Patent Grant
8346337
The present invention is, in general, directed to devices and methods for the in vivo monitoring of an analyte, such as glucose or lactate. More particularly, the present invention relates to devices and methods for the in vivo monitoring of an analyte using an electrochemical sensor to provide information to a patient about the level of the analyte.
The monitoring of the level of glucose or other analytes, such as lactate or oxygen, in certain individuals is vitally important to their health. High or low levels of glucose or other analytes may have detrimental effects. The monitoring of glucose is particularly important to individuals with diabetes, as they must determine when insulin is needed to reduce glucose levels in their bodies or when additional glucose is needed to raise the level of glucose in their bodies.
A conventional technique used by many diabetics for personally monitoring their blood glucose level includes the periodic drawing of blood, the application of that blood to a test strip, and the determination of the blood glucose level using calorimetric, electrochemical, or photometric detection. This technique does not permit continuous or automatic monitoring of glucose levels in the body, but typically must be performed manually on a periodic basis. Unfortunately, the consistency with which the level of glucose is checked varies widely among individuals. Many diabetics find the periodic testing inconvenient and they sometimes forget to test their glucose level or do not have time for a proper test. In addition, some individuals wish to avoid the pain associated with the test. These situations may result in hyperglycemic or hypoglycemic episodes. An in vivo glucose sensor that continuously or automatically monitors the individual's glucose level would enable individuals to more easily monitor their glucose, or other analyte, levels.
A variety of devices have been developed for continuous or automatic monitoring of analytes, such as glucose, in the blood stream or interstitial fluid. A number of these devices use electrochemical sensors which are directly implanted into a blood vessel or in the subcutaneous tissue of a patient. However, these devices are often difficult to reproducibly and inexpensively manufacture in large numbers. In addition, these devices are typically large, bulky, and/or inflexible, and many can not be used effectively outside of a controlled medical facility, such as a hospital or a doctor's office, unless the patient is restricted in his activities.
Some devices include a sensor guide which rests on or near the skin of the patient and may be attached to the patient to hold the sensor in place. These sensor guides are typically bulky and do not allow for freedom of movement. In addition, the sensor guides or the sensors include cables or wires for connecting the sensor to other equipment to direct the signals from the sensors to an analyzer. The size of the sensor guides and presence of cables and wires hinders the convenient use of these devices for everyday applications. There is a need for a small, compact device that can operate the sensor and provide signals to an analyzer without substantially restricting the movements and activities of a patient.
The patient's comfort and the range of activities that can be performed while the sensor is implanted are important considerations in designing extended-use sensors for continuous or automatic in vivo monitoring of the level of an analyte, such as glucose. There is a need for a small, comfortable device which can continuously monitor the level of an analyte, such as glucose, while still permitting the patient to engage in normal activities. Continuous and/or automatic monitoring of the analyte can provide a warning to the patient when the level of the analyte is at or near a threshold level. For example, if glucose is the analyte, then the monitoring device might be configured to warn the patient of current or impending hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia. The patient can then take appropriate actions.
Generally, the present invention relates to methods and devices for the continuous and/or automatic in vivo monitoring of the level of an analyte using a subcutaneously implantable sensor. Many of these devices are small and comfortable when used, thereby allowing a wide range of activities. One embodiment is a sensor control unit having a housing adapted for placement on skin. The housing is also adapted to receive a portion of an electrochemical sensor. The sensor control unit includes two or more conductive contacts disposed on the housing and configured for coupling to two or more contact pads on the sensor. A transmitter is disposed in the housing and coupled to the plurality of conductive contacts for transmitting data obtained using the sensor. The sensor control unit may also include a variety of optional components, such as, for example, adhesive for adhering to the skin, a mounting unit, a receiver, a processing circuit, a power supply (e.g., a battery), an alarm system, a data storage unit, a watchdog circuit, and a measurement circuit. Other optional components are described below.
