Patent application number | Description | Published |
20100132875 | COPPER GRID REPAIR TECHNIQUE FOR LIGHTNING STRIKE PROTECTION - A method for reworking an electrically conductive layer of a composite skin is disclosed in which a patch replaces the altered section of the electrically conductive layer. The method is performed by removing a portion of the electrically conductive layer to reveal the underlying composite skin. A patch is formed, having an electrically conductive section coupled to an adhesive having a low dielectric breakdown strength, and is then introduced over the underlying composite skin such that the adhesive layer covers the underlying composite skin and overlaps an unremoved portion of the electrically conductive layer. The patch is applied such that the electrically conductive section within the patch covers the adhesive layer and overlaps the unremoved section of the electrically conductive layer. The adhesive layer preferably has a low dielectric breakdown strength, so that electricity from lightning which strikes the composite skin may be conducted through the adhesive. | 06-03-2010 |
20110186206 | COPPER GRID REPAIR TECHNIQUE FOR LIGHTNING STRIKE PROTECTION - A method for reworking an electrically conductive layer of a composite skin is disclosed in which a patch replaces the altered section of the electrically conductive layer. The method is performed by removing a portion of the electrically conductive layer to reveal the underlying composite skin. A patch is formed, having an electrically conductive section coupled to an adhesive having a low dielectric breakdown strength, and is then introduced over the underlying composite skin such that the adhesive layer covers the underlying composite skin and overlaps an unremoved portion of the electrically conductive layer. The patch is applied such that the electrically conductive section within the patch covers the adhesive layer and overlaps the unremoved section of the electrically conductive layer. The adhesive layer preferably has a low dielectric breakdown strength, so that electricity from lightning which strikes the composite skin may be conducted through the adhesive. | 08-04-2011 |
20120205031 | COPPER GRID REPAIR TECHNIQUE FOR LIGHTNING STRIKE PROTECTION - A method for reworking an electrically conductive layer of a composite skin is disclosed in which a patch replaces the altered section of the electrically conductive layer. The method is performed by removing a portion of the electrically conductive layer to reveal the underlying composite skin. A patch is formed, having an electrically conductive section coupled to an adhesive having a low dielectric breakdown strength, and is then introduced over the underlying composite skin such that the adhesive layer covers the underlying composite skin and overlaps an unremoved portion of the electrically conductive layer. The patch is applied such that the electrically conductive section within the patch covers the adhesive layer and overlaps the unremoved section of the electrically conductive layer. The adhesive layer preferably has a low dielectric breakdown strength, so that electricity from lightning which strikes the composite skin may be conducted through the adhesive. | 08-16-2012 |
20140363637 | Heating Layer for Film Removal - Embodiments of the presently disclosed system include a thin thermoplastic or thermosetting polymer film loaded with non-polymeric inclusions that are susceptible to heating under a time-varying magnetic field. Insertion of this additional heating layer into a structural or semi-structural heterogeneous laminate provides an “on-demand” de-bonding site for laminate deconstruction. For example, in some embodiments when the heating layer is inserted between a cured Carbon-Fiber Reinforced Plastic (CFRP) layer and a Polymeric/Metallic film stackup layer, the heating layer can be selectively heated above its softening point (e.g., by using energy absorbed from a locally-applied time-varying magnetic field) to allow for ease of applique separation from the CFRP layer. | 12-11-2014 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20100121385 | ROD REDUCER INSTRUMENT FOR SPINAL SURGERY - A rod reducer instrument is configured to be secured to a fixation element and to force a rod into engagement with the fixation element. The rod reducer instrument can have a pliers to secure the rod reducer to the fixation element and a threaded shaft with a handle and a pusher member. The pliers can form a threaded channel that engages the threaded shaft and directs a movement of the shaft. The threaded shaft can translate a rotational movement at the handle into a linear movement at the pusher member and in this way force a rod into engagement with a fixation element. | 05-13-2010 |
20100234848 | Systems and Methods for Removing Body Tissue - Devices and methods for removing body tissue involving the use of a brush member having a plurality of bristle members defining a capacity for carrying body tissue. The brush member is capable of being manipulated within said body to thereby receive body tissue within said brush member such that said body tissue may be carried and thereafter removed from said body. Also provided are protective devices dimensioned to be positioned near an entrance into the target site, the protective devices for establishing a barrier between the brush member and at least a portion of the body tissue adjacent to the entrance. The protective devices may comprise one of a cannula assembly and a retractor assembly. | 09-16-2010 |
20100249937 | FLANGED INTERBODY FUSION DEVICE - Methods and devices are disclosed for treating the vertebral column. An implant for treating the spine is provided comprising at least two articulations between the spacer and the bone facing surface of the fixation plate. Another implant for treating the spine is also provided, comprising two or more fixation plates attached to a spacer with two or more articulations, wherein the fixation plates are independently movable. | 09-30-2010 |
