 Patent Application Title |
Patent App Num. |
Date |
| Camera with electroactive telescopic shutter module | 20110019993 | 20110127 |
| A camera includes a lens module, an image sensor, and a shutter module. The centers of the image sensor and the shutter module are on an optical axis of the lens module. The shutter module includes a frame and an electroactive telescopic unit having a first electroactive polymer layer, two compliant electrode layers, and two second electroactive polymer layers. The center of the electroactive telescopic unit has a through hole through the first electroactive polymer layer, the two compliant electrode layers, and the two second electroactive polymer layers. A central axis of the through hole and the optic axis of the lens module are coaxial. The electroactive telescopic unit is contractible or expandable along a direction perpendicularly to the optic axis of the lens module in... |
| Infusion pump | 20110009814 | 20110113 |
| Described is an infusion pump comprising electronic infusion regulating means with wired or wireless communication means and a power source, a medicament bag (7) and an infusion device, said infusion device being in fluid communication with said medicament bag (7) and comprising two valves (1, 2), a pressure cavity (4) provided between said two valves (1, 2) and a membrane (3) covering said cavity (4), wherein said infusion device comprises at least two active actuators, preferably either made of electroactive polymer so as to form a self actuating membrane (3) or made of shape memory alloy wire, one of said actuators being adapted to apply pressure to said membrane (3) for fluid displacement in said cavity (4), and the other of said actuators being adapted to... |
| Inlet guide vane for a gas compressor | 20100329851 | 20101230 |
| An inlet guide vane for a compressor is provided. The inlet guide vane is adjustable to modify gas flow properties in the compressor, wherein electroactive polymers are arranged in the inlet guide vane such that the shape of the inlet guide vane is adjusted in a specified manner upon applying a voltage to the inlet guide vane.
... |
| Medical balloon incorporating electroactive polymer and methods of making and using the same | 20100312322 | 20101209 |
| An expandable medical balloon having at least one static state, at least one expanded state, and at least one deflated state, the expandable medical balloon including at least one active region, the at least one active region including electroactive polymer.
... |
| Active seal components | 20100312065 | 20101209 |
| Methods and devices are provided to allow for easy manipulation of a configuration and/or an orientation of seal elements of a surgical access device by an end user. In one exemplary embodiment a surgical access device is provided that includes a retractor configured to be positioned within a surgical incision to provide access to a body cavity, seal elements disposed within a lumen of the retractor, and adjustment mechanisms in communication with the seal elements and which are configured to manipulate an orientation of one or more of the seal elements. Types of adjustment mechanisms capable of manipulating the seal elements as desired include inflatable bladders and electroactive polymers. Exemplary methods for providing easy manipulation of the configuration and/or orientation of seal elements of a surgical... |
| |
| Uses of electroactive material actuators in cosmetics | 20100305484 | 20101202 |
| The present invention relates to a cosmetic treatment method comprising: a1) putting into place on keratinous material at least one actuator (1) of electroactive material, preferably electroactive polymer material; b1) exciting the actuator (1) to apply to the keratinous material a force that is substantially parallel thereto and that induces a displacement thereof, which displacement persists, at least while the actuator (1) is in place; or a2) exciting the actuator (1) so as to induce deformation thereof; b2) putting the actuator (1) into place, in particular by fastening it on keratinous material; and c2) modifying the excitation of the actuator (1), so that the actuator (1) induces a displacement of the keratinous material.
... |
| Variable stiffness catheter assembly | 20100297334 | 20101125 |
| A catheter comprising an outer shaft comprising a first section of electroactive polymer. The first section of electroactive polymer affecting either the flexibility of the catheter or the steerability of the catheter.
... |
| Lighting device with reflective electroactive polymer actuator | 20100296294 | 20101125 |
| The invention relates to alighting device which comprises an at least partly reflective electroactive polymer actuator (1) and a lighting element (2) illuminating the electroactive polymer actuator. A voltage control arrangement (4) for driving the electroactive polymer actuator (1) with a spatially varying voltage distribution is provided. This way, the curvature and alignment of the reflective surface of the electroactive polymer actuator (1) can be adapted to the requirements, thus always providing an optimized beam pattern for the relevant field of application
... |
| Security document with electroactive polymer power source and nano-optical display | 20100271174 | 20101028 |
| A security document is disclosed which includes an electrical circuit embedded in a document substrate, where the electrical circuit includes a power source with at least one electroactive polymer power generator, and an optical display including at least one electroluminescent display element and at least one nanohole array which forms a layer of the electroluminescent display element. A method of authenticating a security document is also disclosed, the method including illuminating an encoded nanohole array in the security document with a focused light beam or laser light source emitting at least one defined wavelength of incident light, detecting a transmitted portion of the incident light transmitted through the nanohole array with an optoelectronic sensor, analyzing at least one wavelength of the transmitted portion of light to... |
| Active support surface | 20100268121 | 20101021 |
| An active support assembly (30) includes a frame assembly (32) having subframes (34). Active devices (36) includes a flexible element (38) having a stationary end (40) attached to the frame assembly (42). An opposing end of each of the active devices (36) or flexible elements (38) also include a movable end (42). Electroactive polymer actuators (70) are organized into an array (68), with each actuator (70) aligned with a flexible element (38). Increases in the level of the activation signals cause the corresponding actuators (70) to expand, and forcibly extend the movable ends (42), with expansion of the flexible elements (38). The active support assemblies can be used with mattresses, overlays and seating for purposes of adjusting the same in response to the application of external... |
| Rolled electroactive polymers | 20100263181 | 20101021 |
| The invention describes rolled electroactive polymer devices. The invention also describes employment of these devices in a wide array of applications and methods for their fabrication. A rolled electroactive polymer device converts between electrical and mechanical energy; and includes a rolled electroactive polymer and at least two electrodes to provide the mechanical/electrical energy conversion. Prestrain is typically applied to the polymer. In one embodiment, a rolled electroactive polymer device employs a mechanism, such as a spring, that provides a force to prestrain the polymer. Since prestrain improves mechanical/electrical energy conversion for many electroactive polymers, the mechanism thus improves performance of the rolled electroactive polymer device.
... |
| Optical lens displacement systems | 20100232034 | 20100916 |
| The present invention provides optical systems, devices and methods which utilize one or more electroactive polymer actuators to adjust an optical parameter of the optical device or system.
... |
| High-performance electroactive polymer transducers | 20100231091 | 20100916 |
| Transducers employing electroactive polymer films are disclosed.
... |
| |
| Electroactive actuator for portable communication devices | 20100226075 | 20100909 |
| The invention relates to a portable communication device which comprises a first part, a second part, and one or more electroactive polymer actuators, where the electroactive polymer actuator is connected to the first part and to the second part. The invention also comprise a control unit, where the electroactive polymer actuator is adapted to move the first part in relation to the second part, and that the control unit is adapted to control the electroactive polymer actuator.
... |
| Electrically isolating polymer composition | 20100215968 | 20100826 |
| A composition that includes at least one crosslinkable monomer; at least one hydrophobic monomer; and at least one dielectric constant enhancing agent selected from dielectric enhancing monomers, ferroelectric particulates, and electroactive polymers. Coatings including the polymer of compositions, and articles including electrically isolating layers are also disclosed.
... |
| Electroactive polymer actuation of implants | 20100211186 | 20100819 |
| This invention provides methods and devices for reconstructing muscular responses in patients with paralysis. Electroactive polymer (EAP) actuators power implants attached to tissues in the patients. When the actuators are energized, the implants move the tissues appropriately to provide improved body functions to patients experiencing a paralysis or paresis.
... |
| Device and method for healing wounds | 20100211151 | 20100819 |
| Embodiments of the invention include a method and device for promoting healing of an injury in a living being. The embodiments comprise an injury covering portion, which portion comprises an electroactive polymer, such as poled polyvinylidine difluoride (PVDF) or a copolymer of PVDF. The electroactive polymer has either pyroelectric properties, piezoelectric properties, or both.
... |
| Electroactive polymer transducers for sensory feedback applications | 20100205803 | 20100819 |
| Electroactive polymer transducers for sensory feedback applications are disclosed.
... |
| Structural health monitoring system/method using electroactive polymer fibers | 20100201384 | 20100812 |
| One or more electroactive polymer fibers are coupled to a structure. Electroactive responses of the fiber(s) are monitored. Load changes experienced by the structure cause changes in baseline responses of the fiber(s)
... |
| Conformable layer utilizing active material actuation | 20100197184 | 20100805 |
| A conformable protective layer, such as a fabric or covering, adapted for overlaying an object or space, and presenting a condition, such as a geometric configuration or stiffness, includes at least one shape memory alloy, electroactive polymer, or similar active material based actuator operable to undergo a reversible change when exposed to and/or removed from an external signal, and is configured such that the change is operable to autonomously modify the condition, or facilitate placement and removal of the layer.
... |
| Thrombolysis catheter | 20100191175 | 20100729 |
| A thrombolysis catheter apparatus is disclosed comprising: (a) an elongated thrombolysis catheter portion comprising a plurality of independently controllable electroactive polymer actuators, which provide a curvature to the thrombolysis catheter based upon received control signals; (b) a control unit coupled to the plurality of actuators and sending the control signals to the plurality of actuators; and (c) an occlusion removal device. Also disclosed is a method of treating an arterial occlusion by advancing the thrombolysis catheter portion through the arterial vasculature of a patient to a position proximate the occlusion, while controlling the shape of the thrombolysis catheter portion using the control unit. The occlusion is then removed using the occlusion removal device.
... |
| Actuator comprising an electroactive polymer | 20100176691 | 20100715 |
| The invention relates to an actuator for converting between mechanical and electrical energy comprising -at least two electrodes; and -an electroactive polymer, comprising aromatic moieties in the chain and flexible moieties in the chain, the polymer further comprising side groups bound to the chain, which side groups are selected from the group consisting of polar side groups and side groups comprising an aromatic moiety. The invention further relates to a novel electroactive polymer comprising polar side groups bound to the chain.
... |
| Electroactive polymer devices for controlling fluid flow | 20100176322 | 20100715 |
| The invention describes devices for controlling fluid flow, such as valves. The devices may include one or more electroactive polymer transducers with an electroactive polymer that deflects in response to an application of an electric field. The electroactive polymer may be in contact with a fluid where the deflection of the electroactive polymer may be used to change a characteristic of the fluid. Some of the characteristic of the fluid that may be changed include but are not limited to 1) a flow rate, 2) a flow direction, 3) a flow vorticity, 4) a flow momentum, 5) a flow mixing rate, 6) a flow turbulence rate, 7) a flow energy, 8) a flow thermodynamic property. The electroactive polymer may be a portion of a surface of... |
| Bistable electroactive polymers | 20100171393 | 20100708 |
| A bistable electroactive polymer transducer is provided for electrically actuated deformation of rigid electroactive polymer members. The polymers have glass transition temperatures (Tg) above ambient conditions and turn into rubbery elastomers above Tg and have high dielectric breakdown strength in the rubbery state. They can be electrically deformed to various rigid shapes with maximum strain greater than 100% and as high as 400%. The actuation is made bistable by cooling below Tg to preserve the deformation. The dielectric actuation mechanism includes a pair of compliant electrodes in contact with a dielectric elastomer which deforms when a voltage bias is applied between the pair of electrodes. In some of the transducers of the present invention, the dielectric elastomer is also a shape memory polymer. The deformations of... |
| Three-dimensional electroactive polymer actuated devices | 20100164329 | 20100701 |
| Devices employing electroactive polymer actuators are disclosed. Acrylic dielectric material based actuators are optionally provided in which architectures are presented that allow for improved power output as compared with other known acrylic dielectric material based transducers. Such technology may be applied in motor-driven applications, lightweight flight applications and lighting applications among others.