Another embodiment of the invention is a sensor assembly that includes the sensor control unit described above. The sensor assembly also includes a sensor having at least one working electrode and at least one contact pad coupled to the working electrode or electrodes. The sensor may also include optional components, such as, for example, a counter electrode, a counter/reference electrode, a reference electrode, and a temperature probe. Other components and options for the sensor are described below.
A further embodiment of the invention is an analyte monitoring system that includes the sensor control unit described above. The analyte monitoring system also includes a sensor that has at least one working electrode and at least one contact pad coupled to the working electrode or electrodes. The analyte monitoring system also includes a display unit that has a receiver for receiving data from the sensor control unit and a display coupled to the receiver for displaying an indication of the level of an analyte. The display unit may optionally include a variety of components, such as, for example, a transmitter, an analyzer, a data storage unit, a watchdog circuit, an input device, a power supply, a clock, a lamp, a pager, a telephone interface, a computer interface, an alarm or alarm system, a radio, and a calibration unit. Further components and options for the display unit are described below. In addition, the analyte monitoring system or a component of the analyte monitoring system may optionally include a processor capable of determining a drug or treatment protocol and/or a drug delivery system.
Yet another embodiment of the invention is an insertion kit for inserting an electrochemical sensor into a patient. The insertion kit includes an inserter. A portion of the inserter has a sharp, rigid, planer structure adapted to support the sensor during insertion of the electrochemical sensor. The insertion kit also includes an insertion gun having a port configured to accept the electrochemical sensor and the inserter. The insertion gun has a driving mechanism for driving the inserter and electrochemical sensor into the patient, and a retraction mechanism for removing the inserter while leaving the sensor within the patient.
Another embodiment is a method of using an electrochemical sensor. A mounting unit is adhered to skin of a patient. An insertion gun is aligned with a port on the mounting unit. The electrochemical sensor is disposed within the insertion gun and then the electrochemical sensor is inserted into the skin of the patient using the insertion gun. The insertion gun is removed and a housing of the sensor control unit is mounted on the mounting base. A plurality of conductive contacts disposed on the housing is coupled to a plurality of contact pads disposed on the electrochemical sensor to prepare the sensor for use.
One embodiment of the invention is a method for detecting failures in an implanted analyte-responsive sensor. An analyte-responsive sensor is implanted into a patient. The analyte-responsive sensor includes N working electrodes, where N is an integer and is two or greater, and a common counter electrode. Signals generated at one of the N working electrodes and at the common counter electrode are then obtained and the sensor is determined to have failed if the signal from the common counter electrode is not N times the signal from one of the working electrodes, within a predetermined threshold limit.
Yet another embodiment is a method of calibrating an electrochemical sensor having one or more working electrodes implanted in a patient. A signal is generated from each of the working electrodes. Several conditions are tested to determine if calibration is appropriate. First, the signals from each of the one or more working electrodes should differ by less than a first threshold amount. Second, the signals from each of the one or more working electrodes should be within a predetermined range. And, third, a rate of change of the signals from each of the one or more working electrodes should be less than a second threshold amount. A calibration value is found assaying a calibration sample of a patient's body fluid. The calibration value is then related to at least one of the signals from the one or more working electrodes if the conditions described above are met.
A further embodiment is a method for monitoring a level of an analyte. A sensor is inserted into a skin of a patient and a sensor control unit is attached to the skin of the patient. Two or more conductive contacts on the sensor control unit are coupled to contact pads on the sensor. Then, using the sensor control unit, data is collected regarding a level of an analyte from signals generated by the sensor. The collected data is transmitted to a display unit and an indication of the level of the analyte is displayed on the display unit.
The above summary of the present invention is not intended to describe each disclosed embodiment or every implementation of the present invention. The Figures and the detailed description which follow more particularly exemplify these embodiments.
