Patent application number | Description | Published |
20080314216 | Tire cord cutting apparatus - A cord cutting apparatus is provided for remotely cutting a terminal end segment of a tire cord line from a toroidal tire building core surface. The apparatus includes a mechanism for capturing, controlling and aligning the cord line end segment; tensioning the end segment between leading and trailing segment ends; and severing the cord end segment at a point opposite an initiation point on the tire build core. The apparatus moves between an extended position proximate the tire building core and a retracted position that does not obstruct the tire building core during subsequent tire construction. | 12-25-2008 |
20080314524 | Method for single line tire ply construction - A method for positioning an end of a cord line at a target location on an annular tire building surface, includes positioning a cord line segment over the target location; tensioning the cord line segment between leading and trailing segment ends; and severing the cord line segment at a point between the leading and trailing segment ends so that the resultant cord line end is at the target location on the tire building surface. Transporting a severed portion of the cord line segment away from the annular tire building surface may be conducted and a tire cord ply may be constructed to extend from the cord line segment about at least a portion of the annular tire building surface prior to severing the cord line segment. | 12-25-2008 |
20090090455 | SPRING LOADED TOOLING HEAD AND METHOD FOR TIRE CORD APPLICATION - A tooling head for bidirectional tire cord application to an annular surface reciprocates in a forward and a reverse direction across the annular surface. The tooling head includes a housing; a nose block assembly coupled to the housing and reciprocating in an axial direction relative to the tooling head housing; a pair of cord engaging rollers mounted to a remote end of the nose block assembly and moving therewith in a forward and a reverse direction across the annular surface, the rollers positioning at least one cord against the annular surface in the forward and reverse directions; and a biasing element engaging against the nose block assembly for alternatively biasing the rollers against the annular surface. | 04-09-2009 |
20090090456 | SYNCHRONOUS DRIVE AND METHOD FOR TIRE CORD APPLICATION - A synchronous drive system and method for tire cord application to an annular core surface includes an arm that moves laterally about a first axis in a forward and a reverse direction across the annular surface. A cord application head is coupled to the arm and positions one or more cords on an on the annular surface in the forward and reverse directions. First and second ring motors are coupled to synchronously move the arm and rotate the core. The cord application head may further reciprocate about a second axis of rotation. | 04-09-2009 |
20090090457 | TIRE CORD APPLICATION STATION AND METHOD - A ply application station for applying a tire carcass cord ply to an annular surface includes a plurality of applicator heads disposed at respective spaced apart circumferential locations about the annular surface, each applicator head proximally positioned to a respective assigned region of the annular surface. The system coordinates the application of at least one ply cord by each head to the annular surface region assigned respectively to each head. The plurality of applicator heads operate independently within their respective assigned regions while the core annular surface is rotatably indexed in order to achieve a desired cord ply pattern. | 04-09-2009 |
20120125504 | IN-LINE PUMPING ASSEMBLY FOR SELF-INFLATING TIRE - A tire for a self-inflating tire system includes a tire carcass having an annular air tube-receiving groove formed within a tire carcass wall and a pump assembly within the groove. The pump assembly includes an air tube having an axial air passageway; an inlet device positioned along the air tube, the inlet having a tubular inlet body having an internal air passageway aligned with the air tube and having at least one inlet opening extending through the inlet body for admitting air into the tubular inlet body. The inlet device further includes an air filtering sleeve at least partially surrounding the inlet opening of the inlet device, the sleeve having a tubular sleeve body at least partially surrounding and in co-axial relationship the tubular inlet body. The pump assembly further includes an outlet device positioned in-line along the air tube, the outlet device having a tubular outlet body and an axial passageway in-line with the air tube and having at least one outlet passage tube from the outlet device through the carcass wall to the tire cavity. | 05-24-2012 |
20120125510 | TIRE FOR SELF-INFLATING TIRE SYSTEM - A tire for a self-inflating tire system includes an annular air tube-receiving groove formed within a tire carcass wall at a prescribed radial location. The groove has an access opening, a primary internal groove chamber dimensioned and profiled for close receipt of an annular air-pump tube. A secondary expansion chamber of the groove communicates with the internal groove chamber for operationally receiving a flattened air-pump tube extended portion during tire operation. A passageway is located at a prescribed outlet location along the annular air tube-receiving groove, the passageway extending from the groove to an axially inward terminal end within the tire carcass wall separated from a tire inner liner by a removable wall partition of reduced sectional thickness. | 05-24-2012 |
20120125524 | METHOD OF MANUFACTURING A SELF-INFLATING TIRE - A method of constructing a self-inflating tire assembly includes molding in an air tube-receiving groove within a green tire carcass wall, the groove having an access opening, primary internal groove chamber and a secondary expansion groove chamber adjacent to and communicating with the internal groove chamber. A groove partial passageway is molded with the groove at a prescribed groove outlet location and extends from the groove partially through the tire carcass wall toward the tire cavity. A tire carcass wall barrier of reduced section between the partial passageway and the tire cavity is removed in a post-cure operation to create a through-bore from the groove to the tire cavity. A pump assembly inserts into the tube-receiving groove in a post-cure procedure with an outlet passage tube from a pump assembly outlet device extended through the through-bore to the tire cavity. | 05-24-2012 |
20130008579 | AIR MAINTENANCE PUMPING ASSEMBLY AND TIRE - A groove is positioned within the bending region of the first tire sidewall and deforms segment by segment within the rolling tire footprint. An air tube positioned within the sidewall groove is in contacting engagement with groove sidewalls and resiliently squeezes and collapses segment by segment as the groove constricts segment by segment within the rolling tire footprint. A series of adjacent projecting ridges extend from a groove sidewall segment into the groove air passageway, the projecting ridges operatively positioned to vary the applied pressure on the air tube increase the air pressure within the air tube passageway as the air tube rolls segment by segment with the tire through tire footprint. The series of projecting ridges are constructed having a variable amplitude and/or spacing frequency in a direction of air flow within the air passageway to increase the pressure applied to the air tube and air pressure of the air flowing through the tube passageway. | 01-10-2013 |