... |
| Use of a plasticizer in an electroactive polymer composition | 20100148632 | 20100617 |
| The invention relates to the use of a plasticizer in a polymer composition for providing electroactivity to the composition or increasing the electroactivity of the composition. The invention further relates to an (an article) comprising an actuator for converting between mechanical and electrical energy comprising—at least two electrodes; and—an electroactive polymer composition, comprising a polar polymer and a polar plasticizer.
... |
| Anionically-charged polymer detection method | 20100147707 | 20100617 |
| An electrochemical method for measuring the concentration of an anionically-charged and non-electroactive polymer in an aqueous solution is provided. The method comprises immobilizing a cationic dye material on an electrically conductive substrate form a working electrode; contacting the working electrode with the aqueous solution including the anionically-charged and non-electroactive polymer to be measured, and transmitting electrical power to the working electrode; measuring a current of the working electrode under a determined electric potential; and calculating a concentration or quantity of the anionically-charged polymer in the aqueous solution according to the measured current of the working electrode.
... |
| Antenna, antenna arrangement and radio communication apparatus | 20100127953 | 20100527 |
| An antenna is disclosed. The antenna comprises a first antenna element; a second antenna element arranged along the first antenna element; and an electroactive polymer element arranged between the first and the second antenna elements, wherein the electroactive polymer element is connected to electrodes through which a voltage is applicable across the electroactive polymer element such that the distance between the first and the second antenna elements is adjustable by changing the voltage. An antenna arrangement and a radio communication apparatus are also disclosed.
... |
| Device for locking a lock | 20100126240 | 20100527 |
| In a device for locking a lock, in which an actuating member (6) can be coupled with a locking device, such as a locking lug (2), via an interposed coupling device, the coupling device comprises a driver element (7, 7′, 7″, 15, 25, 30, 30′, 36, 36′) and an actuator (8, 8′, 8″, 16, 24, 31, 31′, 38, 38′) made of an electroactive polymer, wherein the driver element (7, 7′, 7″, 15, 25, 30, 30′, 36, 36′) is movable between an engagement position and a disengagement position by the aid of the actuator (8, 8′, 8″, 16, 24, 31, 31′, 38, 38′).
... |
| Integrated actuator sensor structure | 20100109595 | 20100506 |
| An integrated sensory actuator (10) which uses an electroactive polymer is provided. The sensory actuator is comprised of an actuating member (12) made of an ionic polymer-metal composite; a sensing member (14) made of a piezoelectric material; and an insulating member (16) interposed between the actuating member and the sensing member. The sensory actuator may further include a compensation circuit adapted to receive a sensed signal from the sensing member and an actuation signal from the actuating member and compensate the sensed signal for feedthrough coupling between the actuating member and the sensing member.
... |
| Infusion pump | 20110009814 | 20110113 |
| Described is an infusion pump comprising electronic infusion regulating means with wired or wireless communication means and a power source, a medicament bag (7) and an infusion device, said infusion device being in fluid communication with said medicament bag (7) and comprising two valves (1, 2), a pressure cavity (4) provided between said two valves (1, 2) and a membrane (3) covering said cavity (4), wherein said infusion device comprises at least two active actuators, preferably either made of electroactive polymer so as to form a self actuating membrane (3) or made of shape memory alloy wire, one of said actuators being adapted to apply pressure to said membrane (3) for fluid displacement in said cavity (4), and the other of said actuators being adapted to... |
| Inlet guide vane for a gas compressor | 20100329851 | 20101230 |
| An inlet guide vane for a compressor is provided. The inlet guide vane is adjustable to modify gas flow properties in the compressor, wherein electroactive polymers are arranged in the inlet guide vane such that the shape of the inlet guide vane is adjusted in a specified manner upon applying a voltage to the inlet guide vane.
... |
| Medical balloon incorporating electroactive polymer and methods of making and using the same | 20100312322 | 20101209 |
| An expandable medical balloon having at least one static state, at least one expanded state, and at least one deflated state, the expandable medical balloon including at least one active region, the at least one active region including electroactive polymer.
... |
| Active seal components | 20100312065 | 20101209 |
| Methods and devices are provided to allow for easy manipulation of a configuration and/or an orientation of seal elements of a surgical access device by an end user. In one exemplary embodiment a surgical access device is provided that includes a retractor configured to be positioned within a surgical incision to provide access to a body cavity, seal elements disposed within a lumen of the retractor, and adjustment mechanisms in communication with the seal elements and which are configured to manipulate an orientation of one or more of the seal elements. Types of adjustment mechanisms capable of manipulating the seal elements as desired include inflatable bladders and electroactive polymers. Exemplary methods for providing easy manipulation of the configuration and/or orientation of seal elements of a surgical... |
| Uses of electroactive material actuators in cosmetics | 20100305484 | 20101202 |
| The present invention relates to a cosmetic treatment method comprising: a1) putting into place on keratinous material at least one actuator (1) of electroactive material, preferably electroactive polymer material; b1) exciting the actuator (1) to apply to the keratinous material a force that is substantially parallel thereto and that induces a displacement thereof, which displacement persists, at least while the actuator (1) is in place; or a2) exciting the actuator (1) so as to induce deformation thereof; b2) putting the actuator (1) into place, in particular by fastening it on keratinous material; and c2) modifying the excitation of the actuator (1), so that the actuator (1) induces a displacement of the keratinous material.
... |
| Variable stiffness catheter assembly | 20100297334 | 20101125 |
| A catheter comprising an outer shaft comprising a first section of electroactive polymer. The first section of electroactive polymer affecting either the flexibility of the catheter or the steerability of the catheter.
... |
| Lighting device with reflective electroactive polymer actuator | 20100296294 | 20101125 |
| The invention relates to alighting device which comprises an at least partly reflective electroactive polymer actuator (1) and a lighting element (2) illuminating the electroactive polymer actuator. A voltage control arrangement (4) for driving the electroactive polymer actuator (1) with a spatially varying voltage distribution is provided. This way, the curvature and alignment of the reflective surface of the electroactive polymer actuator (1) can be adapted to the requirements, thus always providing an optimized beam pattern for the relevant field of application
... |
| Security document with electroactive polymer power source and nano-optical display | 20100271174 | 20101028 |
| A security document is disclosed which includes an electrical circuit embedded in a document substrate, where the electrical circuit includes a power source with at least one electroactive polymer power generator, and an optical display including at least one electroluminescent display element and at least one nanohole array which forms a layer of the electroluminescent display element. A method of authenticating a security document is also disclosed, the method including illuminating an encoded nanohole array in the security document with a focused light beam or laser light source emitting at least one defined wavelength of incident light, detecting a transmitted portion of the incident light transmitted through the nanohole array with an optoelectronic sensor, analyzing at least one wavelength of the transmitted portion of light to... |
| Active support surface | 20100268121 | 20101021 |
| An active support assembly (30) includes a frame assembly (32) having subframes (34). Active devices (36) includes a flexible element (38) having a stationary end (40) attached to the frame assembly (42). An opposing end of each of the active devices (36) or flexible elements (38) also include a movable end (42). Electroactive polymer actuators (70) are organized into an array (68), with each actuator (70) aligned with a flexible element (38). Increases in the level of the activation signals cause the corresponding actuators (70) to expand, and forcibly extend the movable ends (42), with expansion of the flexible elements (38). The active support assemblies can be used with mattresses, overlays and seating for purposes of adjusting the same in response to the application of external... |
| Rolled electroactive polymers | 20100263181 | 20101021 |
| The invention describes rolled electroactive polymer devices. The invention also describes employment of these devices in a wide array of applications and methods for their fabrication. A rolled electroactive polymer device converts between electrical and mechanical energy; and includes a rolled electroactive polymer and at least two electrodes to provide the mechanical/electrical energy conversion. Prestrain is typically applied to the polymer. In one embodiment, a rolled electroactive polymer device employs a mechanism, such as a spring, that provides a force to prestrain the polymer. Since prestrain improves mechanical/electrical energy conversion for many electroactive polymers, the mechanism thus improves performance of the rolled electroactive polymer device.
... |
| Optical lens displacement systems | 20100232034 | 20100916 |
| The present invention provides optical systems, devices and methods which utilize one or more electroactive polymer actuators to adjust an optical parameter of the optical device or system.
... |
| High-performance electroactive polymer transducers | 20100231091 | 20100916 |
| Transducers employing electroactive polymer films are disclosed.
... |
| Electroactive actuator for portable communication devices | 20100226075 | 20100909 |
| The invention relates to a portable communication device which comprises a first part, a second part, and one or more electroactive polymer actuators, where the electroactive polymer actuator is connected to the first part and to the second part. The invention also comprise a control unit, where the electroactive polymer actuator is adapted to move the first part in relation to the second part, and that the control unit is adapted to control the electroactive polymer actuator.
... |
| Electrically isolating polymer composition | 20100215968 | 20100826 |
| A composition that includes at least one crosslinkable monomer; at least one hydrophobic monomer; and at least one dielectric constant enhancing agent selected from dielectric enhancing monomers, ferroelectric particulates, and electroactive polymers. Coatings including the polymer of compositions, and articles including electrically isolating layers are also disclosed.
... |
| Electroactive polymer actuation of implants | 20100211186 | 20100819 |
| This invention provides methods and devices for reconstructing muscular responses in patients with paralysis. Electroactive polymer (EAP) actuators power implants attached to tissues in the patients. When the actuators are energized, the implants move the tissues appropriately to provide improved body functions to patients experiencing a paralysis or paresis.
... |
| Device and method for healing wounds | 20100211151 | 20100819 |
| Embodiments of the invention include a method and device for promoting healing of an injury in a living being. The embodiments comprise an injury covering portion, which portion comprises an electroactive polymer, such as poled polyvinylidine difluoride (PVDF) or a copolymer of PVDF. The electroactive polymer has either pyroelectric properties, piezoelectric properties, or both.
... |
| Electroactive polymer transducers for sensory feedback applications | 20100205803 | 20100819 |
| Electroactive polymer transducers for sensory feedback applications are disclosed.
... |
| Structural health monitoring system/method using electroactive polymer fibers | 20100201384 | 20100812 |
| One or more electroactive polymer fibers are coupled to a structure. Electroactive responses of the fiber(s) are monitored. Load changes experienced by the structure cause changes in baseline responses of the fiber(s)
... |
| Conformable layer utilizing active material actuation | 20100197184 | 20100805 |
| A conformable protective layer, such as a fabric or covering, adapted for overlaying an object or space, and presenting a condition, such as a geometric configuration or stiffness, includes at least one shape memory alloy, electroactive polymer, or similar active material based actuator operable to undergo a reversible change when exposed to and/or removed from an external signal, and is configured such that the change is operable to autonomously modify the condition, or facilitate placement and removal of the layer.
