Patent application number | Description | Published |
20120083786 | Vessel Sealing Instrument - A bipolar electrosurgical instrument includes first and second shafts each having a jaw member extending from its distal end. Each jaw member is adapted to connect to a source of electrosurgical energy such that the jaw members are capable of selectively conducting energy through tissue held therebetween. A knife channel is configured to reciprocate a cutting mechanism therealong. An actuator selectively advances the cutting mechanism. A switch is disposed on the first shaft and is configured to be depressed between a first position and at least one subsequent position upon biasing engagement with a mechanical interface disposed on the second shaft. The first position of the switch relays information to the user corresponding to a desired pressure on tissue and the at least one subsequent position is configured to activate the source of electrosurgical energy to supply electrosurgical energy to the jaw members. | 04-05-2012 |
20120083827 | Blade Deployment Mechanisms for Surgical Forceps - A forceps includes first and second shafts, each having a jaw member disposed at a distal end thereof. At least one jaw member is moveable from an open to a closed position for grasping tissue therebetween. At least one jaw member is configured for reciprocation of a blade therethrough. A trigger assembly includes a trigger and at least one linkage coupled to the trigger and to the blade such that rotation of the trigger translates the blade between the retracted and the extended position. An interference member moveable between a locked position and an unlocked position is also provided. The interference member is configured to engage the linkage(s) when in the locked position to inhibit translation of the blade from the retracted to the extended position. | 04-05-2012 |
20130072919 | Seal Plate With Insulation Displacement Connection - An end effector assembly having first and second jaw members is provided where one or both of the jaw members is moveable relative to the other between a spaced-apart position and an approximated position for grasping tissue therebetween. One (or both) of the jaw members includes an inwardly-facing surface having a slot defined therein and a wire having an insulative coating. A seal plate has at least one protrusion that is configured to be disposed in the slot. The at least one protrusion of the seal plate is configured to displace the insulative coating from the wire thereby forming an electrical connection therewith when the at least one protrusion is disposed in the slot. | 03-21-2013 |
20130072927 | Electrosurgical Instrument - An electrosurgical forceps is provided with a shaft that extends from a housing of the electrosurgical forceps. An end effector assembly includes a pair of first and second jaw members pivotably coupled to one another via a pivot pin. One or both of the first and second jaw members may be movable from an open position for positioning tissue therebetween to a clamping position for grasping tissue. A detent is operably disposed proximal the pivot pin and extends radially outward from a proximal flange of one of the jaw members. The detent is configured to releasably engage a corresponding slot disposed on a proximal flange of the other jaw member. The detent and slot are configured to control a gap distance between the first and second jaw members when the first and second jaw members are in the clamping position. | 03-21-2013 |
20130085491 | Surgical Instrument Shafts and Methods of Manufacturing Shafts for Surgical Instruments - A surgical instrument includes a shaft formed via extrusion. The shaft has one or more lumens extending therethrough. The lumen(s) each define a cross-sectional configuration. An end effector assembly is coupled to a distal end of the shaft. One or more components are coupled to the end effector assembly. The component(s) extend proximally from the end effector into the lumen(s) of the shaft. One or more of the components is formed via stamping. The component(s) define a cross-sectional configuration substantially complementary to the cross-section configuration of the lumen into which they extend. | 04-04-2013 |
20130178852 | Monopolar Pencil With Integrated Bipolar/Ligasure Tweezers - The present disclosure is directed to an electrosurgical pencil with integrated ligasure tweezers. In accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure the electrosurgical pencil includes an elongated housing having an open distal end and including an actuator operatively associated therewith. First and second jaw members extend distally through the open distal end of the elongated housing and are transitionable between a closed position and an open position upon actuation of an actuator. At least one of the jaw members is configured to treat tissue with monopolar energy and both jaw members are configured to treat tissue with bipolar energy. At least one switch is operably coupled to a controller disposed in the housing and configured to activate the first and second jaw members to treat tissue with monopolar and bipolar energy. | 07-11-2013 |
20130232753 | Surgical Tissue Sealer - A method for manufacturing an end effector assembly is provided. The method includes grasping a gap-setting gauge between first and second jaw members moveable relative to one another about a pivot between a first, spaced-apart position and a second position proximate tissue and setting the first and second jaw members such that in the approximated position the jaw members cooperate to define a gap distance between the jaw members equivalent to the thickness of the gap-setting gauge such that when positioning tissue between the jaw members full approximation of the jaws is limited to the gap distance. | 09-12-2013 |
20130325043 | Surgical Clamping Device With Ratcheting Grip Lock - At least on aspect of the present disclosure relates to a surgical clamping device, comprising first and second shaft members each having a jaw member disposed at a distal end thereof, a gripping member disposed on the first shaft member, and a gear system disposed on the second shaft member and configured to receive the gripping member and incrementally lock the gripping member in at least one predefined position. | 12-05-2013 |
