object constant before and after an imaging unit is moved. In order to solve the problem, a mobile X-ray diagnostic apparatus related to the present invention detects a rotation amount of a main body in a horizontal surface due to movement on a floor surface and controls rotation drive of the X-ray detector based on a detection result. |
| US09398883B2 |
System and method for reconstructing cardiac activation information
An example method of representing cardiac information associated with a heart rhythm disorder includes accessing a plurality of neighboring cardiac signals obtained from a patient. The method also includes eliminating far-field activations from the plurality of neighboring cardiac signals using one or more divergence criteria that define local activations in the plurality of neighboring cardiac signals, the divergence criteria being associated with divergence among the plurality of neighboring cardiac signals. The method further includes constructing a clinical representation of local activations in the plurality of neighboring cardiac signals. |
| US09398881B2 |
Micro-analyzer with passive aggregator
A micro-analyzer is described. This micro-analyzer includes an outer surface region on a sampler surface that receives liquid droplets, and aggregates and moves the droplets radially toward an inner surface region on the sampler surface that receives the droplets. For example, the outer surface region may include a set of micro-patterned concentric rings, each of which includes a set of radially oriented wall-groove pairs. Moreover, the sampler surface may be increasingly less hydrophobic along a radial direction toward the center of the sampler surface, thereby creating an axisymmetric wettability gradient. After the droplets are aggregated, an analysis mechanism in an area within the inner surface region performs analysis on the aggregated droplets. |
| US09398880B2 |
Plurality of lamination for soft tissue compression support, protection and bracing; intelligent textile for equine and equestrian sports or activities
A Wearable Orthopedic/Orthotic Device for diagnostics and therapy of an equine limb comprises a soft tissue compression material and a sheet of stretchable laminate material for soft tissue compression and bracing. The device includes a stretchable, porous and breathable polyurethane membrane to allow a certain degree of perspiration and heat to escape while retaining a therapeutic amount of heat. The device includes an intelligent textile layer, including fibertronics, organic electronics, other forms of e-textiles and sensors for monitoring parameters associated with tendon and ligament injuries in sub clinical time periods. The device may include an acoustic sensor for detecting the speed and frequency of sound traveling through underlying tissue onto which an acoustic signal is emitted. In a diagnostic monitoring method, parameters associated with the health tissue of the equine limb and body is wirelessly transmitted by the device to an external receiver for analysis. |
| US09398879B2 |
SEM scanner sensing apparatus, system and methodology for early detection of ulcers
A handheld, conforming capacitive sensing apparatus configured to measure Sub-Epidermal Moisture (SEM) as a mean to detect and monitor the formation of pressure ulcers. The device incorporates an array of electrodes which are excited to measure and scan SEM in a programmable and multiplexed manner by a battery-less RF-powered chip. The scanning operation is initiated by an interrogator which excites a coil embedded in the apparatus and provides the needed energy burst to support the scanning/reading operation. Each electrode measures the equivalent sub-epidermal capacitance corresponding and representing the moisture content. |
| US09398877B2 |
Method and device for optical imaging of a turbid medium
Disclosed is a method and a device for optical imaging of a turbid medium. This method comprises a reference measurement of reference intensities of light emanating from the turbid medium at a reference blood oxygen saturation (SaO2) in the turbid medium and a reference imaging step for reconstructing a reference image of the turbid medium from the measured reference intensities. Furthermore the method comprises a contrast measurement of the contrast intensity of the light emanating from the turbid medium at a contrast blood oxygen saturation (SaO2) level in the turbid medium and a contrast imaging step for reconstructing a contrast image of the turbid medium from the measured contrast intensities. A comparison is made between the contrast image to the reference image of the turbid medium. |
| US09398872B2 |
Method and apparatus for providing analyte sensor calibration
Methods and apparatus for providing data processing and control for use in verifying the stability of sensor sensitivity of an analyte sensor. |
| US09398870B2 |
Wireless, handheld, tissue oximetry device
A system includes an enclosure having a processor and a memory coupled to the processor. The enclosure includes a display coupled to the processor where the display is visible from an exterior of the enclosure; and a battery within the enclosure coupled to the processor and the display. The enclosure includes a probe tip coupled to an exterior of the enclosure. The probe tip includes first, second, and third sensor openings. A first distance between the first and second sensor openings is different than a second distance between the first and third sensor openings. The enclosure includes code stored in the memory where the code is executable by the processor, and includes code to receive first data associated with the first and second sensor openings, code to receive second data associated with the first and second sensor openings, and code to perform SRS using the first and the second data. |