20110040301 | VERTEBRAL FACET JOINT DRILL AND METHOD OF USE - Devices and methods for creating lumens in the articular process of the vertebra are provided. An embodiment of the invention can be a tool that can cut a curved lumen through the articular process. The tool can have a lumen-forming arm with a rotating drill contained within that can be powered by a drill motor. The lumen-forming arm can be axially translated to cut a path through the articular process. Methods of using the resulting lumens to anchor or stabilize facet joint prosthesis, and also altering the spacing and motion at the facet joints of the vertebral column, are provided. | 02-17-2011 |
20120149991 | METHOD OF USING A SURGICAL TISSUE RETRACTOR - A method of performing an operation, e.g. a spinal operation, on a patient using a retractor comprising a pair of blade assemblies which are adapted to open about a set of axes that are not parallel to a third spatial axis, and further comprising a pair of arms, which are adapted to move the pair of blade assemblies apart from one another in the third spatial axis. In the method, the blade assemblies are closed to assume a low profile, inserted into a relatively small incision, and stretched apart from each other, thereby stretching the skin about the incision to form an aperture longer than the incision. The blade assemblies are then opened by rotating the blades about the set of axes, stretching the skin around the incision in a second direction that is substantially perpendicular to the first direction (i.e. the direction of the incision.). | 06-14-2012 |
20130204090 | METHOD OF USING A SURGICAL TISSUE RETRACTOR - A method of performing an operation, e.g. a spinal operation, on a patient using a retractor comprising a pair of blade assemblies which are adapted to open about a set of axes that are not parallel to a third spatial axis, and further comprising a pair of arms, which are adapted to move the pair of blade assemblies apart from one another in the third spatial axis. In the method, the blade assemblies are closed to assume a low profile, inserted into a relatively small incision, and stretched apart from each other, thereby stretching the skin about the incision to form an aperture longer than the incision. The blade assemblies are then opened by rotating the blades about the set of axes, stretching the skin around the incision in a second direction that is substantially perpendicular to the first direction (i.e. the direction of the incision). | 08-08-2013 |
20140257044 | RETRACTOR - A retractor for use in surgical operations comprises a pair of blade assemblies which are adapted to open about a set of axes that are not parallel to a third spatial axis. The retractor further comprises a pair of arms, which are adapted to move the pair of blade assemblies apart from one another in the third spatial axis. In operation, the blade assemblies are closed to assume a low profile, inserted into a relatively small incision, and stretched apart from each other, thereby stretching the skin about the incision to form an aperture longer than the incision. The blade assemblies are then opened by rotating the blades about the set of axes, thereby stretching the skin around the incision in a second direction that is substantially perpendicular to the first direction (i.e. the direction of the incision.) The retractor thus forms an aperture for passage of surgical instruments and viewing of the surgical field by surgical personnel. In some embodiments, the retractor features a pair of removable handles that may be removed from the arms during surgery in order to afford the surgeon improved space management about the incision. In specific embodiments, the invention provides a method of performing an operation, e.g. a spinal operation, on a patient using the disclosed retractor. | 09-11-2014 |
20160058481 | FLANGED INTERBODY FUSION DEVICE - Methods and devices are disclosed for treating the vertebral column. An implant for treating the spine is provided comprising at least two articulations between the spacer and the bone facing surface of the fixation plate. Another implant for treating the spine is also provided, comprising two or more fixation plates attached to a spacer with two or more articulations, wherein the fixation plates are independently movable. | 03-03-2016 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20080208249 | VERTEBRAL FACET JOINT DRILL AND METHOD OF USE - Devices and methods for creating holes in the articular process of the vertebra are provided. One embodiment of the invention comprises a drill head comprising a frame, punch arm with punch tip and opposing plate. Methods of using the resulting holes to anchor or stabilize facet joint prosthesis, and also altering the spacing and motion at the facet joints of the vertebral column, are provided. | 08-28-2008 |
20120310244 | METHOD OF USING A VERTEBRAL FACET JOINT DRILL - Methods for creating holes in the articular process of the vertebra using a vertebral facet joint drill tool are provided. Methods of using the resulting holes to anchor or stabilize facet joint prosthesis, and also altering the spacing and motion at the facet joints of the vertebral column, are provided. | 12-06-2012 |