20140284841 | SURGICAL TISSUE SEALER - A method for manufacturing an end effector assembly includes providing first and second jaw members moveable relative to one another about a pivot between a first, spaced-apart position and a second, approximated position. One of the first and second jaw members includes a cavity defined therein and the other of the first and second jaw members includes a stop member configured to be inserted into the cavity. A gap-setting gauge is grasped between the first and second jaw members to define a gap-distance between the jaw members equivalent to a thickness of the gap-setting gauge. The first and second jaw members are set such that the jaw members are prevented from approximation beyond the gap-distance. | 09-25-2014 |
20150018824 | SEAL PLATE WITH INSULATION DISPLACEMENT CONNECTION - An end effector assembly having first and second jaw members is provided where one or both of the jaw members is moveable relative to the other between a spaced-apart position and an approximated position for grasping tissue therebetween. One (or both) of the jaw members includes an inwardly-facing surface having a slot defined therein and a wire having an insulative coating. A seal plate has at least one protrusion that is configured to be disposed in the slot. The at least one protrusion of the seal plate is configured to displace the insulative coating from the wire thereby forming an electrical connection therewith when the at least one protrusion is disposed in the slot. | 01-15-2015 |
20150223862 | MONOPOLAR PENCIL WITH INTEGRATED BIPOLAR/LIGASURE TWEEZERS - An electrosurgical pencil with integrated tweezers includes-an elongated housing having an open distal end and an actuator operatively associated therewith. First and second jaw members extend distally through the open distal end of the elongated housing and are transitionable between a closed position and an open position upon actuation of an actuator. One or both of the jaw members is configured to treat tissue with monopolar energy and both jaw members are configured to treat tissue with bipolar energy. One or more switches is operably coupled to a controller disposed in the housing and configured to activate the first and second jaw members to treat tissue with monopolar and bipolar energy. | 08-13-2015 |
20150223873 | BLADE DEPLOYMENT MECHANISMS FOR SURGICAL FORCEPS - A forceps includes first and second shafts, each having a jaw member disposed at a distal end thereof. At least one jaw member is moveable from an open to a closed position for grasping tissue therebetween. At least one jaw member is configured for reciprocation of a blade therethrough. A trigger assembly includes a trigger and at least one linkage coupled to the trigger and to the blade such that rotation of the trigger translates the blade between the retracted and the extended position. An interference member moveable between a locked position and an unlocked position is also provided. The interference member is configured to engage the linkage(s) when in the locked position to inhibit translation of the blade from the retracted to the extended position. | 08-13-2015 |
20150223874 | BLADE DEPLOYMENT MECHANISMS FOR SURGICAL FORCEPS - A forceps includes first and second shafts, each having a jaw member disposed at a distal end thereof. At least one jaw member is moveable from an open to a closed position for grasping tissue therebetween. At least one jaw member is configured for reciprocation of a blade therethrough. A trigger assembly includes a trigger and at least one linkage coupled to the trigger and to the blade such that rotation of the trigger translates the blade between the retracted and the extended position. An interference member moveable between a locked position and an unlocked position is also provided. The interference member is configured to engage the linkage(s) when in the locked position to inhibit translation of the blade from the retracted to the extended position. | 08-13-2015 |
20150320483 | VESSEL SEALING INSTRUMENT - A bipolar electrosurgical instrument includes first and second shafts each having a jaw member extending from its distal end. Each jaw member is adapted to connect to a source of electrosurgical energy such that the jaw members are capable of selectively conducting energy through tissue held therebetween. A knife channel is configured to reciprocate a cutting mechanism therealong. An actuator selectively advances the cutting mechanism. A switch is disposed on the first shaft and is configured to be depressed between a first position and at least one subsequent position upon biasing engagement with a mechanical interface disposed on the second shaft. The first position of the switch relays information to the user corresponding to a desired pressure on tissue and the at least one subsequent position is configured to activate the source of electrosurgical energy to supply electrosurgical energy to the jaw members. | 11-12-2015 |
20160100881 | SURGICAL TISSUE SEALER - A method for manufacturing an end effector assembly includes providing first and second jaw members moveable relative to one another about a pivot between a first, spaced-apart position and a second, approximated position. One of the first and second jaw members includes a cavity defined therein and the other of the first and second jaw members includes a stop member configured to be inserted into the cavity. A gap-setting gauge is grasped between the first and second jaw members to define a gap-distance between the jaw members equivalent to a thickness of the gap-setting gauge. The first and second jaw members are set such that the jaw members are prevented from approximation beyond the gap-distance. | 04-14-2016 |
20160106496 | BLADE DEPLOYMENT MECHANISMS FOR SURGICAL FORCEPS - A forceps includes first and second shafts, each having a jaw member disposed at a distal end thereof. At least one jaw member is moveable from an open to a closed position for grasping tissue therebetween. At least one jaw member is configured for reciprocation of a blade therethrough. A trigger assembly includes a trigger and at least one linkage coupled to the trigger and to the blade such that rotation of the trigger translates the blade between the retracted and the extended position. An interference member moveable between a locked position and an unlocked position is also provided. The interference member is configured to engage the linkage(s) when in the locked position to inhibit translation of the blade from the retracted to the extended position. | 04-21-2016 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20130287950 | LINEAR LINER AND ASSOCIATED METHOD - A linear liner machine includes a base. A plurality of fluid dispensing apparatus such as, for example, sealant guns, are fixed in a stationary position in a linear configuration on the base. A conveying assembly such as, for example, a conveyor belt, conveys container closures to the sealant guns. A manipulation mechanism such as, for example, a number of motors and at least one wheel member, manipulate (e.g., rotate or spin) each of the container closures with respect to a corresponding one of the sealant guns as it dispenses a sealant to line the container closures. Accordingly, the liner comprises a plurality of independent lining stations, wherein operation of a number of said independent lining stations can be stopped while the remaining independent lining stations continue to operate to line the container closures. An associated method of lining container closures is also disclosed. | 10-31-2013 |
