Patent application number | Description | Published |
20140216945 | PASSIVE WATER HEATER ANODE ROD DEPLETION SENSOR ALGORITHM - The present subject matter relates to methodologies and algorithms for providing anode rod depletion detection and warnings thereof to consumers. Consumers general are not concerned with monitoring consumption of protective anode rods incorporated within water heaters, The present subject matter provides automatic monitoring of anode rod depletion and provides the consumer with notification of rod depletion beyond a predetermined amount by one or more of optical, audible, or electronic devices. Aspects of the algorithm include handling of start-up conditions, service board replacement conditions, and properly defining the anode rod depletion threshold. Additional algorithm aspects include considerations for taking into consideration power outage conditions and accurately estimating galvanic current. | 08-07-2014 |
20140218005 | ANODE DEPLETION SENSOR HARDWARE CIRCUIT - The present subject matter relates to systems and methodologies for providing anode rod depletion detection and warnings thereof to consumers. Consumers generally are not concerned with monitoring consumption of protective anode rods incorporated within water heaters. The present subject matter provides automatic monitoring of anode rod depletion and provides the consumer with notification of rod depletion beyond a predetermined amount by one or more of optical, audible, or electronic devices. | 08-07-2014 |
20140218006 | WATER HEATER ANODE ROD DEPLETION SENSING - The present subject matter relates to methodologies for sensing anode rod depletion. Consumers generally are not concerned with monitoring consumption of protective anode rods incorporated within water heaters. The present subject matter provides automatic monitoring of anode rod depletion and provides the consumer with notification of rod depletion beyond a predetermined amount. The principles of Faraday's Law are used to calculate anode weight loss by conversion of measured and accumulated current. | 08-07-2014 |
20140321838 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ADJUSTING ANODE ROD GALVANIC CORROSION - Systems and methods for adjusting anode rod galvanic corrosion are provided. An exemplary water heater includes a tank for holding a volume of water. The water heater also includes an anode rod extending into the water and electrically connected to an electrical ground such that a galvanic current flows from the anode rod to the electrical ground. The water heater includes at least one heating element configured to heat the water when energized. The water heater also includes a resistor configuration connected between the anode rod and the electrical ground such that the galvanic current flows through the resistor configuration. The resistor configuration provides a variable resistance. | 10-30-2014 |
20140334807 | DETERMINING HEATING ELEMENT AND WATER HEATER STATUS BASED ON GALVANIC CURRENT - Systems and methods for determining heating element and water heater status based on galvanic current are provided. An exemplary water heater includes a tank for holding a volume of water and an anode rod extending into the water. The anode rod has a core made of a conductive material. The water heater also includes at least one heating element configured to heat the water when energized. The water heater includes a current measurement circuit configured to generate a feedback signal describing a galvanic current flowing from the core of the anode rod to an electrical ground. The water heater also includes a controller configured to receive the feedback signal from the current measurement circuit and to control one or more operations of the water heater based on the feedback signal. | 11-13-2014 |
20150013622 | WATER HEATER APPLIANCE AND A METHOD FOR OPERATING THE SAME - A water heater appliance and a method for operating the same are provided. The method includes receiving a first temperature measurement from a temperature sensor of the water heater appliance, receiving a second temperature measurement from the temperature sensor of the water heater appliance, and establishing if water is flowing through a conduit of the water heater appliance based at least in part on the first and second temperature measurements. | 01-15-2015 |
20160084526 | A METHOD FOR DETERMINING WHETHER A WATER HEATER APPLIANCE IS OPERATING WITH A TIMER SWITCH - A method for determining whether a water heater appliance is operating on a timer switch is provided. The method includes determining a power on time interval between a previous power interruption and a current power interruption if the current power interruption is a long power outage and establishing that the water heater appliance is not operating with a timer switch if the power on time interval is greater than a threshold time interval. A related water heater appliance is also provided. | 03-24-2016 |
20160097563 | GAS WATER HEATER CONTROL ALTERNATE POWER SOURCE - Systems, circuits, and methods for providing operating power to a gas control circuit board are disclosed. A first power source for a gas control circuit board is derived from a utility supplied AC source while a backup supply is provided based on current flowing through an anode rod associated with the water heater as defined by Faraday's Law of Electrolysis. The backup supply based on anode current flow provided operating power for the gas control circuit in case of loss of power from the utility supplied AC source. | 04-07-2016 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20080196277 | Article of Footwear Including a Reflective Outsole - An article of footwear including a reflective outsole is disclosed. The article of footwear has an outsole including a reflective device that covers one or several portions of the outsole. The reflective device is composed of a thin and flexible material that does interfere with the natural flexibility of the outsole. The reflective device may extend over a substantial majority of a lower surface of the outsole, including a portion of the outer periphery of the outsole. | 08-21-2008 |
20090100705 | Article Of Footwear With A Sole Structure Having Fluid-Filled Support Elements - An article of footwear is disclosed that includes an upper and a sole structure secured to the upper. The sole structure incorporates a support element that includes a fluid-filled chamber. The chamber may be bonded to other portions of the sole to secure the chamber within the sole. A surface of the chamber may also be angled to form a corresponding bevel in a lower surface of the sole structure, potentially in a rear-lateral area of the sole structure. A plate may also extend under a portion of the chamber. | 04-23-2009 |
20100186264 | Article of Footwear with Two Part Midsole Assembly - An article of footwear includes an upper and a sole assembly secured to the upper. The sole assembly has a shell having a first hardness and a recess. A lateral side of the recess has a first depth and a medial side of the recess has a second depth that is different than the first depth. A first aperture extends through a forefoot portion of the shell, with the first aperture defining a first tongue fixed on a medial side thereof with a remainder of the first tongue free to flex with respect to the shell. An insert has a second hardness and is seated in the recess. A lateral side of the insert has a first height and a medial side of the insert has a second height that is different than the first height, with the second hardness being different than the first hardness. | 07-29-2010 |
20110078921 | Article Of Footwear Having An Upper With Knitted Elements - An article of footwear may incorporate various elements that are at least partially formed through a knitting process, such as a circular knitting process or a flat knitting process. Examples of the elements include tongue elements, collar elements, and collar-throat elements. In some configurations, the elements include compressible areas and flange areas. The compressible areas may include foam cores or floating yarns that impart compressibility, and the flange areas may be utilized to join the components to the article of footwear. | 04-07-2011 |
20110131833 | Article Of Footwear With A Sole Structure Having Fluid-Filled Support Elements - An article of footwear is disclosed that includes an upper and a sole structure secured to the upper. The sole structure incorporates a support element that includes a fluid-filled chamber. The chamber may be bonded to other portions of the sole to secure the chamber within the sole. A surface of the chamber may also be angled to form a corresponding bevel in a lower surface of the sole structure, potentially in a rear-lateral area of the sole structure. A plate may also extend under a portion of the chamber. | 06-09-2011 |
20110138654 | Article Of Footwear With A Sole Structure Having Fluid-Filled Support Elements - An article of footwear is disclosed that includes an upper and a sole structure secured to the upper. The sole structure incorporates a support element that includes a fluid-filled chamber. The chamber may be bonded to other portions of the sole to secure the chamber within the sole. A surface of the chamber may also be angled to form a corresponding bevel in a lower surface of the sole structure, potentially in a rear-lateral area of the sole structure. A plate may also extend under a portion of the chamber. | 06-16-2011 |
