07th week of 2010 patent applcation highlights part 49 |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20100042169 | RETENTION ASSEMBLIES FOR IMPLANTABLE ELECTRIC STIMULATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF MAKING AND USING - A connector assembly includes a lead or a lead extension, a connector, and a retention assembly disposed in the connector. The connector includes a connector housing defining a port at a distal end of the connector, and a plurality of connector contacts disposed in the connector housing. The port is configured and arranged for receiving a proximal end of the lead or the lead extension. The connector contacts are configured and arranged to couple to at least one terminal disposed on the proximal end of the lead or the lead extension. The retention assembly includes a retention mechanism that can be engaged and reversibly disengaged without the use of tools beyond conventional operating-room surgical instruments. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042170 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR NEURAL STIMULATION VIA THE LYMPHATIC SYSTEM - An implantable neural stimulation system includes an implantable medical device having a neural stimulation circuit and at least one implantable lead configured to allow one or more stimulation electrodes to be placed in one or more lymphatic vessels of a patient, such as the patient's thoracic duct and/or vessels branching from the thoracic duct. Neural stimulation pulses are delivered from the implantable medical device to one or more target regions adjacent to the thoracic duct or the vessels branching from the thoracic duct through the one or more stimulation electrodes. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042171 | Wireless communication device with integrated defibrillator - A handheld wireless communication device having a defibrillator integrated therein to be employed in an emergency situation to supply electrical therapy to a victim who is experiencing cardiac distress. The defibrillator being powered by at least one thermally powered battery contained within the wireless communications device. The wireless communication device may also include a cardiac module which will determine whether the victim's heart beat has become irregular and whether defibrillation is necessary. The wireless communication device will guide the user through the use of the defibrillator /cardiac modules. The wireless device may also include a tracking unit that will provide the user's location and wireless two-way voice communication with emergency personnel upon activation of the defibrillator. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042172 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ASSESSING ATRIAL ELECTRICAL STABILITY - A method for identifying a susceptibility of a subject to atrial-rhythm disturbances includes a) placing a plurality of sensors on the subject to measure a physiologic signal of the subject, and b) recording the physiologic signal from the sensor. The physiologic signal includes an atrial electrical activity of the subject. The method includes c) determining a beat-to-beat variability in the atrial electrical activity of the subject. The beat-to-beat variability includes alternans of electrocardiographic waveforms of a predetermined number of a sequence of heart beats. The method includes d) determining a susceptibility to atrial-rhythm disturbances of the subject using the beat-to-beat variability in the atrial electrical activity determined in step c), and e) generating a report of the susceptibility to atrial-rhythm disturbances of the subject. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042173 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR EVALUATING AND OPTIMIZING THE CONTRIBUTION OF PARTICULAR HEART CHAMBERS TO THE OVERALL EFFICACY OF CARDIAC PACING THERAPY - Techniques are provided for evaluating and optimizing the contribution of particular heart chambers to pacing efficacy. Briefly, a pacemaker temporarily alters the mode with which pacing therapy is delivered so as to selectively alter the heart chambers that are paced. The pacemaker detects any transient changes in pacing efficacy following the alteration in pacing mode. The pacemaker then assesses the contribution of particular heart chambers to pacing efficacy based on the alteration in the pacing mode and on any transient changes in the pacing efficacy. Additionally, techniques are provided herein for automatically adjusting pacing parameters to optimize the contribution of particular chambers to pacing efficacy. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042174 | SELECTING PACING SITE OR SITES BASED ON CARDIO-PULMONARY INFORMATION - An exemplary method for multi-tier pacing includes delivering single site, left ventricular pacing, sensing patient activity; comparing the sensed patient activity to a patient activity threshold and, if the sensed patient activity exceeds the patient activity threshold, then delivering multi-site, left ventricular pacing for a predetermined period of time and, after the predetermined period of time, delivering single, site left ventricular pacing. In such a method, the period of time may be determined based on cardio-pulmonary demand. Other exemplary technologies are also disclosed. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042175 | IMPLANTABLE LEAD AND CORONARY VENOUS PRESSURE SENSOR APPARATUS AND METHOD - A cardiac rhythm management system comprises a medical electrical lead, a pressure sensing element, and an implantable pulse generator. The lead is sized to be advanced through the right atrium and coronary sinus into a coronary vein adjacent to the left ventricle. The lead includes an opening intermediate its proximal and distal ends, and a lumen extending longitudinally within the body in communication with the opening. The pressure sensing element is movably disposed in lead lumen and is dimensioned to extend through the opening in the lead, and includes a flexible, elongated conductive member having a distal end, and a pressure transducer coupled to the distal end of the conductive member. The pulse generator is configured to receive cardiac rhythm signals from the electrode and fluid pressure signals from the pressure transducer. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042176 | TEMPORAL-BASED CARDIAC CAPTURE THRESHOLD DETECTION - A cardiac capture threshold may be determined using a test pulse and a backup pulse. Here, delivery of a test pulse is followed almost immediately by a non-conditional backup pulse of sufficient energy such that the backup pulse should always capture in the event the test pulse does not capture. The timing of the evoked response that follows the backup pulse may then be used to determine whether the test pulse or the backup pulse captured the cardiac tissue. In some embodiments morphology discrimination may be employed to determine whether an evoked response was triggered by the test pulse or the backup pulse. In some embodiments timing information associated with one or more features of the evoked response may be analyzed to determine whether an evoked response was triggered by the test pulse or the backup pulse. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042177 | PERFORMANCE ASSESSMENT AND ADAPTATION OF AN ACOUSTIC COMMUNICATION LINK - Systems and methods for adapting the performance of an acoustic communication link with an implantable medical device (IMD) are disclosed. An illustrative method includes initiating an acoustic link with the IMD, measuring an initial performance of the acoustic link, determining whether the initial performance of the acoustic link is adequate, adjusting an operating parameter related to the acoustic link in the event the initial performance of the acoustic link is inadequate, measuring a performance of the acoustic link in response to the adjusted operating parameter, and setting the operating parameter to a prior setting if the measured performance of the acoustic link does not improve in response to the adjusted operating parameter. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042178 | Electrical stimulation treatment of bronchial constriction - Methods and devices for treating bronchial constriction related to asthma and anaphylaxis wherein the treatment includes providing an electrical impulse to a selected region of the vagus nerve and/or the lungs of a patient suffering from bronchial constriction. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042179 | Resuscitation device and method for resuscitation - The invention relates to a resuscitation device for humans. The resuscitation device is designed to provide resuscitating stimulation of the respiratory area of the human brain stem, preferably from a location distant from said respiratory area. The invention further relates to a method for providing a rescuscitating treatment to a human. Parameters are measured by a number of sensor means and processed by a processing means for providing a response by a number of stimulation means. The stimulation means are electrical, mechanical or chemical stimulation means. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042180 | ELECTRICAL STIMULATION DEVICE AND METHOD FOR THERAPEUTIC TREATMENT AND PAIN MANAGEMENT - A disposable electrical stimulation device and method for providing therapeutic treatment and pain management in a convenient, compact configuration. Electrode size and shape and relative configuration can be varied according to an intended application and use, or a universal configuration can be provided for use on almost any area of the body. The common structure of communicatively coupled dual electrodes including control circuitry and a power source accommodates a range of different sizes, configurations, stimulation treatment intensities, and other physical and electrical characteristics that can be pre-customized and packaged for specific, limited time use. The device can therefore be used in methods of providing therapy, managing pain, and achieving other treatment goals by electrical stimulation. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042181 | CRANIAL-ELECTRO STIMULATOR - A method of reducing muscle pain in a person by removably attaching an electrode to each ear on a person's head and connecting the electrodes to receive a modified pulse signal from a computer or a digital port. The signal from the computer or the digital port are rectangular voltage pulses of “1s” and “0s” at varying frequencies. The rectangular pulse signal from the computer or digital port is modified to have at least the leading square corner of each rectangular voltage pulse rounded before it is sent to the electrodes. A method of randomizing the stimulus at about 100 Hz for improved sleep and an alternate method of randomizing stimuli for the neurological reduction of perceived pain and a similar method for reducing pain output from a muscle and its associated tissues directly. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042182 | METHODS AND DEVICES FOR PREVENTING ANKLE SPRAIN INJURIES - Devices and methods for preventing ankle sprain injuries. To protect the ankle joint from acute ankle supination or inversion sprain injuries, the device comprises a sensing part configured to sense data of an ankle motion; an analyzing part configured to analyze the data to judge whether the motion is a sprain motion; and a stimulating part configured to stimulate one or more lower limb muscles against the motion in light of a result of the analyzing. The method also involves sensing data of an ankle motion; analyzing the data to judge whether the motion is a sprain motion; and stimulating one or more lower limb muscles against the motion if the motion is a sprain motion. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042183 | IMPLANTABLE MIDDLE EAR TRANSDUCER HAVING IMPROVED FREQUENCY RESPONSE - Apparatus, systems, and methods having or using an improved implantable middle ear transducer for driving an ossicular chain bone to assist in aiding hearing. One embodiment of the present invention is a transducer assembly for converting electrical signals to mechanical vibrations which can be coupled, for example, to the stapes to provide audible frequency vibrations to the cochlea. One transducer assembly includes a pair of fins or gussets coupled to opposite sides of a transducer in the direction of unwanted movement of the transducer. The base of the transducer may be coupled to a base member while the fins have free edges that are near to but not coupled to the base member. Some fins are triangular shaped. The fins may not substantially inhibit vibration in the preferred plane, but can inhibit unwanted vibrations in a plane orthogonal to the preferred direction which can substantially include a plane containing the fins. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042184 | METHOD OF IMPLANTING A MEDICAL IMPLANT TO TREAT HEARING LOSS IN A PATIENT, DEVICES FOR FACILITING IMPLANTATION OF SUCH DEVICES, AND MEDICAL IMPLANTS FOR TREATING HEARING LOSS - In one embodiment, a method of treating hearing loss in a patient, comprises: creating a first channel in osseous tissue at or immediately adjacent to the promontory of the patient; creating a second channel through the first channel to the scala tympani or the scala vestibuli; and implanting a hearing device in the first channel, the hearing device being in fluid communication with cochlear fluid through the second channel, the hearing device being adapted to drive cochlear fluid to activate auditory receptor cells in the cochlea of the patient. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042185 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR TRANSVASCULAR ACTIVATION OF CARDIAC NERVES TO IMPROVE HEART FUNCTION - A system and method for electrically stimulating the heart muscle to improve heart function requires identifying a site in the venous system adjacent a sympathetic nerve. An electrode is then positioned at the site to electrically stimulate the nerve. In turn, this stimulation releases norepinephrine from the nerve to improve heart muscle contraction. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042186 | Electrode devices for nerve stimulation and cardiac sensing - Apparatus is provided for application to a nerve of a subject, the apparatus comprising an electrode device, which comprises a housing, which is configured to be placed at least partially around the nerve, so as to define an outer surface of the electrode device and an inner surface that faces the nerve. The electrode device further comprises one or more first electrode contact surfaces, fixed to the inner surface of the housing, and one or more second electrode contact surfaces, fixed to the outer surface of the housing. Other embodiments are also described. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042187 | CONNECTING ELECTRICAL SOURCES TO ELECTRODE NODES IN A MEDICAL DEVICE - This disclosure describes electrical stimulators that include some electrical sources (e.g., current sources, voltage sources) that are directly connected to a plurality of electrode nodes, and other electrical sources that may be selectively connected to selected ones of the plurality of electrode nodes via a switching unit, such as a multiplexer. One example stimulator comprises a processor, a plurality of electrode nodes, and a stimulation generator that is coupled to the processor and to the plurality of electrode nodes. The stimulation generator comprises a plurality of negative electrical sources, a switching unit, and at least one positive electrical source. The negative electrical sources are each directly connected to a different one of the plurality of electrode nodes. The switching unit is connected to each of the plurality of electrode nodes. The at least one positive electrical source is connected to the switching unit. The switching unit is configured to connect the at least one positive electrical source to a selected one or more of the plurality of electrode nodes. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042188 | PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICE - The portable electronic device comprises radiation means ( | 2010-02-18 |
20100042189 | CONNECTING DEVICE AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING THE SAME - A connecting device for connection of a medical implantable lead to tissue inside a body has a helix adapted to be screwed out from a header sleeve at a distal end of the lead and into the tissue, and a shaft which carries the helix and is rotatably journalled in the lead and at the same time is displaceable to extend the helix into the tissue. The helix and the shaft are integrated and manufactured in one unitary piece. A method for manufacturing of such a connecting device includes the step of manufacturing the helix and shaft in one unitary piece. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042190 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL LEAD HAVING REDUCED DIMENSION TUBING TRANSITION - Lead body designs for forming a fluid tight seal between a multilumen tube and other portions of a lead body are provided. One lead body design has a multilumen tube having a first portion defining a first number of lumens and a second reduced dimension portion defining a second number of lumens, the second number of lumens being smaller than the first number of lumens. The reduced dimension portion is attached to a distal tip portion of the lead body, forming a fluid tight passageway through the multilumen tube to the distal tip portion. Also provided are methods for forming such multilumen tubes and incorporating such multilumen tubes into a lead body. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042191 | Implantable Electrophysiology Lead Body - The invention is an electrophysiology lead body comprising two or more longitudinal elements, each having an outer surface, the longitudinal elements comprising electrical insulation material, the electrical insulation material consisting essentially of fluoropolymer; at least one conductor disposed within at least one of the longitudinal elements; and a cover consisting essentially of fluoropolymer, wherein the cover surrounds the longitudinal elements. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042192 | Implantable Electrophysiology Lead Body - The invention is an electrophysiology lead body comprising two or more longitudinal elements, each having an outer surface, the longitudinal elements comprising electrical insulation material, the electrical insulation material consisting essentially of fluoropolymer; at least one conductor disposed within at least one of the longitudinal elements; and a cover consisting essentially of fluoropolymer, wherein the cover surrounds the longitudinal elements. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042193 | Cervical Spinal Cord Stimulation for the Treatment and Prevention of Cerebral Vasospasm - The present invention relates to a method of prevention and treatment of narrowing of cerebral blood vessels after subarachnoid hemorrhage, and in particular, to a method of applying electrical energy through electrical stimulation electrodes particularly positioned in the cervical region of a patient to affect the sympathetic tone of the blood vessels supplying the brain. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042194 | Techniques for nerve stimulation - Apparatus is provided for applying current to a nerve, including a housing, adapted to be placed in a vicinity of the nerve, and at least one cathode and at least one anode, fixed to the housing. The apparatus further includes two or more passive electrodes, fixed to the housing, and a conducting element, which electrically couples the passive electrodes to one another. Other embodiments are also described. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042195 | IMPLANTABLE LEAD WITH FLEXIBLE TIP FEATURES - A medical electrical lead comprises a flexible, elongate lead body extending along a longitudinal axis and having a proximal end and a distal end. A protective distal tip structure is disposed on the distal end of the lead body. The tip structure includes a plurality of compliant projections each extending distally from the distal end of the body in the direction of the longitudinal axis. The projections are configured to contact and bear against cardiac tissue when the lead is implanted, and are deformable under the action of an axially or radially directed force. The projections optionally include a coating over a substrate. The coating can include a hydrogel material and/or a pharmaceutical agent such as a steroid for reducing inflammation at the implantation site. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042196 | PORTABLE DEVICE FOR TREATING INSECT BITES AND THE LIKE - A portable device for treating the bites or stings of insects and harmful creatures, comprising:—a piezoelectric element ( | 2010-02-18 |
20100042197 | PREPARATION OF HOLLOW CELLULOSE VESSELS - The present invention relates to an improved method for the preparation of hollow cellulose vessels produced by a microorganism, and hollow cellulose vessels prepared by this method. The method is characterized by the culturing of the cellulose-producing microorganisms being performed on the outer surface of a hollow carrier, and providing an oxygen containing gas on the inner side of the hollow carrier, the oxygen containing gas having an oxygen level higher than atmospheric oxygen. The hollow microbial cellulose vessels of the present invention are characterized by improved mechanical properties and can be used in surgical procedures to replace or repair an internal hollow organ such as the urethra, ureter, the trachea, a digestive tract, a lymphatic vessel or a blood vessel | 2010-02-18 |
20100042198 | SINGLE PIECE DOUBLE WALL DILATION BALLOON CATHETER - The present invention relates to medical devices for dilating or enlarging strictures or narrowed regions of body vessels. Specifically, the present invention relates to a high pressure dilation balloon catheter that includes an elongate shaft extending between a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end being adapted for attachment to a source of inflation fluid, and a lumen extending through the shaft adapted for the passage of the inflation fluid; and a balloon disposed on the distal end of the shaft and having a balloon body extending between a proximal end and a distal end of the balloon. The balloon body includes a first layer, a second layer disposed about at least a portion of the first layer, a plurality of longitudinally extending rib members disposed between the first and the second layers and configured to form a plurality of sealed cavities between the first and the second layers; and a balloon chamber within the first layer, the balloon chamber being in a communication with the lumen of the shaft for inflating and deflating the balloon. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042199 | DILATION BALLOON CATHETER AND METHODS OF USE THEREOF - The present invention relates to medical devices for dilating or enlarging strictures or narrowed regions of body vessels. Specifically, the present invention relates to a high pressure dilation balloon catheter that includes an elongate shaft extending between a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end being adapted for attachment to a source of inflation fluid, and a first lumen extending through the shaft adapted for the passage of the inflation fluid; and a balloon disposed on the distal end of the shaft and having a balloon body extending between a proximal end and a distal end of the balloon. The balloon body includes an inner balloon layer, an outer balloon layer, a middle layer disposed between the inner balloon layer and the outer balloon layer and configured to be substantially free from adhesion to at least one of the inner balloon layer and the outer balloon layer, and a balloon chamber within the first layer, the balloon chamber being in a communication with the lumen of the shaft for inflating and deflating the balloon. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042200 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR STENTING - A method and an apparatus to create a more favorable flow regime in a lumen. An artificial shape in the lumen is created to at least one of eliminate flow disturbances and enhance aspects of fluid flow through a treatment site. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042201 | TOTAL AORTIC ARCH RECONSTRUCTION GRAFT - A total aortic arch reconstruction graft, including
| 2010-02-18 |
20100042202 | COMPOSITE STENT HAVING MULTI-AXIAL FLEXIBILITY - Composite stent structures having multi-axial flexibility are described where the composite stent may have one or more layers of bioabsorbable polymers fabricated with the desired characteristics for implantation within a vessel. A number of individual ring structures separated from one another may be encased between a base polymeric layer and an overlaid polymeric layer such that the rings are coupled to one another via elastomeric segments which enable the composite stent to flex axially and rotationally along with the vessel. Each layer may have a characteristic that individually provides a certain aspect of mechanical behavior to the composite stent such that the aggregate layers form a composite polymeric stent structure capable of withstanding complex, multi-axial loading conditions imparted by an anatomical environment such as the SFA. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042203 | Self-Expanding Stent - The stent of this invention is a self-expanding stent created by a scaffolding lattice. The stent may be made from a nickel-titanium alloy. The lattice is formed from two different types of helices that proceed circumferentially in opposite directions along the longitudinal axis of the stent. The helices have no free ends. The first type of helix is formed by a series of undulations and the second type of helix is formed from a series of connection elements. The undulations may be in a zigzag or sinusoidal pattern. The connection elements connect the junction points lying on adjacent turns of the first type of helix. The junction points are formed by the ascending and descending arms of the undulations or zigzags. The ends of the stent may be formed by a closed circumferential element which is linked by connection elements to a transition zone. The transition zone is formed by a closed loop that connects directly to the first helix. The amplitude of the undulations or zigzags forming the transition zone increases from the closed loop to the point connecting the transition zone with the first type of helix. The closed circumferential element may be made from a radiopaque material. The scaffolding lattice design of the stent provides a stent having a high degree of flexibility as well as radial strength. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042204 | Stent Coating For Eluting Medication - A vascular stent comprising a drug-eluting outer layer of a porous sputtered columnar metal having each column capped with a biocompatible carbon-containing material is described. This is done by placing the stent over a close-fitting mandrel and rotating the assembly in a sputter flux. The result is a coating that is evenly distributed over the outward-facing side of the stent's wire mesh while preventing the sputtered columnar coating from reaching the inward facing side where a smooth hemocompatible surface is required. The stent is then removed from the mandrel, exposing all surfaces, and finally coated with a layer of carbon such as amorphous carbon or diamond-like carbon. The carbonaceous coating enhances biocompatibility without preventing elutriation of a therapeutic drug provided in the porosity formed between the columnar structures. The result is a stent that is adapted to both the hemodynamic and the immune response requirements of its vascular environment. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042205 | MEDICAL DEVICES HAVING ELECTRODEPOSITED CONDUCTIVE POLYMER COATINGS - According to one aspect, the present invention provides implantable or insertable medical devices that comprise a substrate and a coating over the substrate that comprises at least one type of conductive polymer and at least one type of additional polymer. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042206 | BIOABSORBABLE COATINGS FOR MEDICAL DEVICES - A medical device that is designed to be introduced into a vascular system of a body. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042207 | RESORPTION-CONTROLLABLE MEDICAL IMPLANTS - Bioresorbable medical implants are designed to have different resorption rates over time or over the topography of the implants. The resorption of the medical implants are controlled by including layers having differing resorption rates. The layers resorb sequentially over time through sequential exposure to body fluids. A resorption-controllable medical implant includes a series of two or more layers. The first layer includes a first bioresorbable material. The second layer includes a second bioresorbable material and resorbable particles of a first kind dispersed within the second bioresorbable material. Additional layers of bioresorbable material alone or including resorbable particles may be added to slow or speed resorption and achieve desired control over the resorption of the implant. Resorbable particles can be added in differing amounts or kinds in various segments of the implant to provide topographically differing resorption rates. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042208 | Percutaneous Heart Valve - A percutaneously inserted bistable heart valve prosthesis is folded inside a catheter for transseptal delivery to the patient's heart for implantation. The heart valve has an annular ring, a body member having a plurality of legs, each leg connecting at one end to the annular ring, claws that are adjustable from a first position to a second position by application of external force so as to allow ingress of surrounding heart tissue into the claws in the second position, and leaflet membranes connected to the annular ring, the body member and/or the legs, the leaflet membranes having a first position for blocking blood flow therethrough and a second position for allowing blood flow therethrough. The heart valve is designed such that upon removal of the external force the claws elastically revert to the first position so as to grip the heart tissue positioned within the claws, thereby holding the heart valve in place. The body member and claws may be integrated into a one-piece design. The heart valve may be used as a prosthesis for the mitral valve, aortic valve, pulmonary valve, or tricuspid valve by adapting the annular ring to fit in a respective mitral, aortic, pulmonary, or tricuspid valve opening of the heart. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042209 | IMPLANTABLE OCULAR MICROAPPARATUS TO AMELIORATE GLAUCOMA OR AN OCULAR OVERPRESSURE CAUSING DISEASE - A microapparatus ( | 2010-02-18 |
20100042210 | Intraoperative Estimation of Intraocular Lens Power - Apparatus for performing intraocular implant surgery, including surgical apparatus for performing intraocular implant surgery, an autorefraction device associated with the surgical apparatus, wherein the autorefraction device is configured to perform autorefraction on the aphakic eye to provide one or more aphakic refraction measurements, and a processor connected to the autorefraction device, wherein the processor is configured to process the aphakic refraction measurements and provide the user of the apparatus with information regarding the power of the intraocular lens. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042211 | SOFT FILLED PROSTHESIS SHELL WITH DISCRETE FIXATION SURFACES - A soft prosthetic implant shell, such as a silicone breast implant shell, that has discrete fixation surfaces thereon for tissue adhesion. The fixation surfaces may be provided on the posterior face of the shell, as well as either on the periphery or at discrete areas on the anterior face. Band-shaped fixation surfaces may be provided on the anterior face of the shell to generally match the angle of pectoralis major or pectoralis minor muscle groups. The fixation surfaces may be roughened areas of the shell, or may be separate elements adhered to the shell. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042212 | Soft Filled Prosthesis Shell With Discrete Fixation Surfaces - A soft prosthetic implant shell, such as a silicone breast implant shell, that has discrete fixation surfaces thereon for tissue adhesion. The fixation surfaces may be provided on the posterior face of the shell, as well as either on the periphery or at discrete areas on the anterior face. Band-shaped fixation surfaces may be provided on the anterior face of the shell to generally match the angle of pectoralis major or pectoralis minor muscle groups. The fixation surfaces may be roughened areas of the shell, or may be separate elements adhered to the shell. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042213 | DRUG DELIVERY IMPLANTS - An orthopaedic implant system includes an orthopaedic implant implantable at a selected location within a corporeal body and configured for delivering at least one therapeutic agent to the corporeal body. The implant includes a reservoir and a plurality of channels. The reservoir is configured for receiving the at least one therapeutic agent. The plurality of channels are configured for conveying the at least one therapeutic agent from the reservoir to a treatment site relative to the corporeal body. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042214 | DRUG DELIVERY IMPLANTS - An orthopaedic implant system includes an orthopaedic implant implantable at a selected location within a corporeal body and configured for delivering at least one therapeutic agent to the corporeal body, the implant defining a reservoir and a plurality of channels, the reservoir configured for receiving the at least one therapeutic agent, the plurality of channels configured for conveying the at least one therapeutic agent from the reservoir to a treatment site relative to the corporeal body, the implant being at least one of an internal fixation device and a porous device. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042215 | ORTHOPAEDIC IMPLANT - An orthopaedic implant system includes an orthopaedic implant implantable at a selected location within a corporeal body. The implant includes a first structural material and a second structural material. The first structural material is non-resorbable relative to the corporeal body and is different relative to the second structural material. The implant is an internal fixation device. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042216 | Implant for Deploying Bone Graft Material and Methods Thereof - Invertebral implants are provided for carrying bone graft material and extruding the bone graft material between the implant and the adjacent vertebral bodies. The implants include first and second implant extrusion members shiftable relative to one another between a pre-implantation configuration having an enlarged cavity for receiving bone graft material therein and an implantation configuration having a smaller cavity. As the first and second implant extrusion members shift during implantation to the implantation configuration bone graft material is extruded from the cavity and into gaps or spaces between the upper and lower vertebral engaging surfaces of the implant and the adjacent vertebral bodies. After extrusion the bone graft material is subjected to spinal loading and stress to encourage strong bone growth therethrough. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042217 | SPINE DISTRACTION IMPLANT AND METHOD - A spine distraction implant alleviates pain associated with spinal stenosis and facet arthropathy by expanding the volume in the spine canal and/or neural foramen. The implant provides a spinal extension stop while allowing freedom of spinal flexion. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042218 | ORTHOPAEDIC IMPLANT WITH POROUS STRUCTURAL MEMBER - An orthopaedic implant includes a first member comprised of a substantially non-porous material, and a second member coupled with the first member. The second member has a first side and an opposing second side, with each of the first side and the second side being external load bearing surfaces. The second member is formed from a substantially porous material with interconnecting pores extending from the first side to the second side. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042219 | EXPANDABLE CAGE FOR INTERVERTEBRAL BODY FUSION - An expandable cage for enhancing fusion of adjacent vertebral bodies includes a housing having a top and a bottom surface. A flexible mesh couples the top and bottom surfaces to allow movement of the top and bottom plate members relative to one another. An aperture formed on the expandable cage receives a selected material. The flexible mesh is in a normally collapsed position but enables the top and bottom plate members to move farther relative to one another when the housing is injected with the selected material. A portion of the flexible mesh expands laterally out of the housing when the housing is injected with the selected material. The top and bottom surfaces are made from carbon fiber, titanium, steel, implantable plastics, or other suitable material. The injected material may be a bone graft or a bone graft substitute (e.g., bone morphogenetic protein). | 2010-02-18 |