20130309043 | CONTAINER, AND SELECTIVELY FORMED SHELL, AND TOOLING AND ASSOCIATED METHOD FOR PROVIDING SAME - A shell, a container employing the shell, and tooling and associated methods for forming the shell are provided. The shell includes a center panel, a circumferential chuck wall, an annular countersink between the center panel and the circumferential chuck wall, and a curl extending radially outwardly from the chuck wall. The material of at least one predetermined portion of the shell is selectively stretched relative to at least one other portion of the shell, thereby providing a corresponding thinned portion. | 11-21-2013 |
20140054290 | ROTATING TAB - A rotating tab is provided. The tab includes a body having a first end and a second end disposed opposite and distal from the first end, a nose portion located at or about the first end of the tab, a lift portion located at or about the second end of the tab, and a rivet receiving portion disposed proximate the nose portion. The rivet receiving portion includes a rivet hole. A rivet extends through the rivet hole and is staked to fasten the rivet receiving portion of the tab to a can end. The body of the tab is structured to be rotated about the rivet to align a portion of the tab with a secondary scoreline in the can end. A portion of the tab is structured to be depressed to sever the secondary scoreline to vent the can end. | 02-27-2014 |
20140061523 | ROTARY VALVE SYSTEM - The disclosed and claimed compresses gas system provides for the use of a rotary valve assembly in association with a cupper. A compressed gas system that utilizes a rotary valve assembly uses less gas than a constant flow compressed gas system and is quieter than a compressed gas system that uses valves. The rotary valve is a disk-like body having an opening therethrough. The rotary valve body is disposed within a housing assembly wherein gas may only flow through the housing when the rotary valve body is properly aligned with a space on one side of the rotary valve body. | 03-06-2014 |
20140271043 | CONVERSION SYSTEM - A conversion press wherein a crankshaft drives the motion of the tooling assemblies within a number of lanes is provided. The crankshaft is structured to move the tooling assemblies associated with less than the total number of lanes. That is, for example, a four lane conversion press could include two crankshafts each actuating the tooling assemblies of two lanes. In an exemplary embodiment, each lane has a single associated crankshaft. | 09-18-2014 |
20140271044 | CONVERSION PRESS - A conversion press wherein a crankshaft drives the motion of the tooling assemblies within a number of lanes is provided. The crankshaft is structured to move the tooling assemblies associated with less than the total number of lanes. That is, for example, a four lane conversion press could include two crankshafts each actuating the tooling assemblies of two lanes. In an exemplary embodiment, each lane has a single associated crankshaft. | 09-18-2014 |
20140338595 | LINEAR LINER AND ASSOCIATED METHOD - A linear liner machine includes a base. A plurality of fluid dispensing apparatus such as, for example, sealant guns, are fixed in a stationary position in a linear configuration on the base. A conveying assembly such as, for example, a conveyor belt, conveys container closures to the sealant guns. A manipulation mechanism such as, for example, a number of motors and at least one wheel member, manipulate (e.g., rotate or spin) each of the container closures with respect to a corresponding one of the sealant guns as it dispenses a sealant to line the container closures. Accordingly, the liner comprises a plurality of independent lining stations, wherein operation of a number of said independent lining stations can be stopped while the remaining independent lining stations continue to operate to line the container closures. An associated method of lining container closures is also disclosed. | 11-20-2014 |
20150053681 | ROTATING TAB - A rotating tab is provided. The tab includes a body having a first end and a second end disposed opposite and distal from the first end, a nose portion located at or about the first end of the tab, a lift portion located at or about the second end of the tab, and a rivet receiving portion disposed proximate the nose portion. The rivet receiving portion includes a rivet hole. A rivet extends through the rivet hole and is staked to fasten the rivet receiving portion of the tab to a can end. The body of the tab is structured to be rotated about the rivet to align a portion of the tab with a secondary scoreline in the can end. A portion of the tab is structured to be depressed to sever the secondary scoreline to vent the can end. | 02-26-2015 |
20150059428 | OUTBOARD HYDROSTATIC BEARING ASSEMBLY FOR CAN BODYMAKER - A hydrostatic/hydrodynamic fluid bearing assembly for a can bodymaker is provided. The hydrostatic/hydrodynamic fluid bearing assembly is separate from the ram body. The outboard bearing assembly includes a carriage assembly and a number of elongated journals. The carriage assembly includes a ram coupling, a crank coupling, and body defining a number of journal passages. The ram body is coupled to a ram coupling. The crank coupling is structured to be coupled to a crank arm. Each journal extends through a carriage assembly body journal passage. In this configuration, the ram body may form a can body in a traditional manner, but fluid bearing assembly fluid is not applied to the ram body. Instead the fluid bearing assembly fluid is applied to the journals. | 03-05-2015 |