20120011744 | Decoupled Foot Stabilizer System - An article of footwear includes a decoupled foot stabilizer system. The foot stabilizer system is decoupled from a midfoot region of the article of footwear. The foot stabilizer system includes a plurality of strap members. The foot stabilizer system may optionally include a bootie. The plurality of strap members extend underneath a portion of a foot of a wearer. The plurality of strap members are configured to receive a lace at one end. A lace running through the ends of the strap members pulls on the strap members when the lace is tightened and causes the foot stabilizer system to conform to the wearer's foot. | 01-19-2012 |
20120023686 | Method Of Lasting An Article Of Footwear - A method of manufacturing an article of footwear may include assembling at least a portion of an upper of the article of footwear, the upper having a lower perimeter edge. A lasting element is secured to the upper. The lasting element includes (a) a first strip joined to a lateral side of the upper adjacent to the lower perimeter edge, (b) a second strip joined to a medial side of the upper adjacent to the lower perimeter edge, and (c) at least one strand extending through the first strip and the second strip. The strand is tensioned, and a sole structure of the article of footwear is joined to the upper. | 02-02-2012 |
20120198720 | Article of Footwear with Decoupled Upper - An article of footwear including a connecting member is disclosed. The connecting member provides partial decoupling between the upper and the sole structure. The connecting member can include an upper layer and a lower layer that are attached at a central attachment portion. | 08-09-2012 |
20120260528 | Article of Footwear with Two part Midsole Assembly - An article of footwear includes an upper and a sole assembly secured to the upper. The sole assembly has a shell having a first hardness and a recess. A lateral side of the recess has a first depth and a medial side of the recess has a second depth that is different than the first depth. A first aperture extends through a forefoot portion of the shell, with the first aperture defining a first tongue fixed on a medial side thereof with a remainder of the first tongue free to flex with respect to the shell. An insert has a second hardness and is seated in the recess. A lateral side of the insert has a first height and a medial side of the insert has a second height that is different than the first height, with the second hardness being different than the first hardness. | 10-18-2012 |
20130340283 | Footwear Incorporating Looped Tensile Strand Elements - A tensile strand element for an article of footwear is disclosed. The tensile strand element includes one or more tensile strands secured at their endpoints between the sole and upper of an article of footwear, creating one or more looped portions. The unsecured looped portions may extend into the fastening region of the footwear and engage with a fastening system to tighten the footwear upper snugly against a wearer's foot to provide added support. | 12-26-2013 |
20140048003 | Stitching Machine - A stitching machine may include a needle apparatus, a sewing thread spool receiving device, and a bobbin thread spool receiving device. The stitching machine may further include a bobbin thread tensioner configured to receive bobbin thread from the bobbin thread spool receiving device. The bobbin thread tensioner may be further configured to supply the bobbin thread to the needle apparatus. The bobbin thread spool receiving device is configured to receive a bobbin spool holding approximately 700 meters or more of bobbin thread. The bobbin thread spool receiving device may be located above a stitching location of the stitching machine. The stitching machine may provide improved access to a bobbin spool, enhanced manufacturing efficiency, and enhanced manufacturing flexibility. | 02-20-2014 |
20140075782 | Decoupled Foot Stabilizer System - An article of footwear includes a decoupled foot stabilizer system. The foot stabilizer system is decoupled from a midfoot region of the article of footwear. The foot stabilizer system includes a plurality of strap members. The foot stabilizer system may optionally include a bootie. The plurality of strap members extend underneath a portion of a foot of a wearer. The plurality of strap members are configured to receive a lace at one end. A lace running through the ends of the strap members pulls on the strap members when the lace is tightened and causes the foot stabilizer system to conform to the wearer's foot. | 03-20-2014 |
20140082965 | Article Of Footwear Having An Upper With Knitted Elements - An article of footwear may incorporate various elements that are at least partially formed through a knitting process, such as a circular knitting process or a flat knitting process. Examples of the elements include tongue elements, collar elements, and collar-throat elements. In some configurations, the elements include compressible areas and flange areas. The compressible areas may include foam cores or floating yarns that impart compressibility, and the flange areas may be utilized to join the components to the article of footwear. | 03-27-2014 |
20140123409 | Method of Lasting An Article Of Footwear - A method of manufacturing an article of footwear may include assembling at least a portion of an upper of the article of footwear, the upper having a lower perimeter edge. A knitted component forming a portion of the upper includes at least one strand formed with the knitted component. The strand passes through opposite sides of the upper along the lower perimeter edge. The strand is tensioned, and a sole structure of the article of footwear is joined to the upper. | 05-08-2014 |
20150068061 | Article Of Footwear With Upper Having Member With Support Arm - An article of footwear includes a sole structure. The article of footwear further includes a first member that extends away from the sole structure. The first member at least partially defines a medial side and a lateral side of the article of footwear. Moreover, the second member has a body, a first support arm, and a second support arm. The body is attached to the first member such that the first member and the body cooperate to define a void that is configured to receive a foot. The body is also attached to the sole structure. The first support arm is attached to the first member on the medial side, and the second support arm is attached to the first member on the lateral side. | 03-12-2015 |
20150068063 | Outsole With Stepped Projections For Article Of Footwear - An article of footwear includes an outsole having a base with an upper surface that faces the upper and a lower surface that faces away from the upper surface. The outsole also includes a first stepped projection that projects in a plurality of first steps from the lower surface. The plurality of first steps is defined by a plurality of first tread surfaces and a plurality of first riser surfaces. The outsole additionally includes a second stepped projection that projects in a plurality of second steps from the lower surface. The plurality of second steps is defined by a plurality of second tread surfaces and a plurality of second riser surfaces. The second stepped projection is spaced away from the first stepped projection relative to the lateral axis of the article of footwear. | 03-12-2015 |
20150068572 | Collapsible Low- Profile Privacy Structure - Aspects are directed to a collapsible privacy structure that has a low profile when in an un-deployed state to preserve the sight lines of observers. The collapsible privacy structure may then be deployed causing a canopy structure to extend upwardly forming an internal volume that provides privacy and seclusion to the user of the structure. The internal volume may be used for a bathroom, a shower, a medical evaluation/treatment space, and/or a changing space. Upon the departure of the user from the internal volume, the collapsible privacy structure may return to the low profile nature provided by the un-deployed state. | 03-12-2015 |
20150082662 | Knitted Component With Adjustable Knitted Portion - An article includes a knitted component of unitary knit construction. The knitted component has a first edge and a second edge. The knitted component has a length that is measured between the first edge and the second edge. The length is substantially fixed. The knitted component also includes a base structure and an adjustment member that is integrally knit to the base structure. The adjustment member includes a bunched region that is configured to slide along the base structure between a first position on the knitted component and a second position on the knitted component. | 03-26-2015 |
20150342298 | Outsole With Stepped Projections For Article Of Footwear - An article of footwear includes an outsole having a base with an upper surface that faces the upper and a lower surface that faces away from the upper surface. The outsole also includes a first stepped projection that projects in a plurality of first steps from the lower surface. The plurality of first steps is defined by a plurality of first tread surfaces and a plurality of first riser surfaces. The outsole additionally includes a second stepped projection that projects in a plurality of second steps from the lower surface. The plurality of second steps is defined by a plurality of second tread surfaces and a plurality of second riser surfaces. The second stepped projection is spaced away from the first stepped projection relative to the lateral axis of the article of footwear. | 12-03-2015 |
