44th week of 2011 patent applcation highlights part 52 |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20110270348 | BRAIN STIMULATION PROGRAMMING - A programming system allows a user to program therapy parameter values for therapy delivered by a medical device by specifying a desired therapeutic outcome. In an example, the programming system presents a model of a brain network associated with a patient condition to the user. The model may be a graphical representation of a network of anatomical structures of the brain associated with the patient condition and may indicate the functional relationship between the anatomical structures. Using the model, the user may define a desired therapeutic outcome associated with the condition, and adjust excitatory and/or inhibitory effects of the stimulation on the anatomical structures. The system may determine therapy parameter values for therapy delivered to the patient based on the user input. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270349 | RECHARGING AND COMMUNICATION LEAD FOR AN IMPLANTABLE DEVICE - A lead for an implantable device includes a flexible, implantable tether, electrically connectable to an implantable device, and a plurality of control elements, disposed along the tether. The control elements are electrically interconnectable to the implantable device and configured to transmit one of power and communication signals thereto | 2011-11-03 |
20110270350 | METHOD OF NEUROSTIMULATION OF DISTINCT NEURAL STRUCTURES USING SINGLE PADDLE LEAD TO TREAT MULTIPLE PAIN LOCATIONS AND MULTI-COLUMN, MULTI-ROW PADDLE LEAD FOR SUCH NEUROSTIMULATION - In some embodiments, a paddle lead is implanted within a patient such that the electrodes are positioned within the cervical or thoracic spinal levels. An electrode combination on a first row of electrodes can be determined that is effective for a first pain location with minimal effects on other regions of the body. The first pain location can be addressed by stimulating a first dorsal column fiber due to the relatively fine electrical field resolution achievable by the multiple columns. Then, another electrode combination on a second row of electrodes can be determined for a second pain location with minimal effects on other regions. The second pain location could be addressed by stimulating a second dorsal column fiber. After the determination of the appropriate electrodes for stimulation, the patient's IPG can be programmed to deliver pulses using the first and second rows according to the determined electrode combinations. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270351 | Shape Analysis for Fitting in a Visual Prosthesis - A method of testing subjects' perception of complex shapes created by patterned multi-electrode direct stimulation of a retinal prosthesis is described. The complex shapes can be geometric shapes or characters such as letters of the alphabet and numbers. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270352 | Encoding of Size and Brightness of Percepts in a Visual Prosthesis - Methods of electrically stimulating percepts in a patient with a visual prosthesis are discussed. Changes in amplitude of stimulation increase both the perceived brightness and the perceived size of the precept. Changes in frequency of stimulation change the perceived brightness without altering the perceived size of the percept. Hence, a source image may be mapped to a combination of amplitude and frequency that best induces the desired image. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270353 | Selectable Filters for a Visual Prosthesis - The present invention is a visual prosthesis including a visor with an embedded camera and changeable optical filters to limit light entering the lens of the camera. This invention will allow use of custom filters to limit light intensity or certain light frequencies sent to the camera of the visual prosthesis in a variety of brightness conditions which will remove glare. It will allow modification of the color of the light sent to camera of the visual prosthesis to respond to different environments. Users may choose the best filter to suit their needs in real time. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270354 | Visual Prosthesis - A visual prosthesis apparatus and a method for limiting power consumption in a visual prosthesis apparatus. The visual prosthesis apparatus comprises a camera for capturing a video image, a video processing unit associated with the camera, the video processing unit configured to convert the video image to stimulation patterns, and a retinal stimulation system configured to stop stimulating neural tissue in a subject's eye based on the stimulation patterns when an error is detected in a forward telemetry received from the video processing unit. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270355 | IMPLANTABLE ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR HAVING UNITARY CONTACTS - A connector for electrically connecting implantable components. The connector comprises first and second connector halves configured to be electrically coupled to first and second components, respectively, and one or more readily severable unitary contacts electrically connecting the first and second connector halves to one another. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270356 | POLYMERIC ENCAPSULATION OF MEDICAL DEVICE COMPONENTS - A hermetic encapsulation and to a method of producing the same is provided. The hermetic encapsulation comprises a polymeric material disposed about a device component and has one or more plasma activated surfaces directly bonded to one another to hermetically seal the component within the material. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270357 | STIMULATION WITH UTILIZATION OF NON-SELECTED ELECTRODE - This disclosure describes techniques that support delivering electrical stimulation current via at least two user-selected electrodes of an implantable medical device (IMD) and automatically delivering balancing current below via at least one non-selected electrode. Balancing currents delivered via the at least one non-selected electrode may be configured with an amplitude below a perception threshold of a patient. Delivery of balancing current via the at least one third electrode may allow an implantable medical device to automatically balance the total current delivered to a patient. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270358 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE PROGRAMMING USING GESTURE-BASED CONTROL - A programming device includes a touchscreen display, a processor, and a communication module. The processor controls the display to present a graphical icon on a first portion of the display. The processor detects a gesture-based contact between an object and the first portion of the display and determines a value of a therapy parameter associated with therapy delivered by a medical device based on the detection of the gesture-based contact. The communication module transmits information to the medical device to control the medical device to deliver the therapy based on the value of the therapy parameter. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270359 | DELIVERING SCHEDULED AND UNSCHEDULED THERAPY WITHOUT DETRIMENT TO BATTERY LIFE OR ACCURACY OF LONGEVITY PREDICTIONS - A method comprises applying a first open-loop electrical signal to a neural structure at a first rate. The method also comprises applying a closed-loop electrical signal to the neural structure in response to an event detection, thus causing an overall rate at which electrical stimulation is applied to the neural structure to exceed the first rate. The method further comprises applying a second open-loop electrical signal to a neural structure at a second rate that is lower than the first rate, thus causing the overall rate to be reduced to the first rate. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270360 | METHODS AND DEVICES FOR ACTIVATING BROWN APIDOSE TISSUE USING ELECTRICAL ENERGY - Methods and devices are provided for activating brown adipose tissue (BAT). Generally, the methods and devices can activate BAT to increase thermogenesis, e.g., increase heat production in the patient, which over time can lead to weight loss. In one embodiment, a medical device is provided that activates BAT by electrically stimulating nerves that activate the BAT and/or electrically stimulating brown adipocytes directly, thereby increasing thermogenesis in the BAT and inducing weight loss through energy expenditure. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270361 | MODULATING FUNCTION OF THE FACIAL NERVE SYSTEM OR RELATED NEURAL STRUCTURES VIA THE EAR - Stimulation of the facial nerve system (e.g., electrically, electromagnetically, etc.) in stroke patients will cause dilation of occluded arteries and dilation of surrounding arteries, allowing for blood flow to circumvent the obstruction and reach previously-deprived tissue. The device approaches the facial nerve and its branches in the vicinity of the ear. In use, the device can be inserted into the ear canal or placed in proximity to the ear in order to stimulate the facial nerve system without puncturing the tympanic membrane (e.g., using an electromagnetic field). The device can also be advanced into the middle ear through a puncture created in the tympanic membrane. Branches of the facial nerve in the middle ear can then be stimulated directly (e.g., by application of electrical current). The device can be used in the emergency treatment of acute stroke or as chronically-implanted/inserted variations for long-term maintenance of blood flow to the brain and stroke prevention | 2011-11-03 |