... |
| Thrombolysis catheter | 20100191175 | 20100729 |
| A thrombolysis catheter apparatus is disclosed comprising: (a) an elongated thrombolysis catheter portion comprising a plurality of independently controllable electroactive polymer actuators, which provide a curvature to the thrombolysis catheter based upon received control signals; (b) a control unit coupled to the plurality of actuators and sending the control signals to the plurality of actuators; and (c) an occlusion removal device. Also disclosed is a method of treating an arterial occlusion by advancing the thrombolysis catheter portion through the arterial vasculature of a patient to a position proximate the occlusion, while controlling the shape of the thrombolysis catheter portion using the control unit. The occlusion is then removed using the occlusion removal device.
... |
| Actuator comprising an electroactive polymer | 20100176691 | 20100715 |
| The invention relates to an actuator for converting between mechanical and electrical energy comprising -at least two electrodes; and -an electroactive polymer, comprising aromatic moieties in the chain and flexible moieties in the chain, the polymer further comprising side groups bound to the chain, which side groups are selected from the group consisting of polar side groups and side groups comprising an aromatic moiety. The invention further relates to a novel electroactive polymer comprising polar side groups bound to the chain.
... |
| Electroactive polymer devices for controlling fluid flow | 20100176322 | 20100715 |
| The invention describes devices for controlling fluid flow, such as valves. The devices may include one or more electroactive polymer transducers with an electroactive polymer that deflects in response to an application of an electric field. The electroactive polymer may be in contact with a fluid where the deflection of the electroactive polymer may be used to change a characteristic of the fluid. Some of the characteristic of the fluid that may be changed include but are not limited to 1) a flow rate, 2) a flow direction, 3) a flow vorticity, 4) a flow momentum, 5) a flow mixing rate, 6) a flow turbulence rate, 7) a flow energy, 8) a flow thermodynamic property. The electroactive polymer may be a portion of a surface of... |
| Bistable electroactive polymers | 20100171393 | 20100708 |
| A bistable electroactive polymer transducer is provided for electrically actuated deformation of rigid electroactive polymer members. The polymers have glass transition temperatures (Tg) above ambient conditions and turn into rubbery elastomers above Tg and have high dielectric breakdown strength in the rubbery state. They can be electrically deformed to various rigid shapes with maximum strain greater than 100% and as high as 400%. The actuation is made bistable by cooling below Tg to preserve the deformation. The dielectric actuation mechanism includes a pair of compliant electrodes in contact with a dielectric elastomer which deforms when a voltage bias is applied between the pair of electrodes. In some of the transducers of the present invention, the dielectric elastomer is also a shape memory polymer. The deformations of... |
| Three-dimensional electroactive polymer actuated devices | 20100164329 | 20100701 |
| Devices employing electroactive polymer actuators are disclosed. Acrylic dielectric material based actuators are optionally provided in which architectures are presented that allow for improved power output as compared with other known acrylic dielectric material based transducers. Such technology may be applied in motor-driven applications, lightweight flight applications and lighting applications among others.
... |
| Use of a plasticizer in an electroactive polymer composition | 20100148632 | 20100617 |
| The invention relates to the use of a plasticizer in a polymer composition for providing electroactivity to the composition or increasing the electroactivity of the composition. The invention further relates to an (an article) comprising an actuator for converting between mechanical and electrical energy comprising—at least two electrodes; and—an electroactive polymer composition, comprising a polar polymer and a polar plasticizer.
... |
| Anionically-charged polymer detection method | 20100147707 | 20100617 |
| An electrochemical method for measuring the concentration of an anionically-charged and non-electroactive polymer in an aqueous solution is provided. The method comprises immobilizing a cationic dye material on an electrically conductive substrate form a working electrode; contacting the working electrode with the aqueous solution including the anionically-charged and non-electroactive polymer to be measured, and transmitting electrical power to the working electrode; measuring a current of the working electrode under a determined electric potential; and calculating a concentration or quantity of the anionically-charged polymer in the aqueous solution according to the measured current of the working electrode.
... |
| Antenna, antenna arrangement and radio communication apparatus | 20100127953 | 20100527 |
| An antenna is disclosed. The antenna comprises a first antenna element; a second antenna element arranged along the first antenna element; and an electroactive polymer element arranged between the first and the second antenna elements, wherein the electroactive polymer element is connected to electrodes through which a voltage is applicable across the electroactive polymer element such that the distance between the first and the second antenna elements is adjustable by changing the voltage. An antenna arrangement and a radio communication apparatus are also disclosed.
... |
| Device for locking a lock | 20100126240 | 20100527 |
| In a device for locking a lock, in which an actuating member (6) can be coupled with a locking device, such as a locking lug (2), via an interposed coupling device, the coupling device comprises a driver element (7, 7′, 7″, 15, 25, 30, 30′, 36, 36′) and an actuator (8, 8′, 8″, 16, 24, 31, 31′, 38, 38′) made of an electroactive polymer, wherein the driver element (7, 7′, 7″, 15, 25, 30, 30′, 36, 36′) is movable between an engagement position and a disengagement position by the aid of the actuator (8, 8′, 8″, 16, 24, 31, 31′, 38, 38′).
... |
| Integrated actuator sensor structure | 20100109595 | 20100506 |
| An integrated sensory actuator (10) which uses an electroactive polymer is provided. The sensory actuator is comprised of an actuating member (12) made of an ionic polymer-metal composite; a sensing member (14) made of a piezoelectric material; and an insulating member (16) interposed between the actuating member and the sensing member. The sensory actuator may further include a compensation circuit adapted to receive a sensed signal from the sensing member and an actuation signal from the actuating member and compensate the sensed signal for feedthrough coupling between the actuating member and the sensing member.
... |
| Surface deformation electroactive polymer transducers | 20100109486 | 20100506 |
| Electroactive polymer transducers configured for surface mode deformation to provide thickness mode actuation.
... |
| Electrospun electroactive polymers for regenerative medicine applications | 20090325296 | 20091231 |
| Due to the size and complexity of tissues such as the spinal cord and articular cartilage, specialized constructs incorporating cells as well as smart materials may be a promising strategy for achieving functional recovery. Aspects of the present invention describe the use of an electroactive, or piezoelectric, material that will act as a scaffold for stem cell induced tissue repair. Embodiments of the inventive material can also act alone as an electroactive scaffold for repairing tissues. The piezoelectric material of the present invention acts as a highly sensitive mechanoelectrical transducer that will generate charges in response to minute vibrational forces.
... |
| Novel uses of electroactive polymer materials | 20090293664 | 20091203 |
| Novel applications of electroactive polymer materials, particularly of ionic polymer metal composite (IPMC). Such applications include manipulators with combined electromechanical and electroactive actuators. Applications are particularly suitable in low gravity environment.
... |
| Earphone device and sound generating apparatus equipped with the same | 20090285437 | 20091119 |
| An external inserting meatus of user is closed with an insert earphone device in use so that it is hard that external sound penetrates into the external inserting meatus; not only an internal sound propagation path but also an external sound propagation path are formed in an inserting body of the earphone device, and an active diaphragm is provided in the inserting body so as to make the external sound propagation path closed therewith and block the external auditory meatus from the external sound; the active diaphragm is formed from electroactive polymer layer sandwiched between electrodes, and the active diaphragm is deformed in the presence of voltage so as permit the user easily to control it.
... |
| Sound-activated light source system | 20090268448 | 20091029 |
| An exemplary sound-activated light source system includes a light source device and a sound-activated controlling device. The sound-activated controlling device includes an acoustoelectric transforming member and a controlling circuit. The acoustoelectric transforming member includes electroactive polymer artificial muscle for converting an acoustic signal into an electrical signal. The controlling circuit is electrically coupled to the acoustoelectric transforming member and the light source device, and is configured for controlling at least one of brightness and color of light emitting from the light source device based on the electrical signal received from the acoustoelectric transforming member.
... |
| Sound-activated light source system | 20090268448 | 20091029 |
| An exemplary sound-activated light source system includes a light source device and a sound-activated controlling device. The sound-activated controlling device includes an acoustoelectric transforming member and a controlling circuit. The acoustoelectric transforming member includes electroactive polymer artificial muscle for converting an acoustic signal into an electrical signal. The controlling circuit is electrically coupled to the acoustoelectric transforming member and the light source device, and is configured for controlling at least one of brightness and color of light emitting from the light source device based on the electrical signal received from the acoustoelectric transforming member.
... |
| Electroactive polymer based artificial sphincters and artificial muscle patches | 20090259315 | 20091015 |
| Provided are artificial muscle patches, which are adapted to be implanted adjacent a patient's heart, and artificial sphincter cuffs, which are adapted to be implanted around a body lumen, such as the urethra, the anal canal, or the lower esophagus. The devices of the present invention comprise: (a) one or more electroactive polymer actuators; and (b) a control unit for electrically controlling the one or more electroactive polymer actuators to expand or contract the devices.
... |
| Electroactive polymers for lithography | 20090242806 | 20091001 |
| Systems and methods for lithography include actuating an electroactive polymer member to position mask and/or substrate.
... |
| Electroactive polymers for lithography | 20090244511 | 20091001 |
| Systems and methods for lithography include actuating an electroactive polymer member to position mask and/or substrate.
... |
| High-performance electroactive polymer transducers | 20090236939 | 20090924 |
| Transducers employing electroactive polymer films are disclosed.
... |
| Boundary layer propulsion airship with related system and method | 20090200416 | 20090813 |
| Systems, method, devices and apparatus are provided for reducing drag and increasing the flight efficiency characteristics of aircraft and airships including hybrid aircraft utilizing distributed boundary layer control and propulsion means. Boundary layer control includes passive systems such as riblet films and boundary layer propulsion means includes a divided and distributed propulsion system disposed in the curved aft sections of aircraft and airships including hybrid aircraft susceptible to boundary layer drag due to degree of curvatures, speed and density of the surrounding air. Distributed propulsion propulsion means includes constructing propellers and riblets from shape memory alloys, piezoelectric materials and electroactive polymer (EAP) materials to change the shape and length of the distributed propulsion means.
... |
| Electroactive polymer devices for controlling fluid flow | 20090200501 | 20090813 |
| The invention describes devices for controlling fluid flow, such as valves. The devices may include one or more electroactive polymer transducers with an electroactive polymer that deflects in response to an application of an electric field. The electroactive polymer may be in contact with a fluid where the deflection of the electroactive polymer may be used to change a characteristic of the fluid. Some of the characteristic of the fluid that may be changed include but are not limited to 1) a flow rate, 2) a flow direction, 3) a flow vorticity, 4) a flow momentum, 5) a flow mixing rate, 6) a flow turbulence rate, 7) a flow energy, 8) a flow thermodynamic property. The electroactive polymer may be a portion of a surface of... |
| Rolled electroactive polymers | 20090184606 | 20090723 |
| The invention describes electroactive polymer devices in both rolled and unrolled configurations. The invention also describes employment of these devices in a wide array of applications and methods for their fabrication. An electroactive polymer device converts between electrical and mechanical energy; and, in one embodiment includes a rolled electroactive polymer and one or more electrodes to provide the mechanical/electrical energy conversion. In one embodiment, the electroactive polymer has a non-uniform surface on which an electrode having a non-uniform shape is disposed.