20150257773 | VERTEBRAL FACET JOINT DRILL AND METHOD OF USE - Devices and methods for creating holes in the articular process of the vertebra are provided. One embodiment of the invention comprises a drill head comprising a frame, punch arm with punch tip and opposing plate. Methods of using the resulting holes to anchor or stabilize facet joint prosthesis, and also altering the spacing and motion at the facet joints of the vertebral column, are provided. | 09-17-2015 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20120311831 | FASTENING ARRANGEMENT - A fastening arrangement comprises a first fastening member connected to a first strap and a second fastening member connected to a second strap. The first fastening member includes a first surface comprising at least one first interlocking member. The second fastening member includes a channel positioned between a second surface and a biasing member. The channel is configured to receive the first fastening member with the first surface facing the second surface. The second surface includes at least one second interlocking member configured to engage the first interlocking member in a manner that blocks the first interlocking member from moving relative to the second interlocking member in at least one direction. The biasing member is configured to urge the first interlocking member into engagement with the second interlocking member when the first fastening member is inserted into the channel of the second fastening member. | 12-13-2012 |
20130077263 | Electronic Housing and Sensor Connection Arrangement - A garment includes a fabric portion, an electrode fixedly connected to the fabric portion, a receptacle fixedly connected to the fabric portion, and an electronics module releasably positioned in the receptacle. The receptacle includes a receptacle housing, an electrode lead, and a receptacle contact. The electrode lead is attached to the electrode. The electrode lead engages the receptacle contact to establish an electrical connection with the receptacle contact without being attached to the receptacle contact. The electronics module includes a module contact that engages the receptacle contact when the electronics module is positioned in the socket to establish an electrical connection between the module contact and the receptacle contact. | 03-28-2013 |
20140189928 | Garment with Receptacle and Electronic Module - A garment includes a fabric portion with an electrode connected to the fabric portion and configured to engage a torso of the wearer. A receptacle is fixedly connected to the fabric portion and includes a receptacle housing, a socket defined by the receptacle housing, and an electrode lead, the electrode lead extending through the receptacle housing and providing an electrical connection between the electrode and the socket. An electronics module is configured to be removably inserted into the socket of the receptacle and contact the electrode lead. The electronics module includes a multi-component injection molded housing including a front face having a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is comprised of a relatively soft and resilient polymer material and the second portion is comprised of a relatively hard and rigid polymer material. | 07-10-2014 |
20140222943 | Method and Arrangement for Monitoring Physiological Data - A physiological monitoring arrangement comprises a biometric sensor device coupled to a first garment, a first handheld computing device, and a second handheld computing device. The first handheld computing device is configured to act as a master in a device network and the biometric sensor is configured to act as a slave in the device network. The second handheld computing device is configured for wireless communication with both the biometric sensor device and the first handheld computing device according to the communications protocol in the device network. In particular, the second handheld computing device is configured to act as a slave to the first handheld computing device if the first handheld computing device is present in the device network, and the second handheld computing device is configured to act as a master to the biometric sensor device if the first handheld computing device is not present in the device network. | 08-07-2014 |
20140345095 | Fastening Arrangement With Interlocking Members - A fastening arrangement comprises a first fastening member connected to a first strap and a second fastening member connected to a second strap. The first fastening member includes a first surface comprising at least one first interlocking member. The second fastening member includes a channel positioned between a second surface and a biasing member. The channel is configured to receive the first fastening member with the first surface facing the second surface. The second surface includes at least one second interlocking member configured to engage the first interlocking member in a manner that blocks the first interlocking member from moving relative to the second interlocking member in at least one direction. The biasing member is configured to urge the first interlocking member into engagement with the second interlocking member when the first fastening member is inserted into the channel of the second fastening member. | 11-27-2014 |
20150061891 | ATHLETIC PERFORMANCE MONITORING WITH DYNAMIC PROXIMITY PAIRING - A method of monitoring biometric data for an individual includes sensing a biometric parameter of the individual with a sensor carried by the individual. The method further comprises detecting that the individual has moved within a predetermined range of a fixed display device, and then wirelessly transmitting the sensed biometric parameter to a receiver associated with the fixed display device after the detection that the individual has moved within the predetermined range. The sensed biometric parameter of the individual is then displayed on the fixed display device. Thereafter, the fixed display device detects that the individual has moved outside of the predetermined range and removes the sensed biometric parameter of the individual from the fixed display device. | 03-05-2015 |