20150059429 | MECHANISM AND DESIGN FOR ADDRESSING RAM DROOP - A can bodymaker ram assembly is provided. The ram assembly includes an elongated, generally hollow ram body and a tension assembly. The ram body includes a proximal end, a medial portion, and a distal end. The tension assembly includes an elongated support member. The tension assembly support member includes a proximal end and a distal end. The tension assembly support member is substantially disposed within the ram body with the tension assembly support member proximal end coupled to the ram body proximal end, and the tension assembly support member distal end coupled to one of the ram body medial portion or the ram body distal end. | 03-05-2015 |
20150069062 | CAN END AND METHOD OF MAKING SAME - A can end includes a severable panel, a peripheral scoreline, an opening mechanism such as a pull tab, a rivet coupling the pull tab to the severable panel, and a rivet base scoreline in the public side of the severable panel. The rivet base scoreline includes an arcuate head portion, first and second arm portions extending from the arcuate head portion, and first and second ends. The base of the rivet has a radius of curvature forming an intersection between the stem of the rivet and the public side of the severable panel. The arcuate head portion of the rivet base scoreline is contiguous with the radius of curvature. | 03-12-2015 |
20150196948 | CAN END, DOUBLE ACTION TAB THEREFOR, TOOLING ASSEMBLY, AND ASSOCIATED METHOD - A tab is provided for a can end. The can end includes an end panel and a scoreline defining a tear panel in the end panel for providing an opening in the can end. The tab includes a body having first and second opposing ends, a nose portion located at or about the first end, a lift portion located at or about the second end, and a rivet receiving portion disposed proximate the nose portion. The rivet receiving portion includes a rivet hole. A first rivet extends outwardly from the end panel and fastens the rivet receiving portion of the tab to the can end. A second rivet extends outwardly from the end panel to cooperate with a portion of the body proximate the lift portion. | 07-16-2015 |
20150251237 | Container, and Selectively Formed Shell, and Tooling and Associated Method for Providing Same - A shell, a container employing the shell, and tooling and associated methods for forming the shell are provided. The shell includes a center panel, a circumferential chuck wall, an annular countersink between the center panel and the circumferential chuck wall, and a curl extending radially outwardly from the chuck wall. The material of at least one predetermined portion of the shell is selectively stretched relative to at least one other portion of the shell, thereby providing a corresponding thinned portion. The tooling includes a pressure concentrating forming surface. | 09-10-2015 |
20160030996 | DRIVE ASSEMBLY FOR CONVERSION SYSTEM - A conversion system wherein a crankshaft drives the motion of the tooling assemblies within a number of lanes is provided. The crankshaft is structured to move the tooling assemblies associated with less than the total number of lanes. That is, for example, a four lane conversion press could include two crankshafts each actuating the tooling assemblies of two lanes. In an exemplary embodiment, each lane has a single associated crankshaft. The conversion system includes a multiple press drive assembly with a clutch/brake assembly and a flywheel assembly. The clutch/brake assembly is structured to suspend operation of the press units while the flywheel assembly stores energy in a flywheel. When operation of the press units is restarted, energy from the flywheel aids the motor in bringing the press units to an operating speed. | 02-04-2016 |
20160121385 | Outboard Hydrostatic Bearing Assembly for Can Bodymaker - A hydrostatic/hydrodynamic fluid bearing assembly for a can bodymaker is provided. The hydrostatic/hydrodynamic fluid bearing assembly is separate from the ram body. The outboard guide bearing assembly includes a carriage assembly and a number of elongated journals. The carriage assembly includes a ram coupling, a crank coupling, and body defining a number of journal passages. The ram body is coupled to a ram coupling. The crank coupling is structured to be coupled to a crank arm. Each journal extends through a carriage assembly body journal passage. In this configuration, the ram body may form a can body in a traditional manner, but fluid bearing assembly fluid is not applied to the ram body. Instead, the fluid bearing assembly fluid is applied to the journals. | 05-05-2016 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20080314906 | CAN END AND METHOD OF MAKING SAME - A can end is provided, which includes a severable panel, a peripheral scoreline defining the periphery of the severable panel, an opening mechanism such as a pull tab, a rivet coupling the pull tab to the severable panel, and a rivet base scoreline in the public side of the severable panel within about 0.025 inch or less of the stem of the rivet. The rivet base scoreline includes an arcuate head portion, first and second arm portions extending from the arcuate head portion, and first and second ends. The base of the rivet has a radius of curvature forming an intersection between the stem of the rivet and the public side of the severable panel. The arcuate head portion of the rivet base scoreline is contiguous with the radius of curvature. The pull tab includes a nose portion having a number of apertures aligned with corresponding portions of the rivet base scoreline disposed thereunder. | 12-25-2008 |
20120118891 | CAN END AND METHOD OF MAKING SAME - A can end includes a severable panel, a peripheral scoreline, an opening mechanism such as a pull tab, a rivet coupling the pull tab to the severable panel, and a rivet base scoreline in the public side of the severable panel. The rivet base scoreline includes an arcuate head portion, first and second arm portions extending from the arcuate head portion, and first and second ends. The base of the rivet has a radius of curvature forming an intersection between the stem of the rivet and the public side of the severable panel. The arcuate head portion of the rivet base scoreline is contiguous with the radius of curvature. | 05-17-2012 |