20130014876 | AIR MAINTENANCE PUMPING TUBE AND TIRE ASSEMBLYAANM Delgado; Andres IgnacioAACI MedinaAAST OHAACO USAAGP Delgado; Andres Ignacio Medina OH USAANM Dyrlund; Christopher DavidAACI CantonAAST OHAACO USAAGP Dyrlund; Christopher David Canton OH US - A groove defined by groove sidewalls is positioned within the bending region of a tire sidewall. An elongate air tube positioned within the sidewall groove is in contacting engagement with the groove sidewalls and resiliently squeezes and collapses segment by segment as the groove constricts segment by segment within the rolling tire footprint. A longitudinally oriented projecting locking rib extends from a tube sidewall and registers within a complementary configured and located detent extending adjacent the groove to deter lateral movement of the tube within the groove after insertion. An annular projecting ridge extends from the groove for engaging the sidewalls of the air tube to deter an axial movement of the tube within the groove after insertion. | 01-17-2013 |
20130061996 | AIR MAINTENANCE PUMPING ASSEMBLY AND TIRE - A tire assembly includes a tire, sidewalls, and a sidewall groove. The tire has a pneumatic cavity. The sidewall has at least one bending region operatively bending when radially within a rolling tire footprint of the tire. The sidewall groove is defined by groove sidewalls positioned within the bending region of the tire sidewall. The sidewall groove deforms segment by segment between a non-deformed state and a deformed, constricted state in response to the bending of the sidewall bending region when radially within the rolling tire footprint. An air passageway is defined by the sidewall groove and a cover strip. The air passageway resiliently deforms segment by segment between an expanded condition and an at least partially collapsed condition in response to respective segment by segment deformation of the sidewall groove when radially within the rolling tire footprint. | 03-14-2013 |
20130081745 | AIR MAINTENANCE TIRE AND PUMPING TUBE ASSEMBLY AND METHOD - A tire has an elongate profiled sidewall groove extending into a first tire sidewall from an outward first sidewall surface. An elongate air tube is positioned within the elongate sidewall groove in contact with the groove sidewalls, the air tube having an external surface configuration corresponding with and seating within the internal sidewall configuration defining the sidewall groove. The air tube when subject to outward originating impinging force collapses from an expanded unstressed configuration into a collapsed configuration to allow the tube to insert through the groove entry opening and expand outwardly once within the sidewall groove to its unstressed configuration. The configuration of the groove sidewalls capture the air tube within the groove in its expanded unstressed configuration to prevent separation of the tube from the tire during use. | 04-04-2013 |
20130133802 | AIR MAINTENANCE PUMPING ASSEMBLY AND TIRE - A tire assembly includes a tire, sidewalls, and a sidewall groove. The tire has a pneumatic cavity. The sidewall has at least one bending region operatively bending when radially within a rolling tire footprint of the tire. The sidewall groove is defined by groove sidewalls positioned within the bending region of the tire sidewall. The sidewall groove deforms segment by segment between a non-deformed state and a deformed, constricted state in response to the bending of the sidewall bending region when radially within the rolling tire footprint. An air passageway is defined by the sidewall groove and a cover strip. The air passageway resiliently deforms segment by segment between an expanded condition and an at least partially collapsed condition in response to respective segment by segment deformation of the sidewall groove when radially within the rolling tire footprint. | 05-30-2013 |
20140069573 | METHOD FOR PREFORMING A GREEN TIRE - Disclosed is a method and apparatus for preforming a green tire into a shape that is equivalent to the shape of the green tire when placed in a closed mold. The method for preforming orients the beads of the green tire parallel and concentric to one another and also rotates the bead area components of the tire into the proper configuration prior to cure. The bead portions of the tire maintain the parallel position as the tire is loaded into a tire mold. | 03-13-2014 |
20160082680 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR ASSEMBLING A PUMPING TUBE INTO AN AIR MAINTENANCE TIRE SIDEWALL GROOVE - Apparatus and method of assembling an elongate air pumping tube into an elongate tire sidewall groove includes engaging the tire sidewall outward surface with an impact wheel at an impact location proximally adjacent and above the elongate groove as the tire is rotated. The groove is thereby spread segment-by-segment for segment-by-segment synchronous insertion of the tube into the groove. The groove is closed segment-by-segment as each spread segment is returned to its original narrower dimension utilizing elastomeric material composition properties of the tire sidewall. | 03-24-2016 |
20160082682 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING AN AIR MAINTENANCE TIRE - Apparatus and method for manufacturing an air maintenance tire includes an air pumping tube assembly station constructing an air pumping tube sub-assembly, a tire preparation station for modifying a cured tire to accept the air pumping tube sub-assembly, an air pumping tube sub-assembly installation station and a pressure regulator installation station. The air pumping tube sub-assembly inserts into an elongate tire groove opening, facilitated by groove-spreading apparatus. | 03-24-2016 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20120274924 | PRE AND POST CLEANING OF MASK, WAFER, OPTICAL SURFACES FOR PREVENTION OF CONTAMINATION PRIOR TO AND AFTER INSPECTION - A method and apparatus for preventing or minimizing contamination on a critical surface is disclosed. The method and apparatus for preventing or minimizing contamination on the critical surface may be an integrated component of an inspection system, and the cleaning process may be applied prior to the inspection process (may be referred to as pre-cleaning) which may greatly reduce photon-induced contamination. In addition, the cleaning process in accordance with the present disclosure may also be applied upon completion of the inspection process (may be referred to as post-cleaning). | 11-01-2012 |
20130063803 | LASER-PRODUCED PLASMA EUV SOURCE WITH REDUCED DEBRIS GENERATION - A method and apparatus for generating extreme ultraviolet (EUV) light is disclosed. The method may comprise non-thermally ablating a target material utilizing a first laser beam. The first laser beam may be configured for ejecting a portion of the target material in a non-thermal manner to create a plume. The method may further comprise irradiating the plume utilizing a second laser beam to produce a high-temperature plasma for EUV radiation. | 03-14-2013 |
20130235357 | System and Method for Particle Control Near A Reticle - Controlling particles near a reticle of a lithography or reticle inspection system may include generating a curtain of ultraviolet light about a reticle protection area of a reticle by illuminating a region surrounding the reticle protection area with ultraviolet light having sufficient energy to induce a charge on one or more particles traversing the curtain of ultraviolet light, generating an electric field in a region positioned between the generated curtain of ultraviolet light and the reticle protection area, the electric field generated between a first charging element and a second charging element having an opposite charge to the first charging element, directing one or more charged particles to the first charging element or the second charging element using the generated electric field; and capturing the one or more charged particles on the first charging element or the second charging element. | 09-12-2013 |