20150342269 | Electronic Housing and Sensor Connection Arrangement - A garment includes a fabric portion, an electrode fixedly connected to the fabric portion, a receptacle fixedly connected to the fabric portion, and an electronics module releasably positioned in the receptacle. The receptacle includes a receptacle housing, an electrode lead, and a receptacle contact. The electrode lead is attached to the electrode. The electrode lead engages the receptacle contact to establish an electrical connection with the receptacle contact without being attached to the receptacle contact. The electronics module includes a module contact that engages the receptacle contact when the electronics module is positioned in the socket to establish an electrical connection between the module contact and the receptacle contact. | 12-03-2015 |
20160100439 | Techniques for Determining Identity Information Used for Wireless Communications - Techniques are presented herein for optimizing identification and pairing of devices for wireless communications. A first device is configured to interact with a detection region of a second device. The first device detects the detection region associated with the second device and obtains information from the detecting. The first device analyzes the information to determine identity information of the second device. The identity information comprises information configured to be utilized during pairing of the first device and the second device for wireless communications between the first device and the second device. | 04-07-2016 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20090322582 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DUAL MEDIA CONTROL OF REMOTE DEVICES - A remote for controlling devices and communicating data to and from such devices using both IR and RF signals. The remote control may transmit a first signal to one or more devices which, in turn may each transmit a reply signal to the remote. Each reply signal typically, although not necessarily, contains an identification of the transmitting device and the signal strength of the first signal, as detected at the device. The remote may employ this information to determine which device is closest and transmit commands accordingly. | 12-31-2009 |
20100109850 | DUAL CONTROL SYSTEM AND METHOD - A controller for a device transmitting commands across one or more communication channels. Each such channel may employ a separate medium, such as radio waves and infrared light. The controller may transmit two separate signals to a device, where one signal is sent via radio waves and the other by infrared light. One signal may correspond to a group identifier and the other to an operating command to be carried out by the device. The device may receive both signals and, if the device belongs to a group corresponding to the group identifier, it may execute the operating command. Alternatively, the group identifier may be replaced by a wake command and the device may execute the operating command only if the wake command is received. | 05-06-2010 |
20110203079 | SYSTEM FOR CONFINING LIFT CORDS IN COVERINGS FOR ARCHITECTURAL OPENINGS - A system for incorporation into a retractable covering that includes a flexible lift cord extending from a headrail to a bottom rail. The system includes a flexible protector of a length similar to that of an associated lift cord with the lift cord being operatively connected to the protector. The protector is in turn connected to a fabric extending between the headrail and the bottom rail at predetermined spaced locations so that any loop of protector formable is limited by the spacing between the locations at which the protector is connected to the fabric. The maximum size of a loop so formed in the protector and thus the lift cord associated therewith is insufficient to encapsulate a body part of a child or infant. | 08-25-2011 |
20130000854 | DUAL FABRIC COVERING FOR ARCHITECTURAL OPENINGS - A covering for an architectural opening with improved insulating properties in one embodiment includes face-to-face cellular insulative components defining a fabric with dual layers of cells with the fabric being retractably mounted in a headrail so as to either be rolled about a roller or gathered adjacent to the bottom of the headrail. A first component of the fabric includes a pair of spaced parallel sheets of material interconnected with horizontally-extending flexible vanes so as to define a plurality of horizontally-extending, vertically adjacent cells of generally rectangular cross-sectional configuration. A second component of the fabric is mounted on one sheet of the first component of the fabric so as to form a plurality of vertically adjacent drooping segments of fabric forming a roman-shade appearance. Single or multiple layers of the components can be used with or without the other type of component. | 01-03-2013 |
20130056160 | SYSTEM FOR BIASING FABRIC TO GATHER IN PREDETERMINED DIRECTION - A system for biasing or encouraging a sheet of material to gather in one direction when one edge thereof is moved toward an opposite edge utilizes a plurality of cords, fibers or yarns which are secured to one face of the sheet of material so that the material always gathers toward the face on which the cords or fibers are provided. | 03-07-2013 |
20130139977 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR MAKING A WINDOW COVERING HAVING OPERABLE VANES - An apparatus and associated method for manufacturing a window covering for an architectural opening. The apparatus includes a support structure handling assembly, an operating element handling assembly, and a vane handling assembly. The handling assemblies process the respective materials to an assembly station to attach one portion of a vane to the operating elements, and another portion of the vane to the support structure, allowing movement of one portion of the vane relative to other portion of the vane. | 06-06-2013 |