... |
| Haptic stylus utilizing an electroactive polymer | 20090184923 | 20090723 |
| Haptic feedback interface devices using electroactive polymer (EAP) actuators to provide haptic sensations. A haptic feedback interface device is in communication with a host computer and includes a sensor device that detects the manipulation of the interface device by the user and an electroactive polymer actuator responsive to input signals and operative to output a force to the user caused by motion of the actuator. The output force provides a haptic sensation to the user. In an embodiment, a stylus including a body having a first end and a second end opposite from the first end, a moveable member coupled to the body and capable of being in contact with a user's hand; and an electro active polymer actuator coupled to the moveable member, wherein the... |
| Valve actuator for controlling a medical fluid | 20090182262 | 20090716 |
| A machine for controlling a medical fluid includes a base and an actuator comprising an electroactive polymer and disposed on the base. The actuator is configured for movement between an extended position and a contracted position. A valve head is disposed on the actuator and adapted to engage a flexible membrane of a cassette against a valve seat of the cassette when the actuator is extended to perform a valving function to control the flow of a fluid within the cassette
... |
| On-off implant for supporting the airway | 20090173352 | 20090709 |
| The present invention provides an airway implant device having an electroactive polymer element, including: a composite layer having a polymer substrate and a biocompatible conductive material, wherein the composite layer also can be opposing surfaces; and a conductive polymer layer disposed on at least one of the opposing surfaces of the composite layer, wherein the implant device is adapted and configured to modulate an opening of an air passageway. Some embodiments include a housing designed to conform to the shape of the palate. Some embodiments include an attachment element to secure the device to tissue. Methods of treating airway disorders such as sleep apnea and snoring with the airway implant device are disclosed herein.
... |
| High-performance electroactive polymer transducers | 20090174293 | 20090709 |
| Electroactive polymer constructions that convert electrical energy to mechanical energy and vice versa are disclosed. The subject transducers (actuators, generators, sensors or combinations thereof) share the requirement of a frame or fixture element used in preloading elastomeric film electrodes and dielectric polymer in a desired configuration. The structures are either integrally biased in a push-pull arrangement or preloaded/biased by another element.
... |
| Tactile sensors | 20090165569 | 20090702 |
| An electroactive polymer is used to produce a tactile sensor. The electroactive polymer (EAP) includes a sheet of an ion-exchange membrane having opposite surfaces on which are plated gold electrodes. The EAP is formed to have a dome-shape with a plurality of sensing electrodes circumferentially disposed around an outer surface of the dome. A flexible polymer underlying the EAP supports it and prevents a force applied to the tactile sensor from inverting the dome. The sensor electrodes produce separate output signals indicative of different vector components of an applied force acting on the tactile sensor, so that a direction of the force can be determined. Vias provided in the electrodes are electrically coupled to a flexible circuit that conveys the output signals externally from the sensing... |
| On-off implant for supporting the tongue | 20090165803 | 20090702 |
| The present invention provides an implant for stabilizing the tongue, including: a first anchoring portion for securing a first end of the implant with the mandibula; a control portion connected with the anchoring portion, configured for selectively activating the implant; a flexible portion connected at its proximal end with the control portion, the flexible portion having three-dimensional flexibility in a non-energized state and the flexible portion having a lesser three-dimensional flexibility in a energized state, the flexible portion being selectively switchable between the non-energized and energized states by the control portion, wherein the flexible portion can be an electroactive polymer element having: a composite layer having a polymer substrate and a biocompatible conductive material, wherein the composite layer also can be opposing surfaces; and a conductive... |
| Camera diaphragm and lens positioning system employing a dielectrical polymer actuator | 20090161239 | 20090625 |
| An electroactive polymer actuator (10) is disclosed for use in various applications including camera diaphragms and lenses. The actuator (10) converts electrical energy to mechanical energy and comprises, in one embodiment, at least two flexible electrodes (15, 25); a transparent elastic non-conductive material (20) having a substantially constant thickness, the transparent elastic non-conductive material (20) arranged in a manner which causes the transparent elastic non-conductive material (20) to compress in a first direction orthogonal to the thickness in response to an electric field applied to the polymer; and a frame coupled to the at least two electrodes (15, 25) and the transparent elastic non-conductive material (20), the outer frame substantially preventing expansion in a second direction opposite said first direction in response to an electric field... |
| Camera diaphragm and lens positioning system employing a dielectrical polymer actuator | 20090161239 | 20090625 |
| An electroactive polymer actuator (10) is disclosed for use in various applications including camera diaphragms and lenses. The actuator (10) converts electrical energy to mechanical energy and comprises, in one embodiment, at least two flexible electrodes (15, 25); a transparent elastic non-conductive material (20) having a substantially constant thickness, the transparent elastic non-conductive material (20) arranged in a manner which causes the transparent elastic non-conductive material (20) to compress in a first direction orthogonal to the thickness in response to an electric field applied to the polymer; and a frame coupled to the at least two electrodes (15, 25) and the transparent elastic non-conductive material (20), the outer frame substantially preventing expansion in a second direction opposite said first direction in response to an electric field... |
| Spiral cut hypotube | 20090157048 | 20090618 |
| A medical device such as a catheter may have an elongate shaft that includes a hypotube having a helical cutting formed therein. The elongate shaft may define a lumen that extends within the elongate shaft. An electroactive polymer may be disposed over at least a portion of the hypotube. A medical device may include a spiral cut hypotube having a constant pitch and may be configured to reversibly and temporarily alter the pitch of at least a portion of the spiral cut hypotube. In some cases, the medical device may be configured to reversibly and/or temporarily alter a compressive strength of at least a portion of the spiral cut hypotube.
... |
| Electroactive polymer transducers | 20090154053 | 20090618 |
| Dielectric elastomer or electroactive polymer film transducers configured to minimize high electrical field gradients that can lead to partial discharge and corona.
... |
| Electroactive polymer transducers biased for increased output | 20090152995 | 20090618 |
| Electroactive polymer transducers are disclosed. They are biased in a manner that provides for increased force and/or stroke output, thereby offering improved work potential and power output capacity. The biasing may offer additional or alternate functional advantage in terms of matching transducer performance with a given application such as a normally-closed valve. The improved biasing (including increased output biasing) may utilize negative spring rate biasing and/or a combination of negative or zero-rate biasing with positive rate biasing to achieve the desired ends.
... |
| Optical lens displacement systems | 20090147377 | 20090611 |
| The present invention provides optical systems, devices and methods which utilize one or more electroactive polymer actuators to adjust an optical parameter of the optical device or system.
... |
| Lens shutter and aperture control devices | 20090147340 | 20090611 |
| The present invention provides optical systems, devices and methods which utilize one or more electroactive polymer actuators to provide shutter and/or aperture control.
... |
| Electroactive polymer systems | 20090130423 | 20090521 |
| At least one exemplary embodiment is directed to a device that includes a membrane and a collapsible electroactive polymer element, where the element is in an expanded configuration without voltage application and is in a collapsed configuration with a voltage application, where the element is covered by the membrane.
... |
| Perceivable feedback | 20090115734 | 20090507 |
| The present invention is directed to a portable device and a method for using such a device, which device includes a touch sensitive arrangement comprising: a touch-surface arranged to be operatively actuated and to operatively receive touches from a user of the device, an actuator arrangement arranged to operatively actuate at least a part of the touch-surface, a control arrangement arranged to operatively detect touches on the touch-surface and to operatively control the actuator to actuate the touch-surface so as to provide a perceivable feedback to the user as a response to a detected touch. The actuator arrangement may include an electroactive polymer arrangement arranged to be operatively actuated by the control arrangement so as to actuate the touch-surface for providing a perceivable feedback to the... |
| Electroactive complex, electroactive probe and preparation method | 20090095624 | 20090416 |
| Organic electrodes produced from electroactive polymers bonded to anti-ligands intended to interact specifically with ligands.
... |
| Dielectric elastomer fiber transducers | 20090085444 | 20090402 |
| Disclosed are electroactive polymer fibers, processes of preparing electroactive polymer fibers, and devices containing electroactive polymer fibers. Devices can be used as actuators and sensors, generators and transducers. Applications include inter alia artificial muscles, prosthetics and robotics.
... |
| Cellular terminals and other electronic devices and methods using electroactive polymer transducer indicators | 20090088220 | 20090402 |
| Mobile electronic devices and methods are disclosed that operate an electroactive polymer (EAP) transducer to provide tactile indications to a user. A mobile electronic device can include a housing with at least one EAP transducer that is at least partially disposed in a surface of the housing. The EAP transducer has first and second electrodes with an EAP material coupled therebetween. An EAP excitation controller controls an electric field across the first and second electrodes to regulate deformation of the EAP material. The mobile electronic device can include a communication controller that communicates with a wireless communication device using at least one wireless communication protocol. The communication controller generates an alert signal in response to receiving a phone call/data message from the wireless communication device. The... |
| Electroactive polymer pre-strain | 20080308974 | 20081218 |
| The present invention provides electroactive polymers, transducers and devices that maintain pre-strain in one or more portions of an electroactive polymer. Electroactive polymers described herein may include a pre-strained portion and a stiffened portion configured to maintain pre-strain in the pre-strained portion. One fabrication technique applies pre-strain to a partially cured electroactive polymer. The partially cured polymer is then further cured to stiffen and maintain the pre-strain. In another fabrication technique, a support layer is coupled to the polymer that maintains pre-strain in a portion of an electroactive polymer. Another embodiment of the invention cures a polymer precursor to maintain pre-strain in an electroactive polymer.
... |
| Surface deformation electroactive polymer transducers | 20080289952 | 20081127 |
| The present invention provides electroactive polymer transducers that produce out-of-plane deflections. The transducers form a set of surface features based on deflection of an electroactive polymer. The set of surface features may include elevated polymer surface features and/or depressed electrode surface features. Actuation of an active area may produce the polymer deflection that creates one or more surface features. A passive layer may operably connect to a polymer. The passive layer may comprise a thicker and softer material to amplify polymer thickness changes and increase surface feature visibility.
... |
| Reflective unit using electroactive polymer and flexible display employing the reflective unit | 20080291521 | 20081127 |
| Provided are a reflective unit using an electroactive polymer and a flexible display. The reflective unit includes: an electroactive polymer layer which becomes strained when a voltage is applied thereto by an electrode; a light reflecting unit reflecting external light and having reflecting cells arranged on the electroactive polymer layer to be spaced apart from one another wherein a distance between the reflecting cells is changed according to the strain of the electroactive polymer layer; and a light blocking layer preventing external light from being reflected by the light reflecting unit and having blocking cells arranged over the light reflecting unit to be spaced apart from one another.
... |
| Display pixel using electroactive polymer and display apparatus employing the same | 20080291525 | 20081127 |
| Provided are a display pixel using an electroactive polymer and a display apparatus employing the display pixel. The display pixel includes: an electroactive polymer layer, of which shape and/or size is displaced when a voltage is applied thereto; a diffraction grating, of which a pitch and a diffraction angle change according to a displacement of the electroactive polymer layer; and a liquid crystal layer disposed on the diffraction grating and controlling gradation according to a voltage applied thereto.
... |
| Electroactive polymer actuator and manufacturing method thereof | 20080284277 | 20081120 |
| An electroactive polymer actuator and a method for manufacturing the electroactive polymer actuator are provided. The electroactive polymer actuator includes an actuator unit which is a laminate of a plurality of deformation layers; and a support layer which supports the actuator unit so that the actuator unit provides displacement corresponding to a voltage if the voltage is applied to the actuator unit. Therefore, it is possible to provide an electroactive polymer actuator suitable for a compact mobile device with a low driving voltage.