| US09398867B2 |
Efficient activity classification from motion inputs
A device worn by a human performing a method using accelerometer data to classify human activities is disclosed. The method uses memory and computation efficiently. A stream of samples is divided into a sequence of sampling periods; each sample has an acceleration value for each axis (e.g., a 3-D accelerometer). Standard deviation of the values for each axis during each sampling period are calculated. A running sum of each axis' values can be maintained sample-by-sample. Each value is sorted into a bin of a histogram, by quantifying a deviance from a respective mean in standard deviations. A standard deviation produced from samples of a previous period can be used. The histogram is compared with histograms associated with particular activities and a classification output can be produced. Classification outputs from multiple sampling periods can be used for voting. A threshold amount of activity can be required to begin activity classification. |
| US09398864B2 |
Methods and apparatus to gather and analyze electroencephalographic data
Example headsets and methods for gathering electroencephalographic signals are disclosed herein. An example headset disclosed herein includes a cap to be worn on a head of a person and a first electrode carried by the cap. The first electrode holder defines a first opening therethrough. The example headset includes a first electrode that insertable into the first opening. The first electrode has a first length and is adjustable in the first opening to a first plurality of discrete positions having different depths of insertion relative to the first opening. The first electrode is to engage the head of the person when inserted a sufficient depth into the first opening. The example headset also includes a second electrode that is interchangeable with the first electrode and insertable into the first opening. The second electrode has a second length, greater than the first length, and is adjustable in the first opening to a second plurality of discrete positions having different depths of insertion relative to the first opening. The second electrode is to engage the head of the person when inserted a sufficient depth into the first opening. |
| US09398860B2 |
System and method to define a rotational source associated with a biological rhythm disorder
An example system and method of determining a likely core of a rotational source associated with a heart rhythm disorder are disclosed. A plurality of relative diffusion shapes associated with wave fronts is calculated at a plurality of time points associated with the rotational source. The wave fronts associated with heart signals. A plurality of intersecting points of a smallest relative diffusion shape and other relative diffusion shapes is determined. A bounded polygon of the intersecting points is defined as the likely core. |
| US09398859B2 |
Wearable medical treatment device with motion/position detection
A wearable defibrillator consists of a vest (or belt) which is worn by the patient. The device monitors the patient's ECG with sensing electrodes and can monitor other patient conditions and in appropriate cases can treat certain conditions. An accelerometer(s) in the wearable defibrillator can allow for the device to determine the position, movements, forces applied to the patient, and/or the device. The device can use a least one patient motion detector generating a signal indicative of patient activity. Analysis of the signal can be indicative of patient activity appropriate for treatment or indication of device condition. |
| US09398856B2 |
Thermal imaging system
Support structures for positioning sensors on a physiologic tunnel for measuring physical, chemical and biological parameters of the body and to produce an action according to the measured value of the parameters. The support structure includes a sensor fitted on the support structures using a special geometry for acquiring continuous and undisturbed data on the physiology of the body. Signals are transmitted to a remote station by wireless transmission such as by electromagnetic waves, radio waves, infrared, sound and the like or by being reported locally by audio or visual transmission. The physical and chemical parameters include brain function, metabolic function, hydrodynamic function, hydration status, levels of chemical compounds in the blood, and the like. The support structure includes patches, clips, eyeglasses, head mounted gear and the like, containing passive or active sensors positioned at the end of the tunnel with sensing systems positioned on and accessing a physiologic tunnel. |
| US09398851B2 |
Retinal imaging device
A retinal imaging device and illumination module. The illumination module includes a light source to provide an incident beam along an illumination axis, a condenser lens at a spaced apart distance from the light source for condensing the incident beam and emanating a condensed incident beam, a transparent plate at a spaced apart distance from the condenser lens, wherein the transparent plate comprises a light absorber, at least one projections lens system to focus the condensed incident beam, a shield at a spaced apart distance from the projection lens system to yield a first partially blocked beam to form a comea illumination doughnut, and a perforated mirror comprising a hollow cylinder. A portion of the hollow cylinder protrudes out from a reflecting face of the mirror, forming an elliptical stopper to yield a second partially blocked beam to form a pupil illumination doughnut, enabling reflex-free imaging of the retina. |
