53results about How to "Increase and decrease tension" patented technology

The present invention has multiple aspects relating to assembled self fixing bone-tendon-bone (BTB) grafts and BTB implants. A preferred application in which self fixing assembled bone-tendon-bone (BTB) grafts and implants of the present technology can be used is for ACL repairs in a human patient. In one embodiment, a self fixing BTB graft is characterized by the presence of threads along at least a portion of the exterior surface of one or both bone blocks. In another embodiment, a self fixing assembled bone-tendon-bone implant comprises a removable tendon tensioner which imparts a predetermined tension on the tendon of the BTB graft. In this embodiment, the tensioner can be narrower than the diameter of the bone blocks or can be threaded such that the threads are continuous with the threads of at least one of the bone blocks. The threads facilitate the simultaneous implantation of the leading and trailing bone blocks of the BTB graft in tapped (threaded) holes in the tibia and the femur of a recipient patient. The tensioner maintains the tension on the tendon and the spacing between the bone blocks until the leading bone block is fixed (threaded) in the tapped hole in the femur and the trailing bone block is fixed (threaded) into the tapped tibial bone tunnel. Once the bone blocks are substantially in their fixed positions, the tensioner is removed arthroscopically in the joint space between the tibia and the femur.

A tourniquet includes a tensioning mechanism configured to provide a continuous range of adjustment of tension applied by the tourniquet. The tensioning mechanism includes a housing, an arbor coupled to the housing, the arbor being connected to the strap, and a crank assembly coupled to the arbor. The crank assembly includes a crank, and at least one gear mechanism coupled to the crank and to the arbor. In one embodiment, the at least one gear mechanism includes a worm shaft and a worm wheel. In another embodiment, the crank is movable between a use position and a stowed position. A method of restricting blood flow to a portion of a limb is further disclosed.

A surgical screw fastener device and method for pulling a graft through a first tunnel defined in a first bone. The surgical screw fastener including a body having a proximal end and a distal end, and an exterior screw thread located around the body for threadedly engaging a wall of the first tunnel. The device can have a first coupling element at the proximal end of the body, wherein the first coupling element adapted to couple a driver tool. The device can further have a second coupling element for rotatable coupling of a first end of the graft with respect to the device.

Machines, apparatuses, systems and methods for providing adjustable tension to a cable system using a pivotally mounted leverage mechanism that employs an adjustably positionable weight. Embodiments are used in exercise and other muscle strengthening devices, and may include an electronic control system for monitoring, recording a user's progress, and for altering or releasing tension to the cable system based on feedback from the user. Embodiments include a user interface for inputting information for particular exercises or workouts, as well as outputting / downloading information following exercises or workouts. Other embodiments allow adjustment to the starting point of the lifting bar so that such machines may be used for bench presses, squats, cleans or curls.

An overend unwind system for unwinding tacky elastomeric fiber threads such as uncoated spandex thread, capturing the ballooning affect of the thread as the thread leaves the spool, applying a first-stage tension control on the thread adjacent where the thread leaves the spool, feeding the unwound thread to a nip in a downstream process, and applying a final tension increment to the thread adjacent where the thread enters the downstream process. All thread guide surfaces encountered by the thread after leaving the spool, and while the thread is under designed operating tension, are moving surfaces, such that the tensioned thread thereby experiences a reduced level of drag as the thread traverses its path of travel from the spool to the downstream process.

A method of wrapping a load with a stretch wrapping system utilizes a system for monitoring film properties, a module in the stretch wrapping systems controller to analyze the data or film properties and further utilize the data to determine, at least in part, appropriate machine settings and or wrapping pattern for the film and execute by providing appropriate machine settings such that effective wrapping of the load and proper use of the film are achieved. The film properties include film stiffness.

The present invention has multiple aspects relating to assembled self fixing bone-tendon-bone (BTB) grafts and BTB implants. A preferred application in which self fixing assembled bone-tendon-bone (BTB) grafts and implants of the present technology can be used is for ACL repairs in a human patient. In one embodiment, a self fixing BTB graft is characterized by the presence of threads along at least a portion of the exterior surface of one or both bone blocks. In another embodiment, a self fixing assembled bone-tendon-bone implant comprises a removable tendon tensioner which imparts a predetermined tension on the tendon of the BTB graft.

Machines, apparatuses, systems and methods for providing adjustable tension to a cable system using a pivotally mounted leverage mechanism that employs an adjustably positionable weight. Embodiments are used in exercise and other muscle strengthening devices, and may include an electronic control system for monitoring, recording a user's progress, and for altering or releasing tension to the cable system based on feedback from the user. Embodiments include a user interface for inputting information for particular exercises or workouts, as well as outputting / downloading information following exercises or workouts.