20100042220 | BONE FIXATION SURFACES FOR INTERVERTEBRAL IMPLANTS - An intervertebral implant has an implant structure providing a fixation surface for fixation to the endplate of a vertebral body. The fixation surface includes two bone contact regions at different heights in an axial direction. A transition between the two contact regions has a stepped form including at least two steps. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042221 | Reinforced molded implant formed of cortical bone - This invention relates to arthodesis for stabilizing the spine. More specifically, the present invention is directed to an intervertebral spacer formed of a bone material and to methods of treating patients having spinal deformities. The invention provides a spinal implant assembly comprising bone-derived components. The bone-derived components can be formed into modular units that can be assembled to provide a wide variety of implant configurations. In addition, the bone-derived components can form scaffold that can withstand the shear and impact forces necessary to insert the assembled implant into a disc space between adjacent vertebrae. In preferred forms the implants define an open spacer that serves as a depot for receipt of an osteoconductive material. The ostoegenic material is preferably a moldable filler that can form a molded reinforced implant. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042222 | Maxillary Sinus Bone Graft Method Using the Sinus Lift Drill (SLD) and Hydraulic Effect - The invention relates to a dental implant method using a tissue punch, sinus lift drill (SLD) and hydraulic effect which places a bone graft and embed a dental implant at a maxillary sinus area where there is not sufficient bone to embed a dental implant. The method includes: removing mucoperiosteum having a size of an dental implant to be implanted at a alveolar crest area using a tissue punch, drilling a maxillary sinus floor easily and safely without causing damage to a maxillary sinus membrane by inserting a sinus lift drill which has a protruding member that is elastically installed in the body so as to protrude from and retract in the longitudinal direction of the body, elevating a maxillary sinus membrane by the hydraulic effect (injecting graft adjacent to the drilled maxillary sinus floor); and installing the implant in an inside portion of the drilled maxillary sinus floor. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042223 | Method Of Surface Finishing A Bone Implant - A method of surface finishing a bone implant comprises the steps of roughening a surface of the implant by blasting with abrasive particles and then pickling the surface-roughened implant in a pickling solution in order to loosen any partially embedded abrasive blasting particles that may be contaminating the surface of the implant. Thereafter the roughened surface of the implant is cleaned by mechanical action to detach the loosened abrasive particles there from. The pickling and cleaning steps are not intended to produce any additional roughening of the treated surface, which should be structured to the required roughness by the initial abrasive blasting, typically such that the Ra and Rt roughness parameters are 3≦Ra≦7 μm and 20≦Rt≦70 μm respectively. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042224 | HIGH PERFORMANCE KNEE PROSTHESES - Knee prostheses featuring components that more faithfully replicate the structure and function of the human knee joint in order to provide, among other benefits: greater flexion of the knee in a more natural way by promoting or at least accommodating internal tibial rotation in a controlled way, replication of the natural screw home mechanism, and controlled articulation of the tibia and femur respective to each other in a more natural way. In a preferred embodiment, such prostheses include an insert component disposed between a femoral component and a tibial component, the insert component preferably featuring among other things a reversely contoured posterolateral bearing surface that helps impart internal rotation to the tibia as the knee flexes. Other surfaces can also be specially shaped to achieve similar results, preferably using iterative automated techniques that allow testing and iterative design taking into account a manageable set of major forces acting on the knee during normal functioning, together with information that is known about natural knee joint kinetics and kinematics. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042225 | KNEE PROSTHESIS - A femoral component for a knee prosthesis comprises a reduced wear polyethylene (RWPE). Preferably all of the femoral component is the RWPE and/or at least one condylar surface of the femoral component is the RWPE. The use of RWPE instead of conventional metal components reduces or eliminates complications associated with the use of metal such as fracture (mostly at the area of the bone-metal interface), mechanical failure, and metallosis. Use of the RWPE gives a prosthesis with long life, especially with respect to wear of the femoral component. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042226 | ORTHOPAEDIC IMPLANT WITH SPATIALLY VARYING POROSITY - An orthopaedic implant includes a body member having a first region with a first porosity and a second region with a second porosity. At least one physical characteristic of the first porosity is different than at least one physical characteristic of the second porosity. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042227 | Prosthesis Comprising a Shank for Accommodating an Amputation Stump - The invention relates to a prosthesis comprising at least one artificial limb ( | 2010-02-18 |
20100042228 | PROSTHETIC FOOT - A stable shock absorbing prosthetic foot that transfers energy between heel strike and toe-off. A toe plate is separated from one or more other plates by a bumper assembly located at each of the toe end and heel end of the foot. Certain embodiments of the shock absorbing foot of the present invention are designed for use with a prosthetic ankle. A torsion adapter may also be used to attach a prosthetic foot of the present invention to the remainder of a prosthesis. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042229 | Activity specific finger prosthesis - Activity specific finger prostheses includes rubber thimble-like sockets that are sized and shaped to be positioned over an amputated finger residuum. Each socket has an activity specific tool attached to the distal end thereof. A display stand is included for storing the sockets and their respective tool during periods of non-use. Posts extend upward from the display stand top surface, wherein each socket has its own post. A formfitting insert is monolithically formed with at the socket distal tip. The base of each tool is fastened firmly to the insert. The tools include a jackknife blade, a bottle-opener/slot screwdriver, a saw blade, a heavy wire utility hook, a Phillips screwdriver, scissors, a can-opener and a corkscrew. A miniature rubber or plastic phallus or personal contoured massage device is also included, anchored to a rubber fingertip. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042230 | METHOD AND DEVICE TO MANAGE AN OBJECT AND PARTS THEREOF - A method and device for connecting electrical and electronic devices into integrated network. The device includes monofunctional computer, i.e. programmable controller and actuator controller, and two information channels or networks. Via the inner network takes place the exchange of information between the programmable controller and the actuator controller. Inner network can be: alternate current electricity network, separate low voltage cable network, radio communication network. Public internet, via which are changed system parameters of the programmable controller via WEB interface and secured information on the object for the system operator. Via the internet into the programmable controller are downloaded software updates from the software service server of the operator and software modules of the new applications of the controller of the effective device. Updating of the nodes and controlling elements of the device are done in real-time. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042231 | RELIABILITY TOOLS FOR COMPLEX SYSTEMS - Tools for the maintenance of complex plants or systems are provided. A master equipment list of components included in a complex plant are organized according to systems. Those components that are critical to the function of the associated system are identified. A template modeling aspects of each critical component is prepared. Information included in applied templates can be reused in association with common or similar components. Particular information included in applied templates may include information related to critical parts within the component, and information regarding maintenance requirements and procedures associated with the component or parts included in the component. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042232 | Method for operating an industrial plant - A process is disclosed for operating an industrial plant by means of a guidance system that controls processes in the industrial plant, in which process operation-relevant data such as states, malfunctions and/or degradation of devices of the industrial plant are acquired by an operator; the operation-relevant data are acquired in an operation monitoring system and stored in electronic, preferably standardized form, and operation-relevant data on events which can affect process control, such as malfunctions of devices, are electronically transmitted to the guidance system. Operation-relevant data and events can thus be reliably archived, documented and made available to the operators of the industrial plant, it being ensured that process-relevant data are taken into account in the guidance system even when said data relate to devices which are not connected to the guidance system | 2010-02-18 |
