17th week of 2012 patent applcation highlights part 50 |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20120101520 | VASCULAR PLUG HAVING COMPOSITE CONSTRUCTION - This invention relates to apparatus and methods used to seal a vascular puncture site, particularly sites of punctures that are the result of catheterization or other interventional procedures. The sealing device includes a sealing member and a tether. The sealing member occupies a space in an incision, puncture, or other wound and sealing the space that it occupies, to prevent further blood flow. The tether is attached to the sealing member, and provides the user with the ability to withdraw the sealing member if necessary. The sealing device further includes a restraining member associated with the sealing member. The restraining member provides the ability to more securely restrain the sealing member to prevent it from migrating from the deployment location within a tissue tract. The restraining member also provides an additional capability of manipulating the sealing member after deployment. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101521 | ENDOVASCULAR SUTURE STAPLE - “ENDOVASCULAR SUTURE STAPLE”, a component utilized for fastening a medical device to the wall of a blood vessel or inside a hollow body organ, may be specifically utilized for fastening vascular grafts on vessel walls, by means of endovascular sutures, comprised of a straight segment with its end trimmed to a pointed shape, and the posterior end( | 2012-04-26 |
20120101522 | LENGTH OF SELF-RETAINING SUTURE AND METHOD AND DEVICE FOR USING THE SAME - A method and device for anchoring a length of self-retaining suture. The method of anchoring includes providing for an assembly having a length of self-retaining suture and a suture insertion device. The length of suture includes at least a portion of the length having a plurality of retainers thereon extending in a first direction. The insertion device has a length and a recess to receive a portion of the suture length. The method further includes placing a portion of the suture length in the recess and inserting the device into the body of a mammal until the recess reaches a predetermined location thereby forming an insertion pathway. The method further includes retrieving the insertion device from the body by moving the insertion device in a direction substantially opposed to the insertion pathway. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101523 | High-Strength Suture - A surgical suture is made of an elongate, hollow braid of high strength fibers. The braid defines an elongate, longitudinally-extending, central chamber that is open and without any core material extending therein so that, when a surgeon's knot is tied with the suture, the cross-sectional shape of the braid collapses upon itself and is reduced in size in response to pressures experienced when the knot is tightened thereby producing a low profile knot that resists slippage. Preferably, the braid is of a size corresponding to a USP size 5-0 to USP size 7 suture and has one or more, preferably a pair, of color contrasting monofilaments woven therein to enhance suture visibility. Methods of making a flattened suture and of utilizing the high strength suture to maintain body tissues in an engaged position to promote healing are also provided. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101524 | Surgical Suture System - A surgical suture system for tissue repair and reattachment of torn tissue to a tissue substrate, medical prosthesis or medical implant. The system includes an elongated flexible suture member having a plurality of longitudinally spaced protuberances along a length thereof and a plurality of tissue engaging members each including two spaced apart locking apertures sized to receive the suture member passed therethrough to allow longitudinal movement of the suture member in only one direction through the locking apertures for suture member tightening. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101525 | FIBROUS CONTAINMENT FOR HEMOSTASIS PLUG - A device for sealing an opening in a vessel includes an anchor attached to a suture. The anchor is inserted through the opening into the vessel, and the suture pulls the anchor against the vessel wall, forming a seal. A plug is inserted over the suture and is axially compressed toward the anchor, locking the elements in place. The suture is braided or woven outside of the anchor so that it may be stored and handled easily, and is unbraided, unwoven and/or untangled at its distal end inside the anchor, so that individual filaments within the suture may extend laterally within the anchor. The laterally extending filaments subtend a larger footprint within the anchor than a comparable footprint if the suture were to remain braided or tied into a knot within the anchor, which may more effectively distribute the retaining forces within the anchor. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101526 | Surgical Suture System - A surgical suture system, suture, and tissue engaging member for tissue repair and reattachment of torn tissue to a tissue substrate, medical prosthesis or medical implant. The system includes the elongated flexible suture member having a plurality of longitudinally spaced protuberances along a length thereof and one or a plurality of the tissue engaging members each of which include two closely spaced apart locking apertures sized and configured to receive one of the suture members passed therethrough or a unique single locking aperture to allow longitudinal tensioning and/or restraining movement of the suture member in only one direction through the locking apertures for suture member tightening. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101527 | Smart device for non-invasive skeletal adjustment - This invention is an implantable device and system that allows post-operative, non-invasive adjustment of members of the skeletal system. It includes extension-resisting members and a compression-resisting member that connect members of the skeletal system. Post-operative, non-invasive adjustment of the tensions, lengths, widths, and/or torsions of the extension-resisting members changes the relative movement, position, or both movement and position of members of the skeletal system. The compression-resisting member may act as a fulcrum. This invention can help to pioneer the evolution of “smart” orthopedic devices that adjust skeletal biodynamics to address changing clinical needs and changes in patient activity over time. Some promising applications include: dynamic stabilization of the spine; correction of scoliosis; and bone elongation. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101528 | SPINOUS PROCESS IMPLANT AND METHOD OF FIXATION - A spinous process fixation assembly and method for securing adjacent spinous processes. The assembly includes one or more lateral plates engageable with one or more insertion plates, respectively. The one or more lateral plates may include a material collection zone for insertion of biologic material prior to implantation. One lateral plates may be rotatable with respect to an adjacent lateral plate. One lateral plates may be movable with respect to an adjacent lateral plate between an extended and a compressed position. A single fixation device may be used to secure spinous processes across two or more levels and promote distraction at each level. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101529 | ROD ATTACHEMENT FOR HEAD TO HEAD CONNECTOR - Exemplary spinal fixation devices, systems, and method are provided for stabilizing vertebrae in a patient's spine. In one exemplary embodiment, methods and devices are provided for coupling one or more bone anchors, such as hooks, screws, etc., and/or one or more spinal fixation elements, such as spinal rods, cables, plates, etc. In certain exemplary embodiments, a cross connector is provided for connecting and stabilizing two bone anchors, a bone anchor and a spinal fixation element, or a bone anchor and bone. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101530 | PROCESS FOR INTRODUCING A STABILIZING ELEMENT INTO A VERTEBRAL COLUMN - A process for introducing a stabilizing element into a vertebral column, in which the stabilizing element is introduced in such a manner that the stabilizing element connects two adjacent vertebral bodies to one another. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101531 | Biocompatible Material Made of Stainless Steel Having a Martensitic Surface Layer - The invention relates to a biocompatible material made of a rust-resistant, alloyed stainless steel which is configured with at least one martensitic surface layer which is formed by a heat treatment with nitrogen case hardening and subsequent cooling. The surface layer, orthogonally to the surface into the sample interior, displaying a virtually linear course of the accompanying hardening and being achieved by a complete phase change (so-called austenitising) in the structural state from ferrite via austenite to martensite. In addition, the biocompatible material is in contact preferably indirectly or directly with the human body, no reactions and/or sensitivity problems being able to occur even in permanent use as a result of its absolute freedom from nickel. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101532 | BONE SCREW - A bone screw having a screw member possessing a threaded section and a head and a receiving part at the head end for receiving a rod to be connected to the bone screw is provided. The receiving part has on open first bore and a substantially U-shaped cross-section having two free legs provided with a thread. Furthermore, the receiving part has a second bore on the end opposite to the first bore whose diameter is greater than that of the threaded section and smaller than that of the head. On the bottom of the first bore a seat for the head is provided. In order that the screw member can be pivoted to at least one side by an enlarged angle, the edge bounding the free end of the second bore viewed relative to the axis of the first bore is of asymmetric construction. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101533 | POLYAXIAL BONE SCREW WITH LATERAL CONNECTOR - A polyaxial screw body includes a side wall defining a lumen having a first end and a second end. An opening disposed at the first end of the lumen, includes an interior surface disposed in the side wall thereabout. The interior surface is adapted to accommodate a head portion of a pedicle screw. A transverse channel extends from a first aperture through the side wall to a second aperture and is adapted to accommodate a portion of a fixation rod therebetween. A lateral connector extending integrally from the side wall. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101534 | Bone Screw For Orthopedic Apparatus - A bone screw deforms on the same order as the bone, thus providing substantially uniform loading along an entire length of the thread of the bone screw. The bone screw evenly distributes stress by matching the effective cross-sectional area of the bone screw times its modulus of elasticity with the effective cross-sectional area of the parent material (i.e. bone) times its modulus of elasticity so that so that the linear deformation of each is preferably substantially equal to the other. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101535 | BONE REPAIR PUTTY - A bone repair material is described that is of putty-like consistency, particularly useful for repairing dental bony defects such as those caused by bone loss resulting from moderate or severe periodontitis, augmenting of bony defects of the alveolar ridge, filling tooth extraction sites, or sinus elevation grafting. The repair material includes a porous, resorbable particulate that is bone-derived or derived from bone-like hydroxyapatite or synthetic hydroxyapatite; and, a resorbable carrier, such as high molecular weight polysaccharides, such as hyaluronic acid. A high concentration of particulate in the putty enhances bone repair and requires a high concentration of carrier to retain the putty at the defect site. For a particulate density of about 1.2 g/cc such as PEPGEN P-15® Bone Graft, a preferred formulation comprises about 55% percent by weight of the putty suspended in a hyaluronic acid gel of about 1.4×10 | 2012-04-26 |
20120101536 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENT - A bone plate fixing device comprises a first bone contacting element with a rod-shaped connecting member and a second bone contacting element displaceable on the connecting member. The connecting member has a first portion with a first diameter and a second portion comprising a protruding projection, the protruding projection being located towards a proximal end of the connecting member and having a second diameter that is greater than the first diameter. The protruding projection may comprise at least two teeth. The depth of the at least two teeth may be less than half the difference between the first diameter and the second diameter. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101537 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR INTRODUCING TISSUE STIMULATION LEAD INTO PATIENT USING REAL-TIME COUPLING EFFICIENCY MEASUREMENTS - A system and method for locating an implantable tissue stimulation lead within a patient. A measurement indicative of a coupling efficiency between the tissue stimulation lead and tissue at a location is taken. The location of the tissue stimulation lead relative to the tissue is tracked. Coupling efficiency information based on the measurement from the monitoring device is generated, tracking information based on the tissue stimulation lead location is generated, and the coupling efficiency information and tracking information is concurrently conveyed to the user. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101538 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR EVALUATION AND FEEDBACK OF NEUROMODULATION TREATMENT - The present disclosure relates to devices, systems and methods for evaluating the success of a treatment applied to tissue in a patient, such as a radio frequency ablative treatment used to neuromodulate nerves associated with the renal artery. A system monitors parameters or values generated during the course of a treatment. Feedback provided to an operator is based on the monitored values and relates to an assessment of the likelihood that a completed treatment was technically successful. In other embodiments, parameters or values generated during the course of an incomplete treatment (such as due to high temperature or high impedance conditions) may be evaluated to provide additional instructions or feedback to an operator. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101539 | DEVICES, METHODS, AND SYSTEMS INCLUDING CARDIAC PACING - A pacing output circuit can be configured to generate a ventricular pacing signal configured to be delivered to an electrode near the His bundle in a right ventricle of a heart to pace the right and left ventricles and improve synchronization of at least one of the ventricles relative to intrinsic activity. In an example, the ventricular pacing signal can include first and second signal components in opposite polarity from each other with respect to a reference component, the first and second signal components having substantially identical duration and magnitude. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101540 | WAFER-SCALE PACKAGE INCLUDING POWER SOURCE - A medical device includes a first substrate, a second substrate, a control module, and an energy storage device. The first substrate includes at least one of a first semiconductor material and a first insulating material. The second substrate includes at least one of a second semiconductor material and a second insulating material. The second substrate is bonded to the first substrate such that the first and second substrates define an enclosed cavity between the first and second substrates. The control module is disposed within the enclosed cavity. The control module is configured to at least one of determine a physiological parameter of a patient and deliver electrical stimulation to the patient. The energy storage device is disposed within the cavity and is configured to supply power to the control module. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101541 | DIAGNOSIS AND THERAPY OF BIGEMINY AND FREQUENT PREMATURE CONTRACTIONS - The disclosure describes techniques for diagnosing premature contractions of a patient's heart. This system may differentiate premature atrial contractions (PACs) and premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) from atrial fibrillation by identifying changes in R-wave intervals, i.e., R-R intervals, on a Lorenz plot, measuring a coupling interval between R-waves, and analyzing a morphology of the premature contractions, e.g., the QRS complex. These techniques may also identify when severe premature contractions, or bigeminy, are present. In response to the type of premature contractions detected, the system may alert a user of the premature contractions and/or deliver cardiac pacing at an increased pacing rate to eliminate the abnormal intrinsic contractions. The system may also adjust the pacing rate and pacing rate duration for persistent premature contractions. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101542 | TIMING FOR HIS-BUNDLE PACING - An A-H delay can be specified, such as by computing the A-H delay using a measured cardiovascular physiologic parameter. The A-H delay can be used for specifying timing between a paced or sensed atrial contraction and a His-bundle pacing time. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101543 | CAPTURE THRESHOLD MEASUREMENT FOR SELECTION OF PACING VECTOR - Various techniques for selecting a pacing vector based on pacing capture thresholds are described. One example method described includes for each of a plurality of vectors, iteratively delivering at least one pacing stimulus at each of a plurality of magnitudes within a predetermined range of magnitudes to a first chamber, determining if a depolarization occurred in a second chamber of the heart within a predetermined threshold time interval after the pacing stimulus that is less than an interval, identifying a pacing stimulus for which a depolarization in the second chamber does not occur within the predetermined threshold time interval, determining a capture threshold magnitude for the vector based on the magnitude of the pacing pulse for which a depolarization in the second chamber does not occur within the predetermined threshold time interval, and recording the capture threshold magnitudes. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101544 | NON-PROGRAMMING ACTIVATION DEVICE FOR SWITCHING MODES OF AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE AND METHODS FOR SAME - When a medical procedure is performed on a patient in whom an implantable medical device is implanted, the medical procedure may have undesired effects on the medical device, such as triggering a response that initiates therapy by the device that is unnecessary and potentially dangerous to the patient. Systems and methods may facilitate performing of such medical procedures on such patients by automatically reprogramming the medical device, monitoring for one or more detectable characteristics associated with the medical procedure to be performed, and automatically restoring normal operation of the IMD after the medical procedure is completed. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101545 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE IMPEDANCE MEASUREMENT MODULE FOR COMMUNICATION WITH ONE OR MORE LEAD-BORNE DEVICES - Example techniques for communicating between two medical devices are described. One medical device may be an implantable medical device. Another medical device may be a lead-borne implantable medical device. The lead-borne implantable medical device may be referred to as a satellite. The implantable medical device may measure impedance of a path including at least two electrodes, at least one of which is on the lead, using an impedance measurement module. In some example implementations of this disclosure, the implantable medical device may also use the impedance measurement module to communicate with the satellite on the lead. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101546 | METHOD AND APPARATUS TO DETERMINE THE RELATIVE ENERGY EXPENDITURE FOR A PLURALITY OF PACING VECTORS - A medical device system determines and displays relative energy expenditure information for programmable parameter values. The system establishes a programmable parameter and multiple values of the parameter to be compared. A module performs a measurements for each of the multiple values and related to energy expenditure of a battery of an implantable medical device when operating according to each of the multiple parameter values. An energy expenditure for each of the values is computed using the measurements, and a graphical user interface is generated for displaying information corresponding to the computed energy expenditure for multiple parameter values. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101547 | ELECTRICAL STIMULATION BASED ON PHASE RESPONSE MAPPING - This disclosure describes techniques for delivering electrical stimulation at one or more phases relative to an ongoing oscillating signal in a patient, and then mapping the response to the oscillating signal. The techniques may reduce or eliminate the oscillating signal. In one example, the disclosure is directed to a method that includes delivering a set of first electrical stimulation at a plurality of phases relative to an oscillating signal, measuring a response in the oscillating signal to the set of first electrical stimulation after delivering electrical stimulation at each respective phase of the plurality of phases, determining a phase at which to deliver second electrical stimulation based on the measured responses, and delivering the second electrical stimulation to the patient at the determined phase to produce a therapeutic effect. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101548 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ELECTRICAL STIMULATION OF THE INTERVERTEBRAL DISC - In one embodiment, a method electrically stimulates an area in a spinal disc. The method comprises: implanting at least one steerable lead at a placement site for stimulating a spinal disc such that the lead is disposed exterior and immediately adjacent to and circumferentially along an annulus of the spinal disc, the at least one lead including a plurality of electrodes distributed along a majority of a circumference of the annulus; connecting the lead to a signal generator; and generating electrical stimulation pulses using the generator to stimulate targeted portions of the spinal disc, wherein the stimulation of the targeted portion of the spinal disc sufficiently stimulates nerve tissue within the spinal disc to prevent communication of pain signals originating in the spinal disc without damaging tissue of the spinal disc. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101549 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR THE TREATMENT OF PAIN WITH ELECTRICAL ENERGY - An electronic pain treatment device delivering electrical energy to the tissue of a patient in pain is provided which includes a variable wave generator, an impedance measurement circuit, and at least one electrode probe. Associated methods for treating pain are also disclosed. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101550 | VISUAL PROSTHESIS AND RETINA STIMULATION DEVICE FOR SAME - The present invention provides a visual prosthesis comprising: image capture means for capturing an image from a surrounding environment; image processing means for processing the image and converting the image into a transmissible image signal; signal processing means for processing and converting the image signal into a stimulation signal; and a retina stimulation device ( | 2012-04-26 |
20120101551 | External Controller For an Implantable Medical Device Formed Using a Sub-Assembly - An improved external controller useable with an implantable medical device is disclosed. The external controller comprises a front cover, a back cover, and a sub-assembly. The sub-assembly comprises an electronics chassis on which non-surface mount components, such as the telemetry coils and the battery, can be affixed. The sub-assembly also includes the printed circuit board for the external controller, which is integrated into the chassis and electrically coupled to the telemetry coils and the battery. Once completed, the sub-assembly can be bolted between a front cover and a back cover, such that edges of the sub-assembly comprise the edges of the external case of the external controller. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101552 | STEREO DATA REPRESENTATION OF BIOMEDICAL SIGNALS ALONG A LEAD - Various embodiments concern sensing bioelectrical signals using electrodes along a lead, the electrodes having a spatial configuration along the lead, generating signal data sets, one signal data set being generated for each bioelectrical signal, and graphically representing the electrodes and data representations of the signal data sets on a display. In various embodiments, each data representation indicates a parameter of a respective one of the data sets, the electrodes are graphically represented on the display in a spatial configuration representative of the spatial configuration of the electrodes along the lead, and each data representation is graphically represented on the display in spatial association with at least one electrode through which the bioelectrical signal on which the signal data set is based was sensed. The parameter can be indicative of the relative presence of a biomarker in the bioelectrical signals. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101553 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR FIXATING TRANSVENOUSLY IMPLANTED MEDICAL DEVICES - A transvenously implantable medical device (TIMD) includes an electrical lead and a control module. The electrical lead includes one or more electrodes and is adapted for transvenous implantation. The electrical lead is also pre-biased to expand from a collapsed state to an expanded state to mechanically engage an internal wall of a blood vessel. The control module is secured to and in electrical communication with the electrical lead. The control module includes a signal management component and a power component disposed in a housing adapted for implantation into the blood vessel. The control module is adapted for at least one of stimulating and sensing a physiologic response using the one or more electrodes of the electrical lead. