6494 results about "Dual purpose" patented technology

Devices and methods are provided for temporarily inducing cardioplegic arrest in the heart of a patient and for establishing cardiopulmonary bypass in order to facilitate surgical procedures on the heart and its related blood vessels. Specifically, a catheter based system is provided for isolating the heart and coronary blood vessels of a patient from the remainder of the arterial system and for infusing a cardioplegic agent into the patient's coronary arteries to induce cardioplegic arrest in the heart. The system includes an endoaortic partitioning catheter having an expandable balloon at its distal end which is expanded within the ascending aorta to occlude the aortic lumen between the coronary ostia and the brachiocephalic artery. Means for centering the catheter tip within the ascending aorta include specially curved shaft configurations, eccentric or shaped occlusion balloons and a steerable catheter tip, which may be used separately or in combination. The shaft of the catheter may have a coaxial or multilumen construction. The catheter may further include piezoelectric pressure transducers at the distal tip of the catheter and within the occlusion balloon. Means to facilitate nonfluoroscopic placement of the catheter include fiberoptic transillumination of the aorta and a secondary balloon at the distal tip of the catheter for atraumatically contacting the aortic valve. The system further includes a dual purpose arterial bypass cannula and introducer sheath for introducing the catheter into a peripheral artery of the patient.

A memory array decoder organization readily interfaces to array lines having extremely dense pitch, and in particular interfaces to extremely dense array lines of a three-dimensional memory array. In an exemplary embodiment, a multi-headed decoder includes a group of array line driver circuits associated with a single decode node. Each array line driver circuit couples its associated array line through a first device to an associated upper bias node which is generated to convey either a selected bias condition or an unselected bias condition thereon appropriate for the array line. Each array line driver circuit also couples its associated array line through a second device to an associated lower bias node which is generated to convey an unselected bias condition appropriate for the array line. The array line driver circuits for several different decode nodes may be physically arranged in one or more banks.

A multiple use core logic chipset is provided in a computer system that may be configured either as a bridge between an accelerated graphics port ("AGP") bus and host and memory buses, or as an interface bridge between a Fibre Channel Arbitrated Loop ("FC-AL") interface and the host and memory buses. The function of the multiple use chipset is determined at the time of manufacture of the computer system or in the field whether an AGP bus bridge or an FC-AL bridge interface is to be implemented. Selection of the type of bus bridge (AGP or FC-AL bridge interface) in the multiple use core logic chipset may be made by a hardware signal input, or by software during computer system configuration or power on self test ("POST"). Software configuration may also be determined upon detection of either an AGP or a FC-AL bridge interface device connected to the common AGP / FC-AL bus. FC-AL information may be stored in the computer system main memory using the high speed FC-AL bridge interface.

Devices and methods for treating biological tissue using a plasma gas-discharge are disclosed herein. An electrode for igniting a gas flow to form a plasma gas-discharge, wherein the electrode is configured within the device such that upon encountering a surface of the biological tissue by the electrode, a path of current from the electrode to the surface of the biological tissue is formed, thereby igniting the gas flow and forming the plasma gas-discharge. In some embodiments, electromagnetic interactions between the treated biological tissue and the plasma gas discharge traversing the electromagnetic interaction gap shape the profile of the plasma gas discharge. According to some embodiments, the device includes an electrode for igniting gas of the gas flow, and electromagnetic interactions between the electrode and the skin determine, at least in part, the electromagnetic interactions that shape the profile of the plasma gas discharge. In some embodiments, the device further includes a housing for providing support for the electrode, wherein the electrode is disposed relative to the housing such that the electrode is substantially electrically unshielded by the housing, and the electrode is positioned to electromagnetically interact with a surface of the biological tissue to shape, at least in part, the plasma profile. According to some embodiments, the presently disclosed device includes a dual-purpose nozzle-electrode for gas delivery and for igniting the gas flow. A method of transdermal ion delivery of a plasma flux to biological tissue as a means of treating the biological tissue is also provided.

Apparatus and methods for performing spinal disc lesioning procedures while monitoring the temperature near the spinal nerve roots. A needle containing a thermocouple and an injection bore may be placed between the disc and a nerve root. Temperature near the nerve root may be monitored during the lesioning procedure and if raised to a point where damage to the nerve could occur, the procedure may be stopped before damage is done. Coolant may be injected through the injection bore to lower the temperature near the nerve root. Additional dual purpose needles may be placed on the disc adjacent the opposite nerve root or in the spinal canal at the level of the disc for additional control. A hollow, flexible tip electrode needle may be used to repair and lesion the disc tissue. Prior to lesioning, the electrode may be stimulated to assess motor nerve response and avoid motor nerve damage.