20130276994 | SYSTEM FOR CONFINING LIFT CORDS IN COVERINGS FOR ARCHITECTURAL OPENINGS - A system for incorporation into a retractable covering that includes a flexible lift cord extending from a headrail to a bottom rail. The system includes a flexible protector of a length similar to that of an associated lift cord with the lift cord being operatively connected to the protector. The protector is in turn connected to a fabric extending between the headrail and the bottom rail at predetermined spaced locations so that any loop of protector formable is limited by the spacing between the locations at which the protector is connected to the fabric. The maximum size of a loop so formed in the protector and thus the lift cord associated therewith is insufficient to encapsulate a body part of a child or infant. | 10-24-2013 |
20130299102 | OPERATING CORD SYSTEM FOR RETRACTABLE COVERINGS FOR ARCHITECTURAL OPENINGS - An operating control system for a retractable shade including a roller reversibly rotatable within a headrail includes a clamp system for gripping an endless operating cord in a neutral position to prevent rotation of the roller and a tensioner if properly mounted in a fixed position will release the clamp system to permit rotation of the roller while positioning the runs of the endless cord in a closely spaced relationship to minimize the risk of an infant or child becoming entangled in the cord. | 11-14-2013 |
20130319622 | STIFFENED PULL CORD FOR ARCHITECTURAL COVERINGS - A control element for actuating an operating mechanism for a retractable shade. The retractable shade having a flexible operating cord retractable and extendable from the operating mechanism, the flexible operating cord having a free end. The control element is attached to the flexible operating cord and includes a core having a length, the core being stiffened along the length so as to resist becoming entangled and an upper end of the length that is attached to the free end of the flexible operating cord. | 12-05-2013 |
20140076504 | MANUALLY MOVABLE RAILS FOR COVERINGS FOR ARCHITECTURAL OPENINGS - An operating system for a retractable covering for an architectural opening having at least a movable bottom rail and possibly a movable middle rail connected to a shade material includes control or guide cords extending from a head-rail for the covering to the bottom rail and extending through the middle rail. Manually operable locks are provided on the bottom rail and the middle rail to grip the cords as they extend therethrough and a take-up system is provided in the bottom rail that is biased so as to retain the cords in a taut condition during movement of the bottom rail or the middle rail. The bottom and middle rails are moved manually simply by manually releasing the manual locks provided thereon so that exposed control cords are alleviated. | 03-20-2014 |
20140290877 | SYSTEM FOR CONFINING LIFT CORDS IN COVERINGS FOR ARCHITECTURAL OPENINGS - A system for incorporation into a retractable covering that includes a flexible lift cord extending from a headrail to a bottom rail. The system includes a flexible protector of a length similar to that of an associated lift cord with the lift cord being operatively connected to the protector. The protector is in turn connected to a fabric extending between the headrail and the bottom rail at predetermined spaced locations so that any loop of protector formable is limited by the spacing between the locations at which the protector is connected to the fabric. The maximum size of a loop so formed in the protector and thus the lift cord associated therewith is insufficient to encapsulate a body part of a child or infant. | 10-02-2014 |
20150176328 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR MAKING A WINDOW COVERING HAVING OPERABLE VANES - An apparatus and associated method for manufacturing a window covering for an architectural opening. The apparatus includes a support structure handling assembly, an operating element handling assembly, and a vane handling assembly. The handling assemblies process the respective materials to an assembly station to attach one portion of a vane to the operating elements, and another portion of the vane to the support structure, allowing movement of one portion of the vane relative to other portion of the vane. | 06-25-2015 |
20150368959 | SHUTTER PANEL FOR AN ARCHITECTURAL OPENING - A shutter panel for an architectural opening is provided. The shutter panel may include a frame and a louver rotatably coupled to the frame. The louver may be automatically closable based on an angular orientation of the louver. The shutter panel may include a closure device operably associated with the louver. The closure device may be actuated based on the angular orientation of the louver. The shutter panel may include a damping device operably associated with the louver. The damping device may be actuated based on the angular orientation of the louver. The shutter panel may include a tension device operably associated with the louver. | 12-24-2015 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20090076587 | Stented Vascular Graft - A vascular graft incorporating a stent into a portion of its length. While various materials may be used for the vascular graft, the graft is preferably an ePTFE graft. The stent is preferably a self-expanding stent, although it may alternatively be a balloon expandable stent. The vascular graft preferably has a continuous inner tubular liner that extends between the opposing ends of the graft and provides a continuous luminal surface for blood contact that is uninterrupted by seams or joints. The length portion of the graft that does not include the stent has a greater wall thickness than does the portion including the stent. | 03-19-2009 |