20130255717 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CLEANING SURFACES AND COMPONENTS OF MASK AND WAFER INSPECTION SYSTEMS BASED ON THE POSITIVE COLUMN OF A GLOW DISCHARGE PLASMA - A system and method to clean surfaces and components of mask and wafer inspection systems based on the positive column of a glow discharge plasma are disclosed. The surface may be the surface of an optical component in a vacuum chamber or an interior wall of the vacuum chamber. A cathode and an anode may be used to generate the glow discharge plasma. The negative glow associated with the cathode may be isolated and the positive column associated with the anode may be used to clean the optical component or the interior wall of the vacuum chamber. As such, an in situ cleaning process, where the cleaning is done within the vacuum chamber, may be performed. | 10-03-2013 |
20130264481 | Back-Illuminated Sensor With Boron Layer - An image sensor for short-wavelength light and charged particles includes a semiconductor membrane, circuit elements formed on one surface of the semiconductor membrane, and a pure boron layer on the other surface of the semiconductor membrane. This image sensor has high efficiency and good stability even under continuous use at high flux for multiple years. The image sensor may be fabricated using CCD (charge coupled device) or CMOS (complementary metal oxide semiconductor) technology. The image sensor may be a two-dimensional area sensor, or a one-dimensional array sensor. The image sensor can be included in an electron-bombarded image sensor and/or in an inspection system. | 10-10-2013 |
20130265572 | Protective Fluorine-Doped Silicon Oxide Film For Optical Components - An optical component includes a substrate and a fluorine-doped thin film formed on the substrate. This fluorine-doped thin film is dense, and thus very low absorbing and insensitive to various vacuum, temperature, and humidity conditions. This dense film has a high refractive index, which remains stable irrespective of environmental conditions. The fluorine-doped thin film can advantageously ensure low scattering, low reflectance, and high transmittance. Moreover, the fluorine-doped thin film is damage resistant to incident radiation density. The fluorine-doped thin film may be a fluorine-doped silicon oxide film having a thickness of approximately 1-10 nm and a fluorine concentration of 0.1% to 5%. | 10-10-2013 |
20130270461 | SMART MEMORY ALLOYS FOR AN EXTREME ULTRA-VIOLET (EUV) RETICLE INSPECTION TOOL - An apparatus for actinic extreme ultra-violet (EUV) reticle inspection including at least one shape memory metal actuator adapted to displace an inspection component in an EUV inspection tool. An apparatus for actinic EUV reticle inspection including a tilt mechanism including at least one shape memory metal actuator adapted to angularly displace an inspection component in an EUV inspection tool. An apparatus for actinic EUV reticle inspection, including a translation stage adapted to fixedly connect to an inspection component, at least one flexure stage, and at least one shape memory metal actuator adapted to displace the translation stage. | 10-17-2013 |
20130271827 | INDEXING OPTICS FOR AN ACTINIC EXTREME ULTRA-VIOLET (EUV) RETICLE INSPECTION TOOL - A method for reducing damage and contamination to an optical element in an extreme ultra-violet (EUV) reticle inspection system, including, presenting an illumination source to a reticle inspection system, and displacing the optical element in the path of the illumination source from a first portion to a second portion, wherein the first portion is damaged and the second portion is not damaged, and the optical element has a plurality of portions. | 10-17-2013 |
20130295695 | System and Method for Rejuvenating an Imaging Sensor Degraded by Exposure to Extreme Ultraviolet or Deep Ultraviolet Light - The present invention for imaging sensor rejuvenation may include a rejuvenation illumination system configured to selectably illuminate a portion of an imaging sensor of an imaging system with illumination suitable for at least partially rejuvenating the imaging sensor degraded by exposure to at least one of extreme ultraviolet light or deep ultraviolet light; and a controller communicatively coupled to the rejuvenation illumination system and configured to direct the rejuvenation illumination system to illuminate the imaging sensor for one or more illumination cycles during a non-imaging state of the imaging sensor. | 11-07-2013 |
20140004025 | APPARATUS FOR PURIFYING A CONTROLLED-PRESSURE ENVIRONMENT | 01-02-2014 |
20140158914 | OPTICAL COMPONENT WITH BLOCKING SURFACE AND METHOD THEREOF - An optical component arranged for use in a low pressure environment including: a surface arranged to receive extreme ultra-violet (EUV) light and a coating, on the surface, arranged to block at least one contaminant in the low pressure environment from binding to the surface. A method of mitigating contamination of a surface of an optical component, including: inserting the optical component into a chamber for a semi-conductor inspection system, controlling a temperature and a pressure within the chamber, introducing a blocking material, in a gaseous state, into the chamber, coating a surface of the optical component with the blocking material, and preventing, using the coating, a contaminant in the chamber from binding to the optical component. | 06-12-2014 |
20140168758 | CARBON AS GRAZING INCIDENCE EUV MIRROR AND SPECTRAL PURITY FILTER - A mirror for reflecting extreme ultraviolet light (EUV) comprising: a substrate layer; and an upper layer above the substrate layer, that reflects EUV wavelengths and refracts longer wavelengths, said upper layer being dense and hard carbon having an Sp2 to Sp3 carbon bond ratio of 0 to about 3 and a normal incidence EUV mirror comprising an optical coating on an uppermost surface which permits transmission of EUV and protects the surface from environmental degradation, said coating being dense and hard and having an Sp2 carbon bond ratio of 0 to about 3 and a thickness of 0.1 to about 5 nanometers. The invention also includes EUV mirror systems protected by a dense carbon layer and includes a multilayer EUV reflecting system having an out of band absorbing layer. | 06-19-2014 |
20140197733 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR MULTIPLEXED MULTIPLE DISCHARGE PLASMA PRODUCED SOURCES - An apparatus for producing EUV light, including: a plate with pluralities of through-bores; at least one power system; and a plurality of discharge plasma devices disposed in the through-bores. Each device includes: a respective plasma electrode forming at least part of a respective plasma-producing region; a respective magnetic core embedded in the plate and aligned with the respective plasma electrode in a radial direction and configured to create a respective magnetic field within the respective plasma-producing region; and a respective feed system arranged to supply an ionizable material to the respective plasma-producing region. The power system is configured to supply electrical power to the plasma electrodes to create respective electric fields in the respective plasma-producing regions. The combination of the respective electric field and the respective magnetic fields is arranged to create respective plasma from the ionizable material, the respective plasma creating respective EUV light. | 07-17-2014 |