20160021975 | Article of Footwear With Decoupled Upper - An article of footwear including a connecting member is disclosed. The connecting member provides partial decoupling between the upper and the sole structure. The connecting member can include an upper layer and a lower layer that are attached at a central attachment portion. | 01-28-2016 |
20160044989 | Decoupled Foot Stabilizer System - An article of footwear includes a decoupled foot stabilizer system. The foot stabilizer system is decoupled from a midfoot region of the article of footwear. The foot stabilizer system includes a plurality of strap members. The foot stabilizer system may optionally include a bootie. The plurality of strap members extend underneath a portion of a foot of a wearer. The plurality of strap members are configured to receive a lace at one end. A lace running through the ends of the strap members pulls on the strap members when the lace is tightened and causes the foot stabilizer system to conform to the wearer's foot. | 02-18-2016 |
20160051008 | Decoupled Foot Stabilizer System - An article of footwear includes a decoupled foot stabilizer system. The foot stabilizer system is decoupled from a midfoot region of the article of footwear. The foot stabilizer system includes a plurality of strap members. The foot stabilizer system may optionally include a bootie. The plurality of strap members extends underneath a portion of a foot of a wearer. The plurality of strap members is configured to receive a lace at one end. A lace running through the ends of the strap members pulls on the strap members when the lace is tightened and causes the foot stabilizer system to conform to the wearer's foot. | 02-25-2016 |
20160088902 | Footwear Incorporating Looped Tensile Strand Elements - A tensile strand element for an article of footwear is disclosed. The tensile strand element includes one or more tensile strands secured at their endpoints between the sole and upper of an article of footwear, creating one or more looped portions. The unsecured looped portions may extend into the fastening region of the footwear and engage with a fastening system to tighten the footwear upper snugly against a wearer's foot to provide added support. | 03-31-2016 |
20160088904 | Footwear Incorporating Looped Tensile Strand Elements - A tensile strand element for an article of footwear is disclosed. The tensile strand element includes one or more tensile strands secured at their endpoints between the sole and upper of an article of footwear, creating one or more looped portions. The unsecured looped portions may extend into the fastening region of the footwear and engage with a fastening system to tighten the footwear upper snugly against a wearer's foot to provide added support. | 03-31-2016 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20090325595 | PREMISES AREA MAP SYSTEMS AND METHODS - In an exemplary method, a geographic location of a mobile device is determined, a premises area map associated with the geographic location is identified, and data representative of the premises area map is provided to the mobile device over a network. In certain embodiments, data representative of a plurality of premises area maps is received from a plurality of premises area map providers, the data representative of the plurality of premises area maps is stored, and the geographic location is used to select the premises area map from the plurality of premises area maps. In certain embodiments, the premises area map is displayed and graphically represents at least a portion of a premises area. In certain embodiments, the premises area map is configured to illustrate a position of the mobile device within the premises area. | 12-31-2009 |
20090325606 | Systems and Methods for Facilitating a Third-Party Service Based on Location of a Mobile Device - In an exemplary method, a request is received from a mobile device, a geographic location of the mobile device is determined, the geographic location of the mobile device is confirmed to be within a predefined range of a premises reference location located within a premises area, and a third-party service associated with the premises reference location is facilitated in response to the request and the confirmation. In certain embodiments, the third-party service includes adding a user associated with the mobile device to a wait list. In certain embodiments, the third-party service further includes providing a notification message to the mobile device when a wait period is over. In certain embodiments, the third-party service includes a food service provided at the premises reference location. | 12-31-2009 |
20100137028 | ENHANCED INTERFACE FOR MOBILE PHONE - A docking station may provide an enhanced user interface for mobile communication devices. In one particular implementation, a device may include a base unit configured to provide connections to one or more user interface devices and an interface for connecting to a mobile phone, where the base unit connects the mobile phone to the one or more user interface devices to provide an enhanced interface for the mobile phone. | 06-03-2010 |
20110161839 | INTERCOM AND CHAT FOR HOME MEDIA NETWORK - A media client presents a menu interface for a media client intercom and receives, via the menu interface, a signal from a user to initiate an intercom message. The media client receives a message input from the user, where the message input is provided through the human interface device, and converts the message input into a digital format to create a digitized message. The digitized message is sent, exclusively via a home media network, to another media client within the home media network. | 06-30-2011 |
20120252529 | ENHANCED INTERFACE FOR MOBILE PHONE - A docking station may provide an enhanced user interface for mobile communication devices. In one particular implementation, a device may include a base unit configured to provide connections to one or more user interface devices and an interface for connecting to a mobile phone, where the base unit connects the mobile phone to the one or more user interface devices to provide an enhanced interface for the mobile phone. | 10-04-2012 |
20130288746 | ENHANCED INTERFACE FOR MOBILE PHONE - A docking station may provide an enhanced user interface for mobile communication devices. In one particular implementation, a device may include a base unit configured to provide connections to one or more user interface devices and an interface for connecting to a mobile phone, where the base unit connects the mobile phone to the one or more user interface devices to provide an enhanced interface for the mobile phone. | 10-31-2013 |
20130333030 | VERIFYING SOURCE OF EMAIL - A system is configured to generate an email with a main hyperlink and a verification hyperlink; transmit the email to an email account of a user; receive an indication of a selection of the verification hyperlink; and transmit a confirmation message to a recipient device of the user when the verification hyperlink is selected. | 12-12-2013 |
20140335900 | PREMISES AREA MAP SYSTEMS AND METHODS - In an exemplary method, a premises map subsystem receives a user request for a premises area map of a premises area, provides the premises area map for display by a mobile device, provides supplemental data for display within the premises area map, determines that the mobile device is located at a premises trigger location, and provides, in response to determining that the mobile device is located at the premises trigger location, additional supplemental data for display within the premises area map. | 11-13-2014 |
20150043724 | CALLER ID VERIFICATION - A device may receive first identification information associated with a sending device. The first identification information may be provided by a receiving device, and may be associated with a request to establish a connection between the sending device and the receiving device. The device may receive a request to verify the first identification information. The device may determine, based on the request, second identification information identifying the sending device. The second identification information may be provided by the sending device, and may be associated with the request to establish the connection between the sending device and the receiving device. The device may compare the second identification information and the first identification information. The device may provide verification information indicating a result of the comparison. | 02-12-2015 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20090112324 | VERTEBRAL BODY REPLACEMENT DEVICE AND METHOD FOR USE TO MAINTAIN A SPACE BETWEEN TWO VERTEBRAL BODIES WITHIN A SPINE - The vertebral body replacement device includes a body member and a central rod member that has two threaded portions and is configured to be operatively associated with the body member. The device also includes a first end member and a second end member with the end members being configured to threadingly engage the threaded portions of the central rod member. The body member and the two end members are further constructed to inhibit rotational movement of the two end members when the device is positioned within a space within a spine as the two end members will engage the adjacent respective vertebral bodies following rotational actuation of the central rod member causing the end members to move in an axial direction relative to the body member, thereby allowing the two end members to apply a force to the two vertebral bodies. A surgical method using the device is also disclosed. | 04-30-2009 |