A method of read magnetic stripe card(s) into a database, to select a specific card from the database, and to output the data related to that specific card to existing merchant card reader equipment with no modification. A simulated magnetic stripe card can be tethered to a cell phone via the headset jacks. A more complex design uses an un-tethered, simulated magnetic stripe card by including BLUETOOTH (or other wireless) communications on the card. This dual purpose invention is intended to eliminate the need to carry multiple magnetic stripe cards in a wallet or purse by consolidating all of the individual card information into a form to be reproduced onto the simulation card when needed by the user. It can also be used at a merchant POS card reader to allow an existing MSD reader to be converted to use in wireless cell phone transactions e.g. BLUETOOTH or NFC.

Cardiac catheters, including a lasso catheter, are provided for use in a system for electrical mapping of the heart has an array of raised, perforated electrodes, which are in fluid communication with an irrigating lumen. There are position sensors on a distal loop section and on a proximal base section of the catheter. The electrodes are sensing electrodes that may be adapted for pacing or ablation. The raised electrodes securely contact cardiac tissue, forming electrical connections having little resistance.

An asymmetrical article of footwear reversible sole is provided which offers improved performance and fit. The article of footwear is worn on a different foot when reversed. The invention may be shaped to fit the general outline of a person's foot and may be configured to fit the contours of the bottom of the person's foot. Different materials may be used for the different parts of the composite sole thus allowing the reversible, asymmetrical, composite sole to be used in dual purpose situations.

An introducer and method for delivering a prosthetic fabric into a patient. The introducer includes a delivery tube having a distal end adapted to be inserted into the patient and a lumen that receives the prosthetic fabric. A loader may be provided to reconfigure the prosthetic fabric from a first configuration to a collapsed configuration and / or to insert the collapsed fabric into the lumen of the delivery tube. A plunger may be provided to push the prosthetic fabric through the delivery tube and into the patient. The loader and plunger may be combined in a dual-purpose component that is reversible to either load the fabric into the delivery tube or push the fabric through the delivery tube.

A subscriber identity module (SIM) that facilitates subscriber identity information and subscriber video information. The SIM operates in accordance with a dual-purpose subscriber identity system (SIS) that includes a subscriber mobile identity component (SMIC) and a video security component (VSC) such that the cellular and video services can be authenticated.

A method of operating a dialysis machine comprising receiving patient specific data, storing the received patient specific data in a non-volatile memory device, and implementing a treatment according to one of an acute care mode or a home care mode is disclosed. In the case of the acute care mode of treatment, the patient specific data is deleted after implementing the treatment. In the case of the home care mode of treatment, the patient specific data is retained after implementing the treatment. Hardware for implementing the disclosed method is also disclosed. Because of the rules governing abstracts, this abstract should no be used to construe the claims.

A test tube rack for supporting, storing and carrying a plurality of test tubes in a laboratory environment comprising a tray, a central support panel and / or lower support panel and a cover. The tray and cover are identical and interchangeable, and tapered for storage in nested stacks. Wells in the tray bottom are in alignment with corresponding openings in the central support panel and corresponding holes in the lower support panel and with domes in the cover, and serve to locate and retain test tubes within the test tube rack. The cover snap-attaches to the tray by means of at least one molded-in tab on the tray or cover which is received and frictionally retained by a corresponding well on the opposite element, thereby locating and securing the cover to the tray, and also locating and securing the central support panel between the tray and the cover. A dual-purpose support panel has manually removable perforated edges allowing it to serve either as a central support panel or, with the perforated edges removed, as a lower support panel. The test tube rack is preferably made of transparent injection-molded or thermoformed plastic.

A technique and system is provided for efficiently, effectively and safely performing an interbody lumbar fusion. The technique and system utilizes: (1) a rotary shaver that provides a shaving cannula; (2) an outflow / insertion cannula which provides a dual purpose cannula; and (3) a fusible balloon which provides a biodegradable intervertebral bag. The patient's disc is shaved and cut out with the shaver while the shavings are sucked out with the dual purpose cannula. Afterwards, the balloon is inserted at the tip of the dual purpose cannula and the balloon is filled with a grafting substance. The balloon assumes the shape of the removed disc. The grafting substance will fuse to the balloon and to the adjacent vertebrae and provide a support where the removed disc was.