A knitted glove made by creating each of the sections of the glove using a separate knitting course on a flat knitting machine providing variable stitch dimensions. Each of these sections provides its own designed stretch characteristics so that the glove fits tightly, yet provides flexibility and ease of movement. The variable stitch dimension is achieved by 1) varying the depth of penetration of a knitting needle into a fabric being knitted by a computer program, 2) adjusting the tension of yarn between a pinch roller and a knitting head by a mechanism controlled by a computer, and 3) casting off or picking up additional stitches in a course. The glove includes a plurality of finger components made from at least ten separately knitted sections, two palm components, each of which is made from at least two separately knitted sections, and a wrist component made from at least one knitted section.

A knitted glove made by creating each of the at least fifteen sections using a separate knitting course on a flat knitting machine providing variable stitch dimensions with one or two yarns. Each of these sections provides custom stretch characteristics using one or two yarns providing a tight glove that provides flexibility and ease of movement. The variable stitch dimension is achieved by 1) varying the depth of penetration of the knitting needle into fabric being knitted by a computer program, 2) adjusting the tension of yarn between a pinch roll and knitting head by a mechanism controlled by a computer and 3) casting off or picking up additional stitches in a course. The glove includes five finger components made from at least ten separately knitted sections, two palm components each made from at least two separately knitted sections, and a wrist component made from at least one knitted section.

A knitted glove made by creating each of the sections of the glove using a separate knitting course on a flat knitting machine providing variable stitch dimensions. Each of these sections provides its own designed stretch characteristics so that the glove fits tightly, yet provides flexibility and ease of movement. The variable stitch dimension is achieved by 1) varying the depth of penetration of a knitting needle into a fabric being knitted by a computer program, 2) adjusting the tension of yarn between a pinch roller and a knitting head by a mechanism controlled by a computer, and 3) casting off or picking up additional stitches in a course. The glove includes a plurality of finger components made from at least ten separately knitted sections, two palm components, each of which is made from at least two separately knitted sections, and a wrist component made from at least one knitted section.

A biosensor strip having a low profile for reducing the volume of liquid sample needed to perform an assay. In one embodiment, the biosensor strip comprises an electrode support; an electrode arrangement on said electrode support; a cover; a sample flow channel; and an incompressible element placed between said cover and said electrode support, the incompressible element providing an opening in at least one side or in the distal end of said sample flow channel to provide at least one vent in said sample flow channel. In another embodiment, the biosensor strip comprises an electrode support; an electrode arrangement on said electrode support; a cover; and a sample flow channel, the cover having a plurality of openings formed therein, at least one of the openings in register with said sample flow channel. The invention further includes methods for preparing such a biosensor strips in a continuous manner.

A biosensor strip having a low profile for reducing the volume of liquid sample needed to perform an assay. In one embodiment, the biosensor strip includes an electrode support; an electrode arrangement on the electrode support; a cover; a sample chamber; and an incompressible element placed between the cover and the electrode support, the incompressible element providing an opening in at least one side or in the distal end of the sample chamber to provide at least one vent in the sample chamber. In another embodiment, the biosensor strip has an electrode support; an electrode arrangement on the electrode support; a cover; and a sample chamber, the cover having a plurality of openings formed therein, at least one of the openings in register with the sample chamber. The invention further includes methods for preparing such a biosensor strips in a continuous manner.

Free-standing anchoring devices are provided for use with lines such as cords and ropes. The anchoring devices include various combinations of clam and boat cleats in unitary parts. One exemplary embodiment includes a boat cleat, a clam cleat, and a post proximate to the clam cleat. Another includes two clam cleats between two posts. A variation of this embodiment adds a boat cleat to the underside of the part.

A saw having a body, a continuous loop cutting chain, and a chain support extending from the body, the body comprising one or more handles, a motor, and a chain driver. The chain support comprises one or more chain support bars having one or more wheels mounted thereon, each wheel adapted to receive and guide a portion of the chain, at least one wheel of which is mounted at an end of the one or more support bars. The chain support may be pivotable to a desired angle within a range of angles relative to the body. An adjustable guide mechanism may enable setting a maximum distance that the saw blade is able to protrude through a workpiece.

A basketball system may include a basketball goal and a support structure that may be sized and configured to support the basketball goal. The support structure may include one or more support members. The basketball system may include an adjustment mechanism, which may be sized and configured to move at least a portion of the support members to adjust the height of the basketball goal. The basketball system may include a biasing member sized and configured to absorb energy when a force is applied to the basketball goal and to release the energy when the force is removed from the basketball goal.

Systems, methods and apparatus are provided through which in some embodiments, a stringed instrument is provided wherein each string has two critical points. In some embodiments, a fulcrum tremolo is mounted on the instrument for varying the tension of the strings and the distance between the two critical points. In some embodiments, the strings are attached to a plurality of intonation modules mounted on the fulcrum tremolo. In some embodiments, each intonation module is adjustable so that the strings can be adjusted from an untensioned state to a proper playing pitch. In some embodiments, a bearing assembly is also included to facilitate pivoting of the fulcrum tremolo.