20090112325 | FOOTPLATE MEMBER AND A METHOD FOR USE IN A VERTEBRAL BODY REPLACEMENT DEVICE - The footplate member includes an end surface, a sidewall that is attached to the end surface, and an orientation mechanism that is designed to align the footplate member in a certain position relative to at least one of the two end members of the vertebral body replacement device. The orientation mechanism includes a plurality of tabs located on an end wall of each end member and corresponding slots located along the edge of the sidewall, with the tabs and slots being sized and positioned to mate. The footplate member also includes a locking mechanism designed to couple the footplate member to an end member prior to the implantation of the vertebral body replacement device within a space within a spinal column. A method for assembling a vertebral body replacement device and a method for using a footplate member in a vertebral body replacement device is also disclosed. | 04-30-2009 |
20100069936 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENT AND METHOD OF USE FOR RELEASING SOFT TISSUE - A surgical instrument for use in releasing soft tissue within the human body. The surgical instrument has a handle with proximal and distal ends with a tube connected to the distal end. The surgical instrument also includes a blade member that slidingly engages the tube moving along the length of the tube to cut soft tissue. Further included in the surgical instrument is a guard member that is attached to the blade member. The guard member has a hood portion and a capture portion. The hood portion is connected to the blade member with the distally positioned capture portion acting to displace surrounding tissue while capturing certain soft tissue structures resulting in the blade member being in operative position to cut and release the soft tissue. A surgical instrument kit including a plurality of modular surgical instruments and method for releasing soft tissue using the surgical instrument are also disclosed. | 03-18-2010 |
20100100100 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENT AND METHOD OF USE FOR INSERTING AN IMPLANT BETWEEN TWO BONES - The surgical instrument includes a handle assembly and an elongate body that has first and second ends with the first end being located adjacent to the handle assembly and the second end being moveably connected to an implant engagement assembly. The surgical instrument also has a length control mechanism that includes a gripping portion, a drive shaft and a gear assembly. The surgical instrument further has a locking mechanism that includes a gripping portion, a connecting rod and a coupling end. The length control mechanism functions to adjust the overall length of an implant that is held by the implant engagement assembly before being implanted in vivo. The locking mechanism operates to secure the overall length of the implant following final length adjustment and implantation. A surgical method for using the surgical instrument, a method of fabrication and a spinal implant insertion kit is also disclosed. | 04-22-2010 |
20100211119 | MULTI-FUNCTIONAL SURGICAL INSTRUMENT AND METHOD OF USE FOR INSERTING AN IMPLANT BETWEEN TWO BONES - The surgical instrument includes a handle and a housing member that has a first end that is fixed to the handle and a second end that is configured to receive an engagement member. The surgical instrument also has an implant holding mechanism that is operatively associated with the housing member and the handle. The surgical instrument further includes a length control mechanism that has a knob, a rod member and a toothed member. The toothed member is fixed to one end of the rod member and the knob is attached to the other end. The surgical instrument also has a locking mechanism that includes a knob and a rod member having a proximal end to which the knob is attached and a distal end that is configured to detachably couple to a locking device. A surgical method for using the surgical instrument and a bone spacing kit is also disclosed. | 08-19-2010 |
20110190591 | SURGICAL RETRACTOR - The present invention is a surgical retractor that can be manipulated with only a digit of a single hand. The surgical retractor includes a shaft, which may be cylindrical, with a finger member attached to one side. The finger member may be an arc segment properly sized to keep a digit next to the shaft. Attached to one end of the shaft is a rake head. The rake head consists of three segments attached to one another, the first of which is attached to the shaft. The final segment has a concavity formed upon it to allow another instrument access beneath the surgical retractor. The method of using the surgical retractor is also disclosed. | 08-04-2011 |
20110208306 | TISSUE SPACER IMPLANT, IMPLANT TOOL, AND METHODS OF USE THEREOF - Tissue spacer implants, surgical distraction instruments, surgical insertion tools, coupling devices, surgical kits, surgical methods for distraction, and methods for coupling bodies are disclosed. The tissue spacer implants include a first end member, a second end member, and an intermediate spacer member having a coupling mechanism adapted to couple the first end member with the intermediate spacer member and to couple the second end member with the intermediate spacer member. The surgical instruments may be used for inserting these implants and include a first elongated member, a second elongated member, a distraction mechanism, and an actuator. The coupling devices may be used to couple the components of the implants. | 08-25-2011 |
20110245927 | TISSUE SPACER IMPLANT, IMPLANT TOOL, AND METHODS OF USE THEREOF - Tissue spacer implants, surgical distraction instruments, surgical insertion tools, coupling devices, surgical kits, surgical methods for distraction, and methods for coupling bodies are disclosed. The tissue spacer implants include a first end member, a second end member, and an intermediate spacer member having a coupling mechanism adapted to couple the first end member with the intermediate spacer member and to couple the second end member with the intermediate spacer member. The surgical instruments may be used for inserting these implants and include a first elongated member, a second elongated member, a distraction mechanism, and an actuator. The coupling devices may be used to couple the components of the implants. | 10-06-2011 |
20120022654 | VARIABLE HEIGHT INTERVERTEBRAL DEVICES AND METHODS FOR USE - Variable height intervertebral devices and method of employing the devices are disclosed. The devices and methods can maintain or re-establishing anatomic spacing along a spine and can ensure avoidance of long-term structural, neurological, vascular, and/or other systemic impairments. The intervertebral device includes a cylindrical body having a first end and a second end opposite the first end; a first disk threaded to the first end of the cylindrical body and a second disk mounted to the second end of the cylindrical body; means for rotating the cylindrical body whereby the first disk translates along the cylindrical body to vary the height of the device; and a plurality of pins mounted to one disk, the plurality of pins slidably engageable with a plurality of sleeves mounted to the other disk, the pins and sleeves inhibiting the first disk from rotating when the cylindrical body is rotated. | 01-26-2012 |
20120265303 | VERTEBRAL BODY REPLACEMENT DEVICE AND METHOD FOR USE TO MAINTAIN A SPACE BETWEEN TWO VERTEBRAL BODIES WITHIN A SPINE - A vertebral body replacement device includes a body member and a central rod member having two threaded portions and configured to be operatively associated with the body member. The device also includes a first end member and a second end member with the end members configured to threadingly engage the threaded portions of the central rod member. The body member and the two end members are further constructed to inhibit rotational movement of the two end members when the device is positioned within a space within a spine as the two end members will engage the adjacent respective vertebral bodies following rotational actuation of the central rod member causing the end members to move in an axial direction relative to the body member, thereby allowing the two end members to apply a force to the two vertebral bodies. A surgical instrument and method for using the device are also disclosed. | 10-18-2012 |