... |
| Electroactive polymer torsional device | 20080252176 | 20081016 |
| The present invention relates to mechanical-electrical power conversion systems. The systems comprise one or more electroactive polymers that convert between electrical and mechanical energy. When a voltage is applied to electrodes contacting an electroactive polymer, the polymer deflects. This deflection may be converted into rotation of a power shaft included in a motor. Repeated deflection of the polymer may then produce continuous rotation of the power shaft.
... |
| Electroactive polymer devices for controlling fluid flow | 20080245985 | 20081009 |
| The invention describes devices for controlling fluid flow, such as valves. The devices may include one or more electroactive polymer transducers with an electroactive polymer that deflects in response to an application of an electric field. The electroactive polymer may be in contact with a fluid where the deflection of the electroactive polymer may be used to change a characteristic of the fluid. Some of the characteristic of the fluid that may be changed include but are not limited to 1) a flow rate, 2) a flow direction, 3) a flow vorticity, 4) a flow momentum, 5) a flow mixing rate, 6) a flow turbulence rate, 7) a flow energy, 8) a flow thermodynamic property. The electroactive polymer may be a portion of a surface of... |
| Tear resistant electroactive polymer transducers | 20080224564 | 20080918 |
| Described herein are several solutions that increase transducer lifetime by reducing or preventing tear propagation in a compliant electroactive polymer. One solution couples a compliant tear resistant treatment to a transducer proximate to an edge portion of the electroactive polymer. Another solution uses a tear resistant layer that couples to and covers a large surface area of the transducer. Another suitable tear resistant solution provides added material outside an active area; the added material reduces stress or strain variations in polymer material outside the active area when the electroactive polymer transducer is deflected or pre-strained
... |
| Electroactive polymer compressed gasket for electromagnetic shielding | 20080217868 | 20080911 |
| A gasket for shielding a seam between two surfaces includes a resilient member, a first electrode, a second electrode and a conductive layer. The resilient member has a first side and an opposite second side. The first electrode is disposed on the first side of the resilient member. The second electrode is disposed on the second side of the resilient member. The conductive layer envelops at least a portion of the resilient member, the first electrode and the second electrode. The resilient member includes a material that is compressed when a first potential is applied between the first electrode and the second electrode and that is decompressed when a second potential, different from the first potential, is applied between the first electrode and the second electrode.
... |
| Cable systems having at least one section formed of an active material | 20080217927 | 20080911 |
| A cable system, a latch assembly employing the cable system and processes thereof include a cable comprising at least one section formed of an active material having one end fixedly attached to a connector, wherein the connector is disposed between a first stop and a second stop, the first and second stops fixedly attached to a stationary support and having an aperture for slidably receiving the cable; and an activation device in operative communication with the active material, the activation device being operable to selectively provide an activation signal to the active material and effectuate a change in a length of the cable section formed or a flexural modulus property of the active material. Suitable active materials include shape memory alloys and electroactive polymers.
... |
| Circuits for electroactive polymer generators | 20080218132 | 20080911 |
| Described herein is a generator with an electroactive polymer transducer. The transducer has a capacitance that varies with deflection of a polymer included in the transducer. The generator also includes a generator circuit, coupled to the electroactive polymer transducer, that includes a capacitor. The generator circuit is configured such that the capacitor collects electrical energy from the electroactive polymer transducer in response to a change in capacitance of the polymer.
... |
| Flexible member energy conversion device | 20080203850 | 20080828 |
| Flexible member energy conversion device (550) converts flexible member (100) deflection mechanical energy to electrical energy. Flexible member (100) deflects and conforms to surface (40) as wheel (20) rotates while transporting load (10). Energy conversion device (550) is comprised of single or multiple electroactive polymer transducers (500), charge exchange mean (350), charge element (402), and recovery element (403). Transducer (500) is comprised of a top electrode (504), a bottom electrode (506) separated by an elastomeric polymer spacer (502). In this configuration, transducer (500) functions as a variable capacitor. Transducer (500) is elevated in capacitance when in stretched configuration and reduced capacitance when in unstretched configuration. Energy conversion device (500) produces electrical energy by transferring electric charge from charge element (402), through charge exchange means (350) to... |
| Hood assembly utilizing active materials based mechanisms | 20080197674 | 20080821 |
| An active material hood impact mitigation mechanism is activated in response to a signal generated from an impact sensor or pre-impact sensor or manually. The mitigation mechanism is capable of changing either reversibly or irreversibly the stiffness, shape, location, orientation, or displacement force of the hood either globally or locally, before an impact against the hood. The active material mitigation mechanism is held in a device designed to be installed in operative communication with the hood surface. The active material is characterized by a first shape or stiffness and is operative to change to a second shape or stiffness in response to the activation signal. Such active materials include shape memory alloys, electroactive polymers, shape memory polymers, magnetic shape memory alloys, magnetorheological fluids, magnetorheological elastomers, electrorheological... |
| Electroactive polymer electrodes | 20080191585 | 20080814 |
| Described herein are transducers, their use and fabrication. The transducers convert between mechanical and electrical energy. The present invention further relates to compliant electrodes that conform to the shape of a polymer included in a transducer.
... |
| Active vertebral prosthetic device | 20080167718 | 20080710 |
| An active vertebral prosthetic device system may include an actuatable displacement element having an upper side and a lower side. The actuatable displacement element may be configured for placement between an upper vertebral body and a lower vertebral body and may be configured to alter the overall distance between the upper and the lower vertebral bodies in situ. A controller may be operable to post-surgically actuate the actuatable displacement element. In some aspects, the displacement element maybe a piezoelectric motor, an electroactive polymer, an ionic polymer metal composite, and an actuator.
... |
| Electroactive polymer transducers biased for increased output | 20080157631 | 20080703 |
| Electroactive polymer transducers are disclosed. They are biased in a manner that provides for increased force and/or stroke output, thereby offering improved work potential and power output capacity. The biasing may offer additional or alternate functional advantage in terms of matching transducer performance with a given application such as a normally-closed valve. The improved biasing (including increased output biasing) may utilize negative spring rate biasing and/or a combination of negative or zero-rate biasing with positive rate biasing to achieve the desired ends.
... |
| Obesity treatment systems | 20080161717 | 20080703 |
| In one embodiment, a pressure sensing system is described which transmits data to a patient management system external to a patient. The pressure sensing system can rigidly couple to an implantable port or flexibly couple to an implantable port. In some embodiments, the pressure sensing system communicates with a hydraulic actuating system. In some embodiments, the pressure sensing system is implantable and comprises a circuit capable of wireless transmission through the skin of a patient to an external receiver which is part of a patient management system. A patient management system is described which receives up to date as well as historical data from the pressure sensing system and manages the these data in the context of a patient database. In some embodiments, an extragastric balloon... |
| Downhole tools utilizing electroactive polymers for actuating release mechanisms | 20080149348 | 20080626 |
| In one aspect, an apparatus for use in a wellbore is provided that may include: a tool configured to be conveyed into the wellbore by a conveying member; and an electro-active polymer device (“EAP device”) configured to connect the tool to the conveying member when the EAP device is in a first mode or position and disconnect the tool from the conveying member when the EAP device is in a second mode or position. In another aspect, a method for releasing a tool in a wellbore is provided which includes: releasably connecting an EAP device to a conveying member and the tool; conveying the tool in the wellbore with the conveying member; and electrically activating the EAP device to release the tool from the conveying member... |
| Haptic stylus utilizing an electroactive polymer | 20080143693 | 20080619 |
| Haptic feedback interface devices using electroactive polymer (EAP) actuators to provide haptic sensations. A haptic feedback interface device is in communication with a host computer and includes a sensor device that detects the manipulation of the interface device by the user and an electroactive polymer actuator responsive to input signals and operative to output a force to the user caused by motion of the actuator. The output force provides a haptic sensation to the user. In an embodiment, a stylus including a body having a first end and a second end opposite from the first end, a moveable member coupled to the body and capable of being in contact with a user's hand; and an electro active polymer actuator coupled to the moveable member, wherein the... |
| Obesity treatment systems | 20080147002 | 20080619 |
| In one embodiment, a pressure sensing system is described which transmits data to a patient management system external to a patient. The pressure sensing system can rigidly couple to an implantable port or flexibly couple to an implantable port. In some embodiments, the pressure sensing system communicates with a hydraulic actuating system. In some embodiments, the pressure sensing system is implantable and comprises a circuit capable of wireless transmission through the skin of a patient to an external receiver which is part of a patient management system. A patient management system is described which receives up to date as well as historical data from the pressure sensing system and manages the these data in the context of a patient database. In some embodiments, an extragastric balloon... |
| Electroactive polymer manufacturing | 20080136052 | 20080612 |
| Described herein are transducers and their fabrication. The transducers convert between mechanical and electrical energy. Some transducers of the present invention include a pre-strained polymer. The pre-strain improves the conversion between electrical and mechanical energy. The present invention provides methods for fabricating electromechanical devices including one or more electroactive polymers.
... |
| Vascular assist device and methods | 20080132749 | 20080605 |
| Several electroactive polymer (EAP) actuated vascular assist devices are provided that can be readily implanted within the body of a patient without coming in direct blood contact. The devices are also readily repositioned and/or removed from contact with the internal vasculature or may even be turned OFF remotely. In addition, there is provided a method of fabrication and a method of implanting such devices. There are also provided methods for the augmentation of a body lumen through the use of hemodynamic signals such as pressure or ECG signals to synchronize EAP actuation in the vascular assist system.
... |
| Electroactive polymer actuated cerebrospinal fluid shunt | 20080125690 | 20080529 |
| A cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) shunt comprises a ventricular catheter and an electroactive polymer actuated valve for regulating the drainage rate of CSF from the brain ventricle of a patient. The shunt system also comprises a distal catheter for discharge of the CSF to a separate location in the patient's body such as the peritoneal cavity or atrium of the heart. The electroactive polymer actuated valve regulates the flow rate of CSF through a predetermined threshold pressure, which can be adjusted and programmed externally from the patient's body by means of an external control unit signal, as well as through a signal indicated by an internal sensor or an electroactive polymer transducer. The sensor also communicates a signal to the external control unit for indicating the internal... |
| Electroactive polymer actuated devices | 20080116764 | 20080522 |
| Devices employing electroactive polymer actuators are disclosed. The devices include pumps, valves, cameras (where electroactive polymer actuators control either one or both of zoom and focus), vibrators (for inclusion in cell phones, game console controls, etc.) and audio speakers. These devices advantageously incorporate the actuator configurations described. The devices generally incorporate a diaphragm-type actuation having a central section of material that is less flexible than adjacent material.
... |
| Adjustable bifurcation catheter incorporating electroactive polymer and methods of making and using the same | 20080109061 | 20080508 |
| A medical device having at least one static state, at least activated state, and at least one active region including electroactive polymer (EAP) capable of fine electro-activated movements. The EAP movements include bending components for proper alignment, rotating components for pooper fittings, making components more rigid or flexible, and increasing and decreasing the volume of components. The fine movements allow for highly versatile and adaptable medical devices.
... |
| Medical balloon incorporating electroactive polymer and methods of making and using the same | 20080086081 | 20080410 |
| An expandable medical balloon having at least one static state, at least one expanded state, and at least one deflated state, the expandable medical balloon including at least one active region, the at least one active region including electroactive polymer.