| US09398850B2 |
Ophthalmic apparatus, method for controlling ophthalmic apparatus, and storage medium
An ophthalmic apparatus comprising: an illumination optical system including a light source and configured to illuminate an eye to be examined; an imaging optical system including an image sensor and configured to image the eye illuminated by the illumination optical system; an optical member insertion/removal unit configured to insert/remove an optical member in/from at least one of optical paths in the illumination optical system and the imaging optical system; and a notification unit configured to notify an insertion/removal state of the optical member with respect to the optical path based on a signal output from the image sensor in synchronism with insertion/removal of the optical member in/from the optical path. |
| US09398848B2 |
Eye gaze tracking
A method of performing eye gaze tracking of at least one eye of a user, by determining the position of the center of the eye, said method comprising the steps of: detecting the position of at least three reflections on said eye, transforming said positions to spanning a normalized coordinate system spanning a frame of reference, detecting the position of said center of the eye relative to the position of said reflections and transforming this position to said normalized coordinate system, tracking the eye gaze by tracking the movement of said eye in said normalized coordinate system. Thereby calibration of a camera, such as knowledge of the exact position and zoom level of the camera, is avoided. Further, it is not necessary to know the position of light sources. This results in a much more flexible and user friendly system. |
| US09398842B2 |
Endoscope valve for controlling fluid
According to the present invention, an endoscope valve is provided that comprises a cylinder, a cylinder liner, a piston, and a sleeve. The cylinder has a groove on a lateral surface of the cylinder. The cylinder liner has a cylindrical shape and is inserted into an inner circumference of the cylinder. The piston is inserted into an inner circumference of the cylinder liner. The sleeve has a sleeve rib, a sleeve skirt, and a pin. The sleeve rib covers at least part of an open end of the cylinder. The sleeve skirt covers at least part of a circumferential surface of the open end. The pin projects from the sleeve skirt towards the circumferential surface to engage with the groove. The cylinder liner has a rib that projects radially outward from a circumference of the cylinder liner. The sleeve rib holds the rib on the open end in the case that the pin engages with the groove. |
| US09398841B2 |
Steerable probes
A steerable probe comprises a body and drive means arranged to drive the probe through a sample. The body comprises at least three body sections extending parallel to each other along the probe and each movable relative to the others along the probe. The drive means is arranged to move each of the body sections in turn relative to the others thereby to drive the probe through the sample. |
| US09398840B2 |
Endoscope with variable direction of view
An endoscope with a variable direction of view is provided, which includes an endoscope shaft and imaging optics arranged inside the endoscope shaft. These image an object located before the distal end of the endoscope and produce an image of the object in the proximal area of the endoscope in which a field stop is arranged. The produced image is larger than the field stop. In the proximal area of the endoscope an image module is arranged with which the relative position between the produced image and the field stop can be changed for changing the section of the produced image visible after the field stop in order to change the direction of view of the endoscope. |
| US09398839B2 |
Protective sleeve for an endoscope having an endoscope tube
A protective sleeve for an endoscope having an endoscope tube is provided. The protective sleeve of certain embodiments can include a tubular main body for holding a distal section of the endoscope tube. The main body has an open proximal end and a cover glass at the distal end. The cover glass has a spherically curved, concave inside, a spherically curved, convex outside and a constant thickness. |
| US09398836B2 |
Surface cleaning apparatus
A surface cleaning apparatus, such as a steam mop or fluid delivery mop, comprises an upright housing and a foot coupled to the upright housing. The cleaning apparatus comprises an illumination element for illuminating a fluid supply tank and the contents therein. A cleaning pad can be mounted to a lower surface of the foot and positioned to contact the surface to be cleaned. A movable agitator provided on the foot is configured for movement between a first use position in contact with the surface to be cleaned and a second non-use position out of contact with the surface to be cleaned. |
| US09398829B2 |
Integrated heater for a beverage preparation device
An in-line heater for a liquid food or beverage preparation machine, in which machine liquid is circulated through the heater and then guided into a brewing chamber for brewing a food or beverage ingredient supplied into said brewing chamber. The heater has a body incorporating an inlet, an outlet and a heating chamber extending therebetween, with the inlet, outlet and heating chamber forming together a rigid passage for guiding the liquid circulating through the body, and one or more electric components that are secured on or in the body and connected to a printed circuit board arranged to control the heater. The one or more electric components are rigidly connected to the printed circuit board. |