20120310293 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENT AND METHOD OF USE FOR INSERTING AN IMPLANT BETWEEN TWO BONES - The surgical instrument includes a handle assembly and an elongate body that has first and second ends with the first end being located adjacent to the handle assembly and the second end being moveably connected to an implant engagement assembly. The surgical instrument also has a length control mechanism that includes a gripping portion, a drive shaft and a gear assembly. The surgical instrument further has a locking mechanism that includes a gripping portion, a connecting rod and a coupling end. The length control mechanism functions to adjust the overall length of an implant that is held by the implant engagement assembly before being implanted in vivo. The locking mechanism operates to secure the overall length of the implant following final length adjustment and implantation. A surgical method for using the surgical instrument, a method of fabrication and a spinal implant insertion kit is also disclosed. | 12-06-2012 |
20120310350 | UNIDIRECTIONAL DYNAMIC INTERBODY FUSION DEVICE AND METHOD OF USE - Unidirectional dynamic interbody fusion devices and methods of use for insertion into a patient in order to maintain a space between two vertebral bodies. A first interbody fusion device including a body member, at least one side member, and a means for moving the at least one side member relative to the central body member. A second interbody fusion device including a base member, a top member, and a means for moving the top member relative to the base member. A surgical method for maintaining a space between two vertebral bodies in a spine, including obtaining a medical device, inserting and coupling an expansion tool into an opening within the medical device, slidingly inserting the medical device into a space between two vertebral bodies; and rotating the expansion tool to move the at least one side member in a direction relative to the body member. | 12-06-2012 |
20130282120 | VERTEBRAL BODY REPLACEMENT DEVICE AND METHOD FOR USE TO MAINTAIN A SPACE BETWEEN TWO VERTEBRAL BODIES WITHIN A SPINE - A vertebral body replacement device includes a body member and a central rod member having two threaded portions and configured to be operatively associated with the body member. The device also includes a first end member and a second end member with the end members configured to threadingly engage the threaded portions of the central rod member. The body member and the two end members are further constructed to inhibit rotational movement of the two end members when the device is positioned within a space within a spine as the two end members will engage the adjacent respective vertebral bodies following rotational actuation of the central rod member causing the end members to move in an axial direction relative to the body member, thereby allowing the two end members to apply a force to the two vertebral bodies. A surgical instrument and method for using the device are also disclosed. | 10-24-2013 |
20140039533 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENT AND METHOD OF USE FOR RELEASING SOFT TISSUE - A surgical instrument for use in releasing soft tissue within the human body. The surgical instrument has a handle with proximal and distal ends with a tube connected to the distal end. The surgical instrument also includes a blade member that slidingly engages the tube moving along the length of the tube to cut soft tissue. Further included in the surgical instrument is a guard member that is attached to the blade member. The guard member has a hood portion and a capture portion. The hood portion is connected to the blade member with the distally positioned capture portion acting to displace surrounding tissue while capturing certain soft tissue structures resulting in the blade member being in operative position to cut and release the soft tissue. A surgical instrument kit including a plurality of modular surgical instruments and method for releasing soft tissue using the surgical instrument are also disclosed. | 02-06-2014 |
20140222151 | VERTEBRAL BODY REPLACEMENT DEVICE AND METHOD FOR USE TO MAINTAIN A SPACE BETWEEN TWO VERTEBRAL BODIES WITHIN A SPINE - A vertebral body replacement device includes a body member and a central rod member having two threaded portions and configured to be operatively associated with the body member. The device also includes a first end member and a second end member with the end members configured to threadingly engage the threaded portions of the central rod member. The body member and the two end members are further constructed to inhibit rotational movement of the two end members when the device is positioned within a space within a spine as the two end members will engage the adjacent respective vertebral bodies following rotational actuation of the central rod member causing the end members to move in an axial direction relative to the body member, thereby allowing the two end members to apply a force to the two vertebral bodies. A surgical instrument and method for using the device are also disclosed. | 08-07-2014 |
20150073559 | VERTEBRAL BODY REPLACEMENT DEVICE AND METHOD FOR USE TO MAINTAIN A SPACE BETWEEN TWO VERTEBRAL BODIES WITHIN A SPINE - A vertebral body replacement device includes a body member and a central rod member having two threaded portions and configured to be operatively associated with the body member. The device also includes a first end member and a second end member with the end members configured to threadingly engage the threaded portions of the central rod member. The body member and the two end members are further constructed to inhibit rotational movement of the two end members when the device is positioned within a space within a spine as the two end members will engage the adjacent respective vertebral bodies following rotational actuation of the central rod member causing the end members to move in an axial direction relative to the body member, thereby allowing the two end members to apply a force to the two vertebral bodies. A surgical instrument and method for using the device are also disclosed. | 03-12-2015 |
20150182248 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENT AND METHOD OF USE FOR RELEASING SOFT TISSUE - A surgical instrument for use in releasing soft tissue within the human body. The surgical instrument has a handle with proximal and distal ends with a tube connected to the distal end. The surgical instrument also includes a blade member that slidingly engages the tube moving along the length of the tube to cut soft tissue. Further included in the surgical instrument is a guard member that is attached to the blade member. The guard member has a hood portion and a capture portion. The hood portion is connected to the blade member with the distally positioned capture portion acting to displace surrounding tissue while capturing certain soft tissue structures resulting in the blade member being in operative position to cut and release the soft tissue. A surgical instrument kit including a plurality of modular surgical instruments and method for releasing soft tissue using the surgical instrument are also disclosed. | 07-02-2015 |
20150182346 | EXPANDABLE TISSUE SPACE IMPLANT AND METHOD OF USE - A horizontal and vertical expandable tissue spacer implants, insertion tools, assembly methods and surgical methods are disclosed. The horizontal expandable tissue spacer implant includes a first lateral member with a first side, a second lateral member with a first side, and an intermediate spacer member. The intermediate spacer member is adapted to cooperatively engage and hold the first side of the first lateral member and the first side of the second lateral member. A vertical expandable tissue spacer implant includes a top member with a bottom surface, a bottom member with a top surface, and an intermediate spacer member with a coupling mechanism. The coupling mechanism cooperatively engages the bottom surface of the top member to the intermediate spacer member and the top surface of the bottom member to the intermediate spacer member. | 07-02-2015 |
20150366676 | UNIDIRECTIONAL DYNAMIC INTERBODY FUSION DEVICE AND METHOD OF USE - An interbody fusion device includes a top member, a base member, and an expansion member. The top member includes a first bone-engaging side and a threaded opening. The base member is received by the top member and includes a second bone-engaging side and an open cavity aligned with the threaded opening of the top member. The expansion member is disposed within the open cavity for rotation about an axis. The expansion member includes a threaded portion threadably engaged with the threaded opening. Rotation of the expansion member translates the first bone-engaging side away from the second bone-engaging side along the axis. | 12-24-2015 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20090033875 | System and Method for Utilizing a Scanning Beam to Display an Image - A method includes generating a plurality of beams that each illuminate a separate portion of a spatial light modulator. The spatial light modulator has a first dimension of a first length and a second dimension of a second length. Each of the beams spans a portion of the first length of the first dimension and a portion of the second length of the second dimension. The method also includes scrolling the plurality of beams along the second dimension of the spatial light modulator while maintaining at least a first gap between each of the plurality of beams. | 02-05-2009 |