20140261568 | System and Method for Cleaning Optical Surfaces of an Extreme Ultraviolet Optical System - The present invention provides a local clean microenvironment near optical surfaces of an extreme ultraviolet (EUV) optical assembly maintained in a vacuum process chamber and configured for EUV lithography, metrology, or inspection. The system includes one or more EUV optical assemblies including at least one optical element with an optical surface, a supply of cleaning gas stored remotely from the one or more optical assemblies and a gas delivery unit comprising: a plenum chamber, one or more gas delivery lines connecting the supply of gas to the plenum chamber, one or more delivery nozzles configured to direct cleaning gas from the plenum chamber to a portion of the EUV assembly, and one or more collection nozzles for removing gas from the EUV optical assembly and the vacuum process chamber. | 09-18-2014 |
20140362366 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR GAS FLOW MITIGATION OF MOLECULAR CONTAMINATION OF OPTICS - A computer-implemented method for determining an optimized purge gas flow in a semi-conductor inspection metrology or lithography apparatus, comprising receiving a permissible contaminant mole fraction, a contaminant outgassing flow rate associated with a contaminant, a contaminant mass diffusivity, an outgassing surface length, a pressure, a temperature, a channel height, and a molecular weight of a purge gas, calculating a flow factor based on the permissible contaminant mole fraction, the contaminant outgassing flow rate, the channel height, and the outgassing surface length, comparing the flow factor to a predefined maximum flow factor value, calculating a minimum purge gas velocity and a purge gas mass flow rate from the flow factor, the contaminant mass diffusivity, the pressure, the temperature, and the molecular weight of the purge gas, and introducing the purge gas into the semi-conductor inspection metrology or lithography apparatus with the minimum purge gas velocity and the purge gas flow rate. | 12-11-2014 |
20150253675 | System and Method for Cleaning EUV Optical Elements - A system for cleaning or suppressing contamination or oxidation in a EUV optical setting includes an illumination source, a detector, a first set of optical elements to direct light from the illumination source to a specimen and a second set of optical elements to receive illumination from the specimen and direct the illumination to the detector. The system also includes one or more vacuum chambers for containing the first and second set of optical elements and containing a selected purge gas ionizable by the light emitted by the illumination source. The first or second set of optical elements includes an electrically biased optical element having at least one electrically biased surface. The electrically biased optical element has a bias configuration suitable to attract one or more ionic species of the selected purge gas to the electrically biased surface in order to clean contaminants from the electrically biased surface. | 09-10-2015 |
20150279628 | Open Plasma Lamp for Forming a Light-Sustained Plasma - An open plasma lamp includes a cavity section. A gas input and gas output of the cavity section are arranged to flow gas through the cavity section. The plasma lamp also includes a gas supply assembly fluidically coupled to the gas input of the cavity section and configured to supply gas to an internal volume of the cavity section. The plasma lamp also includes a nozzle assembly fluidically coupled to the gas output of the cavity section. The nozzle assembly and cavity section are arranged such that a volume of the gas receives pumping illumination from a pump source, where a sustained plasma emits broadband radiation. The nozzle assembly is configured to establish a convective gas flow from within the cavity section to a region external to the cavity section such that a portion of the sustained plasma is removed from the cavity section by the gas flow. | 10-01-2015 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20140085618 | PARTICLE CONTROL NEAR RETICLE AND OPTICS USING SHOWERHEAD - A method and an apparatus to protect a reticle against particles and chemicals in an actinic EUV reticle inspection tool are presented. The method and apparatus utilizes a pair of porous metal diffusers in the form of showerheads to provide a continual flow of clean gas. The main showerhead bathes the reticle surface to be inspected in smoothly flowing, low pressure gas, isolating it from particles coming from surrounding volumes. The secondary showerhead faces away from the reticle and toward the EUV illumination and projection optics, supplying them with purge gas while at the same time creating a buffer zone that is kept free of any particle contamination originating from those optics. | 03-27-2014 |
20140085724 | PARTICLE AND CHEMICAL CONTROL USING TUNNEL FLOW - An apparatus for contaminant control, having: a first optical assembly including: a first light homogenizer tunnel with: a first end connected to an extreme ultra-violet light source, a second end in communication with a destination chamber, a first enclosed space, and, a first gas input arranged to introduce a first gas such that the first gas flows in a first direction toward the first end and in a second direction toward the second end. The apparatus alternately having: a second optical assembly including: a second light homogenizer tunnel with: a third end connected to an extreme ultra-violet light source, a fourth end in communication with a destination chamber, a second enclosed space, a diffusion barrier tube including: a fifth end facing the fourth end and a sixth end in communication with a destination chamber, and a second gas input between the second light homogenizer tunnel and the diffusion tube. | 03-27-2014 |
20140231659 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR USE WITH EXTREME ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT HAVING CONTAMINATION PROTECTION - An apparatus for use with extreme ultraviolet (EUV) light comprising A) a duct having a first end opening, a second end opening and an intermediate opening intermediate the first end opening the second end opening, B) an optical component disposed to receive EUV light from the second end opening or to send light through the second end opening, and C) a source of low pressure gas at a first pressure to flow through the duct, the gas having a high transmission of EUV light, fluidly coupled to the intermediate opening. In addition to or rather than gas flow the apparatus may have A) a low pressure gas with a heat control unit thermally coupled. to at least one of the duct and the optical component and/or B) a voltage device to generate voltage between a first portion and a second portion of the duet with a grounded insulative portion therebetween. | 08-21-2014 |
20140374619 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR CLEANING OBJECTS IN A CHAMBER OF AN OPTICAL INSTRUMENT BY GENERATING REACTIVE IONS USING PHOTON RADIATION - An optical instrument, including a chamber, an object exposed to an interior of the chamber, a source of low-pressure gas, the gas comprising at least one of low-pressure molecular hydrogen gas, low-pressure molecular oxygen and a low-pressure noble gas, the source of low pressure gas being fluidly coupled to the chamber, a low voltage source electrically coupled between the object and a remaining portion of the instrument that is exposed to the interior of the chamber so as to maintain the object at a low voltage relative to the remaining portion, and an EUV/VUV light source adapted to direct EUV/VUV light through the low pressure gas in the chamber onto the object. In such a system, when the EUV/VUV light source is activated ions of the low-pressure gas are formed and directed to the object. The ions may be ions of Hydrogen, Oxygen or a noble gas. | 12-25-2014 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20120144919 | TESTING OF SWING TYPE CHECK VALVES USING PHASED ARRAY SEQUENCE SCANNING - A computer with a proper program generates a phased array sequence of signals. In a pulser with delays, the signals are fed through a multiplexor into a water wedge that is attached to a valve being tested. For a sequential operation of the valves from the open to the closed position, ultrasonic signals are transmitted through the fluid contained in the valve and reflected back through piezo-electric crystals to the multiplexor. By summation and merger of the signals, an image can be developed of the operation of the valve to determine if the valve is operating properly. By use of the water wedge, the top plate of the valve appears to disappear because the water wedge has the same refractive angle as the fluid contained in the valve. | 06-14-2012 |