20110087318 | BIFURCATED HIGHLY CONFORMABLE MEDICAL DEVICE BRANCH ACCESS - The present invention comprises a highly conformable stent graft with an optional portal for a side branch device. Said stent graft comprises a graft being supported by a stent, wherein said stent comprises undulations each which comprise apices in opposing first and second directions and a tape member attached to said stent and to said graft such that the tape member edge is aligned to the edge of the apices in the first direction of the each of the undulations, thus confining the apices in the first direction of the undulations to the graft and wherein the apices in the second direction of the undulation are not confined relative to the graft; wherein said graft forms unidirectional pleats where longitudinally compressed and wherein said apices in the first direction of said undulation is positioned under an adjacent pleat when compressed. The invention also discloses and claims methods of making and using said highly conformable stent graft and method of making the optional portal. | 04-14-2011 |
20130184807 | Articles Including Expanded Polytetrafluoroethylene Membranes with Serpentine Fibrils and Having a Discontinuous Fluoropolymer Layer Thereon - Articles comprising an expanded polytetrafluoroethylene membrane having serpentine fibrils and having a discontinuous coating of a fluoropolymer thereon are provided. The fluoropolymer may be located at least partially in the pores of the expanded fluoropolymer membrane. In exemplary embodiments, the fluoropolymer is fluorinated ethylene propylene. The application of a tensile force at least partially straightens the serpentine fibrils, thereby elongating the article. The expanded polytetrafluoroethylene membrane may include a microstructure of substantially only fibrils. The articles can be elongated to a predetermined point at which further elongation is inhibited by a dramatic increase in stiffness. In one embodiment, the articles are used to form a covered stent device that requires little force to distend in the radial direction to a first diameter but is highly resistant to further distension to a second diameter (stop point). A large increase in diameter can advantageously be achieved prior to reaching the stop point. | 07-18-2013 |
20140277363 | ENDOPROSTHESIS DELIVERY SYSTEMS WITH DEPLOYMENT AIDS - The present disclosure includes an endoprosthesis delivery system comprising an elongate member, such as a catheter, an endoprosthesis, a covering member disposed about the endoprosthesis, and at least one flexible element situated between the endoprosthesis and the covering member. The covering member can extend beyond an end of the endoprosthesis. In operation, as the covering member is removed, the flexible element can guide the covering member over the end of the endoprosthesis to prevent entanglement between the end of the endoprosthesis and the covering member. | 09-18-2014 |
20140277374 | POROUS MATERIALS HAVING A FIBRILLAR MICROSTRUCTURE AND A FRACTURABLE COATING - Articles made of a porous material having a fibrillar microstructure of bent fibrils and provided with a fracturable coating whereby the physical size of the article may be changed by the application of force to the article in a direction substantially parallel to a direction of orientation of the fibrils. The application of a tensile force to such an article in a direction substantially parallel to orientation of the bent fibrils results in fracturing of the fracturable material and straightening of the bent fibrils. Methods of making such articles are also described. The articles may include implantable articles such as vascular grafts and stent-grafts; such devices may, for example, be forcibly increased in diameter or in length wherein the force results in fracturing of the coating. One such coated material is porous expanded polytetrafluoroethylene provided with a coating of fluorinated ethylene propylene. | 09-18-2014 |
20150045873 | Articles Including Expanded Polytetrafluoroethylene Membranes with Serpentine Fibrils and Having a Discontinuous Fluoropolymer Layer Thereon - Articles comprising an expanded polytetrafluoroethylene membrane having serpentine fibrils and having a discontinuous coating of a fluoropolymer thereon are provided. The fluoropolymer may be located at least partially in the pores of the expanded fluoropolymer membrane. In exemplary embodiments, the fluoropolymer is fluorinated ethylene propylene. The application of a tensile force at least partially straightens the serpentine fibrils, thereby elongating the article. The expanded polytetrafluoroethylene membrane may include a microstructure of substantially only fibrils. The articles can be elongated to a predetermined point at which further elongation is inhibited by a dramatic increase in stiffness. In one embodiment, the articles are used to form a covered stent device that requires little force to distend in the radial direction to a first diameter but is highly resistant to further distension to a second diameter (stop point). A large increase in diameter can advantageously be achieved prior to reaching the stop point. | 02-12-2015 |
20150082604 | STENTED VASCULAR GRAFT - A vascular graft incorporating a stent into a portion of its length. While various materials may be used for the vascular graft, the graft is preferably an ePTFE graft. The stent is preferably a self-expanding stent, although it may alternatively be a balloon expandable stent. The vascular graft preferably has a continuous inner tubular liner that extends between the opposing ends of the graft and provides a continuous luminal surface for blood contact that is uninterrupted by seams or joints. The length portion of the graft that does not include the stent has a greater wall thickness than does the portion including the stent. | 03-26-2015 |
