06th week of 2013 patent applcation highlights part 41 |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20130035698 | Soft Tissue Repair Device And Associated Method - A soft tissue repair device can include a housing having a handle, a deployment system having an actuation member, and an insertion system having an inserter and a slider. The slider can be coupled to the actuation member and movable relative to the inserter between deployed and retracted positions. First and second anchors can be carried on an external surface of the slider such that the anchors are spaced apart and portions of the anchors are coaxial with the slider and each other. A flexible strand can couple the anchors. The insertion system can cooperate with the deployment system to move the slider to the deployed position to deploy the first anchor upon activating the actuation member a first time, and to move the slider to the deployed position from the retracted position to deploy the second anchor upon actuating the actuation member a second time after the first time. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035699 | DUAL INSUFFLATION AND WOUND CLOSURE DEVICES AND METHODS - A dual functioning instrument set, comprising a needle and guide, has not only the capabilities to enter and insufflate the abdominal cavity but also the ability of a suture passer to carry and retrieve suture for closure of the incision sites at the end of the procedure. The needle contains a deployable snare that is used to pass and retrieve suture. The guide is used to repeatedly locate the needle relative to the inner abdominal wall allowing for consistent placement of sutures. For insufflation purposes, obturator tips having different distal structures are provided for shielding the sharp needle tip after insertion through a body wall. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035700 | DUAL INSUFFLATION AND WOUND CLOSURE DEVICES AND METHODS - A dual functioning instrument set, comprising a needle and guide, has not only the capabilities to enter and insufflate the abdominal cavity but also the ability of a suture passer to carry and retrieve suture for closure of the incision sites at the end of the procedure. The needle contains a deployable snare that is used to pass and retrieve suture. The guide is used to repeatedly locate the needle relative to the inner abdominal wall allowing for consistent placement of sutures. For insufflation purposes, obturator tips having different distal structures are provided for shielding the sharp needle tip after insertion through a body wall. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035701 | DUAL INSUFFLATION AND WOUND CLOSURE DEVICES ANS METHODS - A dual functioning instrument set, comprising a needle and guide, has not only the capabilities to enter and insufflate the abdominal cavity but also the ability of a suture passer to carry and retrieve suture for closure of the incision sites at the end of the procedure. The needle contains a deployable snare that is used to pass and retrieve suture. The guide is used to repeatedly locate the needle relative to the inner abdominal wall allowing for consistent placement of sutures. For insufflation purposes, obturator tips having different distal structures are provided for shielding the sharp needle tip after insertion through a body wall. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035702 | DUAL INSUFFLATION AND WOUND CLOSURE DEVICES AND METHODS - A dual functioning instrument set, comprising a needle and guide, has not only the capabilities to enter and insufflate the abdominal cavity but also the ability of a suture passer to carry and retrieve suture for closure of the incision sites at the end of the procedure. The needle contains a deployable snare that is used to pass and retrieve suture. The guide is used to repeatedly locate the needle relative to the inner abdominal wall allowing for consistent placement of sutures. For insufflation purposes, obturator tips having different distal structures are provided for shielding the sharp needle tip after insertion through a body wall. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035703 | Flexible Endoscopic Stitching Devices - An endoscopic stitching device is provided including an end effector configured and adapted to perform at least a pair of functions; and a single actuation cable operatively connected to the end effector, wherein the actuation cable is capable of effecting operation of at least the pair of functions. The actuation cable is capable of effecting a first operation of the pair of functions upon an axial translation thereof, and a second operation of the pair of functions upon a rotation thereof. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035704 | SURGICAL SPREADABLE SHEET DELIVERY AND POSITIONING SYSTEM AND METHOD - A prepackaged mesh unit which comprises a spreadable sheet, a guide rod configured for remotely positioning the spreadable sheet within a body cavity, and a plurality of self-extending elements collapsed with the spreadable sheet and held at one end by the guide rod, wherein the self-extending elements have an elastic property and store elastic energy while collapsed with the spreadable sheet, wherein the number and configuration of the self-extending elements is selected to match a size and shape of the spreadable sheet. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035705 | DEVICE FOR APPLYING A MARKING TO THE HUMAN EYE - The invention relates to a device for applying a marking to the human eye, in particular on the cornea, comprising a marking head ( | 2013-02-07 |
20130035706 | ULTRASONIC DEVICE FOR CUTTING AND COAGULATING WITH STEPPED OUTPUT - Various embodiments are directed to an apparatus, system, and method for driving an end effector coupled to an ultrasonic transducer in a surgical instrument. The method comprises generating a first ultrasonic drive signal by a generator coupled to an ultrasonic drive system, actuating the ultrasonic transducer with the first ultrasonic drive signal, generating a second ultrasonic drive signal by the generator, and actuating the ultrasonic transducer with the second ultrasonic drive signal. The first drive signal is different from the second drive signal. The first and second drive signals define a step function waveform. The system comprises a generator coupled to an ultrasonic instrument. The ultrasonic instrument comprises an ultrasonic drive system comprising an ultrasonic transducer coupled to a waveguide and an end effector coupled to the waveguide. The ultrasonic drive system resonates at a resonant frequency. The apparatus comprises an ultrasonic drive system coupled to a generator. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035707 | ULTRASONIC DEVICE FOR CUTTING AND COAGULATING WITH STEPPED OUTPUT - Various embodiments are directed to an apparatus, system, and method for driving an end effector coupled to an ultrasonic transducer. The method comprises generating a first ultrasonic drive signal by a generator coupled to an ultrasonic drive system, actuating the ultrasonic transducer with the first ultrasonic drive signal, generating a second ultrasonic drive signal by the generator, and actuating the ultrasonic transducer with the second ultrasonic drive signal. The first drive signal is different from the second drive signal. The first and second drive signals define a step function waveform. The apparatus comprises a generator configured to couple to an ultrasonic instrument. The system comprises a generator coupled to an ultrasonic instrument. The ultrasonic instrument comprises an ultrasonic drive system comprising an ultrasonic transducer coupled to a waveguide and an end effector coupled to the waveguide, and wherein the ultrasonic drive system configured to resonates at a resonant frequency. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035708 | Disposable Automatic Painless Safe Hemostix - A disposable safety lancet device employed in an automated and painless procedure includes an outer casing, an inner sleeve, a lancet assembly and a spring. A lancet tube is provided in the lancet assembly. One end of the lancet assembly is snapped in the inner sleeve, and the other end is extended into the outer casing. Interlock fixing faces and protrusions are provided on the inner sleeve. Interlock guiding slopes and protrusion stoppers are provided on the inner wall of the outer casing. One end of the interlock engages the interlock fixing face, and the other end engages the interlock guiding slope. A lancing operation for taking blood can be simply performed only by turning wing plates having rib portions, aligning a blood taking aperture, and pushing the outer casing. After the lancing operation, the lancet tip is retracted into the inner sleeve, which prevents a second use by the fixation between the inner sleeve and the outer casing. Additionally, the lancet device can control the depth of lancing operation. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035709 | SURGICAL PUNCTURE ACCESS - A surgical device mitigates over-puncture with a bias spring that biases a leading, cutting edge in the opposite direction of the anticipated over-puncture. An associated locking mechanism is configured to release the force of the bias spring in a direction counter to the direction of insertion when the tension force of tissue against the cutting edge is released. Thus, when an opening in the tissue forms, the tension is released and the cutting edge can move opposite to the direction of insertion of the surgical device at the same time that an applied force drives the instrument in the direction of insertion. In this manner, the spring and locking mechanism cooperate to move the cutting edge opposite to the direction of insertion as soon as an incision is made. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035710 | ENHANCED ASPIRATION PROCESSES AND MECHANISMS FOR INSTRAGASTRIC DEVICES - A sealing device attached to an intragastric balloon device having a at least one flexible membrane aligned with and configured to seal an aspiration port of a lumen when the membrane is in a closed state and further configured to provide access to the lumen when the membrane is in a open state. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035711 | INTRAGASTRIC BALLOON FOR TREATING OBESITY - A transorally implanted intragastric balloon or treating obesity and for weight control including a variable size balloon with one or interconnected regions acting to exert a pressure on the stomach, to provide a stomach volume occupying effect, and/or to anchor the balloon within the stomach. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035712 | CEREBRAL ANEURYSM CLOSURE DEVICE - The present invention provides a closure device for blocking blood flow into an aneurysm. The closure device includes a frame for positioning the closure device in the aneurysm and a cover supported by the frame to block blood flow through the frame into the aneurysm. The present invention also provides a method of blocking blood flow into an aneurysm using the closure device of the present invention. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035713 | Vascular Filter - A filter, configured to be disposed within a body lumen, that includes one or more filtering zones. The filter may include one or more sets of legs, configured to interact with the body lumen wall in order to stabilize the position of the filter and to create a filtering structure. In some embodiments the filter may be integrally formed form a single tube of material. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035714 | Vascular Filter - A filter, configured to be disposed within a body lumen, that includes one or more filtering zones. The filter may include one or more sets of legs, configured to interact with the body lumen wall in order to stabilize the position of the filter and to create a filtering structure. In some embodiments the filter may be integrally formed form a single tube of material. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035715 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR VESSEL OCCLUSION - Embodiments of devices and methods for vessel occlusion include an endoluminal occlusion device having a support structure forming at least two open loops with a crossover point between adjacent loops and free movement of the support structure at the crossover between adjacent loops, wherein the support structure is configured to extend along the walls of a lumen; and a first occlusive material attached to and across one of the at least two loops formed by the support structure, wherein the occlusive material is configured to occlude the flow of fluid within the lumen. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035716 | EMBOLIC PROTECTION DEVICE - The embolic protection device ( | 2013-02-07 |
20130035717 | EMBOLIC PROTECTION DEVICE - The embolic protection device ( | 2013-02-07 |
20130035718 | FLEXIBLE FORCEPS WITH IMPROVED TORSIONAL RIGIDITY - An improved medical transmission apparatus for transmitting a flexible forceps through one of a plurality of lumens associated with an elongated composite scope assembly towards a surgical site presenting an increased torsional rigidity region for increased deflectional resistance of the forceps and being defined by a junction between a sheath associated with the forceps and a lumen extending cylindrically along the elongated composite scope assembly; a portal entry associated with the elongated composite scope assembly having a diameter sized for receiving and transmitting a distal tip section associated with said forceps therethrough and a cylindrical clearance positioned between an outer sidewall associated with said sheath and an inner surface associated with said lumen, the cylindrical clearance directing said forceps towards the surgical site. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035719 | COMPOSITE PLUG FOR ARTERIOTOMY CLOSURE AND METHOD OF USE - A composite plug for arteriotomy closure, a method of manufacturing a composite plug for arteriotomy closure, and a method for the use of a composite plug for arteriotomy closure may include an elongate core member, and one or more layers disposed at least in part about the core member, where the composite plug has been partially compacted in a radial direction. The composite plug may include an outer member at least partially surrounding the core member. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035720 | SUSPENSION DEVICE TO ANCHOR TISSUE GRAFT - A tissue graft suspension device includes a platform member defining an opening, a suture having a first portion and a second portion, and a fixation member mating with the opening in the platform member. The first portion and the second portion pass through the opening such that a third portion of the suture forms a loop for attachment to a tissue graft. The fixation member includes a retaining mechanism configured to allow the first portion or the second portion to pass through the opening in a manner that decreases a size of the loop and to prevent the first portion or the second portion of the suture from passing through the opening in a manner that increases a size of the loop. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035721 | SURGICAL ANCHOR - Surgical anchors can be utilized to approximate and hold soft tissue in, at, or near a boney insertion site. In some examples, the surgical anchors include a receiving body and a fixation member such as, for example, a fixation screw. The receiving body may include an elongated connecting member and an aperture defined at a distal end of the elongated connecting member. The aperture may be configured to receive a surgical attachment element. Depending on the configuration, the receiving body may be connected to the fixation member via the elongated connecting member such that the fixation member can move relative to the receiving body. Movement of the fixation member relative to the receiving body may allow a user to control and adjust the amount of tension placed on the surgical attachment element, which may enhance the mechanics of a repair operation. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035722 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR SECURING AN OBJECT TO BONE, INCLUDING THE PROVISION AND USE OF A NOVEL SUTURE ASSEMBLY FOR SECURING AN OBJECT TO BONE - Apparatus for attaching an object to bone, the apparatus comprising:
| 2013-02-07 |
20130035723 | SACROILIAC JOINT FIXATION FUSION SYSTEM - A sacroiliac joint fixation fusion system that provides a method of fixation and fusion of the sacroiliac joint and a sacroiliac joint implant which upon placement within the articular region of the sacroiliac joint facilitates stability and fusion of the sacroiliac joint. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035724 | Spinal Implants and Spinal Fixings - A spinal implant comprising an elongate body insertable between adjacent vertebrae, the elongate body comprising first and second portions, the first and second portions each having an internal surface, the internal surface of the first portion facing the internal surface of the second portion in use, at least part of each internal surface of the first and second portions being threaded, the spinal implant further comprising a bolt, at least part of the bolt being externally tapered and externally threaded, the external threads of the bolt corresponding with the threads of the internal surfaces of the first and second portions, wherein the bolt is insertable between the first and second portions of the elongate body such that the external threads of the bolt engage with the internal threads of the elongate body, whereby rotation of the bolt in the threaded internal surfaces of the first and second portions causes relative movement of first and second portions away from one another. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035725 | CONNECTING ELEMENT FOR A STABILIZATION SYSTEM FOR THE VERTEBRAL COLUMN, AND STABILIZATION SYSTEM FOR THE VERTEBRAL COLUMN - To improve a connecting element for a stabilization system for the vertebral column, which includes a first attachment section for fixing to a first bone fixation device, a second attachment section for fixing to a second bone fixation device, and an at least partially flexible intermediate section having at least one recess which is open at the sides, that at least one mechanical property of the intermediate section can be individually set in a simple and safe way, at least one movement limiting member is provided, which comprises a filling body and at least one stop device acting parallel or substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis and/or in the circumferential direction, and that the filling body, in a normal position in which no external forces act on the intermediate section, engage at least partially in the at least one recess. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035726 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MINIMALLY INVASIVE POSTERIOR FIXATION - The present invention relates generally to systems and methods for aligning and implanting orthopedic fixation or stabilization implants within the body. In one embodiment, the system includes at least two bone anchors, at least one of which is provided with an angularly adjustable connector. In one aspect, the system also includes at least one linkage rod, for linking two or more bone anchors through their respective adjustable connectors. The bone anchors and the linkage rod may be locked into place to form a spinal fusion or fixation prosthesis. An alignment tool is provided, for guiding a guidewire through one or more connectors. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035727 | SURGICAL DEVICES AND METHODS PROVIDING SACROILIAC STABILIZATION - A surgical method is for at least one ilium having an iliac crest and inner and outer tables on opposing sides of the iliac crest. The method may include inserting at least one base into the ilium, where the at least one base has a channel therein. The method may further include inserting a support member through the ilium and through the channel of the at least one base so that the support member extends between the inner and outer tables, and securing the support member to the at least one base. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035728 | Orthopedic implant rod reduction tool set and method - A tool set for implanting a rod in a human spine in conjunction with bone screws. The tool set includes a pair of end guide tools that receive opposite ends of the rod in channels and under manipulation by a surgeon facilitate transport of the rod toward the bone screws attached to the guide tools. Intermediate guide tools having guiding pass through slots are utilized to guide intermediate locations along the rod toward associated bone screws. An attachment structure operably connects the guide tools to the bone screws. The guide tools each include a lower guide and advancement structure to allow a closure top with mating structure to be rotated and driven downward against the rod and to cooperate with similar structure in the bone screw to seat and lock the rod therein. A method utilizing the tool set allows a surgeon to percutaneously implant the rod in the patient. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035729 | BAYONET COUNTER-TORQUE WRENCH - A counter-torque wrench for use with spinal implantation systems is provided wherein the counter-torque wrench engages a spinal implant rod and a bone screw body in a manner to promote a perpendicular alignment between the longitudinal axis of the rod and the longitudinal axis of the bone screw body, and a co-linear alignment between the longitudinal axis of the bone screw body and the longitudinal axis of the wrench body. The counter-torque wrench may comprise a handle attached to a first end of the counter-torque wrench body and a rod engaging member attached to a second end of the counter-torque wrench body. The rod engaging member may comprise generally opposing slots, wherein each slot comprises a prong extending into each slot, the prong creating a generally L-shaped slot, and a pocket formed by a curved feature of each slot. The opposing slots may be sized and shaped to releasably attach to the spinal implant rod in an engaged position perpendicular to the counter-torque wrench body when the counter-torque wrench is rotated in a counter-clockwise direction. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035730 | IMPLANTABLE PULSE GENERATOR - In one embodiment, there is disclosed a lead locking mechanism for use in a header component of an implantable pulse generator. In certain embodiments, the lead locking mechanism comprises a first locking member positioned to engage a surface of at least two leads; a second locking member positioned to also engage a surface of at least two leads, and a coupling member coupling the first locking member to the second locking member. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035731 | FIELD CONTROLLING ELECTRODE - A therapeutic device for application to a user's body in order to effect transcutaneous nerve and/or muscle stimulation, includes a conductive flexible member having a top side and a bottom side, a first electrode disposed in the member and connectable with external electrical apparatus for establishing a current distribution through the member and into the user's body, a second electrode disposed in the member and connectable with external electrical apparatus for establishing an electric field within the member in order control the current distribution through the member and into the user's body; and a conductive adhesive disposed on the conductive member bottom side for adhering the device to a the user's body. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035732 | ELECTRICAL LEADS FOR A FEEDTHROUGH - A lead frame for attaching leads to a hermetic feedthrough includes a cross-member and a plurality of leads. Each of the leads has an elongate body extending from the cross-member in a direction substantially parallel with one another, and each lead includes at least one of a notch on an end thereof opposite to the cross-member or a hole proximate to the end. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035733 | INTERCONNECTION OF CONDUCTOR TO FEEDTHROUGH - A method of interconnecting a conductor and a hermetic feedthrough of an implantable medical device includes welding a lead to a pad on a feedthrough. The feedthrough includes a ceramic insulator and a via hermetically bonded to the insulator. The via includes platinum. The pad is bonded to the insulator and electrically connected to the via, includes platinum, and has a thickness of at least 50 μm. The lead includes at least one of niobium, platinum, titanium, tantalum, palladium, gold, nickel, tungsten, and oxides and alloys thereof | 2013-02-07 |
20130035734 | METHOD FOR TREATING NEUROPATHIC PAIN - Provided is a method for treating neuropathic pain, including: providing, to a patient suffering from said neuropathic pain, a visual illusion to correct a mismatch between motor commands and sensory feedback; and applying a cranial stimulation to said patient during at least part of the duration of said visual illusion. This is particularly applicable to the treating of neuropathic pain in patients suffering from spinal cord injuries. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035735 | MULTI-MODAL ELECTROTHERAPY METHOD AND APARATUS - A multi-modal electrotherapy apparatus including circuitry for administering defibrillation therapy and for administering medium voltage therapy (MVT). A combined-use capacitor bank of at least one capacitor stores energy to be administered as defibrillation therapy and MVT. Combined-use discharge circuitry electrically is coupled between the combined-use capacitor bank and patient terminals for selectively administering energy from the capacitor bank according to a plurality of controllable waveforms as either defibrillation therapy or MVT. A controller is configured to cause the discharge circuitry to apply the MVT from the capacitor bank while the capacitor bank undergoes charging in preparation for administration of the defibrillation therapy. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035736 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR CONTROLLING PAIRED PACING BASED ON PATIENT ACTIVITY FOR USE WITH AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - Techniques are provided for use with implantable medical devices equipped to deliver paired postextrasystolic potentiation (PESP) pacing to control the paired pacing rate based on changes in patient activity. In one example, the current activity level of the patient is detected during paired pacing using an accelerometer. The cardiac output level needed to maintain the current activity level of the patient is determined with reference to pre-stored lookup tables relating activity levels with corresponding minimum necessary cardiac output levels for the particular patient. The minimum paired pacing rate sufficient to achieve the cardiac output level is then determined based, e.g., on stroke volume derived from cardiogenic impedance signals. Paired pacing is then delivered at the minimum paired pacing rate sufficient to achieve the needed cardiac output, thereby assuring that the paired pacing rate is sufficient to meet the current physiological demands of the patient without consuming too much oxygen. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035737 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DETERMINING PACING RELATED PARAMETERS - Pacing related timing is determined for an implantable medical device (IMD) by pacing at an RV pacing site, a first LV pacing site and a second LV pacing site in accordance with a first site, a second site and a third site pacing order, and further in accordance with a first inter-electrode pacing delay between pacing at the first site and pacing at the second site and a second inter-electrode pacing delay between pacing at the second site and pacing at the third site. At least one of a sensed event or a paced event is detected for at each of the second site and the third site. The first inter-electrode pacing delay and the second inter-electrode pacing delay are adjusted to avoid sensed events in favor of paced events at each of the second site and the third site. An atrio-ventricular delay may also be adjusted to avoid sensed events or lack of capture due to possible fusion at the first site, in favor of paced events at the first site. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035738 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR DETERMINING PACING PARAMETERS BASED ON REPOLARIZATION INDEX - Methods and systems are provided for determining pacing parameters for an implantable medical device (IMD). The methods and systems provide electrodes in the right atrium (RA), right ventricle (RV) and left ventricle (LV). The methods and systems sense RV cardiac signals and LV cardiac signals at an RV electrode and an LV electrode, respectively, over multiple cardiac cycles, to collect global activation information. The methods and systems identify a T-wave in the LV cardiac signal. The methods and systems calculate a repolarization index based at least in part on a timing of the T-wave identified in the LV cardiac signal. The methods and systems set at least one pacing parameter based on the repolarization index, wherein the at least one pacing parameter that is set represents at least one of an AV delay, an inter-ventricular interval and an intra-ventricular interval. Optionally, the methods and systems may deliver an RV pacing stimulus at the RV electrode such that the LV cardiac signal sensed thereafter includes the RV pacing stimulus followed by a T-wave. The methods and systems determine a waveform metric such as at least one of a QT interval, T-wave duration, and T-wave amplitude, and utilize the waveform metric to determine as the repolarization index. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035739 | NERVE STIMULATION APPARATUS - Nerve stimulation is performed while suppressing occurrence of symptom caused by sinus node dysfunction or atrioventricular node dysfunction. Provided is a nerve stimulation apparatus including: a stimulation signal generator configured to output a stimulation signal to a nerve; a cardiac-event acquisition unit configured to acquire cardiac events; and a control unit configured to control the stimulation signal generator such that sinus node dysfunction or atrioventricular node dysfunction is determined to be occurring and energy of the stimulation signal is reduced when a time interval value between the adjacent cardiac events acquired by the cardiac-event acquisition unit exceeds a predetermined threshold. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035740 | Device and Implantation System for Electrical Stimulation of Biological Systems - The present specification discloses devices and methodologies for the treatment of GERD. Individuals with GERD may be treated by implanting a stimulation device within the patient's lower esophageal sphincter and applying electrical stimulation to the patient's lower esophageal sphincter, in accordance with certain predefined protocols. The presently disclosed devices have a simplified design because they do not require sensing systems capable of sensing when a person is engaged in a wet swallow, have improved energy storage requirements, enable improved LES function while concurrently delivering additional health benefits, and enable improved LES function post stimulation termination. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035741 | TRANSCUTANEOUS ELECTRO-STIMULATION DEVICE WITH A MATRIX OF ELECTRODES - A transcutaneous electro-stimulation device comprising a matrix of stimulation electrodes ( | 2013-02-07 |
20130035742 | Face Detection, Tracking, and Recognition for a Visual Prosthesis - The present invention is a system for detecting, tracking and recognizing human faces in a visual prosthesis. In a visual prosthesis, the input camera is always higher resolution than the electrode array providing percepts to the subject. It is advantageous to detect, track and recognize human faces. Then information can be provided to the subject by highlighting the face in the visual scene, providing auditor or vibratory notice that a human face is in the visual scene, looking up the face in a database to state the name of the person in the visual scene, otherwise communication id like providing a custom vibratory pattern corresponding to known individuals (like custom ring tones associated with caller ID) or automatically zooming in on a face to aid the subject in identifying the face. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035743 | Field Focusing and Mapping in a Visual Prosthesis - The present invention is a system for mapping a high resolution image to a lower resolution electrode array and, by applying varying stimulus to neighboring electrodes, creating a perceived image greater in resolution than the electrode array. The invention is applicable to a wide range of neural stimulation devices including artificial vision and artificial hearing. By applying a sub-threshold stimulus to two neighboring electrodes where the sum of the stimuli is above the threshold of perception, a perception is created in neural tissue between the two electrodes. By adjusting the stimulus on neighboring electrodes, the location of stimulation can be altered. Further, noise can be applied to the stimulating electrode or its neighboring electrodes to reduce the threshold of stimulation. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035744 | IMPLANTABLE MICROPHONE FOR AN IMPLANTABLE HEARING PROSTHESIS - An implantable microphone for a hearing prosthesis. The microphone comprises: a housing having a diaphragm chamber formed therein, and an aperture extending from the exterior surface of the housing to the chamber; a diaphragm disposed on the exterior of the housing so as to seal the aperture, and configured to vibrate in response to sound signals; a sensor positioned adjacent an end of the chamber opposing the diaphragm, and configured to detect vibration of the diaphragm, and to generate electrical signals based thereon; and a stiffening material substantially filling the regions of the housing external to the sensor and the diaphragm such that that air gaps within the filled regions of the housing are substantially eliminated, wherein the stiffening material has an elastic modulus that enables the housing to substantially resist deformation there of in response to body-noise. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035745 | CHARGE-ENHANCED NEURAL ELECTRIC STIMULATION SYSTEM - A system and method to treat neural communication impairment is provided. The neural communication impairment is present in a neural pathway, which can be a cortico-neuromuscular pathway, an intra-brain neural pathway, or in a sensory-cortico pathway. A synchronized external stimulation is applied to a first point in proximity to a first neural component at one end of the neural pathway and to a second point in proximity to a second neural component at the other end of the neural pathway. Two induced neural handshake signals contemporaneously arrive at a neural communication impairment point in the neural pathway, triggering and stimulating a rehabilitation process by which the neural connection is permanently improved. The synchronized applied electrical signals applied to the first and second points may have an opposite polarity in dipolar neural stimulation, or may have identical polarity and waveform in in-phase neural stimulation. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035746 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR TREATING RHINITIS - A device for delivering light to a nasal cavity includes a base; an adjustable portion operably connected to the base. The adjustable portion permits ready manipulation of the device when in the nasal cavity. The adjustable portion includes a tapered tip for insertion into the nasal cavity; a light source disposed inside of the tapered tip; and a power source to supply power to the device. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035747 | METHODS FOR TREATING AIRWAYS - This relates to treating airways in a lung to decrease asthmatic symptoms. The also includes steps of measuring a parameter of an airway at a plurality of locations in a lung, identifying at least one treatment site from at least one of the plurality of locations based on the parameter, and applying energy to the treatment site to reduce the ability of the site to narrow. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035748 | IMPLANT SYSTEM INCLUDING GUIDING ACCESSORY AND METHODS OF USE - A guiding accessory, for use in conjunction with a guidewire and a catheter of an implant system, facilitates passage of an elongate and flexible conductor of a relatively compact therapy delivery device to an implant site, for example, within the cardiac venous system, when a therapy generator of the device is held within a distal portion of the catheter, and the catheter, device and guiding accessory are advanced along the guidewire. The guiding accessory includes a helically extending wall that forms a lumen within which the device conductor and guidewire extend. After advancing the catheter, guiding accessory and device to the implant site, the helically extending wall is unwound from around the device conductor, for removal, preferably, by pulling proximally on a tension line, which is attached to a proximal end of the wall. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035749 | DELIVERY DEVICE HAVING A VARIABLE DIAMETER INTRODUCER SHEATH - An introducer sheath has a tubular structure that is expandable and contractible to a desired diameter. In a first configuration, the tubular structure has a first diameter and a first axial length. In a second configuration, the tubular structure has a larger second diameter and a shorter second axial length. An actuator includes an inner member and an outer member. In response to relative movement between the members and the tubular structure in a first or second direction, the actuator allows the tubular structure to move to the respective between the first or second configurations. The tubular structure can be a braided structure. The members can form an everted tubular sleeve. A proximal end of the outer sleeve is movable relative a proximal end of the inner sleeve. A locking system can fix the introducer sheath at a desired diameter. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035750 | SYSTEMS, METHODS AND DEVICES FOR ABLATION, CROSSING, AND CUTTING OF OCCLUSIONS - Ablation, crossing, and cutting systems, devices and associated methods, including a crossing device, comprising, in combination: a spring-enhanced handle and body configured to controllably extend and retract a blade within a microcatheter for addressing an occlusion within a vessel of a patient to provide improved access for supplemental treatment and reperfusion. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035751 | THERMAL ENERGY APPLICATION FOR PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT OF ENDOLEAKS IN STENT-GRAFTS - Apparatus ( | 2013-02-07 |
20130035752 | Dialysis Arterial-Venous Graft - This disclosure relates to an improved arterial-venous graft. In one embodiment, an arterial-venous stent-graft can comprise a tube comprising a first section and a second section, said first section comprising at least fifty percent of said tube. Additionally, the arterial-venous stent-graft can comprise a stent surrounding all of said first section. Additionally, this disclosure relates to a method for placing an arterial-venous stent-graft in a body. Specifically, the method comprises placing an arterial-venous stent-graft in a subcutaneous tunnel, placing a portion of said arterial-venous stent-graft in a vein, wherein said first portion comprises a stent that covers said portion and covers at least fifty percent of said stent-graft, and connecting a second portion of said arterial-venous stent-graft to an artery, further wherein second portion of said arterial-venous stent-graft comprises no stent. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035753 | Multiple Scaffold Design And Coating Thereof - A multiple stent structure including a plurality of stent bodies arranged end to end in which adjacent stent bodies of the structure are connected by a severable connecting portion disposed between the adjacent stent bodies is disclosed. A method of coating a plurality of stents including depositing a coating on the multiple stent structure and severing the severable connecting portions to disconnect the plurality of stent bodies is disclosed. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035754 | DRUG-DELIVERY ENDOVASCULAR STENT AND METHOD OF FORMING THE SAME - An intravascular stent and method for inhibiting restenosis, following vascular injury, is disclosed. The stent has an expandable, linked-filament body and a drug-release coating formed on the stent-body filaments, for contacting the vessel injury site when the stent is placed in-situ in an expanded condition. The coating releases, for a period of at least 4 weeks, a restenosis-inhibiting amount of a monocyclic triene immunosuppressive compound having an alkyl group substituent at carbon position 40 in the compound. The stent, when used to treat a vascular injury, gives good protection against clinical restenosis, even when the extent of vascular injury involves vessel overstretching by more than 30% diameter. Also disclosed is a stent having a drug-release coating composed of (i) 10 and 60 weight percent poly-dl-Iactide polymer substrate and (ii) 40-90 weight percent of an anti-restenosis compound, and a polymer undercoat having a thickness of between 1-5 microns. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035755 | MEDICAL DEVICE WITH COATING THAT PROMOTES ENDOTHELIAL CELL ADHERENCE - The invention relates to a method for healing blood vessels by stimulating the formation of a confluent endothelial autologous cell layer in vivo on an implantable metallic stent having a lumen and a luminal surface, and an exterior surface. More specifically, the method includes implanting the stent with a coating in a patient in need of thereof; wherein the coating includes one or more layers of a matrix covalently adherent on said luminal and exterior surface of said stent containing one or more pharmaceutical substances on said exterior surface and a therapeutically effective amount of a single type of antibody, antibody fragments or combinations thereof being compatible to binding selectively to a specific cell surface antigen of circulating autologous endothelial progenitor cells in peripheral blood. In addition, genetically engineered endothelial progenitor cells can be captured on said luminal surface of stent in vivo, to proliferate to form rapidly a confluent endothelium in situ. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035756 | VASCULAR STENT HAVING A DUAL COATING STRUCTURE - Disclosed is a vascular stent which is inserted inside a blood vessel. The disclosed vascular stent includes: a first coating film comprising a restenosis inhibiting drug provided on the outside surface of the stent strut; and a second coating film comprising an internal-capsule cellularization promoting drug provided on the inside surface of the stent strut. In this way, restenosis and thrombosis can be prevented from occurring inside the stent. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035757 | MINIMALLY INVASIVE REPAIR OF HEART VALVE LEAFLETS - A method of repairing a heart valve provides intravascular access for repair of a heart valve through a ventricular trans-septal approach. An external guide catheter can be inserted through a vein of a patient into the right ventricle via the right atrium. An internal guide catheter can be inserted through the external guide and can provide access to the septum for a puncture tool to create an opening through the septum to the left ventricle. The internal guide can then be advanced into the left ventricle and used to guide a deployment catheter that deploys a repair device onto the heart valve. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035758 | Apparatus for Treating a Heart Valve, In Particular a Mitral Valve - An apparatus for treating a heart valve apparatus includes at least two anchoring elements designed to be anchored at the annulus and/or heart wall of the valve to be treated. Each anchoring element has a support surface. At least one linking element includes a central branch and two curved side branches, one of which is designed to be engaged on the support surface of an anchoring element, while the other is designed to be engaged on the support surface of another anchoring element, the linking element then being designed to be pivoted to a position such that the anchoring elements interconnect and in which the ends of the central branch are located in the vicinity of the support surfaces. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035759 | TECHNIQUES FOR PERCUTANEOUS MITRAL VALVE REPLACEMENT AND SEALING - Apparatus is described for use with a native heart valve of a subject, the apparatus including (1) a prosthetic valve support, comprising an upstream support portion, the upstream support portion having (a) a compressed configuration and an uncompressed configuration in which the upstream support portion has an inner perimeter that defines an opening; and (2) a prosthetic valve, advanceable into the opening defined by the upstream support portion, and intracorporeally couplable to the upstream support portion by being expanded within the opening defined by the upstream support portion, the apparatus being configured such that, when the prosthetic valve is expanded within the opening defined by the upstream support portion, the expansion of the prosthetic valve is restricted by the inner perimeter of the upstream support portion, without causing the prosthetic valve support to apply a radially-expansive force to the native annulus. Other embodiments are also described. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035760 | SWITCHABLE DIFFRACTIVE ACCOMMODATING LENS - A lens in accordance with the present invention includes an accommodating cell having two chambers with at least one chamber filled with optical fluid with the refractive index matching the refractive index of the accommodating element separating them. The accommodating element has a diffractive surface with surface relief structure that maintains its period but changes its height due a pressure difference between the chambers to redirect most of light that passes through the lens between different foci of far and near vision. The invention also includes a sensor cell that directly interacts with the ciliary muscle contraction and relaxation to create changes in pressure between the accommodating cell chambers that results in changing surface relief structure height and the lens accommodation. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035761 | SUBCHONDRAL TREATMENT OF JOINT PAIN OF THE SPINE - Methods for altering the natural history of degenerative disc disease and osteoarthritis of the spine are proposed. The methods focus on the prevention, or delayed onset or progression of, subchondral defects such as bone marrow edema or bone marrow lesion, and subchondral treatment to prevent the progression of osteoarthritis or degenerative disc disease in the spine and thereby treat pain. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035762 | MEDICAL DEVICE LOCK MECHANISM - A medical device ( | 2013-02-07 |