20090059336 | System and Method for Display Illumination - System and method for increasing display brightness in laser illuminated display systems. An illumination source includes a light source to produce light, a disk having a set of lens elements arranged in a circular ring around a center of the disk, a motor coupled to the disk, and an external lens positioned in a light path of the coherent light source. As the disk rotates, the lens elements are moved sequentially through the light, angularly deflecting the light, which may be corrected by the external lens into a spatial deflection. The spatially deflected light may be used to simultaneously illuminate a surface with more than one color of light, thereby increasing the brightness of the light source. | 03-05-2009 |
20090141200 | Multi-Function Light Modulators for Optical Systems - In one embodiment, a method includes transmitting one or more light beams by a first portion of a light modulator formed outwardly from a substrate. The one or more transmitted light beams are spatially integrated. A second portion of the light modulator is formed outwardly from the substrate. The second portion of the light modulator spatially integrates the transmitted light beams. | 06-04-2009 |
20110211167 | System and Method for Utilizing a Scanning Beam to Display an Image - A method includes generating a plurality of beams that each illuminate a separate portion of a spatial light modulator. The spatial light modulator has a first dimension of a first length and a second dimension of a second length. Each of the beams spans a portion of the first length of the first dimension and a portion of the second length of the second dimension. The method also includes scrolling the plurality of beams along the second dimension of the spatial light modulator while maintaining at least a first gap between each of the plurality of beams. | 09-01-2011 |
20140085731 | LED DRIVE APPARATUS, SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Light flux levels sensed from a color LED array control both current availability to the array and disable/re-enable a current bypass switch to shunt stored-energy current to or away from a selected LED. In continuous mode, a single flux pulse is created for the duration of a pre-established period. Feedback from the flux sensor pulses current to an energy storage device to maintain the light flux at a predetermined set-point. A particular dimming level is achieved by establishing both the pulse period and the flux magnitude. In discontinuous mode, one or more short flux pulses are created. Both the turn-on and the turn-off time of each flux pulse is controlled by alternately removing and then re-establishing a current shunt from the energy storage device to ground. Flux pulse magnitude is controlled by recognizing when the flux pulse has reached a predetermined set-point and re-establishing the current shunt to abruptly turn off current to the selected LED. | 03-27-2014 |
20150377442 | Pixelated Projection for Automotive Headlamp - An automotive headlamp is provided that includes a digital micromirror device (DMD) headlight module, the DMD headlight module including a DMD, a white light module to provide a white light beam to illuminate the DMD, illumination optics optically coupled between the DMD and the white light module to prepare the white light beam for illuminating the DMD, and projection optics optically coupled to the DMD to receive pixelated light reflected by the DMD and project a pixelated light beam on road, in which at least one of the DMD, the white light module, and the illumination optics shape a beam profile of the white light beam such that the light reflected by the DMD has a pixelated non-uniform beam profile suitable for projecting a white light beam that forms a portion of a white light beam of the headlamp. | 12-31-2015 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20100247293 | VARIABLE AREA TURBINE VANE ARRANGEMENT - A ring vane nozzle for a gas turbine engine according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure includes a multiple of fixed turbine vanes between an inner vane ring and an outer vane ring and a multiple of rotational turbine vanes between the inner vane ring and the outer vane ring, each of the rotational turbine vanes rotatable about an axis of rotation. | 09-30-2010 |
20110088865 | PROCESS TO CAST SEAL SLOTS IN TURBINE VANE SHROUDS - A process for casting a turbine engine component is provided. The process comprises the steps of placing a refractory core assembly comprising two intersecting plates in a die, encapsulating the refractory core assembly in a wax pattern having the form of the turbine engine component, forming a ceramic shell mold about the wax pattern, removing the wax pattern, and pouring molten material into the ceramic shell mold to form the turbine engine component. | 04-21-2011 |
20110139393 | PROCESS TO CAST SEAL SLOTS IN TURBINE VANE SHROUDS - A process for casting a turbine engine component is provided. The process comprises the steps of placing a refractory core assembly comprising two intersecting plates in a die, encapsulating the refractory core assembly in a wax pattern having the form of the turbine engine component, forming a ceramic shell mold about the wax pattern, removing the wax pattern, and pouring molten material into the ceramic shell mold to form the turbine engine component. | 06-16-2011 |
20120076661 | BLADE FOR A GAS TURBINE ENGINE - A rotor blade for a turbine engine includes a first side that defines a first contact face with a hardcoat and a second side that defines a second contact face without a hardcoat. | 03-29-2012 |
20120168108 | CASTING CORE ASSEMBLY METHODS - A casting core assembly includes a metallic core and a ceramic core. The process for forming the casting core assembly includes inserting a ceramic plug of a metallic core and ceramic plug core subassembly into a compartment of the ceramic core. The ceramic plug is secured to the ceramic core. | 07-05-2012 |
20140186152 | BLADE OUTER AIR SEAL SYSTEM FOR CONTROLLED TIP CLEARANCE - A blade outer air seal system for a gas turbine engine includes a plurality of ring carriers made of a first material having a first coefficient of thermal expansion. A plurality of seal segments are carried, respectively, on the plurality of ring carriers. A ring member is carried in the plurality of ring carriers. The ring member is made of a second material that is different from the first material in composition. The second material has a second coefficient of thermal expansion such that the first coefficient of thermal expansion is 75-175% of the second coefficient of thermal expansion. | 07-03-2014 |
20150337673 | Segmented Clearance Control Ring - A clearance control ring having at least two segments is disclosed. Each of the segments interlock with adjacent segments to form a full hoop clearance control ring. Separate carriers and seals or one-piece carriers and seals may be mounted on the clearance control ring. The segmented structure of the clearance control ring allows for simpler assembly with segmented cases for gas turbine engines than prior art one-piece clearance control rings. The segmented structure also may be used with one-piece pre-assembled and multi-stage rotors. | 11-26-2015 |
20150354406 | BLADE OUTER AIR SEAL AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURE - The present disclosure relates to gas turbine engine components, such as blade outer air seals and methods of manufacture. In one embodiment, a gas turbine engine component includes a retention interface formed by an additive manufacturing process. The gas turbine engine component can include a retention interface having a pattern, and a thermal barrier layer formed to the retention interface. | 12-10-2015 |
20150367412 | METHOD INCLUDING FIBER REINFORCED CASTING ARTICLE - A method of forming an engine component according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure includes, among other things, introducing molten metal into a cavity between a shell and a casting article in the shell. The casting article includes a ceramic portion and a plurality of fibers. The method further includes separately removing the ceramic portion and the fibers from an interior of the component. | 12-24-2015 |
20150369076 | HYBRID PASSIVE AND ACTIVE TIP CLEARANCE SYSTEM - A control ring extends circumferentially about a central axis. A plurality of circumferentially spaced carrier portions have a cavity receiving the control ring. There are circumferential gaps between the carrier portions. A blade outer air seal is mounted on the carrier portions radially inwardly of the control ring. The control ring maintains the carrier portions at a radially outwardly expanded position when heated by an electric heater. | 12-24-2015 |
20160003087 | EDGE TREATMENT FOR GAS TURBINE ENGINE COMPONENT - A gas turbine engine component according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure includes, among other things, a body having a first outer face meeting a second outer face at an intersection, the body having a plurality of apertures extending from an opening in the first outer face to an opening on the second outer face; and a coating filling at least a portion of the plurality of apertures. | 01-07-2016 |