| US09398826B2 |
Infusion unit for drinks with hydraulic closing system
The infusion unit (3) comprises a moving element (9) with a seat (15) for ingredients for making said beverages, forming an infusion chamber (15) and shifting from a position for charging the ingredients to an infusion position, wherein the seat is between a hot water dispensing device (41) and a beverage outlet nozzle (35) opposite one another. The hot water dispensing device (41) comprises a cylinder-piston actuator (43, 47) fed by a first conduit (48) of water under pressure that controls a closing movement of the dispensing device (41) towards the seat (15) in infusion position. Moreover, the piston (47) of the actuator is associated to a conduit (57) of hot water under pressure. The piston exhibits a feeding chamber (55) of the hot water under pressure with an outlet port on a closing surface (53A) of the infusion chamber. |
| US09398825B2 |
Bottle cross frame and method for making a bottle cross
A bottle cross frame and method for making a bottle cross. The bottle cross frame provides a metal framework structured to receive four bottles, typically of wine bottle shape and size, and to retain the bottles in a cross shape. The frame includes a top post for receiving a single upside down bottle, as well as two side arms to each receive a single bottle to form the lateral arms of the cross. A base of the cross is formed by positioning a bottle upright between a base pin and a bottom bracket positioned along a stand component. The frame includes a stake stand component and an alternate bracket component. |
| US09398821B1 |
Magnetic serving system, method, and device
Liquid serving and receiving containers are shown and described. In one embodiment, the assembly comprises a serving container having a magnetic field and a receiving container having an opposing magnetic field. In another embodiment, a method includes configuring serving and receiving containers to repel one another when aligned in an adjacent pouring position. The result is devices, assemblies, and methods for preventing cross-contamination of liquid food service containers and the like. |
| US09398820B2 |
Manikin stretch joint
Joints are provided for connecting first and second manikin parts. The joints can be partially opened like a clamshell by pivoting the parts on a point on the joint interface. They include first and second joint assemblies attached to the first and second manikin parts respectively. The joint assemblies comprise a stretch element such as a spring or an elastomeric cord, and are capable of detachably engaging with each other. The joints can rotate in a primary rotational direction, for example to move a detachable manikin leg closer to the other manikin leg so that the manikin can quickly and easily be dressed in a pair of slacks. Rotation in a secondary direction is also provided to enable the manikins to be easily assembled by customers so that the manikin parts can be shipped separately. Components and methods of making and using the joints are also provided. |
| US09398814B2 |
Person support systems
A person-support surface comprises a non powered mattress and a coverlet positionable on the non powered mattress. The coverlet includes an entry positioned at a first end of the coverlet, an exit positioned at a second end of the coverlet opposite the entry, an upper air impermeable layer, and a lower air impermeable layer coupled to the upper air impermeable layer to form an air flow path along the coverlet between the entry and the exit. The upper air impermeable layer is a vapor permeable and the lower air impermeable layer is a vapor permeable. |
| US09398812B2 |
Core for armrest
To provide a core for armrest, the core including a stopper pin for restricting rotation, and exhibiting higher resistance to loads. A core for armrest includes a framed body being made of resin, a stopper pin being made of metal, the stopper pin being subjected to insert molding in the framed body so as to protrude a leading-end side thereof toward an outer side of the framed body, and being hooked onto a stopper of a seat, thereby being restricted from rotating, and a rib being integrally molded onto the framed body inside the framed body, and being disposed so as to overlap with respect to a base-end face of the stopper pin in an axial direction of the stopper pin. |
| US09398809B2 |
Interactive mobile whiteboard panel system
The present invention provides a system and method for transmitting wallboard content from a wallboard content server to an interactive wallboard through a data interface hub, said interactive wallboard movable from a home position to an away position. |
| US09398808B2 |
Drawer glide mechanism
A drawer glide mechanism can include a first elongate guide member, a second elongate glide member, a ball bearing component, and a v-notch socket. The first elongate guide member includes a distal end that is configured to fit within an opening in the v-notch socket. The drawer glide mechanism can further include one or more floating members and fixed members. |
| US09398807B2 |
Hook for clothes hanger