The invention may be more completely understood in consideration of the following detailed description of various embodiments of the invention in connection with the accompanying drawings, in which:
While the invention is amenable to various modifications and alternative forms, specifics thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail. It should be understood, however, that the intention is not to limit the invention to the particular embodiments described. On the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.
The present invention is applicable to an analyte monitoring system using an implantable sensor for the in vivo determination of a concentration of an analyte, such as glucose or lactate, in a fluid. The sensor can be, for example, subcutaneously implanted in a patient for the continuous or periodic monitoring an analyte in a patient's interstitial fluid. This can then be used to infer the glucose level in the patient's bloodstream. Other in vivo analyte sensors can be made, according to the invention, for insertion into a vein, artery, or other portion of the body containing fluid. The analyte monitoring system is typically configured for monitoring the level of the analyte over a time period which may range from days to weeks or longer.
The following definitions are provided for terms used herein:
A “counter electrode” refers to an electrode paired with the working electrode, through which passes a current equal in magnitude and opposite in sign to the current passing through the working electrode. In the context of the invention, the term “counter electrode” is meant to include counter electrodes which also function as reference electrodes (i.e., a counter/reference electrode).
An “electrochemical sensor” is a device configured to detect the presence and/or measure the level of an analyte in a sample via electrochemical oxidation and reduction reactions on the sensor. These reactions are transduced to an electrical signal that can be correlated to an amount, concentration, or level of an analyte in the sample.
“Electrolysis” is the electrooxidation or electroreduction of a compound either directly at an electrode or via one or more electron transfer agents.
A compound is “immobilized” on a surface when it is entrapped on or chemically bound to the surface.
A “non-leachable” or “non-releasable” compound or a compound that is “non-leachably disposed” is meant to define a compound that is affixed on the sensor such that it does not substantially diffuse away from the working surface of the working electrode for the period in which the sensor is used (e.g., the period in which the sensor is implanted in a patient or measuring a sample).
Components are “immobilized” within a sensor, for example, when the components are covalently, ionically, or coordinatively bound to constituents of the sensor and/or are entrapped in a polymeric or sol-gel matrix or membrane which precludes mobility.
An “electron transfer agent” is a compound that carries electrons between the analyte and the working electrode, either directly, or in cooperation with other electron transfer agents. One example of an electron transfer agent is a redox mediator.
A “working electrode” is an electrode at which the analyte (or a second compound whose level depends on the level of the analyte) is electrooxidized or electroreduced with or without the agency of an electron transfer agent.
A “working surface” is that portion of the working electrode which is coated with or is accessible to the electron transfer agent and configured for exposure to an analyte-containing fluid.
A “sensing layer” is a component of the sensor which includes constituents that facilitate the electrolysis of the analyte. The sensing layer may include constituents such as an electron transfer agent, a catalyst which catalyzes a reaction of the analyte to produce a response at the electrode, or both. In some embodiments of the sensor, the sensing layer is non-leachably disposed in proximity to or on the working electrode.
A “non-corroding” conductive material includes non-metallic materials, such as carbon and conductive polymers.
Analyte Sensor Systems
The analyte monitoring systems of the present invention can be utilized under a variety of conditions. The particular configuration of a sensor and other units used in the analyte monitoring system may depend on the use for which the analyte monitoring system is intended and the conditions under which the analyte monitoring system will operate. One embodiment of the analyte monitoring system includes a sensor configured for implantation into a patient or user. For example, implantation of the sensor may be made in the arterial or venous systems for direct testing of analyte levels in blood. Alternatively, a sensor may be implanted in the interstitial tissue for determining the analyte level in interstitial fluid. This level may be correlated and/or converted to analyte levels in blood or other fluids. The site and depth of implantation may affect the particular shape, components, and configuration of the sensor. Subcutaneous implantation may be preferred, in some cases, to limit the depth of implantation of the sensor. Sensors may also be implanted in other regions of the body to determine analyte levels in other fluids. Examples of suitable sensor for use in the analyte monitoring systems of the invention are described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/034,372 issued as U.S. Pat. No. 6,134,461, incorporated herein by reference.