A cantilever mounting device includes a front member on which an object is mounted and a back member for attachment to a load-bearing surface. A first arm is connected to the back member to form a rotatable first joint. A second arm is connected to the first arm to form a rotatable second joint. The front member is connected to the second arm to form a rotatable third joint. The first joint includes a first cam including a first lever and a first shaft for connecting the back member to the first arm. The first cam allows rotation about an axis of the first joint when the first lever is set to a first adjustment position. The first cam does not allow rotation about the axis of the first joint when the first lever is set to a first locked position.

Disclosed is a hydraulic control device for a continuously variable transmission which changes the transmission gear ratio by changing the hydraulic pressure (Pin, Pout) supplied to hydraulic pressure chambers (134, 154) for pulleys in the continuously variable transmission via control valves (217, 218) is changed. In this hydraulic control device, line pressure regulation hydraulic pressure (Psrv) which corresponds to the magnitudes of the oil pressure (Pin, Pout) supplied to the hydraulic pressure chambers (134, 154) is introduced into a regulator valve (212), and line pressure (P1) which is input into the control valves (217, 218) according to the magnitudes of the oil pressure (Pin, Pout) is subjected to feedback regulation. In the hydraulic control device for the continuously variable transmission, after the valve element (217a) of the control valve (217) is driven in the valve opening direction, a vibration restriction control operation which temporarily restricts the displacement of the valve element (217a) is executed.

An improved tensioning and locking apparatus for tensioning and locking a sliding tarpaulin that selectively covers and uncovers a trailer, such as a flat bed trailer or an enclosed trailer with an opening in a side thereof. Rotational motion about an axis perpendicular (or substantially perpendicular) to the length of the trailer can be used to operate the apparatus to either increase or decrease tension in the tarpaulin covering the trailer. Such rotational motion can be provided from outside the covered trailer, which is advantageous for operators of said trailers.

A voluntary opening prosthetic split hook terminal device is provided with an adjustable pinch force, functional grasping contours and illumination capabilities. Embodiments of the present invention include a tensioning mechanism that permits adjustment of the tension of a spring member to increase or decrease the pinching force of the device. The tensioning mechanism may be repositioned among multiple positions to vary the tension in a spring member. Movement of the tensioning mechanism utilizes principles of mechanical leverage in a way such that the force applied by the spring member does not need to be directly opposed in order to reposition the tensioning mechanism and the tensioning device will automatically lock into a selected position. Additional embodiments include digits with dual internal edges and logarithmic spiral contours for enhanced grasping of objects. Still further embodiments include illumination for functional and aesthetic purposes.

A method for controlling tension in a web of a printing press, the printing press including an infeed, printing units and a folder, the method comprising the steps of increasing an infeed tension in the web between the infeed and the printing units when the printing units change to a printing mode from a white web mode; and decreasing the infeed tension in the web when the printing units change from the printing mode to the white web mode. Also disclosed is a web printing press which includes an infeed for providing a web of material to be printed; at least one printing unit for printing the web, the printing unit having a printing mode and a white web mode; a folder for cutting the web into signatures; and a controller for controlling the tension in the web between the infeed and the printing units and the tension after the printing units, the controller controlling the tension between the infeed and the at least one printing unit as a function of a transition between the printing mode and the white web mode.

Machines, apparatuses, systems and methods for providing adjustable tension to a cable system using a pivotally mounted leverage mechanism that employs an adjustably positionable weight. Embodiments are used in exercise and other muscle strengthening devices, and may include an electronic control system for monitoring, recording a user's progress, and for altering or releasing tension to the cable system based on feedback from the user. Embodiments include a user interface for inputting information for particular exercises or workouts, as well as outputting / downloading information following exercises or workouts. Other embodiments allow adjustment to the starting point of the lifting bar so that such machines may be used for bench presses, squats, cleans or curls.

A voluntary opening prosthetic split hook terminal device is provided with an adjustable pinch force, functional grasping contours and illumination capabilities. Embodiments of the present invention include a tensioning mechanism that permits adjustment of the tension of a spring member to increase or decrease the pinching force of the device. The tensioning mechanism may be repositioned among multiple positions to vary the tension in a spring member. Movement of the tensioning mechanism utilizes principles of mechanical leverage in a way such that the force applied by the spring member does not need to be directly opposed in order to reposition the tensioning mechanism and the tensioning device will automatically lock into a selected position. Additional embodiments include digits with dual internal edges and logarithmic spiral contours for enhanced grasping of objects. Still further embodiments include illumination for functional and aesthetic purposes.

The present application discloses a cable connector for use in attaching an input cable to an actuator in a vehicle braking system.

A variety of implementations, building off one another, of a device that mechanically provides energy to muscles used throughout the gait cycle. The mechanical power is provided by elastic bands, or similar material. The different implementations presented introduce more components which provide adjustability in many aspects of the device including how it fits the user, increasing comfort for the user, and providing customized tension levels, thus customized assistance, in the different segments of the device thus to the different muscle groups in the lower extremity.