An electrochemical cell for detection and quantification of analytes in a liquid sample, particularly a liquid sample having a small volume. In a preferred embodiment, the electrochemical cell comprises an assembly of conducting layers and insulating layers. The electrochemical cell can be formed by depositing conducting materials and insulating materials in alternating layers on an insulating substrate. It is preferred that the layer furthest from the insulating substrate be an insulating layer to minimize the damage of the conducting layers during handling of the electrochemical cell. A passage can be formed through the conducting layers and the insulating layers to expose the edges of the layers, which collectively form the wall or walls of the passage. The exposed edges of the conducting layers form the electrodes of the electrochemical cell. The electrochemical cell comprises at least one working electrode and at least one other electrode, e.g., a dual-purpose reference / counter electrode. In another embodiment, the assembly of conducting layers and insulating layers can be formed on both major surfaces of the insulating substrate. The assembly can comprise at least one working electrode and at least one other electrode, e.g., a dual-purpose reference / counter electrode.

A dual purpose camera for alternative use with one of photographic film and a digital image capture module is described. The camera includes a camera body, an electrical interface means disposed within said camera body for interfacing the camera body with a digital image capture module; and a communication means disposed within said camera body for transferring data from the digital image capture module to devices external to the camera body.

A personal base station (PBS) having wireless video capability. The PBS authenticates a mobile device within range for cellular services, and authenticates the user for a level of service for cable television. The PBS operates in accordance with a dual-purpose subscriber identity system (SIS) includes a subscriber mobile identity component (SMIC) and a video security component (VSC) such that the cellular and television services can be authenticated. Mobile devices incorporating the disclosed innovations, as well as the PBS, can access video content from a cable television provider through any available broadband link, regardless of the mobile device's physical location.

The invention relates to the technical field of radio fix radars, in particular to a millimetre wave time-division linear frequency modulation multi-object detection automobile anti-collision radar. The radar of the invention adopts full phase parameter receiving / emitting benchmark signal and time-division and time-sequence asynchronous control to receive / emit a dual-purpose quasi-light integrated medium lens antenna array, and scans the objects possible to be collided on the warning road surfaces by DSP according to lane scanning wave beam; the road situation photographing combined with the vehicle speed and GPS data MCU to control time-division n-passage modulation frequency and waveform millimetre wave linear locking phase frequency modulation; emission is carried out sequentially by R / T2, a circulator, a wave beam switch and the antenna array; echo passes through the antenna array, the wave beam switch, the circulator, the R / T1, low noise high amplifier, subharmonic mixing, middle amplifier and a time-dividing circuit and multi-object signal corresponding matching filter wave and is processed and controlled by MCU at DSP; when a plurality of road barriers are encountered, the orientation, distance and relative speed are determined by DSP restriction virtual warning; three-dimensional images are displayed by a CRT; the closer the distance of the object is, the higher the resolution is; the object which is closest to the vehicle is recognised; sound and light alarm are carried out when the distance is less than safety distance; when the distance is near to the dangerous distance, the vehicle can intelligently avoid the barrier or reduce the speed or brake; the radar of the invention can make a choice according to the control reference road situation, the vehicle speed and the GPS data, thus obviously improving the driving safety of the vehicle.

Receiver-initiated collision avoidance methods for use in ad-hoc wireless networks in which carrier sensing is available. A number of protocol variants are described including RIMA-SP (simple polling), RIMA-DP (dual-purpose polling), and RIMA-BP (broadcast polling). These handshake methods according to the invention are capable of correctly avoiding collisions within a network that contains hidden nodes, and the RIMA-DP protocol provides higher performance levels than attainable with existing handshaking protocols within the ad-hoc wireless networks. The use of dual-purpose polling allows a control packet to be sent which has alternative functions, such as requesting data from the polled node, if available, and if not available then providing a transmission request from the polling node to send data to the polled node.