One embodiment of the analyte monitoring system 40 for use with an implantable sensor 42, and particularly for use with a subcutaneously implantable sensor, is illustrated in block diagram form in
The Sensor
A sensor 42 includes at least one working electrode 58 formed on a substrate 50, as shown in
The working electrode or electrodes 58 are formed using conductive traces 52 disposed on the substrate 50. The counter electrode 60 and/or reference electrode 62, as well as other optional portions of the sensor 42, such as a temperature probe 66 (see
A sensing layer 64 (see
In addition to the electrodes 58, 60, 62 and the sensing layer 64, the sensor 42 may also include a temperature probe 66 (see
The Substrate
The substrate 50 may be formed using a variety of non-conducting materials, including, for example, polymeric or plastic materials and ceramic materials. Suitable materials for a particular sensor 42 may be determined, at least in part, based on the desired use of the sensor 42 and properties of the materials.
In some embodiments, the substrate is flexible. For example, if the sensor 42 is configured for implantation into a patient, then the sensor 42 may be made flexible (although rigid sensors may also be used for implantable sensors) to reduce pain to the patient and damage to the tissue caused by the implantation of and/or the wearing of the sensor 42. A flexible substrate 50 often increases the patient's comfort and allows a wider range of activities. Suitable materials for a flexible substrate 50 include, for example, non-conducting plastic or polymeric materials and other non-conducting, flexible, deformable materials. Examples of useful plastic or polymeric materials include thermoplastics such as polycarbonates, polyesters (e.g., Mylar™ and polyethylene terephthalate (PET)), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyurethanes, polyethers, polyamides, polyimides, or copolymers of these thermoplastics, such as PETG (glycol-modified polyethylene terephthalate).
In other embodiments, the sensors 42 are made using a relatively rigid substrate 50 to, for example, provide structural support against bending or breaking Examples of rigid materials that may be used as the substrate 50 include poorly conducting ceramics, such as aluminum oxide and silicon dioxide. One advantage of an implantable sensor 42 having a rigid substrate is that the sensor 42 may have a sharp point and/or a sharp edge to aid in implantation of a sensor 42 without an additional insertion device.
It will be appreciated that for many sensors 42 and sensor applications, both rigid and flexible sensors will operate adequately. The flexibility of the sensor 42 may also be controlled and varied along a continuum by changing, for example, the composition and/or thickness of the substrate 50.
In addition to considerations regarding flexibility, it is often desirable that implantable sensors 42 should have a substrate 50 which is non-toxic. Preferably, the substrate 50 is approved by one or more appropriate governmental agencies or private groups for in vivo use.
The sensor 42 may include optional features to facilitate insertion of an implantable sensor 42, as shown in
Although the substrate 50 in at least some embodiments has uniform dimensions along the entire length of the sensor 42, in other embodiments, the substrate 50 has a distal end 67 and a proximal end 65 with different widths 53, 55, respectively, as illustrated in
For subcutaneously implantable sensors 42 which are designed for continuous or periodic monitoring of the analyte during normal activities of the patient, a distal end 67 of the sensor 42 which is to be implanted into the patient has a width 53 of 2 mm or less, preferably 1 mm or less, and more preferably 0.5 mm or less. If the sensor 42 does not have regions of different widths, then the sensor 42 will typically have an overall width of, for example, 2 mm, 1.5 mm, 1 mm, 0.5 mm, 0.25 mm, or less. However, wider or narrower sensors may be used. In particular, wider implantable sensors may be used for insertion into veins or arteries or when the movement of the patient is limited, for example, when the patient is confined in bed or in a hospital.