20100042233 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PROVIDING INPUT IN HOME NETWORK USING UPnP - A method is provided for providing input in a home network using Universal Plug and Play (UPnP). A control point sends a request for information about input capabilities to an electronic device existing in the home network, and receives the information about the input capabilities in response to the request. The control point sets an input client and an input server based on the received information about the input capabilities. The control point transmits input data received through the set input client to the set input server. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042234 | Expert System for Controlling Plant Growth in a Contained Environment - In a system for optimizing crop growth, vegetation is cultivated in a contained environment, such as a greenhouse, an underground cavern or other enclosed space. Imaging equipment is positioned within or about the contained environment, to acquire spatially distributed crop growth information, and environmental sensors are provided to acquire data regarding multiple environmental conditions that can affect crop development. Illumination within the contained environment, and the addition of essential nutrients and chemicals are in turn controlled in response to data acquired by the imaging apparatus and environmental sensors, by an “expert system” which is trained to analyze and evaluate crop conditions. The expert system controls the spatial and temporal lighting pattern within the contained area, and the timing and allocation of nutrients and chemicals to achieve optimized crop development. A user can access the “expert system” remotely, to assess activity within the growth chamber, and can override the “expert system”. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042235 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ADAPTIVE CONTENT RENDITION - Disclosed herein are systems, methods, and computer readable-media for adaptive content rendition, the method comprising receiving media content for playback to a user, adapting the media content for playback on a first device in the user's first location, receiving a notification when the user changes to a second location, adapting the media content for playback on a second device in the second location, and transitioning media content playback from the first device to second device. One aspect conserves energy by optionally turning off the first device after transitioning to the second device. Another aspect includes playback devices that are “dumb devices” which receive media content already prepared for playback, “smart devices” which receive media content in a less than ready form and prepare the media content for playback, or hybrid smart and dumb devices. A single device may be substituted by a plurality of devices. Adapting the media content for playback is based on a user profile storing user preferences and/or usage history in one aspect. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042236 | Self-service terminal - A self-service terminal (SST) and a method of operating the SST are described. The SST comprises a control application arranged to control operation of the SST. The control application is operable to play a first musical sequence on execution of an initial event at the terminal. The first musical sequence may comprise an arrangement of musical notes that serves as an audible indicator associated with a manufacturer of that terminal. A method of identifying a manufacturer of an SST by means of an audible indicator during a transaction at the SST is also described. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042237 | MOBILE COMMUNICATION DEVICE AND AUDIO SIGNAL ADJUSTING METHOD THEREOF - A mobile communication device includes an audio receiving unit, an audio adjusting unit, and an audio output unit. The audio receiving unit receives audio signals. The audio adjusting unit adjusts the audio signals and amplifies the audio signals of a predetermined frequency band. The audio output unit outputs the adjusted audio signals received from the audio adjusting unit. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042238 | Techniques For Providing Audio For Synchronized Playback By Multiple Devices - An audio system communicates with an aggregate device that includes multiple audio devices. When providing audio data for playback, the system compensates for presentation latency differences between the various audio devices. In addition, the system adjusts for device clock drift by selecting a master device and resampling the audio data provided to the other devices based on the difference between the device clock of the master device and the device clocks of the other devices. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042239 | Techniques For Providing Audio For Synchronized Playback By Multiple Devices - An audio system communicates with an aggregate device that includes multiple audio devices. When providing audio data for playback, the system compensates for presentation latency differences between the various audio devices. In addition, the system adjusts for device clock drift by selecting a master device and resampling the audio data provided to the other devices based on the difference between the device clock of the master device and the device clocks of the other devices. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042240 | DYNAMIC FULFILLMENT PLANNING METHOD AND APPARATUS - This invention relates to a method for production planning in which changing demands and current demands are combined and separated into fixed demands, time-flexible demands, and quantity-flexible demands before being prioritized according to a set of rules that optimize efficient handling of changing demands while minimizing changes in and maximizing flexibility of a production schedule. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042241 | MODELING DATA CREATING SYSTEM, MANUFACTURING METHOD, AND MODELING DATA CREATING PROGRAM - A modeling data creating system comprises: a correction unit that corrects structure data expressing the form of a desired structure based on change amount data; a contour generation unit that generates contour data expressing the contour of a support member for supporting the structure on a modeling table, based on the structure data; a support member generation unit that generates support member data expressing the form of multiple column bodies within the contour expressed by the contour data; and a cross-section generation unit that generates cross-sectional data expressing the cross-sectional shape of each of multiple planes approximately parallel to the modeling table, the planes making up a model configured of the support member expressed by the support member data and the structure expressed by the structure data. Through this, the modeling data creating system suppresses a difference in the model that is to be formed and the modeling data expressing the form of the model. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042242 | SKIN DESIGN PROCESS - A method of designing a virtual model for the manufacture of a blended body structure having two or more constituent elements, the method comprising the step of defining a parameterised, theoretical procedural skin from which two or more datum skins are generated, each datum skin defining a production outline of an airframe structure constituent element. The use of a procedural model with embedded parameterisation and associativity to derive the datum skins reduces the time taken to produce the datum skins and enables feature modifications to be incorporated into models quickly and consistently. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042243 | COMPUTER ASSISTED METHOD FOR THE ADVANCED DESIGN OF BENT PARTS OF COMPOSITE MATERIAL - Computer assisted method for the advanced design of bent parts of composite material using a computer assisted CAD system comprising the following stages: a) Supplying the 2D mesh model ( | 2010-02-18 |
20100042244 | METHOD OF DESIGNING TOOL AND TOOL PATH FOR FORMING A ROTOR BLADE INCLUDING AN AIRFOIL PORTION - A method of designing a tool for forming a rotor blade including an airfoil portion includes generating a computer model of a rotor blade having an airfoil portion, and determining a curvature and radius of curvature at sections of the rotor blade. An inner and outer diameter of a circumferential forming portion of a tool operable to form the rotor blade may then be calculated. A method of designing a tool path for forming a rotor blade including an airfoil portion includes generating a computer model of a cylindrical tool operable to form a rotor blade including an airfoil portion and of a rotor having a plurality of the rotor blades. The computer models of the rotor and tool are used to generate a first and second tool motion corresponding to airfoil suction and pressure portions. A method of forming a rotor with integral blades is also disclosed. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042245 | OFFICE AUTOMATION DEVICE FOR PRELOADING CONTENT ON MEMORY CARDS AND PROCESSING METHOD THEREOF - An OA device for preloading content on memory cards is disclosed. A handler control module of a control unit performs a preloading process which comprises a preload check, preloading content based on digital content stored in buffers, and a preloaded content comparison, wherein memory cards at the initial column of a tray are checked, preloaded, and compared with the preloaded digital content using probes of a probe module. When the preloading content for the memory cards at the initial column of the tray is complete, the tray module or the probe module is moved by a stepper module by a predetermined distance, or the moving arm moves the probe module with a predetermined distance, to enable the memory cards at the next column of the tray to be checked, preloaded, and compared with the preloaded digital content using the probes while a sorting module picks up failed memory cards from the previous column based on records and instructions from the handler control module of the control unit. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042246 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR THE COMPENSATION OF GEOMETRICAL ERRORS IN MACHINING MACHINERY - A method to compensate geometrical errors in processing machines, in which a workpiece holder ( | 2010-02-18 |