20160053624 | RADIAL POSITION CONTROL OF CASE SUPPORTED STRUCTURE WITH AXIAL REACTION MEMBER - A radial position control assembly for a gas turbine engine stage includes a case structure. A supported structure is operatively supported by the case structure. A support ring operatively supports the supported structure. The supported structure and the support ring have different coefficients of thermal expansion. A sealing structure is adjacent to the supported structure. The support ring maintains the supported structure relative to the sealing structure at a clearance during thermal transients based upon a circumferential gap between adjacent supported structure and based upon a radial gap between the support ring and the supported structure. A pin supports the supported structure relative to the case structure and is configured to isolate the support ring from loads on the supported structure. | 02-25-2016 |
20160097294 | BRUSH SEAL PLATE - A brush seal plate may comprise a flat ring with bristles protruding from an inner diameter of the flat ring. The brush seal plate may have a racetrack slot to allow the flat ring to move in a radial direction relative to a retention pin. The bristles may protrude from the inner diameter of the flat ring at an angle. A slot may be formed through the flat ring, and the slot may be angled. The flat ring may be circumferentially discontinuous. The flat ring may further comprise a retention opening configured to fix the flat ring in place relative to a retention pin. | 04-07-2016 |
20160102570 | NON-CONTACTING DYNAMIC SEAL - Non-contacting dynamic seals having wave springs are disclosed herein. A non-contacting dynamic seal may have a shoe coupled to an outer ring by an inner beam and an outer beam. A wave spring may be located between the inner beam and the outer beam, between the shoe and the inner beam, or between the outer beam and the outer ring. The wave spring may damp vibrations in the inner beam and the outer beam. | 04-14-2016 |
20160109025 | SEAL RING - A seal ring system is provided. The seal ring system comprises a segment defining a slot, a pedal along the slot, and an opening offset from the slot. A retention fastener may be disposed in the opening. A seal ring system is also provided comprising a first segment defining a first opening, a second segment defining a second opening, and a retention fastener extending through the first and second openings. The retention fastener configured to allow relative radial movement of the first segment and the second segment. A seal is further provided comprising a seal ring having a central axis, a petal extending radially inward with respect to the central axis of the seal ring, and a sealing disk axially proximate the seal ring. The sealing disk may have a seal shoe configured as a primary seal. The petal may extend toward the seal shoe. | 04-21-2016 |
20160115804 | SEAL SUPPORT STRUCTURE - The present disclosure relates to sealing systems for gas turbine engines. In one embodiment, a seal support structure for a gas turbine engine includes a seal support configured to retain a circumferential seal and an engine support configured for mounting the seal support structure to a gas turbine engine mount. The engine support includes at least one channel configured to provide radial movement of the seal support structure and circumferential retention of the seal support. Another embodiment is directed to a sealing system including a circumferential seal and seal support structure configured to provide radial movement. | 04-28-2016 |
20160115825 | SEAL SUPPORT STRUCTURE FOR A CIRCUMFERENTIAL SEAL OF A GAS TURBINE ENGINE - A seal support structure is provided for a circumferential seal. In one embodiment, the seal support structure includes an engine support structure, a seal support, and a shoulder joining the engine support and seal support. The shoulder offsets the engine support from the seal support, and the shoulder and the seal support structure are configured to dampen vibration for the circumferential seal. The seal support structure may employ one or more dampening elements or materials to interoperate with a seal support structure to dampen vibration to a seal system. | 04-28-2016 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20090069852 | Multi-Axial Bone Anchor Assembly - In one aspect, a bone anchor assembly is provided. The bone anchor assembly includes a bone anchor, a crown member, a saddle, and a sleeve. The bone anchor assembly is configured such that the bone anchor is moveable with respect to the saddle when the sleeve is positioned around the saddle and the bone anchor is locked relative to the saddle by compression of the head portion of the bone anchor between the crown member and a seat of the saddle. In another aspect, a system for orthopedic implantation is provided. The system includes an elongated member, a compression member, and a bone anchor assembly. In another aspect, a method of assembling a bone anchor assembly is provided. | 03-12-2009 |
20100131017 | Multi-Axial Bone Anchor Assembly - In one aspect, a bone anchor assembly is provided. The bone anchor assembly includes a bone anchor, a crown member, a saddle, and a sleeve. The bone anchor assembly is configured such that the bone anchor is moveable with respect to the saddle when the sleeve is positioned around the saddle and the bone anchor is locked relative to the saddle by compression of the head portion of the bone anchor between the crown member and a seat of the saddle. In another aspect, a system for orthopedic implantation is provided. The system includes an elongated member, a compression member, and a bone anchor assembly. In another aspect, a method of assembling a bone anchor assembly is provided. | 05-27-2010 |
20100152780 | SPINOUS PROCESS ANCHORING SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Devices and methods for anchoring one or more elongate connecting members along the spinal column include a transverse linking member positionable through a spinous process in a generally orthogonal orientation to the sagittal plane. At least one coupling assembly is engageable about an end of the linking member extending from the spinous process. The elongate connecting member is engaged to the coupling assembly in a transverse orientation to the transverse linking member. | 06-17-2010 |
20100222780 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR RETAINING SCREW IN A PLATE - A retention system for maintaining a screw to a vertebral plate is described herein. One or more screws extend through apertures within the vertebral plate. A cavity is positioned adjacent to and overlaps into the aperture. A ring is positioned within the cavity and held in position by a cap. The cap attaches to the plate to prevent removal of the ring. The ring is deflectable between a first shape to allow the screw to be inserted and removed from the aperture, and a second shape to prevent screw back-out from the aperture. | 09-02-2010 |
20100222822 | Posterior Fixation System - A posterior fixation system includes a saddle member, an anchoring member, an occipital plate, an occipital rod, and a cross-link connector. The anchoring member anchors the saddle member to bone. The saddle member includes a pair of upright portions that define a channel. The channel is adapted to receive an orthopedic rod, and the saddle member can include a hole to receive the anchoring member. The saddle member and the anchoring member can be coupled so as to allow multi-axial movement of the members. The anchoring member in one embodiment is a screw coupled to the hole of the saddle, and in another embodiment, the anchoring member is a hook. The offset member may be coupled to the saddle member to allow for offset connection of rods. Connection of individual rods can be accomplished by connecting the rods with the cross-link connector. The cross-link connector has an integrally formed cylindrical member that couples a pair of coupling portions together. The cylindrical member can be bent along multiple axes. The occipital plate secures the rods to the occipital bone of the skull. The occipital plate has a cross-shaped plate with a plurality of apertures defined in the plate and at least one saddle member coupled to the plate. Alternatively, the occipital rod can be secured to the occipital bone. | 09-02-2010 |
20110264145 | SPINAL CONSTRUCT SYSTEM - Embodiments for a spinal construct system including a spinal fixation plate attachable to fixture element in end-to-end fashion with a coupling mechanism that axially and torsionally constrains the first and second rods to one another. In one form, the end-to-end attachment arrangement is aligned along a common axis of the rods. In another form, the axes of the rods are offset laterally relative to one another. | 10-27-2011 |
20110276096 | LOW PROFILE VERTEBRAL STABILZATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Skeletal stabilization systems include a base, a longitudinal member, and a retaining member. The base includes an engagement surface with a surface area that is positionable in contact with a bone to atraumatically or traumatically engage the base to the bone. The retaining member engages the base to retain the longitudinal member relative to the base so that the longitudinal member can provide a desired stabilization effect to one or more adjacent bony portions. | 11-10-2011 |