20130035763 | SPINAL FUSION DEVICE - A spinal fusion device is disclosed. The spinal fusion device includes a first endplate configured for fitting within a disc space and engaging with a first vertebra and a second endplate configured for fitting within the disc space and engaging with a second vertebra. The two endplates are separated by a single spacer that is positioned between the first endplate and the second endplate and maintains a pre-determined distance between the first endplate and the second endplate. The spacer contains an anterior end, a posterior end, a first lateral side, a second lateral side opposite to the first lateral side, a first surface that engages with the first endplate, a second surface that engages with the second endplate. Also disclosed are methods and instruments for implanting the spinal fusion device. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035764 | SUBCHONDRAL TREATMENT TO PREVENT THE PROGRESSION OF OSTEOARTHRITIS OF THE JOINT - Methods for the prevention, or delayed onset or progression of, bone marrow edema or bone marrow lesion, and subchondral treatment to prevent the progression of osteoarthritis of a joint are disclosed. The methods involve treating the subchondral bone, while preserving, as much as possible, the joint's articular and cartilage surface. The methods could be performed before, during, or after an initial arthroscopic surgery to repair the joint. Associated devices and instruments for treatment of the subchondral bone are also disclosed. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035765 | TOTAL KNEE ARTHROPLASTY WITH SYMMETRIC FEMORAL IMPLANT HAVING DOUBLE Q-ANGLE TROCHLEAR GROOVE - A total knee arthroplasty includes a symmetric femoral prosthesis for articulating with a tibial prosthesis in the left or right leg of a patient. The symmetric femoral prosthesis includes an anterior flange having a symmetric and upwardly diverging, generally V-shaped, double Q-angle trochlear groove formed in an anterior side thereof for accommodating natural Q-angle tracking of a natural or prosthetic patella when the symmetric femoral component is surgically implanted in either the left or right leg of a patient. In a preferred form, the double Q-angle trochlear groove is formed with an angle of + or − about 10°, for a total groove angle of about 20°. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035766 | PATIENT-SPECIFIC PELVIC IMPLANTS FOR ACETABULAR RECONSTRUCTION - A pelvic implant includes a first surface including a recess configured for receiving a portion of a flange of an acetabular cage and a patient-specific second surface opposite to the first surface. The patient-specific second surface is preoperatively configured from a three-dimensional digital image of a pelvis of a patient to mate and closely conform to a corresponding surface of the pelvis under the flange in only one position. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035767 | NEURAL GRAFT - A neural graft includes a biological substrate, a carbon nanotube structure and a neural network. The carbon nanotube structure is located on the biological substrate. The carbon nanotube structure includes a number of carbon nanotube wires crossed with each other to define a number of pores. The neural network includes a number of neural cell bodies and a number of neurites branched from the neural cell bodies. An effective diameter of each pore is larger than or equal to a diameter of the neural cell body, the neurites substantially extend along the carbon nanotube wires such that the neurites are patterned. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035768 | VARIABLE DENSITY TISSUE GRAFT COMPOSITION - Disclosed are tissue graft compositions made of materials having different densities, methods of making, and methods of treatment for restoring tissues in a patient. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035769 | ACTUATED LEG PROSTHESIS FOR ABOVE-KNEE AMPUTEES - The actuated leg prosthesis comprises a knee member, a socket connector provided over the knee member, an elongated trans-tibial member having a bottom end under which is connected an artificial foot, and a linear actuator. A first pivot assembly allows to operatively connect the trans-tibial member to the knee member. A second pivot assembly allows to operatively connect an upper end of the actuator to the knee member. A third pivot assembly allows to operatively connect a bottom end of the actuator to the bottom end of the trans-tibial member. The prosthesis can be provided as either a front actuator configuration or a rear actuator configuration. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035770 | LINER FOR PROSTHETIC AND ORTHOPEDIC SYSTEMS - A liner is arranged for use in prosthetic and orthopedic devices. The liner defines first and second end portions, and inner and outer surfaces. The liner includes an inner layer having a frictional component and forms at least part of the periphery of the inner liner surface. The inner layer defines a plurality of apertures. A porous element is in communication with the inner liner surface and is connected to the inner layer such that the apertures permit a transfer of air from the inner surface to the porous element. A base layer adjoins the porous element and extends between the first and second end portions of the liner. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035771 | AID DEVICE INCLUDING A TOOL AND AN ATTACHING OF THE TOOL - This invention relates to aid devices for assisting people inhibited in their movement of especially the hands and/or wrists, such as people who are physically impaired due to arthritis, injury, or other physiological problems giving reduced strength. This is solved by introducing an aid tool comprising at least two grippers and means to attach each gripper to a finger of a person, where the grippers are adapted to follow the individual finger in a movement in the direction of closing and loosen of a grip, and where an activation of the aid tool includes locking the grippers unidirectionally in the present position. The invention further introduces mounting means for attaching the aid tool to a body part, and where the mounting means comprises coupling means for detaching and attaching this and other tools according to the need. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035772 | GENERATOR REGULATING SYSTEM AND METHOD WITH DUAL CONTROLLERS - A regulating system can include a first controller configured to receive analog input and discrete input, a second controller communicatively coupled to the first controller, and configured to receive analog input and discrete input, a selector communicatively coupled to the first controller and second controller and configured to select either one of the first controller and the second controller as a master for the regulating system and state logic residing on each of the first controller and second controller to determine which of the first and second controller is the master. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035773 | Method for Generating Trajectories for Motor Controlled Actuators - A method generates trajectories for motor controlled actuators subject to dynamics, acceleration and velocity constraints. The method solves a constrained optimal control problem with dynamics, acceleration, and velocity constraints. The motor control problem is formulated as an optimal control problem using an energy cost function which is based on numerical optimization results. A solution to the two-point boundary value problem (TBVP) for the unconstrained case of the optimal control problem is obtained. The energy efficient motor control trajectory generation solver is designed for real time energy efficient trajectory generation. The solver converts a difficult multi-point boundary value problem (MBVP) associated with the state and acceleration constrained optimal control problem into an iterative solution for the TBVPs with updated boundary conditions. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035774 | SYSTEM AUTOMATION VIA AN ALARM SYSTEM - Methods, devices, systems, and computer program products for automating a system based on weather data are disclosed. A method may comprise receiving weather related data and modifying at least one system rule at least partially based on the received weather related data. The method may also include conveying one or more commands to at least one system control based at least partially on the at least one modified system rule. Further, the method may include operating the at least one system in response to the one or more commands. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035775 | ATHLETICISM RATING AND PERFORMANCE MEASURING SYSTEM - A universal athleticism rating system and related athletic performance measuring systems for accurately detecting and recording athletic performance are disclosed. The athleticism rating system evaluates individual athletes against a common, standardized, set of athletic performance tests. Each athlete performs the athletic tests and his or her scores in the individual tests are entered into a standardized calculation to produce a single athletic performance score. The related performance measuring system is preferably a timing system that ensures quick, easy, and accurate collection of athletic event timing related data without the need for the athlete to wear any special detection devices or the like. In a preferred embodiment, the performance measuring system integrates with the rating system to provide seamless athletic data collection and rating of athletes. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035776 | Machine tool with audio feedback - A microphone senses the sound generated by a tool cutting a workpiece. The sound is analysed and compared to prior known sounds of good and bad cutting operations by an audio-processing device, and computer-controlled feedback is provided to control the tool and/or workpiece appropriately. The system can improve the quality of its feedback as a result of experience with particular tools and workpieces. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035777 | METHOD AND AN APPARATUS FOR PROCESSING AN AUDIO SIGNAL - The invention relates to a method and an apparatus for processing an audio signal, wherein the method comprises the steps of: filtering an audio signal into at least two frequency band signals, generating for each frequency band signal a plurality of sub-band signals, wherein for at least one frequency band signal the plurality of sub-band signals are generated using a time to frequency domain transform and for the at least one other frequency band the plurality of sub-band signals for the other frequency band are generated using a sub-band filterbank, and the apparatus comprises at least one processor and at least one memory including computer program code, the at least one memory and the computer program code being configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform the method. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035778 | HIGHLY PORTABLE MEDIA DEVICE - An improved portable media device and methods for operating a media device are disclosed. According to one aspect, the portable media device can also function as a solid-state drive for data storage. The form factor of the portable media device can be hand-held or smaller, such that it is highly portable. The portable media device can use one or more status indicators. The portable media device can also include a peripheral bus connector, a rechargeable battery, and one or more input devices. According to another aspect, the portable media device has the capability to store media device status information in persistent memory before powering down. Thereafter, when the portable media device is again powered up, the stored media player status information can be retrieved and utilized. According to still another aspect, the portable media device can form and/or traverse a media asset playlist in an efficient manner. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035779 | DATA GENERATOR, COMPUTER READABLE RECORDING MEDIUM, AND SEWING MACHINE - A data generator includes a memory and a processor. The memory may store a plurality of predetermined colors. The processor may control the data generator to determine a characteristic of a color-based pattern portion, and to assign a color for each of the plurality of color-based pattern portions based on the characteristics. The plurality of the color-based pattern portions may be included in a embroidery pattern. The assigned color may be selected randomly from the plurality of predetermined colors stored in the memory and used as thread color data. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035780 | SEWING MACHINE, APPARATUS, AND NON-TRANSITORY COMPUTER-READABLE MEDIUM - An apparatus includes a processor and a memory. The memory is configured to store computer-readable instructions therein, wherein the computer-readable instructions instruct the sewing machine to execute steps comprising acquiring image data including one or more characters, extracting, from acquired image data, one or more character designs with respect to each character included in the acquired image data, wherein the character design represents each character included in the acquired image data, generating embroidery data with respect to each character based on the extracted character design, wherein the embroidery data represents an embroidery pattern in a predetermined size. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035781 | CONTROL OF A MACHINING OPERATION - A method for controlling the machining of a component includes the steps of: (i) measuring predetermined dimensions of a component; (ii) comparing the measured dimensions against design data defining a required shape for the component; (iii) using the results of the comparison to define material removal that is needed to bring the component to the required shape; (iv) delivering the component to a site at or adjacent to a machining station having a material removal tool, the component being gripped by a robotic manipulator at said site; (v) using the defined material removal and the known position of the robotic manipulator at the machining station to determine movements of the material removal tool that will produce the required shape for the component; and (vi) performing a machining operation on the component at the machining station using the determined movements while maintaining the grip on the component by the robotic manipulator. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035782 | Method and System for Delivery Point Multipication - System, methods, and computer-readable media. A method performed by a mail sorting machine includes receiving a plurality of mailpieces in an input of the mail sorting machine and sorting the mailpieces into a plurality of sequencing groups. The method includes storing a first subset of the mailpieces in each sequencing group. The method includes sorting a second subset of the mailpieces in each sequencing group to a plurality of outlets, where storing the first subset and sorting the second subset are performed for each sequencing group by processing each sequentially in a group order. The method includes sorting the stored first subset mailpieces to the plurality of outlets. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035783 | MOVING STOP STATION FOR ROBOTIC ASSEMBLY - A moving stop station includes a vehicle carrier configured to move a vehicle along an assembly line, an assembly platform disposed adjacent to the assembly line, and a synchronizer in communication with the vehicle carrier and the assembly platform. The synchronizer is configured to synchronize the motion of the assembly platform with the motion of the vehicle carrier as the vehicle carrier moves along a length of the assembly line, and includes a sensor, processor, and actuator. The sensor is configured to sense the position of the vehicle carrier and to generate a position signal corresponding to the sensed position. The processor is configured to receive the position signal and selectively provide a synchronization signal in response, and the actuator is configured to receive the synchronization signal and synchronize the motion of the vehicle carrier and the motion of the assembly platform in response. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035784 | CONTROLLED ARCHITECTURE FOR TRANSPORT SYSTEMS - Control architecture for use with transport systems, such as linear drive systems, rotary drive systems, or a combination thereof, comprising a computer system having a controller for operating control system software for receiving input commands and protocols for creating a motion profile for each transport element, and a gateway for receiving the motion profile from the control system software and for operating gateway drive software that functions to select the appropriate drives to move each transport element along one or more tracks in accordance with their motion profiles. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035785 | INTELLIGENT DISPENSER - A pill dispenser for dispensing pills of various sizes includes a pill storage section, a dispensing section located at a lower end of the storage section, an optical sensor, a memory and a controller. The dispensing section includes a device for adjusting a variable size cavity configured to adjust to various pill sizes. The controller adjusts the variable size cavity of the dispensing section depending on the individual pill specifications, and determines if the optical sensor has sensed presence of the pill to be dispensed. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035786 | Vending devices having ad-watching as consideration - Systems and methods for vending devices having ad-watching as consideration are described. In some implementations, a vending apparatus includes a dispensing portion operable to dispense a product (e.g. electricity) to a user; a communication portion operable to provide a communicable content (e.g. an advertisement) to the user; and a control system operatively coupled to the dispensing portion and the communication portion. The control system receives a signal indicative of a consent by the user to receive or review the communicable content at least partially in exchange for the product, and after receipt of the signal, causes the communication portion to provide the communicable content to the user and causes the dispensing portion to dispense the product to the user. In further implementations, the apparatus may include a monitoring system operable to determine whether the user is receiving or reviewing the communicable content. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035787 | QUICK RESPONSE (QR) CODE GENERATION IN VENDING MACHINES OR KIOSKS FOR CUSTOMER ENGAGEMENT - Deeper customer engagement through a vending machine is provided by display of a quick response (QR) code on a customer interface display for the vending machine during a vend transaction. The customer can scan the displayed QR code with a smart phone camera to link to a website containing an advertisement, providing detailed nutritional information for a product available for vending from the vending machine, allowing collection of loyalty points or enabling reporting of a service issue or entry of a customer review. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035788 | ASSET MONITORING AND FUELING SYSTEM - The present application discloses systems and methods for managing assets. In one exemplary embodiment, a system for monitoring an asset is disclosed. The system comprises at least one asset monitoring device, at least one fuel control device, and a central server. The asset monitoring device is configured for use with the asset to collect asset data about the asset. The fuel control device is configured for use with a fuel source to collect fueling data about fueling of the asset. The fuel control device is configured to communicate with the asset monitoring device to receive the asset data from the asset monitoring device. The central server is configured to communicate with the fuel control device to receive the asset data and the fueling data from the fuel control device. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035789 | ROBOT SIMULATION DEVICE FOR SIMULATING BEHAVIOR OF UMBILICAL MEMBER - An umbilical member arrangement unit for an umbilical member, having a function for automatically adjusting each coefficient used in the physical simulation model, corresponding to the actual behavior of the umbilical member. A simulation device has a three-dimensional model generating part configured to generate a three-dimensional model of a umbilical member as a stereo structure constituted by a plurality of mass points and a spring connecting the mass points to each other; a simulating part configured to carry out a physical simulation; a storing part configured to previously store an actual static behavior, an actual dynamic behavior, and an actual dynamic behavior of the umbilical member when colliding with a rigid body; and an automatically adjusting part configured to carry out automatic adjustment so that a result of the physical simulation coincides with the actual behaviors stored in the storing part. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035790 | FINDING A CALLED PARTY - A method is provided for initiating a telepresence session with a person, using a robot. The method includes receiving a request to host a telepresence session at the robot and receiving an identification for a target person for the telepresence session by the robot. The robot then searches a current location for a person. If a person is found, a determination is made regarding whether the person is the target person. If the person found is not the target person, the person is prompted for a location for the target person. The robot moves to the location given by the person in response to the prompt. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035791 | VISION CORRECTION METHOD FOR TOOL CENTER POINT OF A ROBOT MANIPULATOR - A vision correction method for establishing the position of a tool center point (TCP) for a robot manipulator includes the steps of: defining a preset position of the TCP; defining a preset coordinate system T | 2013-02-07 |
20130035792 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR CONTROLLING A DEXTEROUS ROBOT EXECUTION SEQUENCE USING STATE CLASSIFICATION - A robotic system includes a dexterous robot and a controller. The robot includes a plurality of robotic joints, actuators for moving the joints, and sensors for measuring a characteristic of the joints, and for transmitting the characteristics as sensor signals. The controller receives the sensor signals, and is configured for executing instructions from memory, classifying the sensor signals into distinct classes via the state classification module, monitoring a system state of the robot using the classes, and controlling the robot in the execution of alternative work tasks based on the system state. A method for controlling the robot in the above system includes receiving the signals via the controller, classifying the signals using the state classification module, monitoring the present system state of the robot using the classes, and controlling the robot in the execution of alternative work tasks based on the present system state. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035793 | Device For Influencing Navigation Of An Autonomous Vehicle - A device for controlling the reflection of incident beams to influence navigation of an autonomous device having a navigation sensor comprising a beam emitter and a beam detector for detecting reflected emitted beams. The device comprises at least one surface having a geometry configured to direct a reflection from the emitted beam in a predetermined direction so that a suitable amount of the reflected beam can be detected by the detector. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035794 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR CONTROLLING BUILDING ENERGY USE - In the field of building energy efficiency, an analysis and control system is provided to design, retrofit and/or manage operation of the HVAC and/or hot water systems in a building, so as to minimize energy usage. The present system is an end-to-end computer software based approach for full time commissioning of mechanical systems in a building. It uses standard and advanced fluid dynamics modeling techniques in terms of air circulation, refrigerating, heating and hot water systems. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035795 | System And Method For Using Data Centers As Virtual Power Plants - A system and method for using a data center as a virtual power plant are described. The data can be used to reduce energy consumption using pre-cooling and absorb excess energy generation. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035796 | BATTERY-POWERED CONTROL VALVE AND OPERATION THEREOF - The present disclosure describes, among other things, a method. The method may include receiving an instruction to actuate a valve. The method may also include receiving a first period of time. The method may also include applying energy to the valve for the first period of time. The method may also include comparing a first state of the valve with a state in the instruction. The method may also include determining a second period of time by increasing the first period of time. The method may also include applying energy to the valve for the second period of time. The method may also include determining that a second state of the valve matches the state in the instruction. | 2013-02-07 |
20130035797 | PERFORMANCE OF DIGITAL CIRCUITS USING CURRENT MANAGEMENT - A method for improving the performance of a digital circuit is provided in the illustrative embodiments. A real frequency of operation of the digital circuit is adjusted using a control loop in the digital circuit, the adjusting the real frequency being responsive to a change in an operating condition of the digital circuit. A measurement of a current drawn by the digital circuit is received from a voltage regulator supplying electrical power to the digital circuit. An over-current target current value is received. A voltage output from the voltage regulator to the digital circuit is adjusted such that the current drawn by the digital circuit does not exceed the over-current target current value. | 2013-02-07 |