20100042247 | ROBOTIC STORAGE LIBRARY WITH QUEUED MOVE INSTRUCTIONS AND METHOD OF QUEING SUCH INSTRUCTIONS - A robotic tape library which queues two or more move instructions is described. Generally, the robotic system receives a first move instruction which commands a first robot to move a first tape cartridge from a shelf to a first tape drive to be loaded therein. Though the first move has not actually taken place, the library replies to the host computer that the first tape drive has been loaded with the first tape cartridge, at least to an acceptable level of engagement, at which point, the first move instruction is queued. After receiving a second move instruction from the host to move a second tape cartridge from the shelf to a second tape drive, the library reorganizes and physically carries out the move instructions in a preferred order. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042248 | MONITORING AND CONTROL SYSTEM FOR COMMODITY LOADING - A system for in-vehicle monitoring and control of commodity loading, such a grain or loose or fluid materials, from a storage bin to a transport bin using a loading system, includes a loading system control device and a user interface device capable of mutual wireless communication. The system improves safety by eliminating the need for operators to crawl up the side of vehicle in order to check levels of commodity in the transport bin, while also trying to move the transport bin as required. The loading system control device includes a logic switching unit for selectively operating the loading system that transfers the commodity from the storage bin; one or more cameras providing visual feeds of the loading of commodity into the transport bin; and a security or safety feature. The user interface device includes a display for displaying the visual feeds and control switches for operating the loading system. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042249 | STORAGE SYSTEM AND STORAGE METHOD - A storage system of the present invention includes a storage area for arranging and storing articles (W), a carrying-in line ( | 2010-02-18 |
20100042250 | COIN ACCOMMODATING AND DISPENSING DEVICE - A cyclic transporting unit is provided. The transporting unit transports coins one by one in reverse directions in depositing and dispensing. A plurality of accommodating and dispensing portions are arranged along the transporting unit. Since coins enter and exit the transporting unit through a single coin inlet/outlet of the accommodating and dispensing portion, a depositing and transporting route and a dispensing and transporting route of the transporting unit can be made common to each other. The accommodating and dispensing portion accommodates coins with the coins not aligned, and dispenses accommodated coins one by one to the transporting unit by a rotary disc and a delivering disc. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042251 | Machine monitoring apparatus and method - The present invention relates to an apparatus and method of monitoring a machine. A preferred embodiment of the present invention is used to monitor the operation of a mail insertion machine. The mail insertion machine is an automated mail insertion device that inserts mailing inserts into preaddressed mailing devices. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, computer software and monitoring devices are used to provide images of the mailing insert and the preaddressed mailing device in a manner that allows an operator of the mail insertion machine to compare the recipient indicia of the mailing insert with the recipient indicia of the preaddressed mailing to verify that the correct mailing insert is being inserted into the correct, matching preaddressed mailing device. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042252 | DISK TYPE APPARATUS AND CORRESPONDING METHODS - A disk type apparatus is provided for handling sheets of material. The apparatus has a first path for receiving first ones of the sheets from an input highway, a second path for receiving second ones of the sheets from the input highway; and a compiling disk capable of simultaneously receiving the first and second ones of the sheets from the first and second paths. The first and second paths have a common input end, and the first and second paths have a common output end. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042253 | WAFER CARRIER HANDLING METHODS, SYSTEMS AND APPARATUS FOR SEMICONDUCTOR WAFER FABRICATION - A system and method is provided for transporting wafers in wafer carriers to a fabrication tool. The system provides an incoming carrier location adapted to receive a wafer lot carrier containing a wafer lot, a divider mechanism adapted to divide and place the wafers into a plurality of sublot carriers wherein each sublot carrier includes a fewer number of wafers than the wafer lot carrier, and a transfer mechanism adapted to transfer the plurality of sublot carriers. Inventive wafer handling methods, which divide a wafer lot into wafer sublots and distributes the sublots among tools configured to perform processes on the wafers is provided. Apparatus adapted to divide the wafer lot into sublots are also provided, as are other aspects. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042254 | METHOD OF FEEDING FLATTENED CARDBOARD CARTONS IN A CARTON OPENING MACHINE IN A BOTTLE, CONTAINER, OR ARTICLE PACKAGING PLANT, AND A DEVICE THEREFOR - Method of feeding flattened cardboard cartons in a carton opening machine in a bottle, container, or article packaging plant, and a device therefor. The abstract of the disclosure is submitted herewith as required by 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b). As stated in 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b): A brief abstract of the technical disclosure in the specification must commence on a separate sheet, preferably following the claims, under the heading “Abstract of the Disclosure.” The purpose of the abstract is to enable the Patent and Trademark Office and the public generally to determine quickly from a cursory inspection the nature and gist of the technical disclosure. The abstract shall not be used for interpreting the scope of the claims. Therefore, any statements made relating to the abstract are not intended to limit the claims in any manner and should not be interpreted as limiting the claims in any manner. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042255 | MEDICATION DISPENSER SYSTEM AND METHOD - A system for filling medication dose packs with oral-solid medication items comprises storage tray drawers each having storage trays. Each storage tray stores a specific type of oral-solid medication item. The storage tray drawers are displaceable to a drawn position to expose the storage trays thereof. A table supports dose packs having a plurality of receptacles arranged in rows, with each receptacle associated with an intake time and date of a patient prescription file. A dispensing mechanism has fingers for grasping by suction an oral-solid medication item, and degrees of freedom to displace the fingers from any one of the storage trays to the dose pack, to transfer the oral-solid medication items from the storage trays in the drawn position to the receptacles of the dose pack. A dispenser controller determines the specific types of oral-solid medication items required in the receptacles of the dose pack as a function of a patient prescription file, and actuates the dispensing mechanism to control displacements and the suction thereof to fill the dose packs from the patient prescription file. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042256 | CONTROL DEVICE FOR LEGGED MOBILE ROBOT - On the basis of at least a difference between a desired state amount related to a posture of a robot | 2010-02-18 |