20110270362 | ACTIVE CIRCUIT MRI/EMI PROTECTION POWERED BY INTERFERING ENERGY FOR A MEDICAL STIMULATION LEAD AND DEVICE - An implantable lead for use with a medical device (IMD) includes active circuits incorporated into the lead to reduce the creation of an induced current, or dissipate the induced current and heat created due to an induced current in the lead. The active circuits are powered by the magnetic resonant imaging energy or interfering magnetic or electrical fields. According to various embodiments, the lead and/or its components can be provided to reduce or dissipate a current and heat induced by various external magnetic or electrical fields. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270363 | HEADER FOR IMPLANTABLE PULSE GENERATOR AND METHOD OF MAKING SAME - A header for use in implantable pulse generator devices. The header is cart, of electrical connector assembly having one or more openings designed to receive the terminal pin of an electrical lead wire or electrode. The header is designed to provide and sustain long-term electrical and mechanical lead wire connections between the electrodes of a terminal pin and the implantable pulse generator device. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270364 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR COLLAGEN GROWTH STIMULATION - Provided is an applicator for skin treatment having one or more RF electrodes. An article is located between the electrodes, such as a roller or flexible belt containing one or more protruding pins electrically isolated from the RF electrodes. Also provided is a system for skin treatment including the applicator and a control unit. Further provided is a method of treating skin disorders in which a section of the skin is heated while, essentially simultaneously, one or more holes are placed in the heated section of the skin. The present method may be used, for example, in collagen remodeling. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270365 | LIGHT IRRADIATION DEVICE - To provide a light irradiation device capable of easily removing and reducing hair with low power light without burden on skin. The light irradiation device according to the present invention includes a light source giving pulses of light in a wavelength range from 400 to 1200 nm and a light guide distributing the pulses of light given from the light source with energy intensity of 0.2 to 10 J/cm | 2011-11-03 |
20110270366 | RF power controller for ultrasound therapy system - A system and method for fluid control in a thermal therapy system is disclosed. A fluid circuit permits passage of a fluid through a fluid circuit, including into and out of a treatment zone so as to cool or heat or maintain a temperature in said treatment zone at or near a desired temperature. The desired temperature may be programmably set to a given value or within a band of values using a processor and a temperature controller. In some aspects, leakage of fluid from a patient or from the fluid control system is captured by a leak-proof member to protect imaging and treatment equipment from damage. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270367 | System and Method of Detecting Fluid and Leaks in Thermal Treatment System Basins - A drape including a sensing device according to the present invention is disposed over a top surface of a thermal treatment system having a basin recessed therein. A portion of the drape is pushed down into the basin to form a drape container for collecting a sterile medium. The thermal treatment system may be of the type that either heats or congeals the sterile medium. The sensing device includes electrodes that are typically disposed through the drape and sealed. The electrodes provide signals indicating the presence of liquid and/or leaks or other conditions within the drape container to the system to facilitate control of system operation. In addition, the sensing device includes a fuse to limit the drape to a single use. The system disables the fuse to indicate prior use and detects tampering to bypass the fuse, thereby preventing use of the drape for subsequent medical procedures. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270368 | Heat Exchange Catheter System - Closed loop heat exchange catheter systems and methods for preparing and using such systems wherein a reservoir or fluid bag is connected to the catheter system and used for at least priming of the system with a heat exchange fluid. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270369 | MEDICAL ELECTRICAL LEAD WITH CONDUCTIVE SLEEVE HEAD - This disclosure provides a medical lead assembly that includes a lead body having a proximal end configured to couple to an implantable medical device and a distal end. The lead assembly further includes an electrode assembly located at the distal end of the lead body, the electrode assembly including a tip electrode, a conductive electrode shaft that is electrically coupled to the tip electrode and an energy dissipating structure that is coupled to at least a portion of the conductive electrode shaft at high frequencies to redirect at least a portion of the current induced in the lead by a high frequency signal from the tip electrode to the energy dissipating structure. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270370 | Impact Protection for Implants - An implantable device includes an implantable housing having an outer surface and providing a hermetically sealed interior volume. A flexible electric lead is mechanically connected to the housing and electrically connected to circuitry within the interior volume. An impact protector overlies at least a portion of the outer surface of the housing and shields the underlying housing surface from the force of a mechanical impact. At least a portion of the impact protector may include an electrode electrically connected to the circuitry within the interior volume. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270371 | Stent graft Delivery System - A stent graft delivery system including a tip assembly, a middle member tube, a sheath assembly, and a unitary front grip. The sheath tube is axially slideable within the distal front grip lumen, the threaded assembly distal end is disposed in the proximal front grip lumen and fixed to the unitary front grip, and the first threaded tube portion and the second threaded tube portion are radially compressed together by the unitary front grip. The sheath handle engages the exterior thread of the threaded assembly in a first configuration to move the sheath tube axially relative to the middle member tube and tip tube through rotation of the sheath handle and disengages the exterior thread of the threaded assembly in a second configuration to move the sheath tube axially relative to the middle member tube and tip tube through axial motion of the sheath handle. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270372 | Stent Graft Delivery System and Method of Use - A stent graft delivery system including a tip assembly, a middle member tube, a sheath assembly, a threaded assembly, and a unitary endoseal. The tip tube is disposed in and longitudinally slideable within the proximal portion of the endoseal lumen, the middle member proximal end of the middle member tube is disposed in the distal portion of the endoseal lumen and fixed to the longitudinal cylindrical endoseal body, the first cylindrical portion of the transverse cylindrical endoseal body is disposed in the first sidewall port of the threaded assembly, the second cylindrical portion of the transverse cylindrical endoseal body is disposed in the second sidewall port of the threaded assembly, and the longitudinal endoseal cylindrical body is disposed in the threaded assembly lumen. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270373 | CLOSURE DEVICE - Described here are devices and methods for closing one or more vascular openings. The devices may include a stent graft comprising a stent framework and a graft material at least partially covering the stent framework. The stent framework may comprise one or more axial segments, and at least one of the axial segments may comprise an access port through which a catheter or treatment device may enter the stent graft. The methods may comprise occluding blood flow upstream of a vascular opening, and delivering a closure device to block, cover, or seal the vascular opening. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270374 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DEPLOYING AND POSITIONING AN ENDOVASCULAR DEVICE - A dilator tip ( | 2011-11-03 |
20110270375 | INTRODUCER FOR AN ILIAC SIDE BRANCH DEVICE - An introduction arrangement for a fenestrated or branched stent graft ( | 2011-11-03 |
20110270376 | INTRODUCER FOR A SIDE BRANCH DEVICE - An introduction arrangement for a fenestrated or branched stent graft ( | 2011-11-03 |
20110270377 | DEVICE FOR TREATING AORTIC DISSECTION - A stent assembly ( | 2011-11-03 |
