Abstract:
The present invention is directed to a printer having a device for printing a data carrier. It is proposed providing the data carrier with at least one transponder chip and equipping the printer with a device for driving the transponder chip. This makes it possible to print the data carrier simultaneously or sequentially and to write data into, or read data out of, the transponder chip.
Abstract:
Optical communications apparatus for sending and receiving optical transmissions to and from a plurality of remote stations by a plurality of independent terminals which are multiplexed so that all operate through a single optical system for both transmission and reception of modulated beams containing encoded data.
Abstract:
An instrument for reconfiguring stomach tissue includes a sealing member that seals a section of a tissue manipulator from contact with bodily fluids. The tissue manipulator includes a first portion that is configured for releasable coupling to an actuating member and a second portion configured to receive an implant to be deployed within the patient. The tissue manipulator also includes a rectangular member and a cavity for receiving a coupler of the actuating member. The tissue manipulator has a first member with tissue penetrating elements and a second member with engaging elements configured to deflect the tissue penetrating elements upon relative movement of the first and second members. The actuating member includes a tissue penetrating element support positioned to limit bending of the tissue manipulator. The instrument includes an actuating mechanism that is configured to move at least one of the first and second members of the tissue manipulator.
Abstract:
A satellite antenna arrangement for a satellite communication system comprising: a reflector for producing a far field pattern with near-zero field strength at a predetermined location to reject unwanted signals from said predetermined location or minimise signal power transmitted to said predetermined location, the reflector having a surface comprising a stepped profile arranged to generate the near-zero field strength in the predetermined location. The stepped profile may comprise a radial step. The location of the near-zero field strength can be steered by moving the reflector or by adjusting the amplitude and phase of an additional beam that covers substantially the same region as the main beam reflected by the reflector.
Abstract:
A breast cup for use with a breast pump for expressing breast milk is provided. The breast cup sealingly separates the air flow from the breast milk, provides a barrier against impingement of the flexible insert by the user's breast and provides a massaging member for facilitating expression of the breast milk.
Abstract:
There is provided a tracheal catheter designed so that a suction catheter may be used to suction out any secretions that accumulate in the zone above the balloon. There is further provided a tracheal catheter having a ventilation lumen with a flexible wall to provide a flexible lumen which takes up negligible volume when the catheter is not inserted. The suction catheter may be inserted into the flexible lumen, bending the flexible lumen wall that normally lies substantially flat against the ventilating lumen. As the suction catheter is inserted into the lumen, the lumen opens to accept it. When the catheter is removed, the wall of the flexible lumen moves back into position against the ventilating lumen wall, again taking up negligible volume. There is also provided a method of suctioning the subglottic space of an intubated patient. This involves providing a tube as described above, inserting a catheter into the flexible lumen from the proximal end, and providing suction to the proximal end of the catheter.
Abstract:
A suturing apparatus comprises a pair of jaws. A bendable needle housed in one of the jaws is adapted to carry a suture. An optional suture receiver may be disposed adjacent to the opposite jaw. A transition block curves the needle and directs it in a direction generally unparallel to an axis of the carrying jaw. The needle may also be configured to retrieve a suture. A retaining mechanism holds a suture in place to be engaged by the needle. The jaw housing the needle may include a lateral opening through which the suture may be inserted. The needle may also include a lateral notch which may be aligned with lateral opening to receive the suture. An actuator coupled to the needle enables the user to move the needle proximally to align the notch with the lateral slot.
Abstract:
A manually actuated breast pump is provided. The breast pump has a breast cup, pump mechanism and a container. The components of the breast pump are easily assembled and disassembled to facilitate use, cleaning, manufacture and transport. The breast pump can apply a negative pressure, a positive pressure or both to a user's breast. The breast pump provides fluid isolation between the pressure source and the expressed milk.