20150088243 | STENTED VASCULAR GRAFT - A vascular graft incorporating a stent into a portion of its length. While various materials may be used for the vascular graft, the graft is preferably an ePTFE graft. The stent is preferably a self-expanding stent, although it may alternatively be a balloon expandable stent. The vascular graft preferably has a continuous inner tubular liner that extends between the opposing ends of the graft and provides a continuous luminal surface for blood contact that is uninterrupted by seams or joints. The length portion of the graft that does not include the stent has a greater wall thickness than does the portion including the stent. | 03-26-2015 |
20160045349 | ENDOPROSTHESIS DELIVERY SYSTEM WITH IMPROVED RETRACTION - The present disclosure includes an endoprosthesis delivery system comprising an elongate member, such as a catheter, an endoprosthesis, a covering member disposed about the endoprosthesis, a tip, and an end cap. The tip and end cap can be integral to each other. The covering member can extend beyond the distal end of the endoprosthesis and onto the end cap. The end cap can comprise a tapered profile, which may assist in retraction of the catheter tip and end cap into an outer sheath. The end cap can further comprise one or more fins. | 02-18-2016 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20090105712 | Rod persuader - A rod persuader assembly includes a tubular body, an inner shaft and an outer shaft. The inner shaft is axially displaceable relative to the tubular body, and has a gripping end and a handle end. The outer shaft is axially displaceable relative to the tubular body, and has a rod reducing end. In one embodiment, the handle end is rotatable relative to the gripping end. In another embodiment, the gripping end includes a cylindrical socket. In yet another embodiment, the rod persuader assembly is operable in two separate and independent stages to secure the instrument to an implant, and advance a rod into the implant. | 04-23-2009 |
20100106249 | DYNAMIC INTERBODY WITH MOTION CONTROL MECHANISMS - An intervertebral implant includes a body for insertion between adjacent vertebrae, and one or more anchors extending from the body for securing the body between the vertebrae. A linear motion control mechanism is mounted in the body and operable to limit linear translation of the anchor(s) relative to the body. Also, a pivot control mechanism in the body operates to limit pivot motion of the anchor(s) relative to the body. The linear and pivot control mechanisms are configured in various arrangements and embodiments exhibiting adjustable dynamic settings, allowing a single implant to provide various types of dynamic fixation with ranges of motion that permit loads to transfer to graft material contained in the disk space. | 04-29-2010 |
20100179602 | Receiver body for spinal fixation system - A receiver body for an elongated spinal fixation element includes a housing portion with one or more flanges extending outwardly. In one embodiment, the receiver body includes first and second flanges extending outwardly from the housing portion. The housing portion includes first and second slots that form a passage through the housing portion. Each flange has a circular perimeter edge and a chamfered section, the chamfered section having a notched undercut for engagement with an instrument. In another embodiment, the receiver body includes a housing portion having a circular flange with a first chamfered section and a second chamfered section diametrically opposite the first chamfered section. The first chamfered section has a first aperture that opens out beneath the flange, and the second chamfered section has a second aperture that opens out beneath the flange. The first and second apertures form diametrically opposed pivot-attachment points for an instrument. | 07-15-2010 |
20100228302 | SPINAL ROD MANIPULATOR INSTRUMENT - An instrument for manipulating a spinal fixation rod includes a gripping section for engaging a spinal implant and a lever body pivotally attached to the gripping section. A rod carrier extends from one side of the lever body and is adapted to push a spinal fixation rod downwardly into the spinal implant. | 09-09-2010 |
20110196426 | PERCUTANEOUS ROD INSERTION SYSTEM AND METHOD - Instruments and methods for inserting a spinal fixation rod include various components for inserting a rod with visual guidance. One kit includes a plurality of hollow elongated extension tubes and rod templates. The tube connectors connect the extension tubes in series. Another kit includes a rod guidance instrument having a sleeve. A guide member is attachable to the midsection of the sleeve, and a spinal fixation rod is attachable to the distal end of the sleeve. A method for inserting a spinal fixation rod into a plurality of rod receiving implants includes the steps of contouring a fixation rod to conform to a predetermined shape, contouring a guide member to match the shape of the contoured rod, and guiding the fixation rod into a rod receiving implant by maneuvering the guide member through a guide slot representing the location of the rod receiving implant. | 08-11-2011 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20120078359 | ADJUSTABLE ANNULOPLASTY RING SUPPORT - A support for an adjustable annuloplasty ring generally includes a body and a groove. The body has a first end, a second end and an outer surface. The body may also include an inner surface defining a longitudinal bore. The outer surface is configured to slidably receive an annuloplasty ring and a length of adjustable suture. The groove is formed along at least a portion of the outer surface of the body and is dimensioned to receive at least a portion of the suture. | 03-29-2012 |