A hook for clothes hanger has a first direction, a main body, a pressing unit and a resilient element. When in use, a hook segment of a clothes hanger is pushed to abut a slope of a blocking segment of the pressing unit, thereby moving the pressing unit along a direction opposite to the first direction. Thus, the hook segment of the clothes hanger can enter the hook. Afterwards, the resilient element pushes back the pressing unit along the first direction, such that the blocking segment is moved back to prevent the clothes hanger from falling off easily. To remove the clothes hanger, the pressing unit is directly pressed. As a result, the hook for clothes hanger does not need any specific operational effort for opening the hook, and only needs a simple press for closing the hook. Therefore, the operation is convenient and quick. |
| US09398805B2 |
Track roller food table slide
An anti-binding slide is disclosed. In certain embodiments, the slide includes a bar having a pin hole adjacent the distal end of the bar. A rolling assembly includes rollers connected by a pin along a roller axis, the pin being positionable in the pin hole. A casing accepts the distal end of the bar. The rollers are positionable within tracks of the casing. The rollers, and thus the distal end of the bar, are able to move within the casing between a compressed position and an extended position. The pin hole provides a clearance fit for the pin, such that small movements of the bar do not interfere with the orientation of the roller axis with respect to the casing. |
| US09398803B2 |
Oral care system, kit and method
An oral care dispenser and oral care system incorporating the system that includes a resilient applicator that optimizes application of the subject fluid to the desired oral surfaces. In one embodiment, the invention is a dispenser comprising a housing having an internal reservoir containing the fluid. The resilient applicator is coupled to the housing and comprises a dispensing orifice. The resilient applicator comprises a working surface that is oriented at an oblique angle to a longitudinal axis of the housing and is defined by a polygonal perimeter edge, the polygonal perimeter edge comprising a plurality of apex portions and a plurality of side portions, wherein one of the plurality of side portions forms a distal most-portion of the resilient applicator. |
| US09398802B2 |
Method of forming a head plate and formation of oral care implement using the same
A method of forming a head plate for enhanced cleaning action during brushing. In one embodiment, the invention can be a method of forming a head plate comprising: a) forming a mounting plate comprising a first section and a second section, the first section separated from the second section by a gap, a groove formed into the second section that extends from the gap to a cleaning element location; b) positioning the mounting plate in a mold cavity; c) injecting a molten resilient material into the mold cavity so that the molten resilient material: (1) flows into the gap; (2) flows into the groove; and (3) flows into a cleaning element chamber; and d) solidifying the molten resilient material, the solidified resilient material in the gap coupling the first and second sections of the plate together, the solidified resilient material in the cleaning element chamber forming a first resilient tooth cleaning element. |
| US09398797B2 |
Nail gauge measuring nail shape and nail arc length
A nail gauge tool is provided for quickly and accurately measuring nail shape and nail size. The nail gauge offers several arch-shaped openings for matching to and measuring a natural nail. As the measurement result, the nail arch shape information and nail arc length information along the natural nail's width direction are obtained for manufacturing custom-fit artificial nails. The nail gauge tool is advantageously small and suitable for use inside a nail salon. |
| US09398792B2 |
Replaceable decoration unit for an accessory
A replaceable decoration unit for an accessory has an accommodating element, an outer cover and an outer decorating element. The decoration unit can be used in accessories such as earrings, watches, pendants, necklaces, waistlets, bracelets or key chains. When the outer cover is covered on the accommodating element, the outer decorating element is clamped and positioned between the outer cover and the accommodating element. The user can change the outer decorating element depending on usage demand. To change the outer decorating element, the user can open the outer cover and then remove the outer decorating element for replacement, thereby varying the look and style of the accessory. Besides, the outer decorating element can be made of solid materials such as metal or plastic, or soft materials such as fabric or leather, or the combination of the solid materials and the soft materials. |
| US09398790B1 |
Personal recording necklace and pendant system
A discreet personal recording necklace and pendant system for recording an audio signal for playback is suspended around a neck of a user. The system features a hollow tube adapted for housing wiring, a cylindrical clasp located on the hollow tube adapted for housing a power supply, and a pendant located on the hollow tube. The pendant features a microprocessor located in a pendant cavity connected to the power supply via wiring through the hollow tube. A pendant first surface has a capacitive touch sensor and a microphone. A pendant second surface features a speaker. The microprocessor is operated via a voice activation component in the microprocessor. The audio signal is received via the microphone and emitted via the speaker. The discreet personal recording necklace and pendant system for recording the audio signal for playback is suspended around the neck of the user. |
