Patent application number | Description | Published |
20110015674 | Suture anchor implantation instrumentation system - An apparatus for inserting a suture anchor into an internal anatomical site through a cannula, or percutaneously, has a curved hollow guide for insertion into the cannula and/or tissue. The guide has a proximal end and a distal end. The distal end has a “parabolic ” shape for engaging the intended anatomical site such as a glenoid. A flexible obturator is insertable through the curved guide from the proximal end to the distal end to facilitate insertion of the guide through the cannula. A flexible drill is insertable through the curved guide from the proximal to the distal end once the guide is in place. A flexible inserter is provided for inserting a suture anchor into a bore at the anatomical site formed by the flexible drill. | 01-20-2011 |
20110015675 | SUTURE ANCHOR IMPLANTATION INSTRUMENTATION SYSTEM - A system for implanting an anchor into bone, the system comprising a curved cannulated guide for percautaneous insertion, having a proximal end and a distal end; a flexible drill insertable through the curved guide from the proximal end to the distal end, the flexible drill having a shaft having a flexible portion; and a flexible inserter for inserting a suture anchor into a bore at the anatomical site formed by the flexible drill, the flexible inserter having a shaft having a flexible portion, wherein the flexible portions of both the flexible drill and flexible inserter include a series of discrete, interlocking segments. | 01-20-2011 |
20110160856 | Systems and Methods for Zipknot ACL Fixation - A system and method for securing an ACL graft. The system may comprise a line routed through a plate, the plate may comprise an elongated body with a plurality of passageways, and a dogbone feature on one end. The line is routed such to create at least one one-way slide so no knots are required. The line may comprise an adjustable loop that receives the graft. The adjustable loop is adjustable through the one-way slide feature of the line routed around and through the plate. The plate may be configured to pass through a bone tunnel with the use of filaments routed through the passageways of the plate or around the dogbone feature of the plate. The filaments may be used to toggle the plate after passage through the bone tunnel to prevent withdrawal back through the bone tunnel because the plate contact area is larger the bone tunnel area. | 06-30-2011 |
20120046747 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ZIPKNOT ACL FIXATION - A system and method for securing an ACL graftmay include a line routed through a plate. The plate may include an elongated body with a plurality of passageways, and a dogbone feature on at least one end of the body. The line may be routed to create at least one one-way slide so no knots are required. The line may form an adjustable loop that receives the graft. The adjustable loop is adjustable through the one-way slide feature. The plate may be configured to pass through a bone tunnel. The plate may be toggled after passage through the bone tunnel to prevent withdrawal back through the bone tunnel because the plate contact area is larger the bone tunnel area. | 02-23-2012 |
20120059469 | DOUBLE BUNDLE ACL REPAIR SYSTEM - A system for single tunnel, double bundle anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction includes implant constructs and instruments. The implant constructs provide a combination of cortical fixation and bone tunnel aperture fixation. The implant constructs separate a graft into distinct bundles. The instruments are used to prepare shaped bone tunnels to receive the implant constructs and graft bundles. Methods for reconstructing the antero-medial and postero-lateral bundles of the anterior cruciate ligament may rely on single femoral and tibial tunnels and a single strand of graft. | 03-08-2012 |
20120065731 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR INTRA-OPERATIVE TENSION AND FIXATION OF ZIPKNOT ACL FIXATION - A line lock system may include a line routed through a plate. The plate may have an elongated body with a plurality of passageways. The line is routed to form at least one one-way slide so no knots are required. The system may include filaments routed through the passageways of the plate or around a dogbone feature of the plate. The filaments may be used to toggle the plate after passage through a hole to prevent withdrawal of the plate back through the hole. The system may include a line lock stabilizer or counter-tension tool to stabilize the line lock as the line is adjusted. The system may include a compression limiter to selectively reduce compression in the one-way slide to facilitate adjustment of the line. The line lock stabilizer, counter-tension tool, or compression limiter may be a filament. | 03-15-2012 |