20140083156 | BODYMAKER AND DOUBLE ACTION DOMER ASSEMBLY WITH STAGED PISTON - A domer station having a domer assembly, a housing assembly, and a stacked piston assembly is provided. The domer assembly is movably disposed within a domer body passage located in the housing assembly and structured to move between a forward, first position and a retracted, second position. The stacked piston assembly includes a plurality of pistons, preferably three pistons, disposed in series and a pressure supply. The pistons are disposed behind the domer in pressure chambers. The pistons have a constant pressure applied thereto and are biased towards the domer. The pistons are, however, each restrained by a stop and do not contact, or operatively engage, the domer when the domer is in the domer first position. | 03-27-2014 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20080197192 | Barcodes with Graphical Elements - Barcodes are provided that convey images to help consumers and/or to help identify information about the origin of an article. The images conveyed by the barcodes may be associated with a merchant, a department, an event, a season, a theme or a product, for example. The barcodes may be placed on any number of articles including purchaser receipts, gift receipts, marketing receipt coupons, paper coupons, electronic coupons, rewards cards, gift cards, registry printouts, and products/packaging, for example. Under some embodiments, the barcodes help consumers to associate articles with a particular merchant or department. Under other embodiments, the barcodes help consumers to distinguish purchaser receipts from gift receipts. In some embodiments, the barcodes are generated dynamically by altering font-based barcodes to convey the image. | 08-21-2008 |
20110121069 | Barcodes with Graphical Elements - Barcodes are provided that convey images to help consumers and/or to help identify information about the origin of an article. The images conveyed by the barcodes may be associated with a merchant, a department, an event, a season, a theme or a product, for example. The barcodes may be placed on any number of articles including purchaser receipts, gift receipts, marketing receipt coupons, paper coupons, electronic coupons, rewards cards, gift cards, registry printouts, and products/packaging, for example. Under some embodiments, the barcodes help consumers to associate articles with a particular merchant or department. Under other embodiments, the barcodes help consumers to distinguish purchaser receipts from gift receipts. In some embodiments, the barcodes are generated dynamically by altering font-based barcodes to convey the image. | 05-26-2011 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20100211298 | METHOD FOR STARTING A VEHICLE ENGINE - A method for starting a vehicle engine includes determining a throttle angle command output based on a throttle adjustment parameter. The throttle angle command output may be further adjusted based on a learned compensation adder and may be based on a number of vehicle engine starts. A throttle angle corresponding to the throttle angle command output is provided. | 08-19-2010 |
20110015811 | GENERATOR POWER CONTROL - A hybrid electric vehicle includes an internal combustion engine, a traction battery, and a hybrid electric powertrain including an electric motor powered by the traction battery and an electric generator coupled to the internal combustion engine and the traction battery. A control method includes determining minimum and maximum engine power limits based on desired wheel torque and traction battery charge and discharge power limits. A generator torque command is calculated to track engine speed to the desired engine speed. The generator torque command is limited based on the minimum and maximum engine power limits to limit engine power transmitted to the powertrain. | 01-20-2011 |
20120262102 | Phase Delayed Active Motor Damping to Mitigate Electric Vehicle Driveline Oscillations - An active motor damping system and method for dampening oscillations of a driveline in a vehicle includes generating a commanded torque indicative of an actual torque which would counteract the oscillations if delivered by a motor to the driveline. The commanded torque is adjusted as a function of a phase lag between the commanded torque and an actual torque which the motor would deliver in response to the commanded torque such that in response to the adjusted commanded torque the motor delivers the actual torque which counteracts the oscillations. | 10-18-2012 |
20130289809 | REGENERATIVE BRAKING CONTROL TO MITIGATE POWERTRAIN OSCILLATION - A vehicle is provided with at least one wheel and a motor that is coupled to the wheel. The motor is configured to provide regenerative brake torque. The vehicle also includes at least one controller that is configured to predict future powertrain oscillation based on input indicative of a wheel speed and a total brake torque. The controller is also configured to control the motor to reduce the regenerative brake torque prior to the powertrain oscillation. | 10-31-2013 |
20140031169 | METHOD AND STRATEGY TO DETECT THE LOCK-UP OF PLANETARY GEAR IN POWER SPLIT HYBRID VEHICLES - A system and method for controlling a hybrid electric vehicle powertrain having an engine, a generator, and a motor connected via a planetary gear set to detect lockup in the planetary gear set and control the powertrain in response. When torque is distributed in an electric mode of operation with the engine disabled, the generator is disabled based at least upon a difference between actual generator speed and an expected generator speed exceeding a threshold, indicating a lockup in the planetary gear set. When the engine is activated and distributes torque through the powertrain, the engine and the generator are disabled based at least upon a difference between engine acceleration and an expected engine acceleration exceeding a first threshold, and a difference between engine speed and ring gear speed being less than a second threshold. | 01-30-2014 |
20140062348 | CONTROL STRATEGY FOR AN ELECTRIC MACHINE IN A VEHICLE - A hybrid-electric vehicle method of controlling a hybrid electric vehicle is provided. The vehicle includes a traction battery, at least two electric-machines, and a controller. The controller is configured to, in response to a faulted condition one of the electric-machines during a drive cycle, command the other of the electric-machines to function in a mode in which torque output is restricted to a threshold value that depends on a voltage of the battery to maintain vehicle propulsion during the drive cycle. | 03-06-2014 |