| US09398787B2 |
Removable rounded midsole structures and chambers with computer processor-controlled variable pressure
This invention relates generally to footwear such as a shoe, including an athletic shoe, with a shoe sole, including at least one removable midsole section formed by a midsole portion, wherein the removable midsole section is non-orthotic. The removable midsole section is inserted within the shoe upper, the sides of which hold it in position. The shoe sole includes a concavely rounded side or underneath portion, which may be formed in part by the removable midsole section. The removable midsole section may extend the length of the shoe sole or may form only a part of the shoe sole and can incorporate cushioning or structural compartments or components. The removable midsole section provides the capability to permit replacement of midsole material which has degraded or has worn out in order to maintain optimal characteristics of the shoe sole. The shoe sole can, in another embodiment, include at least one compartment containing a fluid, a flow regulator, a pressure sensor to monitor the compartment pressure, and a control system such as a computer processor capable of automatically adjusting the pressure in the compartment(s) in response to the impact of the shoe sole with the ground surface. |
| US09398785B2 |
Shoe, especially sports shoe
The invention relates to a shoe (1), especially to a sports shoe, having a shoe upper (2) and a sole (3) which is connected with the shoe upper (2), wherein the sole (3) has a longitudinal axis (L) and has a forefoot region (4), a midfoot region (5) and a rearfoot region (6). To support the foot especially during running in a more natural way the invention is characterized in that at least one first hinge (7) is provided in the sole (3) being located between the forefoot region (4) and the midfoot region (5), which first hinge (7) allows a bending of the forefoot region (4) relatively to the midfoot region (5) around a first horizontal axis (T1) perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (L), and that at least one second hinge (8) is provided in the sole (3) being located in the midfoot region (5), which second hinge (8) allows a bending of two adjacent parts (5a, 5b) of the midfoot region (5) around a second horizontal axis (T2) perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (L), wherein at least one elastic tensioning element (9) is arranged at or in the sole (3), which biases the forefoot region (4) to pivot around the first horizontal axis (T1) upwards relatively to the midfoot region (5) when the shoe is standing on the ground (10) and which biases the two parts (5a, 5b) of the midfoot region (5) to pivot around the second horizontal axis (T2) to form an arch when the shoe is standing on the ground (10). |
| US09398783B2 |
Helmet with shell having raised central channel and ear holes with abutting slopped banks
A football helmet has a shell with a top portion having a raised central channel at least at one of a front area and a top area of the top portion of the shell, with a plurality of elongated vent openings on each side of the channel, the vent openings being spaced from each other on each side of the channel, from front to back, along the helmet shell, the sides of the helmet having earholes and sloped banks abutting the earholes in a wedge configuration. |
| US09398780B1 |
Shower cap
A shower cap including a piece of fabric formed into a generally hemispherical shape having a peripheral edge and defining a cavity shaped to receive a portion of the user's head therein. The piece of fabric may be formed from two separate pieces of fabric that are secured together. An elastic member is positioned adjacent only part of the peripheral edge of the piece of fabric and a remaining section of the peripheral edge is free of the elastic member. The piece of fabric is shaped to include an annular band that has a wider section positionable adjacent the user's forehead. The elastic member does not extend into this wider section and consequently this section is able to lay flat against the user's forehead. The exterior of the cap is fabricated from waterproof or water-resistant material and a soft, water-absorbent layer may line at least the band of the cap. |
| US09398778B2 |
Water-resistant waders incorporating a waist lock system
Water-resistant waders may incorporate a waist lock system to reduce the likelihood of water entering the waders below the wearer's waist area while the waders are being worn during water-based activities, such as fishing or hunting. The waders may include a waist lock system formed of a ring of water-resistant material that may be firmly positioned around the waist area of the wearer such that it may create a flap and seal structure. If water reaches the top portion of the waist lock system, the waist lock system generally may prevent or at least minimize the water that may penetrate the waist lock system and enter the waders, particularly below the wearer's waist area, such as the wearer's feet and legs. |
| US09398776B2 |
Nutritional supplements for 50+ individuals for improving vitality, immunity, eye and bone health
A nutritional supplement for adults fifty years and older, and methods of use thereof, are provided that are designed to be most effective in optimizing health, improving vitality and immunity, and improving, aiding, eye and bone health. |
| US09398775B2 |
Dietary measurement system and method of correlating dietary contents information to a defined volume