20120215316 | EXPANDABLE INTERVERTEBRAL SPACER - A spinal implant system, specifically an intervertebral spacer. The system is designed to change its physical conformation from a minimal profile to an expanded state, enabling it to be placed through a smaller incision and operative cannula. The ability to change from a minimal profile to an expanded state may be accomplished through pivoting of support bodies, or expansion through a screw system, or sliding of the support bodies perhaps along an oblong surface. The system will allow for long-term promotion of osteointegration. | 08-23-2012 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20090036933 | System and method for vertebral body plating - A spinal plating system for vertebral fixation includes a plate, a compression screw, multiple fixation members and polyaxially adjustable locking rings. The plate is shaped to conform to the curvature of the spine and the surfaces of the vertebral bodies. The compression screw fits through an insert, and together they are guided by the plate as the screw is driven into one of the vertebrae, producing compression between the adjacent vertebrae. A retaining lip on the plate prevents backout of the compression screw. The polyaxial locking rings can be polyaxially pivoted to attain a desired orientation, and are lockable to the plate to maintain the orientation. The fixation members fit through openings in the polyaxial locking rings and the plate to fix the plate to the vertebrae. Locking the polyaxial locking rings fixes the position of the fixation members relative to the plate, and prevents backout of the fixation members. | 02-05-2009 |
20130304124 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR VERTEBRAL BODY PLATING - A spinal plating system for vertebral fixation includes a plate, a compression screw, multiple fixation members and polyaxially adjustable locking rings. The plate is shaped to conform to the curvature of the spine and the surfaces of the vertebral bodies. The compression screw fits through an insert, and together they are guided by the plate as the screw is driven into one of the vertebrae, producing compression between the adjacent vertebrae. A retaining lip on the plate prevents backout of the compression screw. The polyaxial locking rings can be polyaxially pivoted to attain a desired orientation, and are lockable to the plate to maintain the orientation. The fixation members fit through openings in the polyaxial locking rings and the plate to fix the plate to the vertebrae. Locking the polyaxial locking rings fixes the position of the fixation members relative to the plate, and prevents backout of the fixation members. | 11-14-2013 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20090082807 | Suture anchor having a suture engaging structure and inserter arrangement - A suture anchor and inserter arrangement, including a suture anchor for implanting in hard tissue, such as bone, and an inserter device for installing the suture anchor in hard tissue. The suture anchor carries thereon a suture-engaging structure formed from suture, which structure cooperates with working suture associated with the inserter device so as to attach the working suture to the suture anchor. | 03-26-2009 |
20110190897 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR JOINT ARTHROPLASTY - An orthopaedic joint prosthesis may include a first component, a bearing component, and a third component. The first component has a base and a keel protruding from the base to extend into a first bone. The keel's longitudinal axis is offset from a geometric center of the base. The base has a first articular surface and the bearing component has a second articular surface shaped to articulate with the first articular surface. A feature unitary with the first component reversibly attaches to the bearing component. The bearing component has a third articular surface shaped to articulate with a fourth articular surface on the third component. A distraction feature of the bearing component is shaped to provide alignment and/or distraction between the first articular surface and the fourth articular surface during insertion of the bearing component into a joint space between the first and second bones. | 08-04-2011 |
20130096677 | ACL IMPLANTS, INSTRUMENTS, AND METHODS - Systems for single tunnel, double bundle anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction include implant constructs and instruments. The implant constructs provide a combination of cortical fixation and bone tunnel aperture fixation. The implant constructs separate a graft into distinct bundles. The instruments are used to prepare shaped bone tunnels to receive the implant constructs and graft bundles. The instruments are also used to exercise and insert the ligament graft constructs. Methods for reconstructing the antero-medial and postero-lateral bundles of the anterior cruciate ligament may rely on a single femoral tunnel, single or double tibial tunnels, and one or more ligament grafts. | 04-18-2013 |
20130331941 | DOUBLE BUNDLE ACL REPAIR SYSTEM - A system for single tunnel, double bundle anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction includes implant constructs and instruments. The implant constructs provide a combination of cortical fixation and bone tunnel aperture fixation. The implant constructs separate a graft into distinct bundles. The instruments are used to prepare shaped bone tunnels to receive the implant constructs and graft bundles. Methods for reconstructing the antero-medial and postero-lateral bundles of the anterior cruciate ligament may rely on single femoral and tibial tunnels and a single strand of graft. | 12-12-2013 |