Returning to
The thickness of the substrate 50 may be determined by the mechanical properties of the substrate material (e.g., the strength, modulus, and/or flexibility of the material), the desired use of the sensor 42 including stresses on the substrate 50 arising from that use, as well as the depth of any channels or indentations formed in the substrate 50, as discussed below. Typically, the substrate 50 of a subcutaneously implantable sensor 42 for continuous or periodic monitoring of the level of an analyte while the patient engages in normal activities has a thickness of 50 to 500 μm and preferably 100 to 300 μm. However, thicker and thinner substrates 50 may be used, particularly in other types of in vivo sensors 42.
The length of the sensor 42 may have a wide range of values depending on a variety of factors. Factors which influence the length of an implantable sensor 42 may include the depth of implantation into the patient and the ability of the patient to manipulate a small flexible sensor 42 and make connections between the sensor 42 and the sensor control unit 44. A subcutaneously implantable sensor 42 for the analyte monitor illustrated in
Conductive Traces
At least one conductive trace 52 is formed on the substrate for use in constructing a working electrode 58. In addition, other conductive traces 52 may be formed on the substrate 50 for use as electrodes (e.g., additional working electrodes, as well as counter, counter/reference, and/or reference electrodes) and other components, such as a temperature probe. The conductive traces 52 may extend most of the distance along a length 57 of the sensor 50, as illustrated in
The conductive traces 52 may be formed on the substrate 50 by a variety of techniques, including, for example, photolithography, screen printing, or other impact or non-impact printing techniques. The conductive traces 52 may also be formed by carbonizing conductive traces 52 in an organic (e.g., polymeric or plastic) substrate 50 using a laser. A description of some exemplary methods for forming the sensor 42 is provided in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/034,422 issued as U.S. Pat. No. 6,134,461, incorporated herein by reference.
Another method for disposing the conductive traces 52 on the substrate 50 includes the formation of recessed channels 54 in one or more surfaces of the substrate 50 and the subsequent filling of these recessed channels 54 with a conductive material 56, as shown in
The conductive traces are typically formed using a conductive material 56 such as carbon (e.g., graphite), a conductive polymer, a metal or alloy (e.g., gold or gold alloy), or a metallic compound (e.g., ruthenium dioxide or titanium dioxide). The formation of films of carbon, conductive polymer, metal, alloy, or metallic compound are well-known and include, for example, chemical vapor deposition (CVD), physical vapor deposition, sputtering, reactive sputtering, printing, coating, and painting. The conductive material 56 which fills the channels 54 is often formed using a precursor material, such as a conductive ink or paste. In these embodiments, the conductive material 56 is deposited on the substrate 50 using methods such as coating, painting, or applying the material using a spreading instrument, such as a coating blade. Excess conductive material between the channels 54 is then removed by, for example, running a blade along the substrate surface.
In one embodiment, the conductive material 56 is a part of a precursor material, such as a conductive ink, obtainable, for example, from Ercon, Inc. (Wareham, Mass.), Metech, Inc. (Elverson, Pa.), E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Co. (Wilmington, Del.), Emca-Remex Products (Montgomeryville, Pa.), or MCA Services (Melbourn, Great Britain). The conductive ink is typically applied as a semi-liquid or paste which contains particles of the carbon, metal, alloy, or metallic compound and a solvent or dispersant. After application of the conductive ink on the substrate 50 (e.g., in the channels 54), the solvent or dispersant evaporates to leave behind a solid mass of conductive material 56.
In addition to the particles of carbon, metal, alloy, or metallic compound, the conductive ink may also contain a binder. The binder may optionally be cured to further bind the conductive material 56 within the channel 54 and/or on the substrate 50. Curing the binder increases the conductivity of the conductive material 56. However, this is typically not necessary as the currents carried by the conductive material 56 within the conductive traces 52 are often relatively low (usually less than 1 μA and often less than 100 nA). Typical binders include, for example, polyurethane resins, cellulose derivatives, elastomers, and highly fluorinated polymers. Examples of elastomers include silicones, polymeric dienes, and acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) resins. One example of a fluorinated polymer binder is Teflon® (DuPont, Wilmington, Del.). These binders are cured using, for example, heat or light, including ultraviolet (UV) light. The appropriate curing method typically depends on the particular binder which is used.