Heating is a significant factor in residential gas-energy usage. Saving energy on heating is receiving increasing attention with rising energy prices and the Kyoto Protocol on reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Energy awareness and energy efficiency hereby become important qualifications for human behavior and residential building codes, and become a factor in the evolution of the global climate. Here, we describe a novel measurement and validation system for domestic gas-energy usage in combination with primary weather data. We disclose a gas-energy observatory which visualizes human behavior in gas-energy consumption associated with domestic facilities, and measures home energy efficiency by calorimetry. Weather-sensitivity analysis quantifies energy-usage as a function of small variations in room temperature and home energy efficiency. Weather-sensitivity data can be used to calculate changes in room-temperature settings or improvements in home insulation for a desired reduction in CO2-output. By public dissemination of its primary weather data, it creates in dual-use at no additional cost a novel in-situ climate observational systems with unprecedented wide-area coverage and spatial resolution.

A laser lens glow baton is a hand held, dual purpose, visual signaling baton. This device can be used as a flashlight that projects a well-defined beam of light via its laser lens and assembly or as a highly visible luminary that radiates an intense flux of light similar to neon tube. The laser lens glow baton is useful as a visual-signaling device because the colors of the main body and the colors of the projected beam emitted from the laser lens assembly are easily changed. The laser lens glow baton may be easily fabricated in different lengths because of its compartmentalization of the components.

An active matrix emissive display (ED) is disclosed that also includes optical scanning capability. Each display pixel is independently addressable and independently internally driven for light generation. Each display pixel is also given the ability to be coupled to detection circuitry in order to sense currents or voltages that are optically generated or leaked by its internal LED when exposed to light (and thus acting in a photodiode capacity). Since the intensity of the light illuminating the diode determines the magnitude of generated currents and / or voltages or leakage current through the diode (when reverse biased), these sensed currents or voltages give an indication of the intensity of the light striking the pixel. In this manner, active matrix ED pixels are configured to serve the dual purpose of being able to generate and detect light.

A monolithic dual-purpose trailer for transporting cargo includes a frame including two longitudinally extending side rails and a central reinforcing member in the form of an engineered truss is located between the two side rails. Wheels are mounted to the frame. A deck including a load bearing surface with a grate is formed on the frame. Hoppers are positioned below the grate. The frame is formed as one solid welded unit. The deck has a portion formed of flat aluminum. A perimeter frame rail is located around the deck. The trailer can transport multiple types of loads and does not have to be converted from one mode to another and additionally has reduced longitudinal flexing.

A pixel cell with controlled leakage is formed by modifying the location and gate profile of a high dynamic range (HDR) transistor. The HDR transistor may have a dual purpose, acting as both a leaking transistor and either a transfer gate or a reset gate. Alternatively, the HDR transistor may be a separate and individual transistor having the gate profile of a transfer gate or a reset gate. The leakage through the HDR transistor may be controlled by modifying the photodiode implants around the transistor, adjusting the channel length of the transistor, or thinning the gate oxide on the transistor. The leakage through the HDR transistor may also be controlled by applying a voltage across the transistor.

A system to read magnetic stripe card(s) into a database, to select a specific card from the database, and to output the data related to that specific card to existing merchant card reader equipment with no modification. A simulated magnetic stripe card can be tethered to a cell phone via the headset jacks. A more complex design uses an un-tethered, simulated magnetic stripe card by including BLUETOOTH (or other wireless) communications on the card. This dual purpose invention is intended to eliminate the need to carry multiple magnetic stripe cards in a wallet or purse by consolidating all of the individual card information into a form to be reproduced onto the simulation card when needed by the user. It can also be used at a merchant POS card reader to allow an existing MSD reader to be converted to use in wireless cell phone transactions e.g. BLUETOOTH or NFC.

A direct shear tester for both portable field test and indoor test and a sampling and testing method are provided. The tester comprises a sampling device, a portable vertical load system and a horizontal shear system. The testing method comprises burying a rigid frame together with a cruciform shear frame in the soil of a place to be test, digging out the whole soil containing the rigid frame and the cruciform shear frame to obtain an integrated sample with less interference, placing and fixing the integrated sample in a rigid frame base on a box-shaped frame, applying a vertical force by using the portable vertical load system on the box-shaped frame, and measuring the strength of the sample by using the shear frame. During the test process, the volume change of the sample in the vertical direction is not limited. The tester has simple structure, easy operation and good portability. The testing method employs flexible tension shear mode instead of the rigid top-bunt shear mode, overcomes the friction and sampling problems, and avoids the vertical pressure offset during the test process by using the portable vertical loading system, thereby increasing the test accuracy.