20150142110 | ACL IMPLANTS, INSTRUMENTS, AND METHODS - Systems for single tunnel, double bundle anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction include implant constructs and instruments. The implant constructs provide a combination of cortical fixation and bone tunnel aperture fixation. The implant constructs separate a graft into distinct bundles. The instruments are used to prepare shaped bone tunnels to receive the implant constructs and graft bundles. The instruments are also used to exercise and insert the ligament graft constructs. Methods for reconstructing the antero-medial and postero-lateral bundles of the anterior cruciate ligament may rely on a single femoral tunnel, single or double tibial tunnels, and one or more ligament grafts. | 05-21-2015 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20120232590 | SUTURE ANCHOR HAVING A SUTURE ENGAGING STRUCTURE AND INSERTER ARRANGEMENT - A suture anchor and inserter arrangement, including a suture anchor for implanting in hard tissue, such as bone, and an inserter device for installing the suture anchor in hard tissue. The suture anchor carries thereon a suture-engaging structure formed from suture, which structure cooperates with working suture associated with the inserter device so as to attach the working suture to the suture anchor. | 09-13-2012 |
20140172107 | BIOMEDICAL IMPLANT INSERTERS AND RELATED APPARATUS, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS - Embodiments of apparatus, systems, and methods relating to spinal implants. In some embodiments, the spinal implant may comprise a first sidewall, a second sidewall opposite from the first sidewall, a pair of opposed frictional surfaces each comprising a plurality of raised structures, a first end wall joining the pair of opposed sidewall surfaces, and a second end wall joining the first sidewall and the second sidewall. The second end wall may comprise a recess formed by a first wall portion and a second wall portion arranged at an angle to one another to form a fish-tailed structure configured to be engaged with an inserter instrument. The interface between the recess and the inserter instrument may be configured to at least substantially eliminate any point or line contacts between the inserter instrument and the spinal implant during a flip maneuver of the spinal implant within an intervertebral space of a patient. | 06-19-2014 |
20150094816 | SPINAL IMPLANTS AND RELATED INSTRUMENTS AND METHODS - Apparatus, methods, and systems relating to spinal implants and instruments for installing such implants. In some embodiments, a spinal implant may comprise an opening configured to receive an installation rod for installing the spinal implant within an intervertebral space of a patient. The opening may be positioned within a wall of the spinal implant, and may comprise a peripheral edge defined by the wall of the spinal implant. An installation rod may be provided that may be configured to be positioned within the opening of the spinal implant, and may comprise an engagement section configured to engage a portion of the spinal implant defining the opening at a location spaced apart from the peripheral edge such that the highest forces applied to the spinal implant in coupling the spinal implant with the installation rod during installation are not applied to the portion of the opening defined by the peripheral edge. | 04-02-2015 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20090031026 | System and method for cross-authoritative configuration management - A system and method for cross-authoritative, user-based network configuration management is provided. Users log-in to a network using any device coupled to the network, and an identity manager may provide the user with a custom computing environment by verifying the user's identity and identifying content, assignments, and other configuration information associated with the user. For instance, the identity manager may retrieve a unique identifier assigned to the user, query one or more authoritative source domains based on the unique identifier, and deliver a computing environment assigned to the user. By seamlessly integrating multiple authoritative sources, administrators can make assignments to users across multiple authoritative source domains, and queries to the sources will always be up-to-date without having to perform synchronization processes. | 01-29-2009 |
20100268824 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CROSS-AUTHORITATIVE CONFIGURATION MANAGEMENT - A system and method for cross-authoritative, user-based network configuration management is provided. Users log-in to a network using any device coupled to the network, and an identity manager may provide the user with a custom computing environment by verifying the user's identity and identifying content, assignments, and other configuration information associated with the user. For instance, the identity manager may retrieve a unique identifier assigned to the user, query one or more authoritative source domains based on the unique identifier, and deliver a computing environment assigned to the user. By seamlessly integrating multiple authoritative sources, administrators can make assignments to users across multiple authoritative source domains, and queries to the sources will always be up-to-date without having to perform synchronization processes. | 10-21-2010 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20130321857 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR INVENTORY MANAGEMENT - In various embodiments, a method performed by a computer program operating on a computer system includes: displaying, by the computer system on a display screen in communication with the computer system, a plurality of data fields related to shipping a package; and receiving, by the computer system, an identifier for the package. The method further includes in response to the receipt of the identifier: automatically populating, by the computer system, a data field from the plurality of data fields with data for the package from a device in communication with the computer system; and displaying, by the computer system, the populated data field on the display screen. The method also includes generating, by the computer system, a shipping label for the package using a printer in communication with the computer system, the shipping label including one or more of the identifier and the data from the device. | 12-05-2013 |