20120180570 | Visualization of Tests on Swing Type Check Valve Using Phased Array Sequence Scanning - Computers with proper programs generate signals in phased array sequence. In pulsers with delays, signals are fed through a multiplexor into multiple water wedges attached to a valve being tested. For a sequential operation of the valves from the open to the closed position, ultrasonic signals are transmitted through fluid contained in the valve and reflected back through piezo-electric crystals to the multiplexor. By summation and merger of the signals, an image can be developed of the operation of the valve to determine if the valve is operating properly. By using multiple water wedges and pass visualization software, the operator can see exactly how the valve is functioning, which information can be stored for inspections or maintenance. | 07-19-2012 |
20150096380 | Visualization of Tests on Swing Type Check Valves Using Phased Array Sequence Scanning - A computer with a proper program generates a phased array sequence of signals. In a pulser with delays, the signals are fed through a multiplexor into multiple water wedges that are attached to a valve being tested. For a sequential operation of the valves from the open to the closed position, ultrasonic signals are transmitted through the fluid contained in the valve and reflected back through piezo-electric crystals to the multiplexor. By summation and merger of the signals, an image can be developed of the operation of the valve to determine if the valve is operating properly. By comparing the signals received with a known standard for that type valve, proper operation, or lack thereof, of the valve under test can be determined. | 04-09-2015 |
20150285399 | Visualization of Tests on Lift-Type Check Valves Using Phased Array Sequence Scanning - A computer with a proper program generates a phased array sequence of signals. In a pulser with delays, the signals are fed through a multiplexor into multiple water wedges that are attached to a lift-type check valve being tested. For a sequential operation of the lift-type check valves from the open to the closed position, ultrasonic signals are transmitted through the fluid contained in the valve and reflected back through piezo-electric crystals to the multiplexor. By summation and merger of the signals, an image can be developed of the operation of the lift-type check valve to determine if the lift-type check valve is operating properly. By comparing the signals received with a known standard for that lift-type check valve, proper operation, or lack thereof, of the lift-type check valve under test can be determined. | 10-08-2015 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20120323142 | BLOOD COLLECTION SAFETY DEVICES AND METHODS OF USE AND MANUFACTURE - An automatically locking safety device, e.g., for use in a blood collection procedure, can include a housing, first and second needle covers that are at least partly received in the housing, and a needle that is at least partly received in at least one of the first and second needle covers. The needle can include a proximal tip configured for placement into a patient and a distal tip configured for placement into a blood collection vial. In some embodiments, the first and second needle covers are biased by a biasing member. In some cases, one or both of the first and second needle covers can be locked to prevent axial movement thereof after the blood collection procedure. In certain embodiments, a distal end of the device is configured to connect with a medical connector, such as a needleless IV access device. | 12-20-2012 |
20130261591 | VIAL DEVICE AND METHODS - Disclosed are embodiments of a vial device and related systems that can include a cartridge that can have a proximal end and a distal end, where the cartridge can include a housing that defines a fluid chamber. Embodiments of the vial device can include a first stopper, where the first stopper can be positioned at about the proximal end of the cartridge, and a second stopper, where the second stopper can be movable relative to the cartridge. Embodiments of the vial device can include an outer housing, where the cartridge can be configured to seat within the outer housing. | 10-03-2013 |
20140074023 | MULTI-CHAMBER FLUID DELIVERY DEVICE AND METHODS - A fluid delivery device includes a cartridge and a syringe. The cartridge includes a housing and a stopper positioned within a fluid chamber defined by the housing. The syringe includes a needle, and an outer body and an inner core which cooperate to receive at least a portion of the housing. When the fluid delivery device is in a first configuration, at least a portion of the cartridge is positioned within the syringe and the stopper is connected to the inner core. In a second configuration, a lumen defined by the needle is in fluid communication with the fluid chamber. | 03-13-2014 |
20140183070 | Device for Disposing Medicament Products - A device for the neutralization and disposal of unused medicaments, such as drugs or medications. The device generally comprises a means of storing disposal device material, which can render medicaments unusable, and a means of exposing the disposal device material to the medicaments when they are no longer in use. The device may be a medicament container comprising a reservoir to store the disposal device material, and a means to expose the disposal device material to the medicaments. Alternatively, the device may be a medicament closure or lid for use with a medicament container, in which the closure comprises a reservoir for storing the disposal device material and a means to expose the disposal device material to the medicaments. | 07-03-2014 |
20140236046 | BLOOD COLLECTION SAFETY DEVICES AND METHODS OF USE AND MANUFACTURE - An automatically locking safety device, e.g., for use in a blood collection procedure, can include a housing, first and second needle covers that are at least partly received in the housing, and a needle that is at least partly received in at least one of the first and second needle covers. The needle can include a proximal tip configured for placement into a patient and a distal tip configured for placement into a blood collection vial. In some embodiments, the first and second needle covers are biased by a biasing member. In some cases, one or both of the first and second needle covers can be locked to prevent axial movement thereof after the blood collection procedure. In certain embodiments, a distal end of the device is configured to connect with a medical connector, such as a needleless IV access device. | 08-21-2014 |