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101554 | ADAPTIVE THERAPEUTIC LIGHT CONTROL SYSTEM - A system for influencing a state of a user including a light source for emitting light influencing the state of the user and a light controller selectively controlling the emission of the light. The emission may include at least one of, the spectrum of said light; the duration of said light; the distribution of said light; the intensity of said light; and the timing of said light. The analysis engine provides a signal to the light controller indicating a desired emission of the light. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101555 | LIGHT THERAPY DEVICE - A light therapy device is taught including a light emitting assembly having light emitting diodes (LEDs) as a light source. The light emitting assembly capable of generating 2,500 lux to 7,500 lux at 12 inches. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101556 | COLOR LIGHTING SYSTEM TO INFLUENCE PERCEPTION OF AMBIENT TEMPERATURE - A basic idea of the invention is to categorize color of light into groups on the basis of dominant wavelength. After the colors have been categorized into different groups, a particular group of colors may be selected on the basis of a predetermined criterion, one criterion being that an individual is to perceive the ambient temperature as higher than it actually is, while another criterion may be that the individual is to perceive the ambient temperature as lower than it actually is. Thereafter, a control signal is generated for controlling the dominant wavelength of light emitted from at least one light source in accordance with the selected group of colors. Finally, the generated control signal is transmitted to the light source(s) to be controlled, for emitting light of the selected group of colors, thereby influencing the thermoregulation of an individual being exposed to the light of the selected group of colors on the basis of the predetermined criterion. The present invention is advantageous, in that colored lighting is employed for changing an individual's perception of ambient temperature, which enables energy savings for heating and air conditioning systems. Using a lighting control device for varying color of light results in a flexible solution since the device easily facilitates changing to an environment that is perceived as warmer or as cooler than the actual room temperature. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101557 | TREATMENT APPARATUS AND USE THEREOF FOR TREATING PSORIASIS - A treatment apparatus ( | 2012-04-26 |
20120101558 | IMPLANTABLE LEADS HAVING COILED CONDUCTORS TO REDUCE RF-INDUCED CURRENT - An implantable lead assembly includes an outer jacket, first and second coiled conductors, and first and second electrodes. The outer jacket is elongated along a center axis and includes a body that radially extends between opposite interior and exterior surfaces. The interior surface defines an elongated lumen. The coiled conductors are held within the body of the outer jacket between the interior and exterior surfaces of the outer jacket and are wrapped around the lumen and the center axis. The electrodes are coupled with the outer jacket and electrically coupled to the coiled conductors in order to at least one of deliver stimulus pulses or sense electrical activity. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101559 | Implantable Electrode with Variable Mechanical Modulation Wiring - A cochlear implant electrode is described. A basal electrode lead carries electrical stimulation signals from an implant housing to a cochleostomy opening, and a portion of the electrode lead has a periodically recurring lead shape. An apical electrode array at the cochleostomy end of the electrode lead passes into a cochlea scala and includes electrode contacts for applying the electrical stimulation signals to target neural tissue. A portion of the electrode array has a periodically recurring array shape different from the lead shape. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101560 | Retractable flow maintaining stent wire - The present invention is a self-expanding stent delivered to the affected site within the human body with a guide wire and hand-manipulable control apparatus. The stent is capable of full expansion only along a pre-determined length of its body with the remainder of the overall length tapering (in substantially conical form) to a fixed connection point with the guide wire. The stent is delivered to the affected area in a covering sheath that has a tip that is capable of penetrating a blockage or obstruction in a vessel such that the stent can be exposed to begin its expansion. Once the obstruction has been opened, the stent can be recaptured or retrieved by pulling it back into the sheath, collapsing the expanded stent, and withdrawing the stent and wire completely from the vessel. The present invention may be coated with a variety of therapeutic agents to aid in the treatment of the damaged tissue. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101561 | STENT DELIVERY CATHETER WITH RAPID EXCHANGE CAPABILITIES - A stent delivery system having rapid exchange capabilities for delivering a self-expandable stent. The system includes a delivery catheter and a sheath positionable in the lumen of the delivery catheter. The delivery catheter includes an elongate shaft extending distally from a hub assembly. The elongate shaft includes a lumen extending therethrough and a guidewire port providing access to the lumen at a location intermediate the proximal and distal ends of the elongate shaft. The sheath is positionable in the lumen of the delivery catheter such that the sheath extends across the guidewire port to close off the guidewire port to allow a stent to be passed through the sheath from proximal of the guidewire port to distal of the guidewire port. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101562 | STENT DELIVERY SYSTEM - Stent delivery systems and methods for making and using stent delivery systems are disclosed. An example stent delivery system may include an inner member. A sheath may be disposed about the inner member. The sheath may include a compressible coil. A stent may be disposed between the inner member and the sheath. A membrane may extend between the inner member and the sheath. The membrane may be configured to be disposed on the stent. An outer member may be disposed over the sheath. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101563 | DELIVERY SYSTEM FOR BRANCHED STENT GRAFT - A delivery system for a branched stent graft comprises a double-layer sheath ( | 2012-04-26 |
20120101564 | STENTS WITH ATTACHED LOOPED ENDS - An open frame prosthesis is formed with looped end terminations at its proximal and distal ends. At one end of the prosthesis, the filaments or strands are welded together in pairs to form strand couplings. A plurality of loop segments are connected to the strand couplings, one loop segment for each pair of adjacent strand couplings. In one version of the prosthesis, strands at the opposite end are bent to form looped ends. In another version, loop segments are connected to pairs of strand couplings at both ends of the prosthesis. The loop segments can be connected to the couplings by welding, fusion bonds, or tubes, which are either crimped or heat shrunk. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101565 | BIOABSORBABLE STENT HAVING RADIOPACITY - A radially expandable stent and methods of making the same, the stent made entirely of a bioabsorbable metal, the stent having a portion of increased radiopacity, wherein the portion of increased radiopacity has one or more of the following characteristics: | 2012-04-26 |
20120101566 | STENT HAVING IMPROVED STENT DESIGN - A stent is provided having a base body circumscribing a cylindrical shape and radially expandable from a contracted starting position into a dilated support position, including a plurality of meander-shaped struts disposed in the circumferential direction and arrayed on one another in the axial direction, each strut being meander-shaped in its coarse structure and made of a flexible material, and at least one axial connector in the axial direction, connecting the meander-shaped struts of two axially adjacent meandering curves, wherein the at least one axial connector connects the inside radius of a zenith point of a first meandering curve with a second meandering curve, characterized in that the at least one axial connector at the inside radius of the zenith point of the first meandering curve has an at least double-arm structure. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101567 | PERCUTANEOUSLY IMPLANTABLE FLAP STENT, DEVICE FOR APPLYING THE SAME AND METHOD FOR PRODUCING THE FLAP STENT - A valve stent includes a plurality of crown elements arranged coaxially one behind the other, each formed by several u-shaped bends with at least one base and two ends. The bases of one crown element are connected to the ends of another crown element via connection bars. To produce this valve stent, 3D droplet dosing technology is used to form a thin-walled sandwich structure. A device, suitable for application of a stent is provided with positioning wires having clamps at their ends which can be connected to the fixing hooks at the ends of the crown elements in force-locking manner. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101568 | DEVICE FOR REGULATING BLOOD - An implantable device for regulating blood flow through a blood vessel comprising an elongated support dimensioned and configured to be implanted in a blood vessel. The support includes a linking member linking axially spaced apart portions to one another. A valve membrane extends between the axially spaced apart support portions and includes first region folded over the first linking member and attached thereto and a second region adjacent the first region and unattached to the first linking member. The second region is movable between a first position to enable blood flow and a second position to inhibit blood flow. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101569 | Devices and Methods for Loading a Prosthesis onto a Delivery System - In an embodiment, a device for loading a prosthesis onto a delivery system comprises a cap and a reducing member. The cap has a piston member that seats a prosthesis. The piston member has at least one side wall configured to contact a portion of the side of the prosthesis seated therein. The reducing member has a conical wall, a first open end, and a second open end. The first open end is configured to receive the piston member. The reducing member reduces an external dimension of at least a portion of the prosthesis seated in the piston member as the prosthesis is moved along an inner surface of the conical wall. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101570 | Methods for Implanting a Valve Prothesis - A method for implanting a valve prosthesis at a native cardiac valve complex of a subject comprises implanting a distal fixation member of the valve prosthesis downstream of a native valve of the native valve complex such that two or more engagement arms of the distal fixation member apply, to a downstream side of the native valve, a first axial force directed upstream. The method also comprises implanting a proximal fixation member of the valve prosthesis at least partially upstream of the native valve, such that the proximal fixation member applies, to an upstream side of the native valve, a second axial force directed downstream, such that application of the first and second forces couples the valve prosthesis to the native valve complex. The engagement arms and the proximal fixation member capture leaflets of the native valve therebetween without folding over leaflets of the native valve. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101571 | HEART VALVE PROSTHESIS AND METHOD - A heart valve prosthesis ( | 2012-04-26 |
20120101572 | Mitral Bioprosthesis with Low Ventricular Profile - A heart valve prosthesis configured for placement at a mitral valve in the heart is disclosed that includes a stent-like support structure for supporting a prosthetic mitral valve. The support structure is configured to have a low ventricular profile with only a short length thereof protruding into the left ventricle when deployed in vivo. The support structure includes an upstream section that is outwardly expandable to sit against the atrial wall so as to at least partially anchor the prosthesis therein and a downstream section to which the prosthetic mitral valve is coupled that extends between the left atria and ventricle through the native mitral valve. The low-ventricular profile of the prosthesis is achieved by shaping the support structure such that the downstream section extends within and overlaps with the upstream section at given regions around the circumference of the support structure in an expanded configuration. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101573 | Mechanical Heart Valve Apparatus - A mechanical heart valve apparatus includes a loop-shaped frame defining a valve opening and formed with a pair of transverse slot units and a pair of longitudinal slots; and a pair of valve plates mounted on the loop-shaped frame. Each of the valve plates includes a pair of first studs that are slidably and respectively inserted into the transverse slot units, and a second stud that is slidably inserted into a respective one of the longitudinal slots. The valve plates are pivoted to each other so as to be rotatable relative to each other between a closed position, in which the second studs are disposed adjacent to upper ends of the longitudinal slots, and an opening position, in which the second studs are disposed adjacent to lower ends of the longitudinal slots. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101574 | IMPLANTABLE MATERIALS - A textured breast implant is provided which generally includes a fluid fillable elastomeric shell having a texture defined by struts, for example, hollow struts, defining interconnected open cells. Methods of making the texture include applying a silicone dispersion to a base material and removing the base material from the coating to form a silicone-based structure comprising struts defining interconnected open cells, said struts including internal surfaces defining cavities within the struts. The method may further include the step of contacting the silicone based structure having cavities with a silicone dispersion to cause the silicone to enter and fill the cavities. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101575 | APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR NIPPLE AND BREAST FORMATION - Apparatus and methods for nipple and breast formation are described where devices precondition or expand a target nipple tissue to reduce the pressure exerted by the skin on an eventual implant. Generally, the apparatus comprises a mold having a contact surface which is curved in conformance with a breast upon which the mold is positionable, the contact surface having an adhesive for securement upon the breast, and the mold defining a cavity along the contact surface which conforms to a size of a nipple to be formed upon the breast and where the cavity further comprises the adhesive for securement to the nipple. A breast enlargement device comprises a cup larger than the target breast and further defines an inner surface which adheres to the breast when contacted. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101576 | EXPANDABLE ORTHOPEDIC IMPLANT SYSTEM AND METHOD - An orthopedic implant includes a first member that defines a longitudinal axis, a first wall and a second wall. The first wall defines at least a portion of a chamber. The second wall defines a first graft containment cavity. The chamber is separate from the first graft containment cavity. A second member defines a first wall disposed for sealed engagement with the first wall of the first member. The first wall of the second member defines at least a portion of the chamber. The second member is configured for movement along the longitudinal axis relative to the first member. Methods of use are disclosed. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101577 | ACTIVATABLE DEVICES CONTAINING A CHEMONUCLEOLYSIS AGENT - Effective devices and methods using a chemonucleolysis agent are provided for treating an intervertebral disc or treating spinal arachnoiditis. The devices and methods comprise a chemonucleolysis agent to degrade or to shrink at least a portion of the intervertebral disc. In some embodiments, the methods and devices are configured to immediately release an effective amount of the chemonucleolysis agent within 24 hours when the device comes in contact directly or indirectly with an activator and provide sustained release of the chemonucleolysis agent over a period of up to one year to treat the intervertebral disc. In some embodiments, the chemonucleolysis agent in the device is administered in or near the intrathecal space and/or thecal sac to treat spinal arachnoiditis. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101578 | DEVICES CONTAINING A CHEMONUCLEOLYSIS AGENT AND METHODS FOR TREATING AN INTERVERTEBRAL DISC OR SPINAL ARACHNOIDITIS - Effective devices and methods using a chemonucleolysis agent are provided for treating an intervertebral disc or treating spinal arachnoiditis. The devices and methods comprise a chemonucleolysis agent to degrade or to shrink at least a portion of the intervertebral disc. In some embodiments, the methods and devices are configured to immediately release an effective amount of the chemonucleolysis agent within 24 hours and provide sustained release of the chemonucleolysis agent over a period of up to one year to treat the intervertebral disc. In some embodiments, the chemonucleolysis agent in the device is administered in or near the intrathecal space and/or thecal sac to treat spinal arachnoiditis. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101579 | PROSTHETIC INTERVERTEBRAL DISC WITH MOVABLE CORE - An intervertebral disc for a prosthetic intervertebral disc system for insertion from a posterior of the spine includes first and second end plates sized and shaped to fit within an intervertebral space, each end plate having a vertebral contacting surface and an inner surface, a first bearing surface on an inner surface of the first end plate, and a second bearing surface on an inner surface of the second end plate. A mobile core is configured to be received between the first and second bearing surfaces, the first and second end plates being articulable and rotatable relative to each other via sliding motion of at least one of the first and second bearing surfaces over the core. The core is movable with respect to at least one of the first and second end plates. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101580 | Intervertebral Implant - An intervertebral implant includes a three-dimensional body and a securing plate. The three-dimensional body includes a front surface and a rear surface. The three-dimensional body further includes a plurality of boreholes for accommodating fixation elements. The intervertebral implant also includes a front plate disposed at the front surface of the three-dimensional body and having a plurality of boreholes. A securing plate can be fastened to the front plate. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101581 | INTERVERTEBRAL IMPLANT - The intervertebral three-dimensional structure comprises a top side, an underside, a front face, a rear face, and a plurality of boreholes designed to receive affixation elements. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101582 | Implants and Methods for Spinal Fusion - An implant is provided for performing spinal fusion. The implant includes an implant body having a leading side and a trailing side at opposing ends along a longitudinal axis. Between the leading side and trailing side are an upper surface, a lower surface, an anterior side, and a posterior side. At least one keel structure is provided extending from the implant body for penetration into an adjacent vertebral body. A trial sizer and keel cutter may be utilized to form keel channels within the vertebral body to receive the keel structure. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101583 | SET OF RECONSTRUCTION OF A FRACTURED SHOULDER JOINT - A set of reconstruction includes an element of reconstruction ( | 2012-04-26 |
20120101584 | PATELLAR IMPLANT WITH VARIABLE WEIGHTS FOR KNEE REPAIR SURGERY - The present disclosure relates to a device for repairing a patient patella. The device comprises a patellar trial piece and a patellar implant. The patellar trial piece has selectable variable weights to correct mechanical properties of the patient patella. Such mechanical properties to be corrected include a moment of inertia and/or a center of gravity of the patient patella. The patellar implant has embedded weights correspond to the variable weights of the patellar trial piece. In one embodiment, the patellar trial piece has a plurality of variable weights to be inserted into a plurality of holes in the patellar trial piece. The weights are made of different materials. In another embodiment, the patellar trial piece has a rounded top surface and a substantially flat bottom surface with a plurality of pegs. The pegs are selected from pegs with variable weights that are made of different materials. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101585 | MOTION FACILITATING TIBIAL COMPONENTS FOR A KNEE PROSTHESIS - An orthopaedic tibial prosthesis includes a tibial baseplate sized and shaped to cover substantially all of a resected proximal tibial surface, and a tibial bearing component sized to leave a posteromedial portion of the tibial baseplate exposed when the tibial bearing component is mounted to the baseplate. The exposed posteromedial portion of the tibial baseplate includes a chamfered profile which cooperates with a correspondingly chamfered profile at a posteromedial edge of the tibial bearing component to create a substantially continuous chamfer extending from the resected tibial surface to the medial articular surface of the tibial bearing component. Advantageously, this chamfer leaves an absence of material (i.e., a relief or void) at the posteromedial edge of the tibial prosthesis, thereby enabling deep flexion of the prosthesis without impingement between the tibial prosthesis and adjacent anatomic tissues or prosthetic structures. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101586 | HIGH FLEXION ARTICULAR INSERT - A knee prosthesis is provided that allows for increased flexion. The knee prosthesis includes (a) a femoral component adapted to fit on a distal end of the femur which includes a lateral condylar structure and a medial condylar structure and (b) an intermediate structure configured to cooperate with a femoral component of a knee prosthesis. The intermediate structure includes at least one surface for contacting the femoral component and a transition of a sagittal curvature of the at least one contact surface from a concave surface into a convex surface at the contact interface of the femoral component and the intermediate structure when the knee is flexed at approximately 120° to 140°. The knee prosthesis minimizes impingement on the femoral posterior cortex in deep flexion, increases the dislocation safety factor and allows for easier reengagement of the articular surface should the femoral component externally rotate off of the tibial plateau. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101587 | KNEE JOINT DEVICE AND METHOD - A medical device for implantation in a knee joint of a human patient is provided. The medical device comprises: an inner surface and an outer surface. The inner surface comprises: a first point, a second point, a third point, a fourth point, a fifth point, and a sixth point, all points located on different places along a length axis of said inner surface. A first straight line, reaching from the first point to the second point is parallel to a second straight line reaching from the third point to the fourth point, which in turn is parallel to a third straight line reaching from the fifth point to the sixth point. The first and third straight lines are of equal length and the second straight line is longer than the first, furthermore the third straight line is positioned between the first and third straight lines. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101588 | HIP JOINT DEVICE AND METHOD - A medical device for implantation in a hip joint of a human patient is provided. The natural hip joint having a ball shaped caput femur as the proximal part of the femoral bone with a convex hip joint surface towards the centre of the hip joint and a bowl shaped acetabulum as part of the pelvic bone with a concave hip joint surface towards the centre of the hip joint. The caput femur has a centrally placed longitudinal extension, extending through the center of the caput and collum femur, aligned with the collum femur, defined as the caput and collum femur center axis. The medical device comprising; an artificial acetabulum, comprising a concave surface towards the centre of the hip joint. The artificial concave acetabulum is adapted to, when implanted, be fixated to the femoral bone of the human patient, and be in movable connection with an artificial caput femur fixated to the pelvic bone of the patient. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101589 | PROSTHETIC DEVICES COATED WITH HEATED CROSS-LINKED FIBRIN - The present invention relates to methods of coating prosthetic devices with dried fibrin. Particularly, the present invention relates to methods of coating the surface of prosthetic devices with fibrin and drying the fibrin-coated prosthetic devices at moderately-high temperatures for extended periods of time under low atmospheric pressure to obtain prosthetic devices coated with stable cross-linked fibrin capable of binding cells and thereby capable of integrating into tissues. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101590 | CERAMIC BALL SOCKET INSERT HAVING INVERSE-CONICAL GUIDE PINS - A hip joint prosthesis having a socket insert and a hip socket, a conical guide pin being situated on the pole of the socket insert and a guide bore being situated at the base of the hip socket and the guide pin being located in the guide bore in the installed state of the socket insert in the hip socket, | 2012-04-26 |