20130325739 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TRACKING SHIPMENTS - The processing of data and inventory, particularly with regards to packages having an issue affecting their delivery, is disclosed. Among other things, embodiments of the present disclosure help enable the quick, efficient, and accurate resolution to such issues. According to various embodiments, a method performed by a computer program operating on a computer system is disclosed, the method comprising: accessing, by the computer system, a database containing a plurality of database entries for a respective plurality of packages to be matched with an intended recipient; identifying, by the computer system, one or more entries from the plurality of entries for which the respective packages for the one or more entries are unmatched to any recipient; and generating an alert, by the computer system, including information regarding the one or more unmatched packages. | 12-05-2013 |
20130325743 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TRACKING PACKAGES - According to various embodiments, a method performed by a computer program operating on a computer system is disclosed, the method comprising: accessing, by the computer system, a database in communication with the computer system, wherein the database contains a plurality of records, wherein each record in the plurality of records includes a status condition; accessing, by the computer system, a rule set for the status conditions for the plurality of records, the rule set stored in a memory in communication with the computer system; identifying based on the rule set, by the computer system, one or more records from the plurality of records having a disallowed status condition; and generating, by the computer system, an alert, the alert including a list of the one or more records having a disallowed status condition. | 12-05-2013 |
20130325893 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR IDENTIFYING LOST PACKAGES - The processing of data and inventory, particularly with regards to packages having an issue affecting their delivery, is disclosed. Among other things, embodiments of the present disclosure help enable the quick, efficient, and accurate resolution to such issues. In various embodiments, a method performed by a computer program operating on a computer system is disclosed. The method comprises: receiving, by the computer system, an identifier for a package; in response to receiving the identifier, automatically retrieving, by the computer system, a database entry associated with the package from a database in communication with the computer system; determining, by the computer system, based on the database entry, that the package was refused by an intended recipient; and automatically modifying, by the computer system, a status field of the database entry to indicate the package was refused. | 12-05-2013 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20120165427 | WATER-SOLUBLE PRODUCT - Products which decompose when exposed to water are disclosed. The products comprise polyvinyl alcohol, talc, polyethylene glycol, and one or more of fiberglass and a titanium complex. The hardness or softness of the products may be varied by varying the relative amounts of talc, fiberglass, and titanium complex used therein. The products may be formed into items such as golf tees, stakes for ground-anchored structures, pellets for firearms, survey stakes and flags. | 06-28-2012 |
20120264860 | Water-Soluble Product - Products which decompose when exposed to water are disclosed. The products comprise polyvinyl alcohol, talc, polyethylene glycol, and one or more of fiberglass and a titanium complex. The hardness or softness of the products may be varied by varying the relative amounts of talc, fiberglass, and titanium complex used therein. The products may be formed into items such as golf tees, stakes for ground-anchored structures, pellets for firearms, survey stakes and flags. | 10-18-2012 |
20130323445 | Water-Soluble Product - Compositions and articles comprising rapidly-degrading materials are provided as are methods of making articles using compositions of the invention. The articles and compositions include polyvinyl alcohol and one or more stiffeners. | 12-05-2013 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20120011064 | PREPAID TRANSACTION CARD ACTIVATION SYSTEM AND METHOD - Reloadable or non-reloadable prepaid transaction card activation systems are disclosed. More specifically, the system provides a platform for activation of prepaid or stored value transaction cards and capture of customer demographic information, and verification of that information, after the customer has obtained or has been issued a prepaid transaction card. The data capture is performed at activation rather than at point of sale. | 01-12-2012 |
20120173420 | PREPAID TRANSACTION CARD ACTIVATION SYSTEM AND METHOD - Reloadable or non-reloadable prepaid transaction card activation systems are disclosed. More specifically, the system provides a platform for activation of prepaid or stored value transaction cards and capture of customer demographic information, and verification of that information, after the customer has obtained or has been issued a prepaid transaction card. The data capture is performed at activation rather than at point of sale. | 07-05-2012 |