20110270378 | Mobile External Coupling with Internal Sealing Cuff for Branch Vessel Connection - An endovascular prosthesis includes a tubular body and a mobile external coupling. The tubular body includes a graft material and stents coupled thereto, a forms a lumen therethrough. The mobile external coupling extends outwardly from the tubular body. The mobile external coupling includes a graft material and is generally frustoconically shaped. The mobile external coupling includes a base coupled to the tubular body, a top spaced from the tubular body, and a coupling lumen disposed between the base and the top, wherein the coupling lumen is in flow communication with the body lumen. A cylindrical sealing cuff of graft material is attached to and extends from the top of the mobile external coupling towards the tubular body within the coupling lumen. The sealing cuff is configured to contact a portion of a branch vessel prosthesis and thereby provides an elongated interference seal between the branch vessel prosthesis and the mobile external coupling. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270379 | Mobile External Coupling for Branch Vessel Connection - An endovascular prosthesis includes a tubular body and a mobile external coupling. The tubular body includes a graft material and stents coupled thereto which forms a lumen therethrough. The mobile external coupling extends outwardly from the tubular body. The mobile external coupling includes a graft material and is generally frustoconically shaped. The mobile external coupling includes a base coupled to the tubular body, a top spaced from the tubular body, and a coupling lumen disposed between the base and the top, wherein the coupling lumen is in flow communication with the body lumen. A coupling deployment device is coupled to the coupling graft material to provide an extension force to extend the mobile external coupling from a collapsed configuration against the tubular body to an extended position wherein the mobile external coupling extends from the tubular body. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270380 | Mobile External Coupling for Branch Vessel Connection - An endovascular prosthesis includes a tubular body and a mobile external coupling. The tubular body includes a graft material and stents coupled thereto which forms a lumen therethrough. The mobile external coupling extends outwardly from the tubular body. The mobile external coupling includes a graft material and is generally frustoconically shaped. The mobile external coupling includes a base coupled to the tubular body, a top spaced from the tubular body, and a coupling lumen disposed between the base and the top, wherein the coupling lumen is in flow communication with the body lumen. A coupling deployment device is coupled to the coupling graft material to provide an extension force to extend the mobile external coupling from a collapsed configuration against the tubular body to an extended position wherein the mobile external coupling extends from the tubular body. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270381 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR STENTING COMPRISING ENHANCED EMBOLIC PROTECTION COUPLED WITH IMPROVED PROTECTIONS AGAINST RESTENOSIS AND THROMBUS FORMATION - Apparatus and methods for stenting are provided comprising a stent attached to a porous biocompatible material that is permeable to endothelial cell ingrowth, but impermeable to release of emboli of predetermined size. Preferred stent designs are provided, as well as preferred manufacturing techniques. Apparatus and methods are also provided for use at a vessel branching. Moreover, embodiments of the present invention may comprise a coating configured for localized delivery of therapeutic agents. Embodiments of the present invention are expected to provide enhanced embolic protection, improved force distribution, and improved recrossability, while reducing a risk of restenosis and thrombus formation. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270382 | Drug Delivery After Biodegradation Of The Stent Scaffolding - Disclosed is a stent comprising a bioabsorbable polymeric scaffolding; and a plurality of depots in at least a portion of the scaffolding, wherein the plurality of depots comprise a bioabsorbable material, wherein the degradation rate of all or substantially all of the bioabsorbable polymer of the scaffolding is faster than the degradation rate of all or substantially all of the bioabsorbable material of the depots. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270383 | Methods for Crimping a Polymeric Stent Onto a Delivery Balloon - A medical device-includes a polymer stent crimped to a catheter having an expansion balloon. The stent is crimped to the balloon by a process that includes heating the stent to a temperature below the polymer's glass transition temperature to improve stent retention without adversely affecting the mechanical characteristics of the stent when later deployed to support a body lumen. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270384 | Polymeric Stents and Method of Manufacturing Same - A pattern is used to form a stent scaffold from a polymeric precursor tube having a particular outer diameter. A new pattern can be derived from a base pattern, wherein the new pattern can be used to form a stent scaffold from a precursor tube having an outer diameter OD | 2011-11-03 |
20110270385 | Tethered Pop Up Branch Structure Stent Graft and Method - A method includes tethering a first pop up branch structure of a tethered pop up branch structure stent graft to a second pop up branch structure of the tethered pop up branch structure stent graft with a tether. The tethered pop up branch structure stent graft is deployed into a main vessel such that the first pop up branch structure is near a first branch vessel emanating from the main vessel and the second pop up branch structure is near a second branch vessel emanating from the main vessel. A first guide is passed through a first collateral opening in the first pop up branch structure and into the first branch vessel. A second guide is passed through a second collateral opening in the second pop up branch structure and into the second branch vessel. The tether is then removed such that the first pop up branch structure slides outwards on the first guide and into a first ostium of the first branch vessel and the second pop up branch structure slides outwards on the second guide into a second ostium of the second branch vessel. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270386 | STENT WITH SELF-DEPLOYABLE PORTION HAVING WINGS OF DIFFERENT LENGTHS - The present invention provides methods and devices for placement of a stent in a bifurcation or ostial lesion. The stent comprises a main body and a flaring portion. The main body is designed to expand and support a main vessel of the bifurcation and defines a main body axis. The flaring portion is disposed on a side of the main body and is adapted to flare radially and offset the main body axis in response to expansion of the main body. The flaring portion comprises at least one distal wing and at least one proximal wing. Each wing is aligned along the main body axis. The at least one proximal wing is longer than the at least one distal wing, providing greater coverage of the proximal side of the side vessel than on the distal surface of the side vessel. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270387 | Implantable Medical Devices Comprising Poly[L-Lactide-Co-(3,6-Dialkyl-1,4-Dioxane-2,5-Dione)] - This invention is directed to implantable medical device comprising a polymeric composition comprising poly[L-lactide-co-(3,6-dialkyl-1,4-dioxane-2,5-dione)], alone or as a blend with one or more polymers selected from the group consisting of poly(L-lactide) and poly(3,6-dialkyl-1,4-dioxane-2,5-dione). | 2011-11-03 |
20110270388 | Endovascular aortic valve replacement - The subject invention relates to a valve replacement system together with methods of preparation and use, are provided for endovascular replacement of a heart valve in a host. The valve replacement system includes up to five components: (1) a prosthetic valve device, (2) a valve introducer device, (3) an intraluminal procedure device, (4) a procedure device capsule, and (5) a tissue cutter. The system provides for endovascular removal of a malfunctioning valve and subsequent replacement with a permanent prosthetic heart valve. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270389 | INJECTABLE PHYSIOLOGICALLY ADAPTIVE INTRAOCULAR LENSES (IOL'S) - A device and method for forming an adaptive optic in the capsule of a human eye is disclosed, comprising a capsular interface enclosing an optically acceptable medium. The device establishes a physiologic range of optical power in response to a range of ciliary contractile states. The preferred bi-phasic medium of the device is comprised of a solid three dimensional polymeric network suspended in a liquid aqueous phase and bonded to a capsular interface. The polymeric network provides shape to the capsular interface, optical power, and a physiologic response to the suspensory ligament. The three dimensional network of the bi-phasic medium mimics the stacked fiber configuration and elasticity of a natural lens. An alternative embodiment utilizing a single phase medium is also disclosed with associated structural features provided in the capsular interface. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270390 | METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING APHAKIC INTRAOCULAR LENS - A method of manufacturing an aphakic intraocular lens that is capable of ensuring every multi-focusing effect more securely, while reducing the impact of aperture changes and lens eccentricity. At least two reliefs whose first order diffracted lights give respective focal distances different from one another are set to overlap with each other in at least a part of an area in a radial direction of the lens, and with respect to every grating pitches of one relief having a maximum grating pitch among the reliefs set up in overlap, grating pitches of another relief are overlapped periodically in order to obtain a relief pattern, so that the resulting relief pattern is formed on a lens surface. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270391 | INFLATABLE PROSTHESES AND METHODS OF MAKING SAME - An inflatable tissue expander or more permanent prosthesis, suitable for implantation in a breast, is provided. The tissue expander includes a puncturable, self-sealing anterior portion forming a fillable cavity, and posterior portion that is puncture resistant. The anterior portion includes a silicone-based elastomer material having a mesh embedded therein. The posterior portion includes a first composite guard and a second composite guard, each composite guard including an arrangement of puncture resistant members and a flexible substrate having a first side on which the puncture resistant members are disposed in a spaced apart fashion. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270392 | ALL-BARRIER ELASTOMERIC GEL-FILLED BREAST PROSTHESIS - An elastomeric gel-filled prosthetic implant having a shell made of a single gel barrier layer. The barrier layer is formed of a homogeneous silicone elastomer capable of sterically retarding permeation of the silicone gel through the shell and having a bleed rate that is less than about 40% of the bleed rate of current shells which use a sandwiched construction with an internal barrier layer. Further, the barrier layer shell is made of a material that exhibits a wet strength that is comparable to or greater than current shells. The silicone elastomer may be a polydimethyl siloxane, and the substituted chemical group is a diphenyl group with a minimum mole percent of at least 13%. The implant may be designed for breast reconstruction or augmentation such that the shell is accordingly shaped. The shell wall thickness is at least 0.254 mm (0.010 inches), and desirably about 0.456 mm (0.018 inches). The implant shell may be made by dip-forming, spray-forming, or rotational molding. The exterior may be smooth or textured. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270393 | BUFFER FOR A HUMAN JOINT AND METHOD OF ARTHROSCOPICALLY INSERTING | 2011-11-03 |
20110270394 | METHOD AND MEMBRANE FOR SKIN REGENERATION - Skin regeneration or grafting is promoted utilizing a structure including a multi-layer sheet of collagen membrane material which includes a purified collagen barrier sheet material derived from natural collagen-containing tissue, the barrier sheet material including a barrier layer with an outer smooth barrier face and a fibrous face opposite the smooth barrier face. The structure further includes a matrix layer of collagen sponge material adjacent to the fibrous face. The matrix layer of collagen sponge material is resorbed by a body of a subject at a substantially faster rate than the barrier sheet material. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270395 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR DELIVERING RADIATION IN SELECTED DIRECTIONS - Embodiments of the invention include a device for supplementing or replacing a spinal structure and therapeutically delivering radiation to tissue. Some embodiments include a radiation source and a combination of members surrounding the radiation source that move relative to one another to permit or restrict emission of radiation from the device. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270396 | EXPANDABLE IMPLANTS FOR STABILIZING ADJACENT ANATOMICAL STRUCTURES - In one form, an expandable implant configured for positioning between one or more adjacent bones or bony portions, such as vertebrae of the spinal column for example, is provided. In one aspect, the implant includes a plurality of deformable members that is each positionable between an unexpanded configuration and an expanded configuration in response to axial compression of the deformable members. In the unexpanded configuration, each of the deformable members engages with one or more immediately adjacent deformable members, while in the expanded configuration each of the deformable members further engages with one or more additional deformable members positioned on the other side of the one or more immediately adjacent deformable members. In another form, a method for positioning an expandable implant in a minimally invasive approach is provided. However, in other embodiments, different forms and applications are envisioned. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270397 | SPINAL COVERING DEVICE - A spinal covering device for covering exposed neural spinal elements after a spinal procedure includes a body at least substantially or completely free of openings and first and second support planes extending longitudinally along the body adapted to overlay or abut remaining tissues on opposite sides of the exposed neural spinal elements such that the device forms a spinal canal portion protecting the neural spinal elements. The device has an inner surface at least partially defining an inner surface of the spinal canal portion and an outer surface opposite of the inner surface, at least the outer surface allowing bone graft deposition or bone fusion thereon. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270398 | Selectively Expanding Spine Cage, Hydraulically Controllable In Three Dimensions For Enhanced Spinal Fusion - A selectively expanding spine cage has a minimized diameter in its unexpanded state that is smaller than the diameter of the neuroforamen through which it passes in the distracted spine. The cage conformably engages between the endplates of the adjacent vertebrae to effectively distract the anterior disc space, stabilize the motion segments and eliminate pathologic spine motion. Angular deformities can be corrected, and natural curvatures restored and maintained. The cage enhances spinal arthrodesis by creating a rigid spine segment, or if filled with compressible substances, the cage can be used for motion preservation between vertebral bodies. Expanding selectively (anteriorly, along the vertical axis of the spine) rather than uniformly, the cage height increases and holds the vertebrae with fixation forces greater than adjacent bone and soft tissue failure forces in natural lordosis. Stability is thus achieved immediately, enabling patient function by eliminating painful motion. The cage shape intends to rest proximate to the anterior column cortices securing the desired spread and fixation, allowing for bone graft in, around, and through the implant for arthrodesis whereas for arthroplasty it fixes to endpoints but cushions the spine naturally. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270399 | Mechanical Apparatus and Method for Artificial Disc Fusion and Nucleus Replacement - The present invention relates to a device and method to perform 1) disc fusion, 2) artificial replacement of the nucleus, 3) artificial replacement of the annulus, or 4) artificial replacement of both the nucleus and annulus. The device is designed to be placed into the intervertebral space following discectomy. The invention includes a delivery catheter and an substantially fixed sized mesh loop with a lumen within the mesh loop and a center hole. The mesh loop partially self expands diametrically in diameter upon removal of the introducer sheath and can be further expanded by mechanical means. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270400 | PHASE TRANSITIONING HYDROGELS - A method of forming and the resulting hydrogel composition comprising poly(vinyl alcohol) at a final concentration of about 20% (w/w) to about 65% (w/w) and polyethylene glycol at a final concentration of about 2% (w/w) to about 20% (w/w), wherein the hydrogel composition has a total polymer content, above about 30% (w/w), higher than the total polymer content of a precursor polymer solution formulated prior to the formulation of the hydrogel composition. The hydrogel composition may further comprise poly(vinyl pyrrolidone) at a fmal concentration of about 0.10% (w/w) to about 0.75% (w/w). | 2011-11-03 |