20100042257 | ROBOTIC STORAGE LIBRARY WITH QUEUED MOVE INSTRUCTIONS AND METHOD OF QUEING SUCH INSTRUCTIONS - A robotic tape library which queues two or more move instructions is described. Generally, the robotic system receives a first move instruction which commands a first robot to move a first tape cartridge from a shelf to a first tape drive to be loaded therein. Though the first move has not actually taken place, the library replies to the host computer that the first tape drive has been loaded with the first tape cartridge, at least to an acceptable level of engagement, at which point, the first move instruction is queued. After receiving a second move instruction from the host to move a second tape cartridge from the shelf to a second tape drive, the library reorganizes and physically carries out the move instructions in a preferred order. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042258 | Manipulation of objects - A system for manipulation of objects. The system includes N objects, where N is greater than or equal to 2 and is an integer; and a mechanism for controlling and 2D locating of the N objects. A method for manipulating objects. The method includes the steps of receiving information from N objects, where N is greater than or equal to 2 and is an integer, at a centrally controlling and 2D locating controller; determining 2D locations by the controller of the N objects; and transmitting from the controller directions to the N objects for the N objects to move. An apparatus for tracking. The apparatus includes N objects, where N is greater than or equal to 2 and is an integer, each object having an emitter which emits light; and a mechanism for 2D sensing of the N objects over time from the light emitted by each emitter. The present invention pertains to a method for tracking. The method includes the steps of emitting light from N objects, where N is greater than or equal to 2 and is an integer; and sensing 2D locations of the N objects over time from the emitted light from the N objects. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042259 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MONITORING AND OPTIMIZING BLOOD CIRCULATION GENERATED BY A PUMP - In a method for the automatic control of blood pumps, an optimization of the blood flow is achieved by periodic speed interventions and flow changes thereby occurring, using a formed differential variable and a control algorithm. In addition, the location of possible flow resistances on the venous or arterial side can be ascertained. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042260 | Predictor of When to Harvest Cells Grown in a Bioreactor - This invention relates to a cell expansion system and to a method of determining when to harvest cells from the cell expansion system. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042261 | PLANT CONTROLLING SYSTEM AND PLANT CONTROLLING METHOD - A plant controlling system that controls a process value of a plant by operating a plurality of operation targets includes: a velocity-type PID controlling unit to receive a control deviation between the process value and a control set value, and calculate and output a manipulated variable deviation for the operation targets; a switching unit to switch and then output the manipulated variable deviation from the velocity-type PID controlling unit to the operation targets; a plurality of manual operating units, having an integration function, that are associated with the operation targets and output either one of the manipulated variable calculated by the integration of the manipulated variable deviation output from the switching unit and a manipulated variable based on a manually set value to the respective associated operation targets based on a control mode of the operation targets; and a switch controlling unit configured to control operation of the switching unit based on the control mode of the operation targets and the manipulated variables output to the operation targets. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042262 | CONTROL METHODS FOR CALIBRATING MOTOR SPEED IN AN AIR TREATMENT SYSTEM - A control system and associated methods for an air treatment system. In one aspect, the present invention provides a control system and method for controlling blower speed as a function of separately determined smoke and dust concentrations. In one embodiment, the control system and method provides a variable delayed between changes in motor speed to address undesirable rapid changes between speeds. In another aspect, the present invention provides a system and method for calibrating a sensor to provide more uniform operation over time. In yet another aspect, the present invention provide a system and method for calibrating motor speed to provide more consistent and uniform motor speed over time. The present invention also provides a system and method for tracking filter life by as a function of time, motor speed and/or a sensed variable, such as particulate concentration in the environment. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042263 | Intelligent Sprinkler Irrigation System - The present invention features an intelligent sprinkler irrigation system for delivering fluid to an arbitrarily-shaped area in a precise manner. In general, the system comprises (a) a fluid source comprising a pressurized fluid; (b) at least one programmable sprinkler head fluidly connected to the fluid source; and (c) a computer system configured to control the sprinkler head to precisely deliver fluid according to a pre-determined sprinkler function. The computer system comprises a teach mode, wherein a plurality of drive parameters are learned and recorded. These drive parameters function to dictate the specific vector positioning of the sprinkler head during execution of the sprinkler component. The teach mode is further configured to learn and record a plurality of flow parameters, which function to control the fluid delivery component of the sprinkler head (e.g., the valve or nozzle), and more particularly, the manner in which the fluid is delivered or emitted from this component. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042264 | METHOD FOR CALCULATING AVAILABILITY FOR LINE POWER SYSTEMS - A method for calculating availability in line power systems composed of power circuit modules determines power circuit parameters associated with the power circuits, accepting input from central databases The method calculates a required number of power circuits to complete the line power system and calculates the total power to be delivered over the power system, based on a power calculator. The method calculates individual power circuit availabilities based on die power circuit compositions and external variables. The method then calculates an over system availability based on the power circuit availabilities and other external variable inputs. The method may compare the calculated line power system availability with a target availability, revise the power circuit parameters, and recalculate the system availability to meet the target availability. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042265 | FREE -COOLING CAPACITY CONTROL FOR AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEMS - An air conditioning system having a free-cooling mode. The system includes a refrigeration circuit have a compressor, a pump, an expansion device having a variable opening, and a controller. The controller selectively operates the system in the free-cooling mode by circulating the refrigerant through the refrigeration circuit via the pump. The system includes a free-cooling capacity control sequence resident on the controller. The free-cooling capacity control sequence adjusts the cooling capacity of the system at least by adjusting the variable opening based on the temperature difference between a working fluid temperature and a set point temperature. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042266 | CONTROL OF FRICTION AT THE NANOSCALE - Methods and apparatus are described for control of friction at the nanoscale. A method of controlling frictional dynamics of a plurality of particles using non-Lipschitzian control includes determining an attribute of the plurality of particles; calculating an attribute deviation by subtracting the attribute of the plurality of particles from a target attribute; calculating a non-Lipschitzian feedback control term by raising the attribute deviation to a fractionary power ξ=(2m+1)/(2n+1) where n=1, 2, 3 . . . and m=0, 1, 2, 3 . . . , with m strictly less than n and then multiplying by a control amplitude; and imposing the non-Lipschitzian feedback control term globally on each of the plurality of particles; imposing causes a subsequent magnitude of the attribute deviation to be reduced. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042267 | PROGRAMMABLE REVERSE THRUST DETENT SYSTEM AND METHOD - A reverse thrust detent system for an aircraft includes a throttle quadrant having an intermediate reverse thrust detent position, a reverse thrust scheduling system interfacing with the throttle quadrant, at least one aircraft engine interfacing with the reverse thrust scheduling system and a programmable input interfacing with the reverse thrust scheduling system and adapted to receive an engine reverse thrust setting. The reverse thrust scheduling system is adapted to operate the at least one aircraft engine according to the engine reverse thrust setting responsive to actuation of the intermediate reverse thrust detent position of the throttle quadrant. A reverse thrust detent method for an aircraft is also disclosed. | 2010-02-18 |
20100042268 | APPARATUS, AND ASSOCIATED METHOD, FOR TRACKING AIRCRAFT STATUS - An apparatus, and an associated method, provides a visualization of an aircraft status relative to a scheduled airline timeline for the aircraft. Input information associated with the aircraft and operations associated therewith, are provided and detected. The input information is used to generate a timeline having one or more milestones and an aircraft icon. The timeline and the aircraft icon are together displayed by a displayer. The visualization is viewable by airline personnel, permitting their viewing of the visualization. | 2010-02-18 |