20120323778 | PREPAID TRANSACTION CARD ACTIVATION SYSTEM AND METHOD - Reloadable or non-reloadable prepaid transaction card activation systems are disclosed. More specifically, the system provides a platform for activation of prepaid or stored value transaction cards and capture of customer demographic information, and verification of that information, after the customer has obtained or has been issued a prepaid transaction card. The data capture is performed at activation rather than at point of sale. | 12-20-2012 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20080213720 | ENDODONTIC INSTRUMENTS MANUFACTURED USING CHEMICAL MILLING - A method of manufacturing endodontic files involves a chemical milling process to yield endodontic files having a desired taper and/or degree of sharpness. The process involves the steps of (a) forming helical cutting edges in the cutting portion of the metallic rod; and (b) chemically milling the cutting portion of the rod so as to sharpen and/or taper the cutting portion. The rod may be formed of any desirable metallic material, for example stainless steel or a nickel-titanium alloy. The cutting edges may be formed by torsioning, cutting, grinding, machining, laser micromachining, or grit blasting. | 09-04-2008 |
20090325120 | SELF-LIGATING ORTHODONTIC BRACKET WITH SLIDING LIGATION COVER - Self-ligating orthodontic brackets include a bracket base, at least one arch wire slot formed in the bracket base adapted to receive an arch wire therein, and a ligation cover which is selectively slidable relative to the bracket base between an open non-ligating position relative to the slot and a closed, ligating position relative to the slot. The exterior labial surface of both the base and ligation cover comprise a compound two axis curvature so that substantially all of the exterior labial surface of both the bracket base and the ligation cover present a smooth, continuous exterior surface that is substantially free of sharp discontinuities and crevices. | 12-31-2009 |
20100055639 | DENTAL TREATMENT TRAYS COMPRISING SILICONE OR OTHER ELASTOMERIC MATERIAL - Non-customized dental treatment trays used to provide a desired treatment are formed from elastomeric silicone or silicone-like material. They may be injection molded from a two-part liquid silicone composition or a silicone-like TPE material (e.g., preferably SEBS and/or VERSAflex thermoplastic elastomer). The dental treatment trays possess high adaptability, flexibility, softness, and elastic elongation while also exhibiting resiliency in order to readily conform to the ridges, depressions and contours of a person's teeth during use. The trays possess a greater ability to adhere to a person's teeth compared to non-elastomeric thermoplastic materials. Due to their high adaptability and conformability, the non-customized dental trays behave like a semi-custom dental tray when placed over conformed to a person's teeth, particularly when used in combination with a sticky, viscous treatment composition. | 03-04-2010 |
20150147710 | LASER ETCHED SINTERED CERAMIC ORTHODONTIC BRACKETS - The present disclosure is drawn to laser etched, sintered ceramic orthodontic brackets. Such a bracket can comprise a working surface including an archwire slot and a ligating structure. The bracket can also include a laser etched tooth attachment surface that is laser etched after sintering of the ceramic orthodontic bracket. In another example, a method of increasing the average bonding strength of a sintered ceramic orthodontic bracket can comprise laser etching a tooth attachment surface of the sintered ceramic orthodontic bracket. In one specific example, the method can further comprise the preliminary steps of forming a ceramic material into a shape of an orthodontic bracket and sintering the orthodontic bracket. | 05-28-2015 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20090321037 | MOLD ASSEMBLY APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR MOLDING METAL ARTICLES - Apparatus assemblies and methods for melting and injection molding an article from a meltable metal that is sensitive to heating by radio frequency (RF) induction. An exemplary apparatus includes a mold including a cavity having a shape of an article to be molded, a delivery chute including a channel for delivering a solid metal billet from a proximal end of the delivery chute to a distal end which is adjacent to the mold, and an RF induction heating coil that surrounds the cavity of the mold and the distal end of the delivery chute. Advantageously, the portion of the mold defining the cavity and at least the distal end of the delivery chute (i.e., those portions surrounded by the RF coil) are formed of materials that are substantially insensitive to heating by RF induction so that the metal billet is melted and molded at approximately the same time. | 12-31-2009 |
20090325118 | ORTHODONTIC BRACKETS HAVING A BENDABLE OR FLEXIBLE MEMBER FORMED FROM AMORPHOUS METALLIC ALLOYS - Orthodontic brackets having a bracket base including at least one arch wire slot formed therein and a bendable or flexible member (e.g., a film hinge) having a relatively thin cross-sectional thickness to facilitate flexing or bending of the member with little or no permanent deformation, wherein at least the bendable or flexible member comprises an amorphous metallic alloy. | 12-31-2009 |