... |
| Active material based suction cups | 20080078896 | 20080403 |
| Remotely engageable and releasable suction cups include a pliable body and an active material in operative communication with the pliable body and configured to create and/or eliminate a partial vacuum through the activation of stiffness or geometry changes in the active material. Suitable active materials include shape memory materials such as shape memory alloys, ferromagnetic shape memory alloys, and shape memory polymers (SMP). A second class of active materials include materials that exhibit a change in at least one attribute when subjected to an applied field but revert back to their original state upon removal of the applied field. Active materials in this category include piezoelectric materials, electroactive polymers (EAP), magnetorheological polymers, and the like.
... |
| Electroactive polymer compressed gasket for electromagnetic shielding | 20080061518 | 20080313 |
| A gasket for shielding a seam between two surfaces includes a resilient member, a first electrode, a second electrode and a conductive layer. The resilient member has a first side and an opposite second side. The first electrode is disposed on the first side of the resilient member. The second electrode is disposed on the second side of the resilient member. The conductive layer envelops at least a portion of the resilient member, the first electrode and the second electrode. The resilient member includes a material that is compressed when a first potential is applied between the first electrode and the second electrode and that is decompressed when a second potential, different from the first potential, is applied between the first electrode and the second electrode.
... |
| Airway implant sensors and methods of making and using same | 20080047566 | 20080228 |
| An airway implant device for maintaining and/or creating an opening in air passageways is disclosed. Methods of using the device are also disclosed. The airway implant device comprises a deformable element to control the opening of an air passageway. Preferably the deformable element is an electroactive polymer element. Energizing of the electroactive polymer element provides support for the walls of an air passageway, when the walls collapse, and thus, completely or partially opens the air passageway. Methods of treating airway disorders such as sleep apnea and snoring with the airway implant device are disclosed herein.
... |
| Self charging airway implants and methods of making and using the same | 20080046022 | 20080221 |
| An airway implant device for maintaining and/or creating an opening in air passageways is disclosed. Methods of using the device are also disclosed. The airway implant device comprises a deformable element to control the opening of an air passageway. Preferably the deformable element is an electroactive polymer element. Energizing of the electroactive polymer element provides support for the walls of an air passageway, when the walls collapse, and thus, completely or partially opens the air passageway. Methods of treating airway disorders such as sleep apnea and snoring with the airway implant device are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, the airway implant device includes a self-charging element. The self-charging element is typically an electroactive polymer which generates energy during its movement and this energy is used to... |
| Electroactive polymer torsional device | 20070290577 | 20071220 |
| The present invention relates to mechanical-electrical power conversion systems. The systems comprise one or more electroactive polymers that convert between electrical and mechanical energy. When a voltage is applied to electrodes contacting an electroactive polymer, the polymer deflects. This deflection may be converted into rotation of a power shaft included in a motor. Repeated deflection of the polymer may then produce continuous rotation of the power shaft.
... |
| Catalyst free polymerization of 3,4-alkylenedioxypyrrole and 3.4-alkylenedioxyfuran | 20070270571 | 20071122 |
| A method to prepare halogen end-capped polypyrroles, polyfurans or copolymeric pyrroles and furans is presented that readily occurs in a liquid state as well as a solid state without the need of a catalyst from a dihalopyrrole monomer, dihalofuran monomer, or a mixture of monomers. The polymerization mixture can be modified to include a monohalo-monomer for the introduction of a specific end-group or a polyhalo-monomer to form a branched polymer or network. An initiating species can be included in the polymerization mixture to avoid an induction period or to commence the polymerization process on demand. The electroactive polymers can be formed as a bulk material, a coating, or as a film.
... |
| Wave powered generation using electroactive polymers | 20070257490 | 20071108 |
| Described herein are systems and methods that use an electroactive polymer transducer to convert mechanical energy, originally contained in one or more waves, to electrical energy. Marine devices described herein may employ a mechanical energy conversion system that transfers mechanical energy in a wave into mechanical energy suitable for input to the electroactive polymer transducer.
... |
| Tethered airway implants and methods of using the same | 20070246052 | 20071025 |
| An airway implant device for maintaining and/or creating an opening in air passageways is disclosed. Methods of using the device are also disclosed. The airway implant device includes a deformable element to control the opening of an air passageway and a tether. Preferably the deformable element is an electroactive polymer element. Energizing of the electroactive polymer element provides support for the walls of an air passageway, when the walls collapse, and thus, completely or partially opens the air passageway. Also disclosed is an implant for stabilizing the tongue, the implant having an anchoring portion for securing a first end of the implant with the mandibula; a control portion connected with the anchoring portion, configured for selectively activating the implant; a flexible portion connected at its proximal... |
| Embedded electroactive polymer structures for use in medical devices | 20070247033 | 20071025 |
| Medical devices or components thereof having electroactive polymer actuators embedded within at least a portion of the device of component thereof, and novel electroactive polymer actuators formed with a conductive substrate layer and an electroactive polymer layer, the electroactive polymer actuated upon application of a voltage to surrounding liquid electrolyte, the actuators may be embedded within an inert polymer matrix material, or within solid polyelectrolyte matrix material.
... |
| Catheter configurations | 20070249909 | 20071025 |
| The present invention is directed to variations of catheter configurations, wherein the outer shafts have been supplemented with electroactive polymer (EAP) material to modify the performance characteristics of the catheter.
... |
| Variable stiffness catheter assembly | 20070250036 | 20071025 |
| A catheter comprising an outer shaft comprising a first section of electroactive polymer. The first section of electroactive polymer affecting either the flexibility of the catheter or the steerability of the catheter.
... |
| Method and apparatus for the deployment of vaso-occlusive coils | 20070239191 | 20071011 |
| A vaso-occlusive delivery device includes an elongate delivery member which may take the form of a core wire. An actuating member is disposed at or adjacent to the distal end of the delivery member. The actuating member includes an electroactive polymer that can be selectively biased to an expanded or non-expanded state by application of direct current of different polarities. A vaso-occlusive device such as a coil may be detachably secured to the delivery device by expanding the actuating member within a proximal end of the coil to form an interference or friction fit using a first direct current polarity. The coil may be disengaged from the delivery member by application of direct current of a second, opposite polarity.
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| Extragastric balloon | 20070233170 | 20071004 |
| In one embodiment, a pressure sensing system is described which transmits data to a patient management system external to a patient. The pressure sensing system can rigidly couple to an implantable port or flexibly couple to an implantable port. In some embodiments, the pressure sensing system communicates with a hydraulic actuating system. In some embodiments, the pressure sensing system is implantable and comprises a circuit capable of wireless transmission through the skin of a patient to an external receiver which is part of a patient management system. A patient management system is described which receives up to date as well as historical data from the pressure sensing system and manages the these data in the context of a patient database. In some embodiments, an extragastric balloon... |
| Electroactive polymer animated devices | 20070222344 | 20070927 |
| The present invention relates to animated devices that include one or more electroactive polymer transducers. When actuated by electrical energy, an electroactive polymer produces mechanical deflection in one or more directions. This deflection may be used to produce motion of a feature included in an animated device. Electroactive polymer transducers offer customizable shapes and deflections. Combining different ways to configure and constrain a polymer, different ways to arrange active areas on a single polymer, different animated device designs, and different polymer orientations, permits a broad range of animated devices that use an electroactive polymer transducer to produce motion. These animated devices find use in a wide range of animated device applications.
... |
| Reversibly and radially expandable electroactive polymer element for temporary occlusion of a vessel | 20070219576 | 20070920 |
| An occlusion device is formed of an electroactive polymer element mounted on an elongated shaft. The electroactive polymer element includes an outer electrode, an inner electrode, and an electroactive polymer film disposed between the inner and outer electrodes. The electroactive polymer element may be formed in a hollow, generally cylindrical shape such that a longitudinal opening is formed inside of the inner electrode. The elongated shaft may be a guidewire or catheter. The inner and outer electrodes are coupled to an electrical power source such that an electrical voltage can be applied between the inner and outer electrodes. Upon application of the electrical voltage between the inner and outer electrodes, the electroactive polymer element expands to block a blood vessel of a patient.
... |
| Vascular assist device and methods | 20070213579 | 20070913 |
| Several electroactive polymer (EAP) actuated vascular assist devices are provided that can be readily implanted within the body of a patient without coming in direct blood contact. The devices are also readily repositioned and/or removed from contact with the internal vasculature or may even be turned OFF remotely. In addition, there is provided a method of fabrication and a method of implanting such devices. There are also provided methods for the augmentation of a body lumen through the use of hemodynamic signals such as pressure or ECG signals to synchronize EAP actuation in the vascular assist system.
... |
| Structures and methods for increasing the speed of electroactive polymers | 20070205398 | 20070906 |
| Structures are provided that include electroactive polymers. According to these structures, the electroactive materials have enhanced conductivity in a first direction. Also, the structures include either pores or inclusions. These pores or inclusions are non-parallel to the first direction. In addition, methods for forming structures that include electroactive polymers that have enhanced conductivity in a first direction are provided. These methods allow for pores and/or inclusions to be formed in the electroactive polymers.
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| Adjustable catheter tip | 20070208276 | 20070906 |
| A catheter tip has an outer surface section, an inner surface section, a spatial configuration and at least one segment of electroactive polymer. The inner surface section defines a guide wire lumen. The electroactive polymer has an actuated state and a non-actuated state. In an actuated state, the electroactive polymer alters the spatial configuration of the catheter tip.
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| Medical lead with tissue-protecting tip structure | 20070208402 | 20070906 |
| A transvenous cardiac lead comprises a lead body having a distal end portion comprising a tip adapted to be placed in engagement with cardiac tissue. A protective device is carried by the distal end portion of the lead body in operative association with the tip, the protective device being deployable following placement of the tip to protect the cardiac tissue engaged by the tip. The deployable protective device may be expandable upon implantation to provide a larger surface area or footprint about the lead tip so as to retard or reduce the risk of penetration or perforation of the myocardium by the tip. The protective device may comprise a matrix expandable in response to contact with bodily fluids. Preferably, the expandable matrix comprises hydrogel. Alternatively, the... |
| Electroactive polymer actuated motors | 20070200453 | 20070830 |
| Devices employing electroactive polymer actuators are disclosed. Acrylic dielectric material based actuators are optionally provided in which architectures are presented that allow for improved power output as compared with other known acrylic dielectric material based transducers. Such technology may be applied in motor-driven applications, lightweight flight applications and lighting applications among others.
... |
| Electroactive polymer actuated lighting | 20070200454 | 20070830 |
| Devices employing electroactive polymer actuators are disclosed. Acrylic dielectric material based actuators are optionally provided in which architectures are presented that allow for improved power output as compared with other known acrylic dielectric material based transducers. Such technology may be applied in motor-driven applications, lightweight flight applications and lighting applications among others.
... |
| High-speed acrylic electroactive polymer transducers | 20070200457 | 20070830 |
| Devices employing electroactive polymer actuators are disclosed. Acrylic dielectric material based actuators are optionally provided in which architectures are presented that allow for improved power output as compared with other known acrylic dielectric material based transducers. Such technology may be applied in motor-driven applications, lightweight flight applications and lighting applications among others.