20140257105 | FLUID FILLABLE CATHETER CAPSULE - A fluid fillable catheter capsule assembly is provided suitable for use with an appropriate catheter in imaging applications for medical or surgical procedures. Methods of constructing such fluid fillable catheter capsule assemblies, methods of using the fluid fillable catheter capsule assemblies, and imaging systems provided with fluid fillable catheter capsule assemblies are provided. | 09-11-2014 |
20150265827 | Intravenous Catheter with Pressure Activated Valve - The anti-back-flow devices and methods prevent fluid from leaking proximally from a catheter, but allow ready access to the catheter using any male luer device. The devices include proximal surfaces that urge open a valve in response to force from a male luer tip. The valves are associated a female luer hub and adapted to function with standard and typical non-standard male luer fittings. | 09-24-2015 |
20160067410 | Filtering Needle Cap - A filtered needle for use in administering a liquid payload, including a needle and connector portion and a filtering needle cap. The filtering needle cap including a distal open end in fluid communication via an internal channel with a proximal open end of the filtering needle cap. The filtering needle cap proximal end sized to receive the distal end of the hub within the proximal end of the filtering needle cap to reversibly engage the hub when needle distal end is inserted into the internal channel. The filtering needle cap including a filter element and a seal to seal around an outside diameter of the hollow needle so that liquid payload is drawn into the lumen in the hollow needle as liquid payload is filtered and drawn into the fluid fitting. The filtering needle cap is designed to limit a dead volume of liquid payload drawn into the filtering needle cap but not entering into the distal end of the hollow needle. | 03-10-2016 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20080283066 | DELIVERY DEVICE FOR IMPLANTABLE SENSORS - A delivery system for an implantable medical device including a tether retaining feature having a bore. The system includes a connector having a top surface, a bottom surface, a rail extending in a proximal direction from the connector, and an aperture sized to receive the tether retaining feature and reduce movement of the connector with respect to the implantable medical device in a plane parallel to the aperture. A tether is sized to fit within the bore of the tether retaining feature. The tether acts against the top surface of the connector to retain the bottom surface of the connector proximal to the implantable medical device when the tether is located within the bore of the tether retaining feature. A method for delivering an implantable medical device including a tether retaining feature. | 11-20-2008 |
20110208286 | CATHETER ASSEMBLY AND METHOD FOR TREATING BIFURCATIONS - An improved stent design and stent delivery catheter assembly for repairing a main vessel and a side branch vessel forming a bifurcation. The stent includes rings aligned along a common longitudinal axis and connected by links, where the stent has one or more portals for aligning with and partially expanding into the opening to the side branch vessel. The stent is implanted at a bifurcation so that the main stent section is in the main vessel, and the portal section covers at least a portion of the opening to the side branch vessel. A second stent can be implanted in the side branch vessel and abut the expanded central section to provide full coverage of the bifurcated area in the main vessel and the side branch vessel. Radiopaque markers on the stent and on the tip of the delivery catheter assist in aligning the portal section with the opening to the side branch vessel. | 08-25-2011 |
20110315301 | BALLOON CATHETER HAVING A SHAFT WITH A VARIABLE STIFFNESS INNER TUBULAR MEMBER - A catheter having an elongated shaft and a balloon on a distal shaft section, the elongated shaft comprising an outer tubular member, and an inner tubular member which has a bonded portion along which an outer surface of the inner tubular member is bonded to an inner surface of the outer tubular member. The inner tubular member has a proximal portion proximal to the bonded portion, and a distal portion distal to the bonded portion with higher axial compression stiffness and column strength than the proximal portion thereof. The catheter has improved trackability, axial collapse resistance, pushability, and crossability, for improved ability to position the balloon at a desired location in a patient's body lumen. | 12-29-2011 |
20150196739 | BALLOON CATHETER HAVING A SHAFT WITH A VARIABLE STIFFNESS INNER TUBULAR MEMBER - A catheter having an elongated shaft and a balloon on a distal shaft section, the elongated shaft comprising an outer tubular member, and an inner tubular member which has a bonded portion along which an outer surface of the inner tubular member is bonded to an inner surface of the outer tubular member. The inner tubular member has a proximal portion proximal to the bonded portion, and a distal portion distal to the bonded portion with higher axial compression stiffness and column strength than the proximal portion thereof. The catheter has improved trackability, axial collapse resistance, pushability, and crossability, for improved ability to position the balloon at a desired location in a patient's body lumen. | 07-16-2015 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20110214695 | DISHWASHER WITH SEPARATE SUMP FOR CONCENTRATED FLUID SUPPLY - A dishwasher includes a main sump that holds the main wash fluid supply, and a separate sump formed in the bottom wall of the tub away from the main sump. The separate sump holds a concentrated wash fluid supply. The separate sump supplies wash fluid for washing periods in which a highly concentrated chemistry mixture is desired. | 09-08-2011 |
20110214702 | DISHWASHER WITH SEPARATE SUMP FOR CONCENTRATED FLUID SUPPLY - A dishwasher includes a main sump that holds the main wash fluid supply, and a separate sump formed in the bottom wall of the tub away from the main sump. The separate sump holds a concentrated wash fluid supply. The separate sump supplies wash fluid for washing periods in which a highly concentrated chemistry mixture is desired. | 09-08-2011 |
20110303250 | SPRAY ASSEMBLY FOR A DISHWASHER - A dishwasher includes a spray assembly positioned in the wash chamber of the dishwasher's tub. The spray assembly includes a spray arm that is driven by an input shaft. The input shaft is operable to both drive the spray arm and selectively divert wash fluid to the fluid nozzles associated with the wings of the spray arm. | 12-15-2011 |
20120125384 | HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCE HAVING A SIGNAL RELAY - A household appliance for performing a useful cycle of operation on a physical article may have a treating chamber for holding the physical article during performance of the useful cycle of operation. The household appliance may include a temporary controllable device located within the treating chamber where the temporary controllable device may be communicated with. | 05-24-2012 |
20120138092 | DISHWASHER WITH IMAGING DEVICE FOR MEASURING LOAD CHARACTERISTICS AND A METHOD FOR CONTROLLING SAME - An automatic dishwasher and a method for controlling the operation of the automatic dishwasher including an imaging device that repeatedly captures images of a sub-portion of a wash chamber as a dish rack is moved from a load position to a use position. The repeated capturing of images is synchronized with the movement of the dish rack, and areas of the dish rack in which dishes are present are determined from the repeatedly captured images. | 06-07-2012 |
20120138094 | DISHWASHER WITH MULTIPLE TREATING CHAMBERS - A method of operating a dishwasher having multiple wash chambers, with each wash chamber executing a different cycle of operation, and liquid from one chamber may be reused in the other chamber. | 06-07-2012 |