20100028829 | CHEMICALLY ACTIVATED DENTAL BLEACHING TRAYS - Dental treatment trays and strips used to deliver a dental bleaching composition to a person's teeth are formed from a moisture resistant barrier material and include a bleaching agent destabilizer disposed on an inner treatment surface of the barrier layer that is positioned against the person's teeth during use. The bleaching agent destabilizer may be compounded with the moisture resistant material or otherwise disposed relative to the barrier layer so that at least some destabilizer is positioned on the inner treatment surface of the tray or strip so as to contact the dental bleaching composition during use. | 02-04-2010 |
20110171606 | DENTAL TREATMENT DEVICES - Dental treatment trays or strips include a moisture-resistant barrier layer that is flexible so as to conform to a plurality of differently-sized and shaped dental arches during use. The moisture-resistant barrier layer comprised of wax, paraffin wax and/or polyolefin. The dental treatment device also includes a substantially solid dental treatment composition adapted so as to be initially substantially dry to the touch and so as to become sticky and adhesive to dental tissue when moistened. The substantially solid dental treatment composition includes at least one adhesive agent and at least one active agent, such as a dental bleaching agent. | 07-14-2011 |
20120064474 | Methods of Manufacturing a Convertible Orthodontic Bracket by Machining - Convertible orthodontic brackets ( | 03-15-2012 |
20120064475 | Orthodontic Brackets Including a Ceramic or Polymer Bracket Base and a Metal Insert Having a Selectively Removable Labial Web Cover - Convertible orthodontic brackets ( | 03-15-2012 |
20120094247 | Coordinated Metal And Ceramic Orthodontic Bracket Systems - Coordinated metal and ceramic orthodontic bracket systems ( | 04-19-2012 |
20120148972 | Low Force Orthodontic Arch Wire Having Blocks for Improved Treatment - Low force orthodontic arch wires ( | 06-14-2012 |
20120322019 | Customized Orthodontic Arch Wire Manufactured Using Model of Patient's Teeth - Customized low force orthodontic arch wires include a core wire ( | 12-20-2012 |
20130130190 | Orthodontic Force Module Including Elastomeric Member for Class II and Class III Correction - Orthodontic force modules for use in correcting class II and/or class III malocclusions. In one embodiment, the force module ( | 05-23-2013 |
20140295377 | DENTAL TREATMENT DEVICES COMPRISING SILICONE-LIKE ELASTOMERIC MATERIAL - Non-customized dental treatment trays used to provide a desired treatment are formed from elastomeric silicone or silicone-like material. They may be molded from a two-part liquid silicone composition or a silicone-like TPE material (e.g., preferably SEBS and/or VERSAflex thermoplastic elastomer). The dental treatment trays possess high adaptability, flexibility, softness, and elastic elongation while also exhibiting resiliency in order to readily conform to the ridges, depressions and contours of a person's teeth during use. The trays possess a greater ability to adhere to a person's teeth compared to non-elastomeric thermoplastic materials. Due to their high adaptability and conformability, the non-customized dental trays behave like a semi-custom dental tray when placed over conformed to a person's teeth, particularly when used in combination with a sticky, viscous treatment composition. | 10-02-2014 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20140093965 | EXPRESSION SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF PRODUCING SPIDER SILK PROTEINS - An expression system, including a host cell, a synthetic spider silk polypeptide-encoding nucleotide sequence, at least one synthetic tRNA molecule-encoding nucleotide sequence or a synthetic serine hydroxymethyl transferase (SHMT)-encoding nucleotide sequence. | 04-03-2014 |
20150047532 | SYNTHETIC SPIDER SILK PROTEIN COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS - A method for solubilizing recombinant spider silk proteins in an aqueous solutions, where the method includes mixing recombinant spider silk proteins with water to form a mixture and heating the mixture in a closed vessel to form a solution. | 02-19-2015 |
20150202651 | Recombinant Spider Silk Protein Film and Method of Synthesizing - Methods for forming useful films using recombinant spider silk protein are discussed. In one embodiment, the method involves dissolving silk protein in a sufficient quantity to form a film suspended in a solvent. The solution is then mixed with a compound selected from water, acids, imidazole crosslinking agents, antibiotics, nanoparticles, surfactants and combinations thereof. Solubilisation of the protein in the solution is effected by microwave exposure. Once solubilized the microwave treated solution is poured onto a suitable substrate and dried in order to result in the final film, the protein may be plant, mammal or bacterially derived. The film has widespread use and can be combined with any one of a number of substrates, examples of which include: a cosmetic composition; a pharmaceutical or medical composition, drug delivery system, artificial cell, contact lens coating, sustained-release drug delivery system, artificial skin graft; food composition; automotive part; aeronautic component; computer or data storage device, building material, textile, filter material, membrane material, nanomaterial, electronic component and combinations thereof. | 07-23-2015 |