Often, when a liquid or semi-liquid precursor of the conductive material 56 (e.g., a conductive ink) is deposited in the channel 54, the precursor fills the channel 54. However, when the solvent or dispersant evaporates, the conductive material 56 which remains may lose volume such that the conductive material 56 may or may not continue to fill the channel 54. Preferred conductive materials 56 do not pull away from the substrate 50 as they lose volume, but rather decrease in height within the channel 54. These conductive materials 56 typically adhere well to the substrate 50 and therefore do not pull away from the substrate 50 during evaporation of the solvent or dispersant. Other suitable conductive materials 56 either adhere to at least a portion of the substrate 50 and/or contain another additive, such as a binder, which adheres the conductive material 56 to the substrate 50. Preferably, the conductive material 56 in the channels 54 is non-leachable, and more preferably immobilized on the substrate 50. In some embodiments, the conductive material 56 may be formed by multiple applications of a liquid or semi-liquid precursor interspersed with removal of the solvent or dispersant.
In another embodiment, the channels 54 are formed using a laser. The laser carbonizes the polymer or plastic material. The carbon formed in this process is used as the conductive material 56. Additional conductive material 56, such as a conductive carbon ink, may be used to supplement the carbon formed by the laser.
In a further embodiment, the conductive traces 52 are formed by pad printing techniques. For example, a film of conductive material is formed either as a continuous film or as a coating layer deposited on a carrier film. This film of conductive material is brought between a print head and the substrate 50. A pattern on the surface of the substrate 50 is made using the print head according to a desired pattern of conductive traces 52. The conductive material is transferred by pressure and/or heat from the film of conductive material to the substrate 50. This technique often produces channels (e.g., depressions caused by the print head) in the substrate 50. Alternatively, the conductive material is deposited on the surface of the substrate 50 without forming substantial depressions.
In other embodiments, the conductive traces 52 are formed by non-impact printing techniques. Such techniques include electrophotography and magnetography. In these processes, an image of the conductive traces 52 is electrically or magnetically formed on a drum. A laser or LED may be used to electrically form an image. A magnetic recording head may be used to magnetically form an image. A toner material (e.g., a conductive material, such as a conductive ink) is then attracted to portions of the drum according to the image. The toner material is then applied to the substrate by contact between the drum and the substrate. For example, the substrate may be rolled over the drum. The toner material may then be dried and/or a binder in the toner material may be cured to adhere the toner material to the substrate.
Another non-impact printing technique includes ejecting droplets of conductive material onto the substrate in a desired pattern. Examples of this technique include ink jet printing and piezo jet printing. An image is sent to the printer which then ejects the conductive material (e.g., a conductive ink) according to the pattern. The printer may provide a continuous stream of conductive material or the printer may eject the conductive material in discrete amounts at the desired points.
Yet another non-impact printing embodiment of forming the conductive traces includes an ionographic process. In the this process, a curable, liquid precursor, such as a photopolymerizable acrylic resin (e.g., Solimer 7501 from Cubital, Bad Kreuznach, Germany) is deposited over a surface of a substrate 50. A photomask having a positive or negative image of the conductive traces 52 is then used to cure the liquid precursor. Light (e.g., visible or ultraviolet light) is directed through the photomask to cure the liquid precursor and form a solid layer over the substrate according to the image on the photomask. Uncured liquid precursor is removed leaving behind channels 54 in the solid layer. These channels 54 can then be filled with conductive material 56 to form conductive traces 52.