20110270401 | SYNTHETIC REINFORCED INTERBODY FUSION IMPLANTS - Interbody fusion implants that include a load bearing body composed of a calcium phosphate material hardened around one or more structural reinforcing members are provided. The reinforcing members aid the load bearing body in resisting bending forces and, in certain forms, aid in preventing expulsion of the implant after implantation. Methods for promoting fusion bone growth in the space between adjacent vertebrae and methods for making the inventive implants are also provided. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270402 | DEVICES AND TECHNIQUES FOR A POSTERIOR LATERAL DISC SPACE APPROACH - This invention relates to devices and instruments for implant insertion through a posterior lateral opening to the disc space. The instruments include an implant inserter, and the devices include a spinal fusion implant engageable by the implant inserter. The implant provides bilateral support of the adjacent vertebrae when inserted into the disc space from a postero-lateral approach. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270403 | Implantable Mobile Bearing Prosthetics - A knee prosthesis including a femoral implant, a tibial implant, a tibial insert and a cam post. The femoral implant is secured to a femur and has a gap for receiving a natural PCL. The tibial implant is secured to a tibia. The tibial insert comprises a medial cavity with a rotational axis. The tibial insert has articulating surfaces that match the contours of the condyles of the femoral implant and a notch for retaining the natural PCL. The tibial insert has a medial boss that aligns with the medial cavity allowing it to rotate about the rotational axis. A post is secured to the tibial implant and enters a hole of the tibial insert providing anterior and posterior stops for the rotation of the tibial insert about the rotational axis. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270404 | PROSTHESTIC BEARING COMPONENT - A prosthetic bearing component ( | 2011-11-03 |
20110270405 | Duodenal Metabolic Stent - In at least one embodiment, the invention is directed to an endoluminal device comprising a stent and a sleeve. In one embodiment, the endoluminal device is implanted in a portion of the gastrointestinal tract. In some embodiments, the stent has a first region and a second region where the first and second regions provide different levels of radial force. In one embodiment, the first region is made from a plurality of first wires having a first diameter and the second region is made from a plurality of second wires having a second diameter which is smaller than the first diameter. In other embodiments, the endoluminal device has at least one engagement mechanism engaging the stent to the sleeve, the endoluminal device to a body lumen, and any combination thereof. In at least one embodiment, the endoluminal device has a wall with at least one opening therein. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270406 | Anti-Obesity Stent - The anti-obesity stent includes a tubular structure having outer and inner surfaces and proximal and distal ends. The tubular structure is sized to fit within a duodenum in substantially coaxial relation therewith. The tubular structure is impervious or semi-permeable to digestive substances and chyme within the duodenum. The anti-obesity stent includes a transport structure at least a part of which is coincident with or connected to the outer surface. The transport structure extends to the distal end of the tubular structure. At least one retainer structure is connected to the tubular structure. The retainer structure secures the tubular structure within the duodenum such that the transport structure is positioned to receive digestive fluids from a papilla of Vater on an inner surface of the duodenum. The transport structure provides a conduit for the digestive fluids therein to flow to the distal end. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270407 | MEDICAL OR VETERINARY MATERIAL, METHOD FOR THE PRODUCTION AND USE THEREOF - A sterile endosseous implant suitable for an insertion into a living tissue, the implant includes a moulded piecework made of poly (etheretherketon) as a binder and the moulded piecework includes an external graft surface embedded crystallized calcium phosphate particles emerging from the surface. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270408 | CONCRETE SCAFFOLD MADE OF BONE POWDER AND FIBRIN GLUE - The present invention relates to a bone-regenerating scaffold, and more particularly, to a bone-regenerating scaffold which is made of a mixture of fibrin glue and bone powder, the interior of which has a plurality of pores for accommodating bone growth factors, and which has a predetermined concrete shape. The present invention also relates to a method for manufacturing the scaffold | 2011-11-03 |
20110270409 | ORTHOTOPIC ARTIFICIAL BLADDER PROSTHESIS - An orthotopic artificial bladder prosthesis includes an enclosure or bag or balloon and hollow elements ( | 2011-11-03 |
20110270410 | SATIATION DEVICES AND METHODS - A device for inducing weight loss in a patient includes a tubular prosthesis positionable at the gastro-esophageal junction region, preferably below the z-line. In a method for inducing weight loss, the prosthesis is placed such that an opening at its proximal end receives masticated food from the esophagus, and such that the masticated food passes through the pouch and into the stomach via an opening in its distal end. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270411 | NERVE GRAFT PREPARED BY ELECTROSTATIC SPINNING, THE PREPARING METHOD AND THE SPECIAL APPARATUS USED THEREFOR - The present invention discloses an artificial nerve graft prepared by electrostatic spinning, the preparing method and a special apparatus used therefor. Said artificial nerve graft is in the shape of a tube composed of nano-fiber that is prepared by electrostatic spinning of a polymer. The materials used in the present invention are bio-degradable materials and of desirable biocompatibility with human body. The product of the present invention is free of exogenous toxic substances or substances having side effects. Furthermore, the tube wall is of a 3-dimensional structure having micropores contained therein thereby providing a path for supplying nutritions required for the growth of nerve cells. Another advantage of the present invention is that necessary induction and space are provided for the growth of the nerve cells. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270412 | FABRICATION OF A VASCULAR SYSTEM USING SACRIFICIAL STRUCTURES - The first aspect of the present invention is directed to a method of producing a vascular network preform (VNP). This method involves forming a network of elongate fibers and at least one elongate structure from a sacrificial material. The diameter of the elongate structure is greater than that of the elongate fibers. The network of elongate fibers is placed in contact with at least one elongate structure either following or during forming the network of elongate fibers or forming the at least one elongate structure. A matrix is applied around the network of elongate fibers, in contact with the at least one elongate structure. The network of elongate fibers and elongate structure, within the matrix is sacrificed to form a preform. The resulting preform contains a vascular network of fine diameter tubes in contact with at least one elongate passage having a diameter greater than that of the fine diameter tubes. The resulting solid preform and methods of using it are also disclosed. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270413 | PROSTHETIC SYSTEM AND METHOD UTILIZING MICROPROCESSOR-CONTROLLED ELECTRIC VACUUM PUMP - A prosthetic system having a microprocessor-controlled socket evacuation device, and a method of retaining a prosthesis on the residual limb of an amputee using such an evacuation device. The evacuation device preferably includes at least an electrically powered vacuum pump and a power source. The microprocessor control allows the evacuation device to be operated in a manner that automatically adjusts the socket vacuum level to correspond to a determined activity level of a user. The microprocessor control may also limit operation of the evacuation device to certain determined portions of a user's gait cycle. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270414 | Prosthetic Locking Liner With Improved Knee Flexion - A prosthesis comprising an elastomeric locking liner sized and configured to surround a limb of a patient about a knee joint, the liner having an inner surface for facing the limb of the patient and an outer surface defining an anterior region and a posterior region which are demarcated by an imaginary plane extending midway between the front most portion and rear most portion of the limb along the length of the limb, wherein the anterior region has an anterior material secured thereto and the posterior region has a posterior material secured thereto and the anterior and posterior materials having equal transverse elongation, and the anterior material having a longitudinal elongation greater than the longitudinal elongation of said posterior material, whereby when said prosthesis is donned onto a limb of a patient over the knee and the limb is flexed about the knee, buckling of the prosthesis about the knee is substantially reduced or eliminated and wherein the distal end of the liner includes an insert member adapted to receive a connector for locking the liner to a prosthetic socket when worn on a residual limb of an amputee. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270415 | ARTIFICIAL KNEE JOINT - An artificial knee joint includes a lower joint member, an axle, a kneecap member, and a press member. The lower joint member is formed with a horizontally extending axle-receiving hole, and a clearance extending from and in spatial communication with the axle-receiving hole. The axle is received in the axle-receiving hole. The kneecap member is pivoted to the lower joint member, and is adapted to be connected to a prosthetic thigh. The press member is mounted to the kneecap member for pressing the lower joint member when the kneecap member pivots in a direction relative to the lower joint member. Therefore, the clearance and the axle-receiving hole are constricted to result in tightened connection between the lower joint member and the axle and resistance to relative rotation between the lower joint member and the axle. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270416 | GRIPPING MECHANISM - A gripping mechanism for gripping an object includes a base, a first gripping module, a second gripping module, and a driving device. The first gripping module is disposed on the base and has at least one receiving slot. The second gripping module is movably disposed in the receiving slot. The driving device is disposed on the base and connected to the first gripping module and the second gripping module. The driving device is operable to drive the first gripping module to switch between an opened state and a closed state, or drive the second gripping module to move relative to the first gripping module to enable the gripping mechanism to grip or release the object. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270417 | CONTROL SYSTEM AND CONTROL METHOD - According to one embodiment, a control system includes a first controller, a second controller, and a network connector. The network connector is configured to network-connect the first controller and the second controller. The first controller is configured to designate an activation mode of the second controller. The second controller is configured to be activated based on firmware corresponding to the activation mode. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270418 | STATE MACHINE FUNCTION BLOCK WITH A USER MODIFIABLE STATE TRANSITION CONFIGURATION DATABASE - A control system, a safety system, etc., within a process plant may each use one or more state machine function blocks that can be easily integrated into a function block diagram programming environment. Such a state machine function block may include one or more inputs, which may cause astute machine implemented by the state machine function block to change states. The state machine function block may determine a next state to which it is to transition based, at least in part, on data indicative of the next state to which to transition, if any. The configuration data may be retrieved from a database based on the current state of the state machine and at least one of the inputs. The state machine function block may also include one or more outputs that are generated based on the state of the state machine. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270419 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR CONTROLLING THE WORKING STATUS OF AN ELECTRIC DEVICE - The invention provides a method and a corresponding system ( | 2011-11-03 |
20110270420 | MOTION CONTROL ENHANCED RADIO FREQUENCY CONTROL SYSTEM AND METHOD - A system includes a first light assembly including a first light, a first motion sensor, and a first transceiver. A second light assembly includes a second light, a second motion sensor, and a second transceiver, the second light assembly positioned a first distance from the first light assembly. A third light assembly includes a third light, a third motion sensor, and a third transceiver. The third light assembly is positioned a second distance from the first light assembly, the second distance being greater than the first distance. The first light is transitioned to an on condition and the first transceiver broadcasts a signal in response to the first motion detector detecting motion, and the second transceiver receives the signal and activates the second light in response to the signal and the third transceiver does not receive the signal. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270421 | PLANT CONTROL SYSTEM AND PROGRAM RELOCATE METHOD - According to one embodiment, a plant control system includes a station mounting controllers thereon, an engineering device which manages programs, and a device which connects the controllers and the engineering device. The engineering device includes database which stores information on a first variable for allowing data to be shared among programs in each controller and a second variable for allowing data to be shared among programs in the station, the database management part, and a relocate management part which moves the program, and the relocate management part includes a designating module which designates an execution order of programs in a source controller, one or more programs to be moved, a destination controller, and the source controller, a module which moves the program as designated in the designating module, and a changing module which, when the program is moved, moves or copies the first and second variable used in the program. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270422 | Feedback Control Method and Device Using the Same - The present invention provides a method for feedback control and a device using the same, wherein the device comprising a sensing layer for generating a plurality of sensing signals with respect to the at least one kind of characteristics on the sensing layer, and a driving layer for changing the surface status of the sensing layer. The control method is started a step of acquiring the plurality of sensing signals within a first specific time interval and establishing a first prediction model accordingly, then predicting a distribution status with respect to the at least one kind of characteristic on the sending layer at a specific time point according to the first prediction model, and finally, determining whether to change the surface status of the sensing layer according to the distribution status. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270423 | Method for transferring parameter data in the case of uploading and/or downloading parameter settings between field devices and/or a control station - A method for reducing parameter data to be transferred in the case of uploading and/or downloading parameter settings between field devices and/or a control station, wherein the parameter data include information concerning an operating state of the field device and/or information concerning a process variable registered with the field device and/or identification data of the field device. Data present after a re-setting procedure or during the start-up of the field device are established as standard parameter data, wherein, for each parameter, modification information is stored concerning whether such parameter deviates from the standard parameter data, only such parameter data are transmitted, in the case of which a deviation from the standard parameter data is ascertained via the modification information. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270424 | PROGRAM ANALYSIS SUPPORT DEVICE - A program analysis support device that can freely combine program analysis conditions and can realize desired program analysis. An analysis condition setting part inputs a program analysis condition in a form of a conditional equation (analysis command, an analysis subject, and analysis condition) having an inherent equation number. A POU list extraction processing executing part executes an analysis command that reads a program to generate a collection of POUs serving as analysis subjects constituting the program, and a variable use list extraction processing executing part executes an analysis command that extracts a cross-reference of a variable to extract a cross-reference of a variable to the POU collection serving as the analysis subject. Both the parts further extract a cross-reference of a variable to another POU collection. An AND processing part further performs processing of a logical product of the cross-references of both the variables and outputs a result thereof to an analysis result display part. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270425 | SYSTEM GAMING - A method provides a player tracking system and system gaming apparatus for playing non-base games by funding the credit side of a gaming cycle. The system further includes at least one gaming device having a base game. The player tracking system and system gaming apparatus includes a player tracking user interface. The player tracking user interface provides a player with an opportunity to select and play a non-base game that may be promotional-funded or player-funded. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270426 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR ADJUSTING FOR INPUT LATENCY IN AN ELECTRONIC DEVICE - Embodiments of methods, apparatuses, devices and systems associated with adjusting for input latency within an electronic are disclosed. An electronic device may receive a user input, such as a user actuation of a device key. A latency adjusted time of the input may be calculated based, at least in part, on a latency of the electronic device in determining the user actuation of the device key. The latency adjusted time may be used to determine a result of the user input. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270427 | DIGITAL/ANALOG CONVERTOR AND DIGITAL AUDIO PROCESSING CIRCUIT ADOPTING THE SAME - A digital analog convertor has a modulator which modulates a digital signal to generate a pulse signal having a pulse density corresponding to a digital value of the digital signal; a first RZ conversion circuit which RZ-converts the pulse signal based on a first clock signal to generate a first RZ pulse signal; a first integration circuit which integrates the first RZ pulse signal to output a first analog signal; a second RZ conversion circuit which RZ-converts a first level signal having a first level of the pulse signal based on the first clock signal to generate a second RZ pulse signal; a second integration circuit which integrates the second RZ pulse signal to output a second analog signal; and a clock duty control circuit which controls a duty ratio of the first clock signal so that the second analog signal approaches a given reference level. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270428 | Cognitive Loudspeaker System - A cognitive loudspeaker system including a control station that communicates wirelessly and bi-directionally with a plurality of sound production stations. The control station and the sound production stations are initially synchronized to a conductor clock. Configuration information is then transmitted from the sound production stations to the control station. In response, the control station generates playback executables, which are transmitted to the sound production stations. The control station also transmits digital audio information to the sound production stations. Within each sound production station, the previously received playback executable is used to control the decoding and processing of the received digital audio information. Each sound production station generates digital audio output samples, which are converted to analog output signals. These analog output signals are amplified and are used to drive loudspeakers. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270429 | ADVANCED PLANNING SYSTEM - An advanced production planning system for allocating production capacity to meet a demand includes a demand receiver, a demand consolidator, a capacity balancer, and a planning module. The demand receiver is configured to receive input demand data and is in communication with the demand consolidator, calculates a consolidated demand as a sum of all input demand data. The capacity balancer calculates and stores a production capacity, and the planning module creates a production plan by allocating production capacity to meet the consolidated demand based on the consolidated demand and the production capacity. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270430 | METHOD FOR OPTIMIZING VALUE OF WOOD PRODUCTS DRIED IN A DRYING PROCESS - The present disclosure includes a method for optimizing value of current wood products dried in one or more current drying processes and associated computer software. The method comprises the steps of obtaining prior wood product data for prior wood products dried in one or more prior drying processes and generating a value function based on the prior wood product data. The method further includes identifying one or more sources of variability in the prior wood product data and quantifying a contribution to overall variability from each of the sources. The value function and the contributions to overall variability may be used to quantify one or more value opportunities associated with each the one or more sources, each value opportunity being associated with one or more executable steps for improving the one or more current drying processes. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270431 | WELL PRODUCTION SHUT DOWN - A system for controlling production shut down of an underwater fluid production well, the well having a sensor for producing an output signal indicative of the state of the well and a valve which is actuable to shut down production activity of the well, comprises means for receiving the output signal; and a processor for processing the received signal to determine if a shut down is required and outputting a shut down signal to the valve; wherein the receiving means and processor are located at the well. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270432 | SCALABLE MANUFACTURING ASSEMBLY VERIFICATION SYSTEM - A scalable manufacturing assembly verification system for use in a manufacturing facility to verify assembly of a product, the system comprising assembly process work stations and assembly verification system stations. The assembly process work stations are each configured to provide at least one device configured to aid in assembly of the product. The assembly verification system stations are each located within a different one of the assembly process work stations, with each of the assembly verification system stations including a computing device in communication with the device, and with each computing device including a respective set of business rules corresponding to the assembly process work station within which the computing device is located, wherein each set of the business rules provides assembly verification for the device to error check assembly of the product with the device. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270433 | METHOD AND SECTION FOR COOLING A MOVING METAL BELT BY SPRAYING LIQUID - The invention relates to a method for monitoring the cooling of a moving metal belt (B) in a cooling section of a continuous processing line by spraying a liquid or a mixture consisting of a gas and a liquid onto the belt, the cooling depending on parameters including the temperature, speed, and current characteristics of a cooling fluid, wherein according to said method: one or more areas are determined in which cooling parameters are such that the local removal of a vapor film on the surface of the hot belt is carried out or capable being carried out, leading to the redampening of the belt; and at least the temperature of the cooling liquid is adjusted as a cooling parameter in the thus-determined area(s) so as to maintain, or return to, a cooling into a vapor film on the surface of the belt, thus resulting in the overheating of the cooling liquid contacting the hot belt. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270434 | MAGNETIC NANOSTRUCTURED PROPELLERS - This invention describes methods and systems for the fabrication and application of Magnetically Actuated Propellers (MAPs). MAPs are structures with typical feature sizes in the range of 20 nanometers up to 100 microns in one spatial dimension. MAPs are propellers that can be obtained from nano-structured surfaces and that can be produced in large numbers. MAPs are propelled and controlled by magnetic fields. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270435 | Shape changing material - An apparatus may be configured with one or more sensors arranged to detect a first shape-related parameter, one or more control elements arranged to provide a force, and circuitry operably connected to the one or more sensors and the one or more control elements to determine the force provided to the one or more control elements. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270436 | METHOD FOR MACHINING SLIDE CORE HOLE AND MEASUREMENT/CORRECTION SYSTEM FOR USE IN MACHINING OF SLIDE CORE HOLE - There are provided a method for machining a slide core hole and a measurement/correction system for use in machining of a slide core hole, which enable efficient machining of a slide core hole while utilizing the high-speed cutting performance of a five-axis machine tool. The method for machining an inclined slide core hole, comprised of a core pocket and a rod hole, in a mold as a workpiece by means of a five-axis machine tool having, in addition to X-axis, Y-axis and Z-axis, an A-axis for pivoting of a spindle head and a C-axis for rotation of a table, includes the steps of: pivoting the spindle head to meet the inclination angle of the slide core hole to be machined in the mold, and fixing the A-axis angle; spot-facing a shallow flat-bottomed spot-faced hole in the surface of the mold by using an end mill as a tool; drilling a guide hole in the bottom surface of the spot-faced hole by using a drill or a reamer as a tool; drilling said rod hole by using a gun drill as a tool with the guide hole as a guide for the gun drill; carrying out, as pre-machining before machining of said core pocket, shaping machining to form an intermediate pocket hole while expanding the spot-faced hole by using an end mill as a tool; correcting a reference point for use as a reference in machining of the core pocket based on measurement of the shape of the intermediate pocket; and executing a corrected machining program with the corrected reference point to carry out precision shaping machining of the core pocket while expanding the intermediate pocket by using an end mill as a tool. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270437 | PERFORMANCE VENUE WITH DYNAMIC MECHANICAL LOAD MANAGEMENT SYSTEM AND METHOD - A performance venue having a dynamic load management system for use in managing loads. The system uses a dead man circuit as a means for determining the actual or anticipated dynamic load produced by moving loads, and then disables the system by opening the dead man circuit when too many loads are moved or selected to be moved. Preferably, the invention is embodied in a dead man circuit is pure hardware, and is free of software components. The invention also provides a method of controlling movement of loads in a performance venue having a plurality machines. In its basic form, the method comprises selecting at least one of the machines for movement, closing a dead man circuit, and opening the dead man circuit if the current in the dead man circuit falls outside a predetermined range. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270438 | AUTOMATED WAREHOUSE SYSTEM - An automated warehouse system having an improved cycle efficiency of storing and retrieving articles to and from the automated warehouse system includes a storage station, a retrieval station, a plurality of article storage shelves, a stacker crane, and a system controller. An article is brought to the storage station to be stored and retrieved from the retrieval station. The article storage shelves store articles. The stacker crane can move an article between the storage station, the retrieval station, and the article storage shelves. The system controller keeps track of the amount of storage time articles have been stored and, when it determines that an article has been stored on an article storage shelf in a buffer area for a first predetermined amount of time or longer, the system controller controls the stacker crane such that the stacker crane carries the article from an article storage shelf in the buffer area to an article storage shelf in the first storage area. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270439 | AUTOMATIC APPARATUS FOR SELECTING, DISPENSING AND COLLECTING RE-USABLE ITEMS - The present invention relates to an automatic apparatus for selecting, dispensing and collecting re-usable items comprising at least one user interface comprising a computer for selecting re-usable items and at least one device for dispensing and/or collecting re-usable items, a storage system for storing the re-usable items, a transportation system for transferring the re-usable items between the storage system and the at least one device for dispensing and/or collecting re-usable items, wherein the re-usable items are stored and transferred within the apparatus by means of carriers but dispensed and/or collected carrier-less. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270440 | VARIABLE SPEED DRIVE FOR PNEUMATIC TRANSPORT SYSTEM - Provided herein are systems and methods for use in controlling a translocation process of a pneumatic tube system in order to reduce the amount of energy transferred from the tube system to a pneumatic carrier and, hence, its contents. Generally, these utilities entail identifying and/or reducing forces applied to a pneumatic carrier traveling through a travel path within a pneumatic tube system. The systems and method disposed herein allow for varying the velocity of a pneumatic carrier as it passes through a travel path of the pneumatic system. Such varying of the velocity allows for reducing the total forces applied to the pneumatic carrier during passage through the system. In one arrangement, the power output of a power source connected to a compressor device is altered to vary the velocity of pneumatic carries in the system. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270441 | MEDICAMENT CONTAINER - The invention relates to a method and system that utilizes one or more cassettes or trays that hold medicaments for dispensing. In one embodiment a medicaments container includes control logic configured to enable the medicaments container to operate with an apparatus; control logic configured to determine whether the medicaments container is authorized for operation with the apparatus; and control logic configured to generate an alert if the medicaments container is not authorized for operation with the apparatus. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270442 | AMBULATORY MEDICATION ON DEMAND DISPENSER - An ambulatory medication on demand dispenser. The dispenser comprises a sensor for receiving biometric information from a user, a controller responsive to the biometric information for determining whether the user is an authorized user, a memory component for storing prescribed medication dispensing information and actual medication dispensing information, a communications device for communicating the actual medication dispensing information to a monitoring site, a continuous belt and a plurality of medication-carrying slots defined on an exterior-facing surface of the belt, a dose opening defined in an exterior surface of the medication on demand dispenser, and the controller for controlling the belt according to a prescribed dose administration schedule and after determining the user is an authorized user, the belt controllable to present a medication dose at the dose opening for removal by the user. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270443 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR DETECTING CONTACT POSITION OF ROBOT - An apparatus for detecting a contact position where a robot makes contact with an object includes a probe, a probe-position calculating unit, a contact detecting unit, and a contact-position calculating unit. The probe is attached to the robot and is configured to make a displacement in a direction of making contact with the object in an elastic manner. The probe-position calculating unit calculates a position of the probe of the robot in operation. The contact detecting unit detects a contact state of the probe with the object. When the contact state of the probe is detected, the contact-position calculating unit derives the contact position based on a calculated position of the probe. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270444 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR JUDGING SUCCESS OR FAILURE OF WORK OF ROBOT - A system for judging success or failure of a work of a robot includes a position command generating unit, a contact position detecting unit, and a work success/failure judging unit. The position command generating unit generates a position command enabling movement of a fingertip of the robot so that a position and posture detecting unit, which is attached to the fingertip of the robot and has an elastic transformation area, is brought into contact with a predetermined position relating to a work target after the predetermined work is performed for the work target by the robot. The contact position detecting unit calculates a contact position that is a position of a tip end of the position and posture detecting unit at the time of being in contact with the predetermined position based on a value of an external force applied to the fingertip and the position of the tip end of the position and posture detecting unit. The work success/failure judging unit judges the predetermined work to be successful when the calculated contact position is within a predetermined range and judges the predetermined work to be failed when the calculated contact position is not within the predetermined range. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270445 | INSTRUMENT TURNTABLE AND METHOD FOR USE - An instrument turntable is presented which allows an instrument to be installed into an automated system, yet that will still allow an operator to use the instrument manually, even while the automated system is running, without ever removing the instrument from the automated system. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270446 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR AN ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL SYSTEM INCLUDING A MOTORIZED VENT COVERING - A motorized vent covering for an air vent of the environment control system, the motorized vent covering comprising an air flow restrictor for controlling air flow through the vent; and an actuator, the actuator including a motor configured to drive the air flow restrictor to control the flow of air from the vent, and a controller in communication with the motor, the controller configured to provide operating instructions to the motor to open or close the air flow restrictor to adjust the flow of air through the air vent. | 2011-11-03 |
20110270447 | BLOCKED NOZZLE DETECTION AND REMEDIAL METHOD AND SYSTEM - System and method for controlling a stuck nozzle system installed between first and second turbines connected in series to a compressor. The method includes determining whether the nozzle system is stuck; instructing the first turbine to increase a minimum speed reference when the nozzle system is stuck; verifying whether the nozzle system continues to be stuck; instructing the compressor to increase an inlet bleed heat (IBH) flow from a current value to a maximum value when the nozzle system is stuck; verifying whether the nozzle system continues to be stuck; and instructing the compressor to increase an inlet guide vanes (IGV) angle from a current value to a maximum value when the nozzle system is stuck. | 2011-11-03 |