A dietary measurement system and a method of correlating dietary information to a defined volume of a measuring device are provided to reduce the effort and time necessary to keep track of the nutritional intake. The dietary measurement system comprises at least a measuring device adapted to accommodate food having multiple measurement indicators representing defined volumes, a nutrition database comprising dietary contents information for food and a mapping device. The mapping device comprises an input interface for receiving food selection information and a mapping processor, connected with said input interface and said nutrition database, said mapping processor being adapted to generate dietary correlation data from said dietary contents information, said dietary correlation data providing a reference between one of said measurement indicators of said measuring device and a given dietary contents level for food according to said food selection information. |
| US09398771B2 |
Spray apparatuses, uses of diatomaceous earth, and methods of controlling insect populations
There is disclosed a spray apparatus for holding contents comprising diatomaceous earth and a compressed propellant for propelling the diatomaceous earth. There is also disclosed use of diatomaceous earth to control a population of bedbugs, wherein the diatomaceous earth comprises remains of pennate diatoms. There is also disclosed a method of controlling a population of insects, the method comprising causing a compressed propellant to propel diatomaceous earth on a surface. Method of manufacturing a spray apparatus and methods of preparing diatomaceous earth for use in controlling a population of insects are also disclosed. |
| US09398767B2 |
Fungicide pyrazole carboxamides derivatives
The present invention relates to pyrazole carboxamides derivatives of formula (1) wherein Y represents CR5 or N, T represents S or O, X1 and X2 represent a chlorine or a fluorine atom, and Z1 represents a substituted or non-substituted cyclopropyl; Their process of preparation, their use as fungicide, and/or anti-mycotoxin active agents, and/or insecticide, and/or nematicide, particularly in the form of fungicide compositions, and methods for the control of phytopathogenic fungi, notably of plants, using these compounds or compositions. |
| US09398763B2 |
Two-speed fishing reel
The present invention relates to a two-speed fishing reel which allows the choice of a higher or lower speed when reeling in or pulling out the fishing line, while keeping constant the rotation speed of the handle driving the reel operation.That is possible because the fishing reel features two kinematic chains, which, by means of a knob, allow choosing one or the other, and due to the diameter and number of cogs of each one of the gears of these kinematic chains, the rotation speed of the rotor increases or decreases, at the same rotation speed of the handle. |
| US09398760B2 |
Fish farming plant, module, method and use
A fish farming plant is adapted for floating in free water. The plant comprises a substantially vertical inlet pipe and a corresponding outlet pipe for taking in and discharging water, respectively, at a water depth having the desired water quality at a depth (h). A substantially horizontal residential compartment of an accommodation assembly has an inlet end and an outlet end. Lattices are provided at the inlet end and the outlet end. Also provided at the ends are angled end sections for connecting the inlet pipe, outlet pipe, and the residential compartment. The plant also comprises at least one arrangement for providing water flow through the residential compartment. A module for a residential compartment of a fish farming plant, a method for manufacturing an accommodation assembly, use of such a fish farming plant for smolt, as well as a method for emptying such a fish farming plant are also provided. |
| US09398753B2 |
Lettuce cultivar cielo verde
A lettuce cultivar, designated Cielo Verde, is disclosed. The invention relates to the seeds, plants and plant parts of lettuce cultivar Cielo Verde and to methods for producing a lettuce plant by crossing the cultivar Cielo Verde with itself or another lettuce cultivar. The invention further relates to methods for producing a lettuce plant containing in its genetic material one or more transgenes and to the transgenic lettuce plants and plant parts produced by those methods. This invention also relates to lettuce cultivars or breeding cultivars and plant parts derived from lettuce cultivar Cielo Verde, to methods for producing other lettuce cultivars, lines or plant parts derived from lettuce cultivar Cielo Verde and to the lettuce plants, varieties, and their parts derived from the use of those methods. The invention further relates to hybrid lettuce seeds, plants, and plant parts produced by crossing cultivar Cielo Verde with another lettuce cultivar. |
| US09398740B2 |
Leaf corral for a lawnmower
A leaf corralling apparatus including a deflector plate is provided for a lawnmower to prevent an amount of leaves or other debris from being diverted around a deck of the lawnmower. The deflector plate defines a tip that is positioned at a distance from a centerline of the deck approximately equal to or greater than a distance from the centerline of an outermost point of a cutting area defined by one or more blades positioned within the deck of the lawnmower. The deflector plate additionally defines a slanted portion that extends inwardly towards the centerline and rearwardly towards a rear end of the deck. |