20140067173 | VEHICLE ELECTRIC MACHINE CONTROL STRATEGY - A vehicle includes at least one electric machine and an inverter for selectively transmitting power to the electric machine. The inverter includes a power module. At least one controller controls the electric machine and the inverter. The controller at least temporarily disables the inverter during a power cycle such that power to the electric machine is inhibited. In response to the disabling of the inverter, the controller resets the duty cycle commands for the power module, and re-enables the inverter during the same power cycle. | 03-06-2014 |
20140100726 | CONTROL STRATEGY FOR AN ELECTRIC MACHINE IN A VEHICLE - A vehicle is provided including an electric machine and at least one controller. The controller, or controllers, are configured to, in response to a reset of the at least one controller while a speed of the vehicle is greater than a threshold value, provide a current command to the electric machine in accordance with calibration values calculated prior to the reset such that inoperability of the electric machine due to the reset is less than one second. | 04-10-2014 |
20140277875 | HYBRID ELECTRIC VEHICLE DRIVELINE ACTIVE DAMPING AND TRANSIENT SMOOTHNESS CONTROL - A method and system for controlling a hybrid electric vehicle include controlling torque in a traction motor in response to a provisional motor torque that has been adjusted based on a difference between a measured traction motor speed and a calculated vehicle speed and filtered to attenuate a resonant driveline frequency. | 09-18-2014 |
20140277881 | HYBRID-ELECTRIC VEHICLE ENGINE STARTING METHOD AND SYSTEM - A system or method for controlling an engine in a hybrid vehicle include cranking the engine subject to a first torque limit in response to an engine start request, receiving an engine rotational position signal, and cranking the engine subject to a second torque limit in response to the engine rotational position signal indicating a number of engine revolutions being less than a threshold value. | 09-18-2014 |
20150060173 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR HYBRID VEHICLE CONTROL DURING WHEEL SLIP EVENTS TO LIMIT GENERATOR SPEED - A system an method for controlling a hybrid vehicle having a transmission coupled to vehicle wheels, an internal combustion engine, a planetary gearset coupled to the engine and to a differential output shaft to drive the vehicle wheels, a traction motor coupled through gearing to the differential output shaft and the planetary gearset, a generator coupled to the planetary gearset and electrically coupled to the fraction motor, a traction battery coupled to the generator and the traction motor, and at least one controller in communication with the engine, the traction motor, and the generator include limiting engine speed in response to a wheel slip event to an engine speed limit based on motor speed and generator speed to prevent the generator speed from exceeding a corresponding threshold when the wheel slip event terminates. | 03-05-2015 |
20150066260 | METHOD AND SYSTEM TO ENABLE A COAST-DOWN MODE - A vehicle may include at least one electric machine, a traction battery, and a voltage boost converter electrically connecting the at least one electric machine and traction battery. The vehicle may further include at least one controller programmed to, in response to a request for drive mode while in a passive neutral mode, enable the boost converter and drive an output voltage of the boost converter to a predetermined target. The controller may be further programmed to, in response to the output voltage achieving the predetermined target, enable the at least one electric machine and drive a current through the at least one electric machine to zero such that an output torque of the at least one electric machine is approximately zero; and in response to the current achieving approximately zero, increase the current through the at least one electric machine such that the output torque is greater than zero. | 03-05-2015 |
20150066261 | METHOD AND SYSTEM TO ENABLE A COAST-DOWN MODE - A vehicle includes an engine and a non-selectable-gear transmission having an electric machine mechanically coupled to the engine. The vehicle may have one or more controllers programmed to, in response to a request for passive neutral mode, pull-down the engine and inhibit engine pull-up while disabling the electric machine such that the vehicle coasts with minimal rotational inertia and electrical losses. The one or more controllers may be further programmed to, in response to a subsequent request for drive mode during the passive neutral mode, permit engine pull-up while enabling the electric machine such that the vehicle resumes drive. | 03-05-2015 |
20150066333 | CONTROL STRATEGY FOR A HYBRID VEHICLE WITH A DISABLED MOTOR - A method for controlling an engine in a hybrid electric vehicle according to the present disclosure includes, in response to a drive motor being unavailable, commanding an engine power equal to the lesser of a first and a second power. The first power is sufficient to satisfy a driver wheel torque request at the current engine speed, and the second power corresponds to a maximum engine torque available at a target engine speed, where the target engine speed is selected to attain a desired battery state of charge. | 03-05-2015 |
20150100187 | METHOD OF OPERATING AN ELECTRIC OR HYBRID VEHICLE - A method of controlling a motor in a hybrid electric vehicle mitigates the risk of an incorrectly wired or incorrectly connected wiring harness. Following the connection or re-connection of a wiring harness, the vehicle responds to a torque request by limiting the magnitude of the motor torque until the proper direction of torque is confirmed. A flag is then set to record that torque direction has been confirmed so that the vehicle can respond normally to future requests. Several events may indicate that a wiring harness has been re-connected. | 04-09-2015 |
20150142228 | VEHICLE DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETECTING INCORRECT CABLE CONNECTIONS - A method according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure includes, among other things, controlling a vehicle in response to a diagnostic test performed to detect an incorrect cable connection of the vehicle. | 05-21-2015 |