20120010661 | MULTI-AXIAL ORTHOPEDIC DEVICE AND SYSTEM - Embodiments of an orthopedic implant device and system, and methods for implanting them, are disclosed. The implant may include a receiver member having a channel for accommodating an elongated rod or other longitudinal member, a bone anchoring member such as a screw or hook, and a base member rotatable with respect to the receiver member for retaining the bone anchoring member in the receiver member. The base member is configured to allow at least two different degrees of maximum angulation of the bone anchoring member with respect to the receiver member. The number and relative direction of such angulations are independent of the orientation of the channel or other part of the receiving member. | 01-12-2012 |
20120109218 | Directional Control for a Multi-Axial Screw Assembly - A multi-axial screw assembly comprises a receiver, a base member, and a crown. The receiver comprises a channel for receiving a rod and an aperture extending from a bottom portion of the receiver. The base member comprises an aperture extending through the base member and an opening on a bottom portion of the base member. The base member is configured to couple to the receiver such that the aperture of the receiver is generally aligned with the aperture of the base member. The base member is rotatable relative to the receiver. The crown is received in the receiver and configured to mate to the base member. The crown has a mating feature configured to couple to the base member such that the crown rotates the base member when the crown is rotated. | 05-03-2012 |
20120197314 | PROVISIONAL FIXATION FOR A MULTI-AXIAL SCREW ASSEMBLY - A multi-axial screw assembly comprises a receiver, a base member, a crown and a bone screw. The base member includes an aperture extending through the base member and an opening on a bottom portion of the base member. The base member is rotatable relative to the receiver and has an inner wall extending partially around the aperture. The crown is received in the receiver and configured to mate to the base member. The crown has a projection configured to extend into the opening of the base member. The projection is configured to have an abutting surface. The bone screw is located between the base member and the crown, the bone screw is configured to be provisionally fixed within the receiver by a force between the abutting surface of the projection and the inner wall of the base member. | 08-02-2012 |
20120277805 | Rotatable Base Multi-Axial Screw Assembly - A multi-axial screw assembly comprises a receiver member, a base member, a crown and a bone anchoring member. The receiver member has an aperture configured to receive the base member and an internal groove. The base has a deflectable ring configured to mate with the internal groove of the receiver member and a slot configured to allow the deflectable ring to compress to a diameter less than the diameter of the aperture such that the base member may be compressed and axially received within the receiver member. The base member is axially restrained within the base member relative to the receiver member while allowed to rotate relative to the receiver member. The crown is received within the receiver member along the central axis of the receiver member. The crown maintains the diameter of the deflectable ring greater than the diameter of the aperture. | 11-01-2012 |
20140200617 | Posterior Fixation System - A posterior fixation system includes a saddle member, an anchoring member, an occipital plate, an occipital rod, and a cross-link connector. The anchoring member anchors the saddle member to bone. The saddle member includes a channel that is adapted to receive an orthopedic rod. The saddle member and the anchoring member can be coupled so as to allow multi-axial movement of the members. Connection of individual rods can be accomplished by connecting the rods with the cross-link connector. The occipital plate secures the rods to the occipital bone of the skull. Alternatively, the occipital rod can be secured to the occipital bone. | 07-17-2014 |
20160120578 | DIRECTIONAL CONTROL FOR A MULTI-AXIAL SCREW ASSEMBLY - A multi-axial screw assembly comprises a receiver, a base member, and a crown. The receiver comprises a channel for receiving a rod and an aperture extending from a bottom portion of the receiver. The base member comprises an aperture extending through the base member and an opening on a bottom portion of the base member. The base member is configured to couple to the receiver such that the aperture of the receiver is generally aligned with the aperture of the base member. The base member is rotatable relative to the receiver. The crown is received in the receiver and configured to mate to the base member. The crown has a mating feature configured to couple to the base member such that the crown rotates the base member when the crown is rotated. | 05-05-2016 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20090022147 | TELEPHONY COMMUNICATION VIA VARIED REDUNDANT NETWORKS - A switched telephone network is arranged in a manner to enable packet voice communication between telephone terminals via multiple redundant packet switched networks. The packet switched networks may utilize different protocols, be operated by different entities, and have primary functions other than voice communication. One example of such a network may be internetworked networks, such as the Internet. One example of an alternate packet switched network may be a network whose primary function is control of a circuit switched telephone network. The common channel interoffice switching system (CCIS) of a public switched telephone network (PSTN) is a preferred example. | 01-22-2009 |
20100150142 | Telephone Service Via Packet-Switched Networking - A system and method for providing telephone type services over the internetwork commonly known as the Internet. Public switched telephone networks utilizing program controlled switching systems are arranged in an architecture with the Internet to provide a methodology for facilitating telephone use of the Internet by customers on an impromptu basis. Provision is made to permit a caller to set-up and carry out a telephone call over the Internet from telephone station to telephone station without access to computer equipment, without the necessity of maintaining a subscription to any Internet service, and without the requiring Internet literacy or knowledge. Calls may be made on an inter or intra LATA, region or state, nationwide or worldwide basis. Billing may be implemented on a per call, timed, time and distance or other basis. Usage may be made of common channel interoffice signaling to set up the call and establish the necessary Internet connections and addressing. Calls may be made from telephone station to telephone station, from telephone station to computer or computer to telephone station. | 06-17-2010 |
20110038473 | SELECTIVE BANDWIDTH CONNECTIVITY THROUGH NETWORK LINE CARDS - Public communication networks increasingly need to provide customers with a range of communication services, from baseband voice service, to computer data communications, to high speed digital data communications for multimedia and the like. Many such services would be blocked by existing telephone network line cards, which provide coding and decoding (CODEC) between analog and digital signals and process digital signals only at a relatively low, fixed bit rate. In accord with the invention, intelligent signal detection and control added to a line card selectively bypasses the CODEC and the associated connection to a time slot limited telephone exchange. The selective bypass connection provides a connection to an alternative network functionality capable of providing higher bandwidth digital services. In the preferred embodiment, the bypass provides a connection through an adaptive digital signal processor with a programmed controller. The digital signal processor provides coding and decoding functions, adapted to the particular communication service requested and the physical level signal protocol used over the customer's line. The digital signal processor also provides a two-way digital communication link to a relatively fast data switch, such as an edge device of an asynchronous transport mode (ATM) network. The data switch and associated data network provide a full range of digital communication services of various bandwidths or bit rates as may be requested by individual. | 02-17-2011 |
20110289526 | NETWORK PLAYBACK OF VIDEO PROGRAMMING AFTER CUSTOMER PREMISES SERVICE INTERRUPTION - An exemplary method includes monitoring a condition relating to power at a customer premises to automatically detect a power outage at the customer premises, the power outage causing an interruption to a video service provided through a network to a video device within the customer premises, sending a notice of the interruption through the network to a node having a video recorder in the network, recording, at the video recorder in the network, a video program that was being accessed by the video device within the customer premises before the interruption, at least from a point in the video program substantially corresponding to a point when the interruption occurred, and transmitting at least a portion of the recorded video program starting from the point substantially corresponding to the identified point when the interruption occurred, from the video recorder through the network to the video device within the customer premises. | 11-24-2011 |