20120138100 | DISHWASHER WITH AUXILIARY, TOUGH SOIL CHEMISTRY DISPENSING SYSTEM - A dishwasher is provided with an auxiliary dispenser to be selectively, conveniently attached to a dish rack for movement with the dish rack into and out of a dishwasher tub, with the dispenser including a storage compartment for housing a washing agent, an inlet leading to the storage compartment and an outlet leading from the storage compartment. When the dish rack is in the recessed position, the inlet of the dispenser is arranged in fluid communication with a fluid conduit system which delivers washing fluid to at least one spray nozzle of the dishwasher, while an outlet of the dispenser leads to a washing compartment of the tub. With this arrangement, at least a portion of the washing fluid directed to the at least one spray nozzle will be forced to flow through the storage compartment in order to pick up additional washing agent for enhanced cleansing purposes. | 06-07-2012 |
20120138110 | DISHWASHER WITH AUXILIARY SPRAY SYSTEM HAVING REMOVABLE SPRAYERS - An automatic dishwasher having at least one primary sprayer and at least one auxiliary sprayer located within a treating chamber. Wherein the at least one auxiliary sprayer is removably mounted in the treating chamber. | 06-07-2012 |
20120145193 | DISHWASHER SYSTEM WITH A REUSE TANK - A method of operating a dishwasher having a wash tub and a reuse tank for storing liquid for subsequent reuse, wherein the condition of the water in the reuse tank may be monitored and/or acted upon to limit the likelihood of undesired effects associated with the growth of micro-organisms in the liquid. | 06-14-2012 |
20120145195 | DISHWASHER SYSTEM WITH A REUSE TANK - A method of operating a dishwasher having a wash tub and a reuse tank for storing liquid for subsequent reuse, wherein the condition of the water in the reuse tank may be monitored and/or acted upon to limit the likelihood of undesired effects associated with the growth of micro-organisms in the liquid. | 06-14-2012 |
20120279536 | DISHWASHER SPRAY ARM WITH DIVERTING VALVE - An automatic dishwasher having a rotatable sprayer includes a nozzle that may be selectively fluidly coupled to a fluid supply by a control valve. | 11-08-2012 |
20120318295 | FILTER ASSEMBLY FOR A DISHWASHER - A dishwasher with a tub at least partially defining a treating chamber, a liquid spraying system, a liquid recirculation system defining a recirculation flow path, and a liquid filtering system. The liquid filtering system includes a rotating filter disposed in the recirculation flow path to filter the liquid. | 12-20-2012 |
20130000673 | METHOD OF OPERATING A DISHWASHER - A method of operating a dishwasher includes storing wash liquid in a portion of the spray system of the dishwasher for subsequent reuse. The spray system can include one or more supply conduits, and wash liquid can be alternatively supplied to the supply conduits to store the wash liquid in at least one of the supply conduits. | 01-03-2013 |
20130160799 | DISHWASHER WITH MULTIPLE TREATING CHAMBERS - A method of operating a dishwasher having multiple wash chambers, with each wash chamber executing a different cycle of operation, and liquid from one chamber may be reused in the other chamber. | 06-27-2013 |
20130260446 | COMPOSTING DEVICE - The invention relates to a device for transforming refuse into compost. The device includes a first chamber having a grinding mechanism to grind refuse. The device also includes a second chamber attached to the first chamber, and a conduit interconnecting the first chamber to the second chamber. The second chamber stores the ground refuse to promote the composting process, and the conduit allows thermal energy and moisture to be shared between the first and second chambers. | 10-03-2013 |
20150031123 | COMPOSTING DEVICE - A device for transforming refuse into compost according to a cycle of operation has a cabinet, a hopper, a first reducing mechanism in the hopper, a first heating element coupled to the hopper, a transfer mechanism disposed in a conduit from the hopper to an outlet, a motor beneath the hopper and the transfer mechanism, a container removably mounted in the cabinet and beneath the outlet, a second reducing mechanism in the container, and a second heating element coupled to the container. | 01-29-2015 |
20150182097 | FILTER ASSEMBLY FOR A DISHWASHER - A dishwasher with a tub at least partially defining a treating chamber, a liquid spraying system, a liquid recirculation system defining a recirculation flow path, and a liquid filtering system. The liquid filtering system includes a rotating filter disposed in the recirculation flow path to filter the liquid. | 07-02-2015 |
20150359412 | HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCE WITH BULK UNIT-DOSE DISPENSER AND METHOD OF CONTROLLING THE SAME - A household appliance, such as dishwasher, includes a bulk unit-dose dispenser configured to hold multiple unit doses of treating chemistry and dispense the treating chemistry at the appropriate time in a cycle of operation. The bulk unit-dose dispenser can include a multiple compartments moveable along a track, and the compartments can be sequentially moved into registry with a dispensing opening of the appliance. | 12-17-2015 |
20160037996 | DISHWASHER SYSTEM WITH A REUSE TANK - A method of operating a dishwasher having a wash tub and a reuse tank for storing liquid for subsequent reuse, wherein the condition of the water in the reuse tank may be monitored and/or acted upon to limit the likelihood of undesired effects associated with the growth of micro-organisms in the liquid. | 02-11-2016 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20080275822 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MANAGING SPONSORSHIPS - A system and method for managing sponsorships by a sponsor, in which the party requesting the sponsorship requests to use content owned and protected by the sponsor, such as trademarks, logos, and copyrighted material. An embodiment of the method involves receiving, at a computer network site, a request for sponsorship from a requester and responding to the request by sending either an approval or a rejection. If an approval is sent, the method further involves providing the requestor with access to content of the sponsor through the site. As part of providing this access, the method can involve requiring the requestor to accept an agreement posted on the site. The method can also include monitoring the requestor's actual use of the content. | 11-06-2008 |
20090083109 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SELECTING AND PROTECTING INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY ASSETS - The present invention relates to systems and methods for intellectual property asset selection and protection. In an embodiment, an intellectual property selection system receives from an innovator an innovation submission describing an innovation. An intellectual property protection system receives at least a portion of the innovation submission and manages obtaining an intellectual property legal right related to the innovation. An intellectual property asset management system receives and stores at least one of an innovation description is based at least in part on the at least a portion of the innovation submission and the intellectual property legal right description is based at least in part on the intellectual property legal right. | 03-26-2009 |