20150375749 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR HYBRID VEHICLE CONTROL DURING WHEEL SLIP EVENTS TO LIMIT GENERATOR SPEED - A method for controlling a hybrid vehicle having a transmission coupled to vehicle wheels, an internal combustion engine, a planetary gearset coupled to the engine and to a differential output shaft to drive the vehicle wheels, a traction motor coupled through gearing to the differential output shaft and the planetary gearset, a generator coupled to the planetary gearset and electrically coupled to the traction motor, a traction battery coupled to the generator and the traction motor, and at least one controller in communication with the engine, the traction motor, and the generator includes limiting engine speed in response to a wheel slip event to an engine speed limit based on motor speed and generator speed to prevent the generator speed from exceeding a corresponding threshold when the wheel slip event terminates. | 12-31-2015 |
20160052409 | OFF-BOARD CHARGER FOR HIGH-VOLTAGE BATTERY CHARGING - An off-board battery charger for a vehicle may include a high-voltage connector having first, second and power supply connector ports. The first connector port connects to a vehicle controller via a first cable. The second connector port connects to a vehicle battery via a second cable. And, the power supply connector port is electrically connected with the second port and receives power via a power supply cable from a separate and external power supply. | 02-25-2016 |
20160096438 | HIGH-VOLTAGE BATTERY OFF-BOARD CHARGERS - A vehicle charging system includes a charger configured to receive power form an external power source and a connector. The connector is configured to receive power from the charger and transmit the received power to a vehicle via a high-voltage cable. The cable is configured to connect the connector to a vehicle battery. Each of the charger and the connector includes a high voltage interlock loop (HVIL) configured to cause the charger to cease power transfer upon recognizing a predetermined voltage difference at a pair of ports of the HVIL. | 04-07-2016 |
20160102622 | DETECTING AND NEGOTIATING A CLIMBABLE OBSTACLE IN A VEHICLE - Data is collected in a vehicle relating to a potential obstacle. Based at least in part on the collected data, an obstacle is identified. At least one characteristic of the obstacle is determined. At least one torque to be applied in a vehicle powertrain is determined based at least in part on the at least one characteristic of the obstacle. | 04-14-2016 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20080281148 | TRANSOBTURATOR INTRODUCER SYSTEM FOR SLING SUSPENSION SYSTEM - An introducer device comprising: an introducer needle having a proximal end and a distal end and a handle having a needle receiving end. The handle can be adapted to receive said distal end of said introducer needle such that said introducer needle is selectably detachably coupled to said handle. A connector for attachment to an implant strip can have an arm having a hole therethrough and an introducer needle including a connection portion having a barb. It can comprise a central portion; a first arm pivotally mounted to the central portion and having a first projection and a second projection extending therefrom. A second arm can be pivotally mounted to the central portion and having a first hole and a second hole defined therein. The first and second holes can be positioned so that when the first arm pivots toward the second arm, the first and second projections are received in the first and second holes. A tube portion can extend from said central portion and define a tube aperture therein. The tube aperture can be adapted to receive the barb such that the connector can be selectably detachably coupled or permanently affixed to the introducer needle. | 11-13-2008 |
20100191224 | MAGNETIC DETENT MECHANISM FOR MEDICAL INSTRUMENTS - A medical instrument includes a channel, a first interacting structure, a slider, and a control member. The first interacting structure can extend along at least a portion of the channel. At least a portion of the slider can also be disposed in the channel, so as to move in the channel. The slider can additionally have a first attraction portion. The control member can be rotatably coupled to the slider, and have a second interacting structure and a second attraction portion. The second interacting structure can engage the first interacting structure so as to move the slider in the channel when the control member is rotated. The second attraction portion can be disposed such that a distance between the second attraction portion and the first attraction portion changes as the control member is rotated relative to the slider. | 07-29-2010 |
20100234681 | URETHRAL SUPPORT SYSTEM - A urethral support system is described, including an introducer device and tissue implant. The introducer device may include a needle with multiple curves, some of the curves having multiple radii. A sheath assembly may be utilized to assist the passing of the tissue implant through a patient's tissue. The sheath assembly may include connectors configured to connect the sheath assembly to an end of the needle and a tab configured to detachably couple sheath sides over the tissue implant. | 09-16-2010 |
20120116154 | SELF-ANCHORING SLING AND INTRODUCER SYSTEM - A system for supporting the urethra using an introducer needle, the ends of which are flattened and which have openings therethrough, a handle having a latch mechanism which engages the opening in the flattened portion of the first end of the introducer needle, an implant, and a connector joining the end of the implant to the flattened portion of one of the ends of the introducer needle. These components are used to draw the implant into position, either through vaginal or abdominal incisions, to form a U-shaped loop beneath the urethra. The ends of the implant are adjusted to provide proper support for the urethra. The implant can have slits that open under applied tensile force. | 05-10-2012 |
20140303429 | SELF-ANCHORING SLING AND INTRODUCER SYSTEM - A system for supporting the urethra using an introducer needle, the ends of which are flattened and which have openings therethrough, a handle having a latch mechanism which engages the opening in the flattened portion of the first end of the introducer needle, an implant, and a connector joining the end of the implant to the flattened portion of one of the ends of the introducer needle. These components are used to draw the implant into position, either through vaginal or abdominal incisions, to form a U-shaped loop beneath the urethra. The ends of the implant are adjusted to provide proper support for the urethra. The implant can have slits that open under applied tensile force. | 10-09-2014 |