20150292120 | APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR PRODUCING FIBERS FROM PROTEINS - Methods and apparatuses for preparing protein fibers (biofilaments) from recombinant biofilament proteins are disclosed. The methods are particularly useful for spinning fibers of spider silk or silkworm silk proteins from recombinant sources and may be used to spin such fibers for use in the manufacture of industrial and commercial products. | 10-15-2015 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20090283996 | System for tuning initial onset - A deployable inflator that includes a quantity of gas generant. The generant is designed to produce a supply of inflation gas during deployment of the inflator. The inflator includes a first burst disk and a second burst disk. The first and second burst disks are separated by a cavity. The inflator also includes an opening (or multiple openings). During deployment, the inflation gas flows into the cavity via the opening(s) and ruptures the first burst disk to allow inflation gas to escape the inflator. The second burst disk ruptures after the pressure in the cavity drops sufficiently below the pressure on the other side of the second burst disk. This inflator reduces the initial onset rate of deployment. | 11-19-2009 |
20090295132 | Filter for airbag inflator using variable expanded metal - An airbag inflator that includes a pyrotechnic material capable of producing a quantity of gas during deployment. The inflator also includes a filter. The filter may be an expanded metal filter that is wrapped about the pyrotechnic material. When this filter is wrapped about the pyrotechnic material, the filter forms a plurality of layers having holes that are a different size. This filter also includes a first set of barriers and a second set of barriers that are positioned exterior of the first set of barriers, the second set of barriers being offset from the first set of barriers. Gas passing through the filter will encounter the first set of barriers, be re-directed, encounter the second set of barriers, be re-directed, and then flow out of the filter. | 12-03-2009 |
20120187668 | INFLATORS AND METHODS OF MAKING INFLATORS FOR SAFE TRANSPORT AND USE WITH INFLATABLE AIRBAG CUSHIONS - Inflators for safe transport and use with an inflatable airbag cushion and airbag systems include a diffuser comprising a first aperture and at least one vent aperture each disposed in a lateral sidewall of the diffuser. The first aperture and the at least one vent aperture are positioned to face in at least substantially opposite directions in the diffuser. A filter is positioned within the diffuser and includes an outer surface having a lateral extent less than a lateral extent of an inner surface of the lateral sidewall of the diffuser, resulting in a gap between the outer surface of the filter and the inner surface of the lateral sidewall of the diffuser. At least one reaction device is coupled to a longitudinal end of the diffuser. Methods of making such inflators are also included. | 07-26-2012 |
20140261729 | FILTER WITH INTEGRATED BAFFLE - An airbag assembly may include an airbag and an inflator in fluid communication with the airbag. The inflator may have a first chamber containing a first gas source and a second chamber containing a second gas source. A filter module may be positioned to filter and redirect gas flows from the first and second gas sources. The filter module may be constructed by securing a baffle within an interior cavity of a filter medium having a generally tubular shape, prior to installation of the filter module the inflator. The baffle may be supported directly by the material of the filter module, by a bracket, or by a support structure formed of wire thicker than that of the filter medium. The baffle may maintain isolation between the first and second chambers, or may help gas from the first gas source initiate gas provision from the second gas source. | 09-18-2014 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20090082812 | Provisional locking pedicle screw system and method - Provisional locking pedicle screw systems and associated methods for surgery are provided. A bone screw assembly may be provided that includes a bone screw, an anchor bracket, and a provisional locking member. The provisional locking member may exert a frictional force against the bone screw that semi-rigidly fixes the anchor bracket and the bone screw in place relative to each other. More rigid securement (e.g., non-provisional locking) of the relative positions of the bone screw and the anchor bracket may be achieved by securing a securement member (e.g., set screw) within the anchor bracket. Also provided are a multiple-component set screw and an anchor bracket configured to form a press-fit connection with the bone screw. In various embodiments, the systems and methods described herein may be used to fuse together, mechanically immobilize, and/or adjust the alignment of adjacent vertebrae of the spine. | 03-26-2009 |
20120029545 | RECIPROCATING SURGICAL INSTRUMENT - A surgical rasping system functional in multiple orthopedic applications, including but not limited to shoulder, knee, hip, wrist, ankle, spinal, or other joint procedures. The system may comprise a tissue removal member with a rasping head which may be low profile and offer a flat cutting/rasping surface, or with a cutting head with at least one cutting edge. The tissue removal member is configured to be driven by an attached hub that translates a rotational movement into a reciprocating motion. Suction for removal of bone fragments or other tissues is provided through an opening spaced apart from or adjacent to the rasping surface. A radiofrequency ablation (RF) electrode may be carried on the rasping system to provide ablation or coagulation of soft tissues. | 02-02-2012 |