... |
| Three-dimensional electroactive polymer actuated devices | 20070200466 | 20070830 |
| Devices employing electroactive polymer actuators are disclosed. Acrylic dielectric material based actuators are optionally provided in which architectures are presented that allow for improved power output as compared with other known acrylic dielectric material based transducers. Such technology may be applied in motor-driven applications, lightweight flight applications and lighting applications among others.
... |
| Compliant electroactive polymer transducers for sonic applications | 20070200467 | 20070830 |
| Described herein are compliant electroactive polymer transducers for use in acoustic applications. A compliant electroactive polymer transducer includes a compliant electroactive polymer at least two electrodes. For sound production, circuitry in electrical communication with the transducer electrodes is configured to apply a driving signal that causes the electroactive polymer to deflect in the acoustic range.
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| High-performance electroactive polymer transducers | 20070200468 | 20070830 |
| Transducers employing electroactive polymer films are disclosed.
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| Electroactive polymer pre-strain | 20070170822 | 20070726 |
| The present invention provides electroactive polymers, transducers and devices that maintain pre-strain in one or more portions of an electroactive polymer. Electroactive polymers described herein may include a pre-strained portion and a stiffened portion configured to maintain pre-strain in the pre-strained portion. One fabrication technique applies pre-strain to a partially cured electroactive polymer. The partially cured polymer is then further cured to stiffen and maintain the pre-strain. In another fabrication technique, a support layer is coupled to the polymer that maintains pre-strain in a portion of an electroactive polymer. Another embodiment of the invention cures a polymer precursor to maintain pre-strain in an electroactive polymer.
... |
| Electroactive polymer devices for moving fluid | 20070164641 | 20070719 |
| The invention describes devices for performing thermodynamic work on a fluid, such as pumps, compressors and fans. The thermodynamic work may be used to provide a driving force for moving the fluid. Work performed on the fluid may be transmitted to other devices, such as a piston in a hydraulic actuation device. The devices may include one or more electroactive polymer transducers with an electroactive polymer that deflects in response to an application of an electric field. The electroactive polymer may be in contact with a fluid where the deflection of the electroactive polymer may be used to perform thermodynamic work on the fluid. The devices may be designed to efficiently operate at a plurality of operating conditions, such as operating conditions that produce an acoustic... |
| Implant for treatment of sleep disorders | 20070144535 | 20070628 |
| An airway implant device for maintaining and/or creating an opening in air passageways is disclosed. Methods of using the device are also disclosed. The airway implant device comprises an actuator element to control the opening of an air passageway. Preferably the actuator element is an electroactive polymer element. Energizing of the electroactive polymer element provides support for the walls in order to prevent the collapse of an air passageway. Some embodiments of the invention include a sensor capable of sensing the possible occurrence of an apneic event and activating the actuator element of the airway implant device. Some embodiments include a housing designed to conform to the shape of the palate. Some embodiments include an attachment element to secure the device to tissue. Methods of treating... |
| Haptic devices using electroactive polymers | 20070146317 | 20070628 |
| Haptic feedback interface devices using electroactive polymer (EAP) actuators to provide haptic sensations and/or sensing capabilities. A haptic feedback interface device is in communication with a host computer and includes a sensor device that detects the manipulation of the interface device by the user and an electroactive polymer actuator responsive to input signals and operative to output a force to the user caused by motion of the actuator. The output force provides a haptic sensation to the user. Various embodiments of interface devices employing EAP actuators are described, including embodiments providing direct forces, inertial forces, and braking forces.
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| Rotary hydraulic pump actuated multi-stroke surgical instrument | 20070125826 | 20070607 |
| A surgical instrument (e.g., endocutter, grasper, cutter, staplers, clip applier, access device, drug/gene therapy delivery device, and energy device using ultrasound, RF, laser, etc.) may benefit from having a plurality of hydraulically actuated subsystems (e.g., severing, stapling, articulation, locking/unlocking, lockout enabling/disabling, grasping, etc.) supplied with hydraulic power from a trigger actuated rotary pump (e.g., lobe pump, rotary gear pump, internal rotating gear pump, flexible vane rotor pump, rotary vane pump). Thereby, an available amount of mechanical advantage available at a firing trigger may be optimally distributed to various end effector components, perhaps sequenced by an electroactive polymer or piezoelectrically actuated function switch block.
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| Electroactive polymer pumping system | 20070128059 | 20070607 |
| An electroactive polymer pump having an electroactive polymer mass forming a channel between an inlet and an outlet and an electrical distribution system in operational connection with the electroactive polymer mass for selectively energizing sections of the electroactive polymer mass to produce an oscillating intrusion of the sections of the EAP mass into the channel to pump a fluid through the channel.
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| Catheter apparatus and methods of using same | 20070123750 | 20070531 |
| A catheter apparatus includes a catheter having an electroactive polymer inside. The electroactive polymer is configured to control either or both shape and/or direction of the catheter in a vessel as the electroactive polymer is electrically activated. The apparatus further includes a computer which may be denoted as a “control computer.” The computer includes a memory and a processor configured to store vascular information and determine voltages to be applied to activate the electroactive polymer to steer the catheter to a desired site after it is inserted into a body. Also included is an electrical source responsive to the computer and configured to apply the determined voltages to the electroactive polymer.
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| Surgical stapling instrument having an electroactive polymer actuated single lockout mechanism for prevention of firing | 20070084896 | 20070419 |
| A surgical instrument includes an E-beam firing bar engages the channel and selectively engages the anvil during distal firing movements, wherein the tissue is severed and stapled driven upward from the staple cartridge to form against the anvil. In particular, a wedge integral to the staple cartridge is driven distally by a middle pin of the firing bar to effect stapling. A single lockout of the staple channel responds to the presence of the wedge sled in its unfired position to allow the firing bar to fire. Otherwise, the single lockout prevents firing when the staple cartridge is missing or spent. Further, some versions include an Electroactive Polymer (EAP) actuator that presents an abutting surface, or acts as a trapdoor to a ramped recess in a... |
| Method and device to convert cardiac and other body movements into electricity to power any implantable medical system | 20070078492 | 20070405 |
| Method and device to convert movement of human body part such as heart, diaphragm, skeletal muscles, etc. into electrical energy using smart materials like electroactive polymers, piezoelectric materials or other materials which passive deformation produces electric signals.
... |
| Surgical instrument having fluid actuated opposing jaws | 20060289600 | 20061228 |
| A surgical stapling and severing instrument enables minimally invasive surgical procedures by having upper and lower jaws (i.e., anvil and staple channel) that are positioned with an elongate shaft and handle through surgical openings, and in particular through a cannula of a trocar. A pair of fluid actuator bladders (lift bags) are positioned in the staple channel beneath a proximally projecting lever tray so that transfer of fluid from the handle causes closing and clamping of the anvil. The bi-directional fluid control may be mechanically produced at the handle or by activating an electroactive polymer actuator. Once firing is sensed, an EAP plunger in a medical substance syringe inserted into the elongate shaft is activated to dispense a medical substance (e.g., anesthetics, adhesives, cauterizing substances, antibiotics,... |
| Electroactive polymer animated devices | 20060290241 | 20061228 |
| The present invention relates to animated devices that include one or more electroactive polymer transducers. When actuated by electrical energy, an electroactive polymer produces mechanical deflection in one or more directions. This deflection may be used to produce motion of a feature included in an animated device. Electroactive polymer transducers offer customizable shapes and deflections. Combining different ways to configure and constrain a polymer, different ways to arrange active areas on a single polymer, different animated device designs, and different polymer orientations, permits a broad range of animated devices that use an electroactive polymer transducer to produce motion. These animated devices find use in a wide range of animated device applications.
... |
| Robotic endoscope with wireless interface | 20060293563 | 20061228 |
| An endoscope apparatus and method of operating the same. The endoscope apparatus comprises an endoscope portion and a control and display unit. The endoscope portion preferably comprises: (i) a sensor disposed at a distal end of the endoscope portion and providing endoscope data; (ii) one or more electronically controlled actuators (e.g., electroactive polymer actuators) controlling the operation of the endoscope portion based on received control signals; (iii) a first wireless transceiver coupled to the sensor and the one or more electronically controlled actuators, transmitting received endoscope data from the sensor and forwarding received control signals to the one or more electronically controlled actuators; and (iv) a portable power source (e.g., a battery) coupled to the sensor, the first wireless transceiver, and the one or more electronically... |
| Method and apparatus for mesoscale deposition of biological materials and biomaterials | 20060280866 | 20061214 |
| Methods and apparatus for the direct deposition or patterning of biological materials and compatible biomaterials. The method is capable of depositing biological materials and biomaterials in a computer defined pattern, and uses aerodynamic focusing of an aerosol stream to deposit mesoscale patterns onto planar or non-planar targets without the use of masks or modified environments. The aerosolized compositions may be processed before deposition (pre-processing) or after deposition on the target (post-processing). Depositable materials include, not are not limited to conductive metal precursors, nanoparticle metal inks, dielectric and resistor pastes, biocompatible polymers, and a range of biomolecules including peptides, viruses, proteinaceous enzymes, extra-cellular matrix biomolecules, as well as whole bacterial, yeast, and mammalian cell suspensions. The targets may be planar or non-planar, and are optionally biocompatible. Applications... |
| Electroactive polymers for lithography | 20060264015 | 20061123 |
| Systems and methods for lithography include actuating an electroactive polymer member to position mask and/or substrate.
... |
| Anastomotic ring applier device utilizing an electroactive polymer | 20060253135 | 20061109 |
| A surgical instrument is operable to deploy an anastomotic ring device. The instrument comprises a ring deployment mechanism configured to receive and deploy the anastomotic ring through an actuating force. The instrument further comprises an electroactive polymer that is configured to receive voltage from a power source. The electroactive polymer is configured to convert the voltage to a mechanical actuating force. The electroactive polymer is further configured to apply the actuating force to the ring deployment mechanism to deploy the anastomotic ring.
... |
| Electroactive polymer generators | 20060238066 | 20061026 |
| The present invention relates to transducers, their use and fabrication. The transducers convert between mechanical and electrical energy. Some transducers of the present invention include a pre-strained polymer. The pre-strain improves the conversion between electrical and mechanical energy. The present invention also relates to devices including an electroactive polymer to convert between electrical and mechanical energy. The present invention further relates to compliant electrodes that conform to the shape of a polymer included in a transducer. The present invention provides methods for fabricating electromechanical devices including one or more electroactive polymers.
... |
| Electroactive polymers | 20060238079 | 20061026 |
| The present invention relates to transducers, their use and fabrication. The transducers convert between mechanical and electrical energy. Some transducers of the present invention include a pre-strained polymer. The pre-strain improves the conversion between electrical and mechanical energy. The present invention also relates to devices including an electroactive polymer to convert between electrical and mechanical energy. The present invention further relates to compliant electrodes that conform to the shape of a polymer included in a transducer. The present invention provides methods for fabricating electromechanical devices including one or more electroactive polymers.