20140303430 | SELF-ANCHORING SLING AND INTRODUCER SYSTEM - A system for supporting the urethra using an introducer needle, the ends of which are flattened and which have openings therethrough, a handle having a latch mechanism which engages the opening in the flattened portion of the first end of the introducer needle, an implant, and a connector joining the end of the implant to the flattened portion of one of the ends of the introducer needle. These components are used to draw the implant into position, either through vaginal or abdominal incisions, to form a U-shaped loop beneath the urethra. The ends of the implant are adjusted to provide proper support for the urethra. | 10-09-2014 |
20150250573 | SELF-ANCHORING SLING AND INTRODUCER SYSTEM - A surgical system for treating urinary incontinence includes an introducer needle and a handle. The introducer needle has a first section that is straight and is provided with a first flat, a second flat opposite the first flat, and a latch receptacle formed into the first section. The introducer needle has a second section extending from the first section, with the second section being curved. The handle includes a housing with a needle opening configured to receive the first section of the introducer needle and a latching mechanism that includes a latch member. The latching mechanism is configured to engage the latch receptacle of the introducer needle. | 09-10-2015 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20090222002 | Intracooled Percutaneous Microwave Ablation Probe - The present disclosure relates to devices and methods for the treatment of tissue with microwave energy. The devices and methods disclosed herein incorporate an antenna assembly comprising outer and inner conductors having a dielectric material interposed therebetween, a sealing barrier, and a cooling system to minimize the likelihood that the antenna assembly will overheat. | 09-03-2009 |
20120083827 | Blade Deployment Mechanisms for Surgical Forceps - A forceps includes first and second shafts, each having a jaw member disposed at a distal end thereof. At least one jaw member is moveable from an open to a closed position for grasping tissue therebetween. At least one jaw member is configured for reciprocation of a blade therethrough. A trigger assembly includes a trigger and at least one linkage coupled to the trigger and to the blade such that rotation of the trigger translates the blade between the retracted and the extended position. An interference member moveable between a locked position and an unlocked position is also provided. The interference member is configured to engage the linkage(s) when in the locked position to inhibit translation of the blade from the retracted to the extended position. | 04-05-2012 |
20130190759 | Portable Surgical Instrument - A surgical instrument is provided and includes a housing including an elongated shaft. The housing includes a docking portion that includes one or more apertures defined therein and electrical circuitry disposed therein. An end effector is operably supported at a distal end of the elongated shaft. A battery assembly is selectively and pivotably engageable with the docking portion of the housing and configured to generate electrical energy. The battery assembly includes one or more protrusions that are configured to releasably engage the aperture(s) on the docking portion and a latch mechanism that is movable from an initial position for latching the battery assembly to the docking portion to a subsequent position for unlatching the battery assembly from the docking portion. The battery assembly is adapted to communicate with the electrical circuitry of the docking member upon insertion of the battery assembly into the at least one aperture. | 07-25-2013 |
20150223873 | BLADE DEPLOYMENT MECHANISMS FOR SURGICAL FORCEPS - A forceps includes first and second shafts, each having a jaw member disposed at a distal end thereof. At least one jaw member is moveable from an open to a closed position for grasping tissue therebetween. At least one jaw member is configured for reciprocation of a blade therethrough. A trigger assembly includes a trigger and at least one linkage coupled to the trigger and to the blade such that rotation of the trigger translates the blade between the retracted and the extended position. An interference member moveable between a locked position and an unlocked position is also provided. The interference member is configured to engage the linkage(s) when in the locked position to inhibit translation of the blade from the retracted to the extended position. | 08-13-2015 |
20150223874 | BLADE DEPLOYMENT MECHANISMS FOR SURGICAL FORCEPS - A forceps includes first and second shafts, each having a jaw member disposed at a distal end thereof. At least one jaw member is moveable from an open to a closed position for grasping tissue therebetween. At least one jaw member is configured for reciprocation of a blade therethrough. A trigger assembly includes a trigger and at least one linkage coupled to the trigger and to the blade such that rotation of the trigger translates the blade between the retracted and the extended position. An interference member moveable between a locked position and an unlocked position is also provided. The interference member is configured to engage the linkage(s) when in the locked position to inhibit translation of the blade from the retracted to the extended position. | 08-13-2015 |
20160106496 | BLADE DEPLOYMENT MECHANISMS FOR SURGICAL FORCEPS - A forceps includes first and second shafts, each having a jaw member disposed at a distal end thereof. At least one jaw member is moveable from an open to a closed position for grasping tissue therebetween. At least one jaw member is configured for reciprocation of a blade therethrough. A trigger assembly includes a trigger and at least one linkage coupled to the trigger and to the blade such that rotation of the trigger translates the blade between the retracted and the extended position. An interference member moveable between a locked position and an unlocked position is also provided. The interference member is configured to engage the linkage(s) when in the locked position to inhibit translation of the blade from the retracted to the extended position. | 04-21-2016 |