20100088243 | System and Method for Selecting and Protecting Intellectual Property Assets - The present invention relates to systems and methods for intellectual property asset selection and protection. In an embodiment, an intellectual property selection system receives from an innovator an innovation submission describing an innovation. An intellectual property protection system receives at least a portion of the innovation submission and manages obtaining an intellectual property legal right related to the innovation. An intellectual property asset management system receives and stores at least one of an innovation description and an intellectual property legal right description, where the innovation description is based at least in part on the at least a portion of the innovation submission and the intellectual property legal right description is based at least in part on the intellectual property legal right. | 04-08-2010 |
20100094763 | System and Method for Selecting and Protecting Intellectual Property Assets - The present invention relates to systems and methods for intellectual property asset selection and protection. In an embodiment, an intellectual property selection system receives from an innovator an innovation submission describing an innovation. An intellectual property protection system receives at least a portion of the innovation submission and manages obtaining an intellectual property legal right related to the innovation. An intellectual property asset management system receives and stores at least one of an innovation description and an intellectual property legal right description, where the innovation description is based at least in part on the at least a portion of the innovation submission and the intellectual property legal right description is based at least in part on the intellectual property legal right. | 04-15-2010 |
20120323801 | System and Method for Managing Sponsorships - A system and method for managing sponsorships by a sponsor, in which the party requesting the sponsorship requests to use content owned and protected by the sponsor, such as trademarks, logos, and copyrighted material. An embodiment of the method involves receiving, at a computer network site, a request for sponsorship from a requestor and responding to the request by sending either an approval or a rejection. If an approval is sent, the method further involves providing the requestor with access to content of the sponsor through the site. As part of providing this access, the method can involve requiring the requestor to accept an agreement posted on the site. The method can also include monitoring the requestor's actual use of the content. | 12-20-2012 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20090274776 | Method for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Conditions Involving Aberrant Erythrocyte Potassium Levels - The present invention provides a systematic approach that allows health care providers (e.g., physicians) to use erythrocyte potassium measurements as an indicator of hypertension or risk of developing hypertension. In particular, the present invention provides systems and methods for treating conditions involving aberrant erythrocyte potassium levels (e.g., hypertension), preventing the onset of conditions involving aberrant erythrocyte potassium levels, identifying individuals at risk for developing hypertension, and evaluating the effectiveness of treatments for conditions involving aberrant erythrocyte potassium levels (e.g., hypertension). | 11-05-2009 |
20100021879 | COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS FOR PRESERVING RED BLOOD CELLS - The present invention provides methods, compositions and kits for storing red blood cells for extended periods of time. In particular, the present invention provides methods, compositions and kits for storing red blood cells for extended periods of time while preventing red blood cell storage lesions, retaining red blood cell deformability, and increasing survival of the red blood cells following transfusion. | 01-28-2010 |
20100034902 | METHOD FOR THE DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT OF SALT SENSITIVITY AND RELATED CONDITIONS - The present invention provides methods for measuring, detecting, diagnosing, treating, and researching salt sensitivity and related conditions. In particular, the present invention provides methods for measuring, detecting, diagnosing, treating, and researching salt sensitivity through measuring aberrant red blood cell based potassium efflux levels. In addition, the present invention provides methods for treating conditions involving salt sensitivity (e.g., hypertension), preventing the onset of conditions involving salt sensitivity, identifying individuals at risk for developing salt sensitivity and related conditions, identifying new types of treatment for salt sensitivity and related conditions, and evaluating the effectiveness of treatments for conditions involving salt sensitivity (e.g., hypertension). | 02-11-2010 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20120239142 | PROSTHETIC HEART VALVE DELIVERY APPARATUS - Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a prosthetic valve (e.g., prosthetic heart valve) and a valve delivery apparatus for delivery of the prosthetic valve to a native valve site via the human vasculature. The delivery apparatus is particularly suited for advancing a prosthetic heart valve through the aorta (i.e., in a retrograde approach) for replacing a diseased native aortic valve. The delivery apparatus in particular embodiments is configured to deploy a prosthetic valve from a delivery sheath in a precise and controlled manner at the target location within the body. | 09-20-2012 |
20140067048 | Heart Valve Sealing Devices - This disclosure pertains generally to prosthetic devices and related methods for helping to seal native heart valves and prevent or reduce regurgitation therethrough, as well as devices and related methods for implanting such prosthetic devices. In some cases, a spacer having a single anchor can be implanted within a native heart valve. In some cases, a spacer having dual anchors can be implanted within a native heart valve. In some cases, devices can be used to extend the effective length of a native heart valve leaflet. | 03-06-2014 |
20140067052 | Heart Valve Sealing Devices - This disclosure pertains generally to prosthetic devices and related methods for helping to seal native heart valves and prevent or reduce regurgitation therethrough, as well as devices and related methods for implanting such prosthetic devices. In some cases, a spacer having a single anchor can be implanted within a native heart valve. In some cases, a spacer having dual anchors can be implanted within a native heart valve. In some cases, devices can be used to extend the effective length of a native heart valve leaflet. | 03-06-2014 |
20140067054 | Heart Valve Sealing Devices - This disclosure pertains generally to prosthetic devices and related methods for helping to seal native heart valves and prevent or reduce regurgitation therethrough, as well as devices and related methods for implanting such prosthetic devices. In some cases, a spacer having a single anchor can be implanted within a native heart valve. In some cases, a spacer having dual anchors can be implanted within a native heart valve. In some cases, devices can be used to extend the effective length of a native heart valve leaflet. | 03-06-2014 |
20150142049 | SEALING DEVICES, RELATED DELIVERY APPARATUSES, AND USES THEREOF - Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to implantable sealing devices, delivery apparatuses, and methods of their use, for closing surgical openings or defects in a sidewall of a vessel in a subject. In several embodiments, the disclosed implantable sealing devices, delivery apparatuses, and methods can be used to close a surgical opening in a sidewall of the heart. | 05-21-2015 |