20130197632 | ADJUSTMENT SUTURE MARKERS FOR ADJUSTABLE ANNULOPLASTY RING - An adjustable annuloplasty ring includes a body in the form of an endless loop having an internal lumen therethrough, an adjustment suture extending through at least a portion of the internal lumen, a first portion of the suture exiting the lumen through a first opening in the body and a second portion of the suture exiting the lumen through a second opening in the body, and a first adjustment marker on the first portion of the suture outside of the body. The suture may be adapted to reduce the length of the body around the loop when tightened. | 08-01-2013 |
20140039531 | FLEXIBLE NOSECONE FOR PERCUTANEOUS DEVICE - A for gathering tissue of a heart valve leaflet may include an outer tube extending in an elongation direction and having an open distal end, a capture tool movable in the outer tube between a contained position and a use position, a tissue securing component disposed at the open distal end of the outer tube, a nosecone removably assembled over the open distal end of the outer tube in a protective condition, and an actuation member joined to a central portion of the nosecone and extending into a lumen of the outer tube. The capture tool may be operable to capture tissue of the heart valve leaflet. The nosecone may have a central portion that extends across the open distal end of the outer tube and a peripheral portion surrounding the central portion and overlying an outer surface of the outer tube adjacent the open distal end. | 02-06-2014 |
20140039607 | MITRAL VALVE LEAFLET CLIP - A device for gathering tissue of a heart valve leaflet may include an outer tube extending in an elongation direction and having an open distal end, a capture tool movable in the outer tube between a contained position and a use position, and a tissue securing component disposed at a distal end of the outer tube and adapted to be applied to captured tissue of the heart valve leaflet to hold the captured tissue in a gathered configuration. The outer tube may have an inner surface and a lumen extending therethrough. The capture tool may be operable to capture tissue of the heart valve leaflet and to draw the captured tissue into the outer tube in the gathered configuration. The tissue securing component may be a suture having a looped portion. At least part of the looped portion may extend through a lumen of at least one support tube. | 02-06-2014 |
20140067055 | ADJUSTMENT ASSEMBLY FOR AN ADJUSTABLE PROSTHETIC VALVE DEVICE - An adjustment assembly for an adjustable prosthetic valve device includes a gearbox housing formed from two gearbox shells coupled to one another and held together by two gearbox sleeves each having an internal cavity adapted to accommodate respective lateral portions of the gearbox shells when the gearbox shells are coupled to one another. A gear assembly, including a center gear and two driven gears, is supported within the gearbox housing. Gear teeth of each of the driven gears engage gear teeth of the center gear such that rotation of the center gear causes rotation of the driven gears. At least one of the driven gears is adapted to engage a transmission mechanism that transmits the rotation thereof to another part of the adjustable prosthetic valve device to accomplish an adjustment to the size and/or shape of the adjustable prosthetic valve device. | 03-06-2014 |
20140142690 | ADJUSTABLE PROSTHETIC ANATOMICAL DEVICE HOLDER AND HANDLE FOR THE IMPLANTATION OF AN ANNULOPLASTY RING - An adjustable prosthetic anatomical holder system may include an adjustable annuloplasty ring, a ring holder, and a positioning handle. The adjustable annuloplasty ring holder facilitates placement and adjustment of the annuloplasty ring during a cardiac surgical procedure. An optional positioning handle holds the adjustable annuloplasty ring during placement and suturing of the ring. The ring holder is constructed from two members that are slidably fit together in telescopic arrangement to accommodate adjustment of the ring size. | 05-22-2014 |
20140257341 | PMVR CLIP CONFIGURATIONS FOR MITRAL LEAFLET - A clip for leaflet tissue includes a substantially cylindrical hollow body having a proximal end and a distal end. In an initial configuration of the clip, the distal end has a diameter that is smaller than the diameter of the hollow body. The distal end is held in an expanded condition for delivery into a patient. When deployed, the distal end collapses to its initial configuration to grasp onto captured leaflet tissue. | 09-11-2014 |
20140276971 | MITRAL VALVE LEAFLET CLIP - A clip used to repair the tissue of a heart valve leaflet may include a shaft having a barb and a plurality of legs connected to the shaft. The plurality of legs may extend away from the barb in a first condition, and may extend towards the barb in a use condition. The clips may be delivered to the heart valve leaflet and applied to the same in a minimally invasive procedure using a transcatheter device. The device may be used to apply a single clip to the leaflet tissue or multiple clips. | 09-18-2014 |
20150057682 | CLIP DELIVERY SYSTEM FOR HEART VALVE REPAIR AND METHOD OF USE - A device for repair of a heart valve leaflet includes an elongated body having a lumen extending therethrough in a longitudinal direction, a proximal end, and an open distal end. The device further includes a plurality of clips disposed at spaced positions within the lumen, the plurality of clips being configured and arranged to couple to a portion of the heart valve leaflet. At least one clip in the plurality of clips and the heart valve leaflet are capable of translation relative to one another in the longitudinal direction. | 02-26-2015 |