... |
| Electronically activated capture device | 20060235333 | 20061019 |
| A novel capture device apparatus comprising: (a) a capture device portion, at least a part of which is adaptable for insertion into a patient and (b) a control unit. The capture device portion comprises one or more apertures and one or more electroactive polymer actuators that open and close the one or more apertures based on control signals sent from the control unit. In another aspect of the present invention, a method of capturing a specimen within a patient's body of provided. The method comprises (a) providing a capture device apparatus like that above, (b) inserting at least a portion of the capture device portion of the apparatus into the patient such that the capture device portion is adjacent the specimen; and (c) closing the one... |
| Stressed organic semiconductor | 20060208255 | 20060921 |
| A semiconductor device and method of manufacturing the semiconductor device. The semiconductor device includes: a substrate; an organic semiconductor material coupled to the substrate at an interface therebetween; and an actuator provided for use with the substrate and/or the organic semiconductor. The actuator applies a mechanical force to the substrate and/or the organic semiconductor with which it is used when it is actuated. This mechanical force varies the carrier mobility of the organic semiconductor. The actuator is selected from the group comprising: piezoelectric actuators; piezomagnetic actuators; electrostrictive actuators; magnetostrictive actuators; electrostatic actuators; magnetostatic actuators; shape memory alloy actuators; magnetic shape memory alloy actuators; and electroactive polymer actuators.
... |
| Electroactive polymer actuated devices | 20060208609 | 20060921 |
| Devices employing electroactive polymer actuators are disclosed. The devices include pumps, valves, cameras (where electroactive polymer actuators control either one or both of zoom and focus), vibrators (for inclusion in cell phones, game console controls, etc.) and audio speakers. These devices advantageously incorporate the actuator configurations descried. The devices generally incorporate a diaphragm-type actuation having a central section of material that is less flexible than adjacent material.
... |
| High-performance electroactive polymer transducers | 20060208610 | 20060921 |
| Electroactive polymer constructions that convert electrical energy to mechanical energy and vice versa are disclosed. The subject transducers (actuators, generators, sensors or combinations thereof) share the requirement of a frame or fixture element used in preloading elastomeric film electrodes and dielectric polymer in a desired configuration. The structures are either integrally biased in a push-pull arrangement or preloaded/biased by another element.
... |
| Method and electroactive device for a dynamic graphical imagery display | 20060209083 | 20060921 |
| A low-cost and low-power dynamic graphical imagery display device and method of physically manipulating graphical images in size and/or shape by electronically deforming a compliant surface upon which the graphical images are affixed. The dynamic graphical imagery display device utilizes electroactive polymers and has applications including but not limited to advertising, company logos, printed media, and upon articles of apparel. In one embodiment of the invention, the graphical image is oscillated in size and/or shape under electronic control.
... |
| Hood lift mechanisms utilizing active materials and methods of use | 20060202512 | 20060914 |
| A hood lift mechanism for reversibly increasing the energy absorption capability at appropriate force levels of a vehicle hood includes a vehicle hood; an active material in operative communication with the vehicle hood, wherein the active material comprises a shape memory alloy, a ferromagnetic shape memory alloy, a shape memory polymer, a magnetorheological fluid, an electroactive polymer, a magnetorheological elastomer, an electrorheological fluid, a piezoelectric material, an ionic polymer metal composite, or combinations comprising at least one of the foregoing active materials; and an activation device in operative communication with the active material, wherein the activation device is operable to selectively apply an activation signal to the active material and effect a reversible change in a property of the active material, wherein the reversible change results... |
| Downhole uses of piezoelectric motors | 20060198742 | 20060907 |
| A sampling system used in collecting samples of connate fluid from within hydrocarbon bearing formations. The sampling system comprises a sonde disposed within a wellbore formed proximate to the formation of interest. The sonde includes a sample probe insertable into the formation and a drawdown pump in fluid communication with the sample probe. The drawdown pump is motivated by an associated electrically responsive material, where the electrically responsive material can be comprised of a piezoelectric material, a electroactive polymer, or some other electrically responsive material.
... |
| Electric brake device | 20060191753 | 20060831 |
| An actuator 23d for pushing a plurality of friction plates 44, 44 to a plurality of plates 37, 37 to be braked is composed of members including electroactive polymer, the shape of the elastomer of which is changed by electric energy.
... |
| Backpack for harvesting electrical energy during walking and for minimizing shoulder strain | 20060192386 | 20060831 |
| A suspended-load backpack designed to permit the load to move relative to the backpack frame during walking and running so that the large movements between the load and the frame of the backpack reduce the fluctuations of absolute vertical motion of the load. Because the hip (and thus the pack frame) go up a down a good deal during walking, a large relative movement between the frame and the load reduces the absolute excursion of the load. This movement may be, in turn, transferred to a motor through, for example, a rack and pinion gear, to convert the mechanical movement to electrical energy. The movement may also be converted to electrical energy by using an electroactive polymer (EAP) to connect the suspended load to the frame.... |
| Airway implant sensors and methods of making and using the same | 20060185680 | 20060824 |
| An airway implant device for maintaining and/or creating an opening in air passageways is disclosed. Methods of using the device are also disclosed. The airway implant device comprises a deformable element to control the opening of an air passageway. Preferably the deformable element is an electroactive polymer element. Energizing of the electroactive polymer element provides support for the walls of an air passageway, when the walls collapse, and thus, completely or partially opens the air passageway. Some embodiments of the invention include a sensor capable of sensing the possible occurrence of an apneic event and activating the deformable element of the airway implant device. Methods of treating airway disorders such as sleep apnea and snoring with the airway implant device are disclosed herein.
... |
| Pyrroles substituted by oligonucleotides | 20060189555 | 20060824 |
| The invention relates to novel pyrrole derivatives of the formula (I) which make it possible to immobilize and address oligonucleotides by electropolymerization. Said invention also relates to thus produced electroactive polymers and to methods for using them for detecting, identifying and dosing analytes in a sampe. (I) wherein R1 is one type of oligonucleotide, Y is S or O, X is a spacer arm selected from —(CH2)—O—, —(CH2)<SB>P</SB>O—[(CH2)2—O]q—, —(CH2)r; —CO—NR—(CH2)r-0-, —CH2r—NCH3—(CH2)r—O—, —CH2)rCO—NR′—[CH2)2—O]s—, —(CH2)rNCH3[(CH2)2—O]<SB>S</SB>—, R′ is H or CH3, n is an integer number ranging from 1 to 5, p is an integer number ranging from 1 to 2, q is an integer number ranging from 1 to 4, r is an integer number ranging from 1 to 3, r′ is an integer number ranging from 1... |
| Electroactive polymer devices for moving fluid | 20060158065 | 20060720 |
| The invention describes devices for performing thermodynamic work on a fluid, such as pumps, compressors and fans. The thermodynamic work may be used to provide a driving force for moving the fluid. Work performed on the fluid may be transmitted to other devices, such as a piston in a hydraulic actuation device. The devices may include one or more electroactive polymer transducers with an electroactive polymer that deflects in response to an application of an electric field. The electroactive polymer may be in contact with a fluid where the deflection of the electroactive polymer may be used to perform thermodynamic work on the fluid. The devices may be designed to efficiently operate at a plurality of operating conditions, such as operating conditions that produce an acoustic... |
| Electroactive polymers | 20060155106 | 20060713 |
| Electroactive polymeric arylenes and intermediates useful for making such polymers are disclosed. The present invention also provides electroactive compositions comprising the electroactive polymeric arylenes, organic electronic devices which comprise these polymers and compositions, and methods of fabricating these devices.
... |
| Electrically-driven valve comprising a microporous membrane | 20060138371 | 20060629 |
| The present invention essentially relates to an electrically-controlled valve formed by electroactive polymers and more precisely an electrically controlled fluidic valve separating two volume spaces, which includes: at least one microporous membrane, the surface of which is at least partly covered with at least one electroactive polymer essentially placed within the pores of said microporous membrane, so that, when said polymer is in a defined oxidation-reduction state, it blocks off said pores; and an electrical supply intended to allow said valve to switch from the closed state to the open state, and vice versa, by changing the oxidation-reduction state of the electroactive polymer. The invention also relates to a microfluidic device including such a valve.
... |
| Tunable vehicle structural members and methods for selectively changing the mechanical properties thereto | 20060125291 | 20060615 |
| Tunable structural member for a vehicle generally comprises an active material adapted to selectively undergo a change in at least one attribute in response to an activation signal. The change in the at least one attribute results in a change in the mechanical properties of the tunable structural member. Active materials generally include shape memory alloys, shape memory polymers, magnetorheological fluids and elastomers, piezoelectrics, electroactive polymers, and the like.
... |
| Electroactive polymer motors | 20060119225 | 20060608 |
| The present invention relates to mechanical-electrical power conversion systems. The systems comprise one or more electroactive polymers that convert between electrical and mechanical energy. When a voltage is applied to electrodes contacting an electroactive polymer, the polymer deflects. This deflection may be converted into rotation of a power shaft included in a motor. Repeated deflection of the polymer may then produce continuous rotation of the power shaft.
... |
| Medical simulator apparatus and method | 20060122954 | 20060608 |
| An animal simulator having electroactive polymer assemblies and a control system connected to the assemblies is disclosed. An animal simulator is constructed and arranged to mimic selected anatomy. It includes a substrate; an electroactive polymer assembly, within the substrate, the electroactive polymer assembly being comprised of at least one electroactive polymer and at least one electrode. A circuit is in operative communication with the electrode such that the electroactive polymer assembly deflects upon receipt of a signal through the circuit. The deflection simulates anatomy. The animal simulator further comprising a sensor, within the simulator, with the sensor being in operative communication with the circuit.
... |
| Electroactive polymers | 20060113878 | 20060601 |
| The present invention relates to transducers, their use and fabrication. The transducers convert between mechanical and electrical energy. Some transducers of the present invention include a pre-strained polymer. The pre-strain improves the conversion between electrical and mechanical energy. The present invention also relates to devices including an electroactive polymer to convert between electrical and mechanical energy. The present invention further relates to compliant electrodes that conform to the shape of a polymer included in a transducer. The present invention provides methods for fabricating electromechanical devices including one or more electroactive polymers.
... |
| Electroactive polymers | 20060113880 | 20060601 |
| The present invention relates to transducers, their use and fabrication. The transducers convert between mechanical and electrical energy. Some transducers of the present invention include a pre-strained polymer. The pre-strain improves the conversion between electrical and mechanical energy. The present invention also relates to devices including an electroactive polymer to convert between electrical and mechanical energy. The present invention further relates to compliant electrodes that conform to the shape of a polymer included in a transducer. The present invention provides methods for fabricating electromechanical devices including one or more electroactive polymers.
... |
| Universal, programmable guide catheter | 20060111618 | 20060525 |
| A guide catheter apparatus that comprises the following: (a) a guide catheter portion that includes a plurality of electroactive polymer actuators disposed along its axial length and (b) a control unit coupled to the actuators and sending control signals to the actuators. The actuators change the shape of the guide catheter portion based upon the control signals that are received from the control unit. In another aspect of the present invention, a method of introducing a guide catheter into a body lumen is provided. The method comprises: (a) providing a guide catheter apparatus like that above, and (b) inserting the guide catheter portion of the guide catheter apparatus into the body lumen, while using the control unit to control the shape of the guide catheter portion.
... |
| Airway implant and methods of making and using | 20060090762 | 20060504 |
| An airway implant device for maintaining and/or creating an opening in air passageways is disclosed. Methods of using the device are also disclosed. The airway implant device comprises a deformable element to control the opening of an air passageway. Preferably the deformable element is an electroactive polymer element. Energizing of the electroactive polymer element provides support for the walls of an air passageway, when the walls collapse, and thus, completely or partially opens the air passageway. Methods of treating airway disorders such as sleep apnea and snoring with the airway implant device are disclosed herein.
... |