20120046682 | RECIPROCATING SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS - A surgical instrument system functional in multiple orthopedic applications, including but not limited to shoulder, knee, hip, wrist, ankle, spinal, or other joint procedures. The system comprises a cutting head which includes jaw members which may be urged between open and closed positions to providing a biting or chewing action for removal of targeted tissues. The instrument system is configured to be driven by an attached hub that translates a rotational movement into a reciprocating motion to open and close the jaw members. Suction for removal of bone fragments or other tissues is provided through a suction opening. | 02-23-2012 |
20120310371 | RELEASABLE ATTACHMENT SYSTEM FOR A PROSTHETIC LIMB - Releasable prosthetic connectors are provided for use with prosthetic limbs and prosthetic mounting systems. The prosthetic connectors provide a secure, rigid connection between the prosthetic limb and the prosthetic mounting system under normal service loads. The prosthetic connectors provide safety release mechanisms which permit relative movement within the prosthetic connector when an excess load is experienced. The safety release mechanisms may be adjustable, and may include a warning system. | 12-06-2012 |
20130096600 | Hair Restoration - A surgical apparatus for hair removal surgery includes an extraction module, a visualization component and a bridging component. The extraction module includes independently controllable coring and clipping devices. The visualization component acts to align a target hair follicle with the extraction module. The extraction module also includes at least one independently controllable suction port. The instrument also includes a dissection module having a tissue separating device. | 04-18-2013 |
20130304070 | RECIPROCATING SURGICAL INSTRUMENT - A surgical rasping and/or shaving system functions in multiple orthopedic applications, including but not limited to shoulder, knee, hip, wrist, ankle, spinal, or other joint procedures. The system may comprise a tissue removal member with a rasping and/or shaving head which may be low profile and offer a flat cutting/rasping/shaving surface, or with a cutting head with at least one cutting edge. The tissue removal member is configured to be driven by an attached hub that translates a rotational movement into a reciprocating motion. Suction for removal of bone fragments or other tissues is provided through an opening spaced apart from or adjacent to the rasping surface. A radiofrequency ablation (RF) electrode may be carried on the system to provide ablation or coagulation of soft tissues. | 11-14-2013 |
20140236181 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR EXTRACTION OF HAIR FOLLICLE - Systems and methods for extracting hair follicle from underneath an external surface of the skin are provided. The systems may include a first member and a counter pressure device. The first member may define a first bore and may have a longitudinal axis. A portion of the first member may be configured to be moved below an external surface of a skin. The first member may be configured to translate at least in a first direction along the longitudinal axis through a tissue and rotate about the longitudinal axis. The counter pressure device may be configured to interface with at least the external surface of the skin such that the tissue is disposed between the first member and the counter pressure device. The translation and rotation of the first member may result in cutting at least a portion of the tissue. | 08-21-2014 |
20140243870 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ALIGNING HAIR FOLLICLE - Systems and methods for aligning hair follicle are provided. The systems may include at least one piercing member. The piercing member may be configured to pivot about a pivot axis. The piercing member may be operable to translate along a chosen axis, wherein the chosen axis may intersect with the pivot axis. The translation of the piercing member in a first direction may enable the piercing member to pierce through an external surface of a skin, and translation of the piercing member in a second direction may enable the piercing member to retract out of the skin. | 08-28-2014 |
20150012012 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR EXTRACTION OF HAIR FOLLICLE - Systems and methods for extracting hair follicle from underneath an external surface of the skin are provided. The systems may include a first member, a first fluid pathway, an inlet port and an outlet port. A portion of the first member may be configured to be moved beneath an external surface of a skin and the first member may be configured to receive tissue extracted from underneath the external surface of the skin. The inlet port may be configured to receive fluid into the first fluid pathway. The outlet port may be configured to allow fluid to exit the first fluid pathway. The first fluid pathway may be configured to allow fluid entering the fluid pathway to enter the first member at least towards a distal end of the first member, and allow the fluid to exit the first member at least towards a proximal end of the first member. | 01-08-2015 |
20150223840 | Hair Restoration - A surgical apparatus for hair removal surgery includes an extraction module, a visualization component and a bridging component. The extraction module includes independently controllable coring and clipping devices. The visualization component acts to align a target hair follicle with the extraction module. The extraction module also includes at least one independently controllable suction port. The instrument also includes a dissection module having a tissue separating device. | 08-13-2015 |