20120101591 | STEM WITH PRESSFIT POROUS ELEMENT - An implant assembly comprises a stem and an augment. The augment includes a porous outer region which is integrally formed onto a solid inner region. The augment further includes, solid posts integrally formed on the solid inner region and extend through the porous outer region to the outer surface of the augment. The posts are integrally formed with and surrounded by the porous region and are designed to allow assembly of the augment to the stem without damaging the structure of the porous region. A method of attaching the augment is described, wherein a tool is designed to grip to posts of the augment and apply loads through these posts during assembly. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101592 | Pyrolytic Carbon Implants With Porous Fixation Component And Methods Of Making The Same - An orthopedic implant including an articulation portion having a pyrolytic carbon bearing surface and a porous bone on- or in-growth structure, and methods of making the same. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101593 | IMPLANTABLE POLYMER FOR BONE AND VASCULAR LESIONS - A solidifying implant composition of a polymer mixed with a bioabsorbable solvent. A method of treating a patient, by implanting the solidifying implant composition into bone, and solidifying the implant composition. A method of improving bone structure in patients by applying the solidifying implant composition to bone, shoring up bone structure, and improving load bearing capacity and aiding healing of microfractures. A method of fixing an implant, by applying the solidifying implant composition to an implant, and shoring up the implant. A method of devascularizing and treating a tumor or vascular lesion. A method of treating a vascular disease. A method of treating aneurysms/pseudoaneurysms. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101594 | ENDOSCOPIC IMPLANTABLE DEVICE AND METHOD FOR THE APPOSITION OF THE STOMACH WALLS FOR REDUCING THE STOMACH INTERNAL VOLUME IN A WEIGHT LOSS SURGERY PROCEDURE - The present invention is referred to an endoscopic implantable device for the apposition of the stomach walls for reducing the stomach internal volume, comprising a cylindrical elongated body comprising two hinged halves, each of which having a plurality of suction nozzles and a set of aligned grabbing teeth. Said suction nozzles have a fluid communication with a suction port of the endoscopic apparatus used to place said device into the patient's stomach, and the mentioned teeth of each half cooperate between each other to grab and keep the walls of the stomach together until the device is dissolved by the gastric fluids present in the stomach. The purposed invention also comprises a method for joining internal body tissue. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101595 | COMMUNICATION INTERFACE FOR SENSORY STIMULATION - Techniques, apparatuses, and systems for interfacing multiple sensors with a biological system can include amplifying signals from respective sensors associated with an external device; modulating the amplified signals based on respective different frequency values; and summing the modulated signals to produce an output signal to stimulate a biological system. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101596 | METHOD FOR SETTING UP A CONTROL AND TECHNICAL ORTHOPEDIC DEVICE - The invention relates to a method for setting up a control, and to a control for a technical orthopedic device, and a technical orthopedic device as such. Actuations of the technical orthopedic device ( | 2012-04-26 |
20120101597 | ADJUSTABLE SOCKET SYSTEM - An adjustable socket system is configured to accommodate a residual limb. The adjustable socket system has first and second opposed sides and includes a rigid first component arranged along the first side of the socket. An adjustable second component has a plurality of interconnected vertebrae elements connected to the first component and is arranged along the second side of the socket system. The adjustable prosthetic socket also has a base connector secured to the distal end area of the first component. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101598 | DYNAMIC SUPPORT APPARATUS AND SYSTEM - A dynamic support apparatus having a frame, a dynamic interface, a temperature control mechanism, and a control system. The dynamic interface is capable of changing its geometry and is disposed on the top surface of the frame. The control system is operably connected to the dynamic interface and controls the changing geometry of the dynamic interface. There is also a temperature control mechanism disposed on the top surface of the frame for maintaining a comfortable temperature and moisture environment between the apparatus and the user's body. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101599 | MOMENTUM FREE BEARING FOR USE IN PROSTHETIC AND ORTHOTIC DEVICES - A momentum free bearing assembly for use in orthotic and prosthetic devices and a prosthetic knee incorporating the same are disclosed. The bearing assembly includes an engaging ring having a swivel portion received within the engaging ring. The engaging ring is received within a bore in a mount. Retainer rings may be placed on either side of the engaging ring within the bore to retain the engaging ring within the mount. Seals having sealing members may be provided on either side of the engaging ring to seal the engaging ring within the mount. A cylindrical rod engages the swivel portion and the seal through bores provided in each of the seal and the swivel portion. The ends of the cylindrical rod can be press-fit within bores on a mount and a frame of a prosthetic knee. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101600 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR ADVANCED ALARMING IN FIELD DEVICE PROTOCOLS - A method includes providing an identification of multiple device-specific parameters to a user, where the device-specific parameters are associated with a field device. The method also includes receiving a selection of at least one of the device-specific parameters from the user. The method further includes, upon receipt of the selection of the at least one device-specific parameter, providing an identification of multiple bits associated with the at least one selected device-specific parameter to the user. The method also includes receiving a selection of at least one of the bits from the user. The method further includes saving the at least one selected device-specific parameter and the at least one selected bit as a custom alarm condition. A selected criticality option or a selected priority option can be saved as part of the custom alarm condition. The custom alarm condition can be loaded into a controller of a process control system. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101601 | Information Processing System Using Nucleotide Sequence-Related Information - A system for processing information for providing semantic information and/or information associated with the semantic information useful for each individual organism through effective utilization of differences in nucleotide sequence-related information among individual organisms is constructed. The method for processing information on a nucleotide sequence comprises: (a) receiving request information for an object and/or service; (b) obtaining positional information in accordance with the request information from a memory having positional information representing a position in a nucleotide sequence memorized therein; and (c) obtaining nucleotide sequence-related information corresponding to the positional information obtained in (b) above, and obtaining semantic information implied by the nucleotide sequence-related information and/or information associated with the semantic information. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101602 | Wearable Device Assembly Having Athletic Functionality - A wearable device has a carrier having an aperture. A device has a USB connection and a protrusion wherein the protrusion is received in the aperture to connect the device to the carrier. The device is a USB type device having athletic functionality. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101603 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DRAFT SELECTION AND PARTICIPATION THEREIN - A fan-based draft is disclosed whereby fans select an 8 | 2012-04-26 |
20120101604 | ANALOG-SIGNAL CONTROLLER FOR MOBILE ELECTRONIC DEVICES - A system and method are provided for interfacing with a mobile device. According to one aspect, a method for interfacing one or more peripheral devices with a mobile device having a processor is provided. One or more unique tones/signals are generated at a respective peripheral device corresponding to an event detected by the respective peripheral device. The tones/signals are conveyed to a mobile device where they are received through a microphone in communication with the mobile device. A processor processes the signals into one or more digital commands, and correlates the digital commands with real-time data to identify an action. One or more outputs are then provided based upon the action. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101605 | AUDIO SIGNAL PROCESSING - A method and apparatus for determining if there is a stream of video signals corresponding with a stream of audio signals. If the sample rate of a digital bitstream including is determined. if the sample rate is 48m kHz (where m is an integer), it is determined that there are video signals corresponding to the audio signals. If the sample rate is 44.1m kHz (where m is an integer), it is determined that there are no video signals corresponding to the audio signals. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101606 | INFORMATION PROCESSING APPARATUS, CONTENT DATA RECONFIGURING METHOD AND PROGRAM - An apparatus for processing content data may include a score calculation unit. The score calculation unit may be configured to receive attribute information indicative of attributes of first content data. Additionally, the score calculation unit may be configured to calculate scores of temporal sections of the first content data, based on temporal positions within the first content data at which the attributes of the first content data change. The apparatus may also include a reconfiguration unit. The reconfiguration unit may be configured to receive the first content data. In addition, the reconfiguration unit may be configured to extract selected ones of the temporal sections from the first content data, based on the scores of the temporal sections. The reconfiguration unit may also be configured to combine the extracted temporal sections to create modified content data. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101607 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PLAYING MULTIMEDIA AUDIO-VISUAL PRESENTATIONS - An apparatus and method is provided to generate digital audio signals, such as stereo signals, from a multimedia program. The program can be distributed directly through an electronic network, or indirectly by recording the program on a medium such as a DVD or CD. The multimedia program is normally compressed using a standard DVD, MPEG or similar compression protocol. In accordance with the invention, the program is decoded to generate a multimedia output signal and an audio output signal. The multimedia signals can be played immediately or at will on a suitable multimedia device. The audio output signal is compressed, using for instance MP3 or ATRAC3, and then transmitted to an external device for storage as a digital file. The digital file can then be replayed at will. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101608 | OBJECT-BASED AUDIO SYSTEM, OBJECT-BASED AUDIO PROVIDING METHOD, AND OBJECT-BASED AUDIO PLAYING METHOD USING PRESET FUNCTION - An object-based audio system, an object-based audio providing method, and an object-based audio playback method using a preset are provided. The object-based audio system includes a reference information providing unit to provide reference information used to refer to a storage location of an object-based audio file, and a preset information providing unit to provide preset information used to control at least one audio object forming the object-based audio file. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101609 | Audio Auditioning Device - Accurate “Mixing” of a sound signal has hitherto required a recording studio environment. Currently, both professional music producers facing budgetary limitations and amateur music makers without access to such meet a difficulty in producing music which has been correctly “Mixed” and “Auditioned”. We therefore propose a “Mixing” and “Mix Audition” tool, which can use standard headphones as the method of reproducing the direct sound, together with a DSP system that can be used with a computer based music production system to simulate specific listening experiences. The present invention therefore provides an audio auditioning device comprising a sound input, a sound output, a digital signal processor, and a library of stored digital signal processor effects, wherein the digital signal processor is adapted to apply a chosen effect from the library to a sound signal provided to the device via the sound input and deliver this to the output, and the library includes a plurality of digital signal processor effects representing the effect on a sound signal of reproduction in different environments. The digital signal processor applies the chosen effect in real time. The effects can include a home stereo, a home multi channel cinema, a large cinema, a concert hall, a car interior, and a radio receiver, or the like. The audio auditioning device can be combined with a computing device which includes a stored sound signal, mixing software adapted to adjust the mix of the stored sound signal, and a sound output connected to the sound input of the audio auditioning device. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101610 | Positional Disambiguation in Spatial Audio - A method including: obtaining phase information dependent upon a time-varying phase difference between captured audio channels; obtaining sampling information relating to time-varying spatial sampling of the captured audio channels; and processing the phase information and the sampling information to determine audio control information for controlling spatial rendering of the captured audio channels. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101611 | SOUND EFFECT GENERATING DEVICE - A control signal generating means of a sound effect generating device sets the reference volume that is the reference value of the volume of a sound effect when a vehicle is in a predetermined travel state, compares the measured volume of the sound effect detected by a sound effect detecting means when the vehicle is in the predetermined travel state and the reference volume, and corrects the gain of a control signal on the basis of the result of the comparison. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101612 | Personalizing New Or Already Existing Wheels To Match A Person's Particular Desire - A method for customizing off the shelf, inexpensive automobile wheel rims, or inserts for automobile wheel rims which include an art image, a name, or a logo comprises:
| 2012-04-26 |
20120101613 | Method and Apparatus for Integrated Simulation - In an automated system which includes a robot manipulator, a workcell, and a control system implemented on a hardware platform based on a programmable logic controller (“PLC”), a method and apparatus for performing integrated simulation that does not require the presence of both the robot manipulator and the workcell. If one component is real, the other component is simulated so as to be sufficiently responsive to responses from the real component such that the real component is unable to discern that the other component is not also real. A computing device simultaneously displays simulacra of both the components, real and simulated, and visualizations of the responses provided by each. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101614 | System and Method for Manufacturing Optical Network Components - A system and method for calibrating optical components is disclosed. The method may include accumulating data indicative of the variation of selected variables with temperature for a batch of sample optical components, over an operating temperature range; determining the values of the selected variables at a single temperature of at least one new optical component for installation within an optical sub-assembly; and estimating the values of the selected variables as a function of temperature over the operating temperature range for the at least one new optical component based on the accumulated data and the values determined at the single temperature. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101615 | TRANSPORT SCHEDULING FOR LOW MICROBIAL BULK PRODUCTS - Transport scheduling and transport processes for low microbial (“LM”) bulk products are described. The transport scheduling and processes facilitate low microbial activity in a LM bulk product during the transport of the LM bulk product. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101616 | MOLD DESIGNING APPARATUS, MOLD DESIGNING METHOD, MOLD DESIGNING SYSTEM AND MOLD DESIGNING PROGRAM - A mold is designed by calculating a distribution of a contact surface pressure of a mating surface of a mold under a casting condition, and setting a machining amount of the mating surface of the mold based on the calculated distribution of the contact surface pressure. | 2012-04-26 |
20120101617 | PHOTOCHROMIC LENS MANUFACTURING SYSTEM, PHOTOCHROMIC LENS MANUFACTURING DEVICE, PHOTOCHROMIC LENS MANUFACTURING PROGRAM, RECORDING MEDIUM HAVING PHOTOCHROMIC LENS MANUFACTURING PROGRAM RECORDED THEREUPON, AND PHOTOCHROMIC LENS MANUFACTURING METHOD - An object of the present invention is to make it possible to manufacture a photochromic lens on made-to-order basis within short time, without keeping a stack of the photochromic lens. A photochromic lens manufacturing system has an orderer side computer ( | 2012-04-26 |
20120101618 | Method and Apparatus for Generating a Surface of an Optical Lens - A method of generating a target surface {tilde over (S)}( | 2012-04-26 |
20120101619 | MEASUREMENT METHOD AND MEASUREMENT SYSTEM USING THE SAME - Example embodiments relate to a measurement method of measuring lots with improved process efficiency. The measurement method may include calculating a measurement capability (indicating a degree to which members to be measured may be processed per unit time in a measurement device); allocating the measurement capability according to a processing device and a processing condition; and calculating a measurement ratio of the lots processed by the processing device and the processing condition. | 2012-04-26 |