Conductive traces 52 (and channels 54, if used) can be formed with relatively narrow widths, for example, in the range of 25 to 250 μm, and including widths of, for example, 250 μm, 150 μm, 100 μm, 75 μm, 50 μm, 25 μm or less by the methods described above. In embodiments with two or more conductive traces 52 on the same side of the substrate 50, the conductive traces 52 are separated by distances sufficient to prevent conduction between the conductive traces 52. The edge-to-edge distance between the conductive traces is preferably in the range of 25 to 250 μm and may be, for example, 150 μm, 100 μm, 75 μm, 50 μm, or less. The density of the conductive traces 52 on the substrate 50 is preferably in the range of about 150 to 700 μm/trace and may be as small as 667 μm/trace or less, 333 μm/trace or less, or even 167 μm/trace or less.
The working electrode 58 and the counter electrode 60 (if a separate reference electrode is used) are often made using a conductive material 56, such as carbon. Suitable carbon conductive inks are available from Ercon, Inc. (Wareham, Mass.), Metech, Inc. (Elverson, Pa.), E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Co. (Wilmington, Del.), Emca-Remex Products (Montgomeryville, Pa.), or MCA Services (Melbourn, Great Britain). Typically, the working surface 51 of the working electrode 58 is at least a portion of the conductive trace 52 that is in contact with the analyte-containing fluid (e.g., implanted in the patient).
The reference electrode 62 and/or counter/reference electrode are typically formed using conductive material 56 that is a suitable reference material, for example silver/silver chloride or a non-leachable redox couple bound to a conductive material, for example, a carbon-bound redox couple. Suitable silver/silver chloride conductive inks are available from Ercon, Inc. (Wareham, Mass.), Metech, Inc. (Elverson, Pa.), E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Co. (Wilmington, Del.), Emca-Remex Products (Montgomeryville, Pa.), or MCA Services (Melbourn, Great Britain). Silver/silver chloride electrodes illustrate a type of reference electrode that involves the reaction of a metal electrode with a constituent of the sample or body fluid, in this case, Cl−.
Suitable redox couples for binding to the conductive material of the reference electrode include, for example, redox polymers (e.g., polymers having multiple redox centers.) It is preferred that the reference electrode surface be non-corroding so that an erroneous potential is not measured. Preferred conductive materials include less corrosive metals, such as gold and palladium. Most preferred are non-corrosive materials including non-metallic conductors, such as carbon and conducting polymers. A redox polymer can be adsorbed on or covalently bound to the conductive material of the reference electrode, such as a carbon surface of a conductive trace 52. Non-polymeric redox couples can be similarly bound to carbon or gold surfaces.
A variety of methods may be used to immobilize a redox polymer on an electrode surface. One method is adsorptive immobilization. This method is particularly useful for redox polymers with relatively high molecular weights. The molecular weight of a polymer may be increased, for example, by cross-linking.
Another method for immobilizing the redox polymer includes the functionalization of the electrode surface and then the chemical bonding, often covalently, of the redox polymer to the functional groups on the electrode surface. One example of this type of immobilization begins with a poly(4-vinylpyridine). The polymer's pyridine rings are, in part, complexed with a reducible/oxidizable species, such as [Os(bpy)2Cl]+/2+ where bpy is 2,2′-bipyridine. Part of the pyridine rings are quaternized by reaction with 2-bromoethylamine. The polymer is then crosslinked, for example, using a diepoxide, such as polyethylene glycol diglycidyl ether.
Carbon surfaces can be modified for attachment of a redox species or polymer, for example, by electroreduction of a diazonium salt. As an illustration, reduction of a diazonium salt formed upon diazotization of p-aminobenzoic acid modifies a carbon surface with phenylcarboxylic acid functional groups. These functional groups can then be activated by a carbodiimide, such as 1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)-carbodiimide hydrochloride. The activated functional groups are then bound with a amine-functionalized redox couple, such as the quaternized osmium-containing redox polymer described above or 2-aminoethylferrocene, to form the redox couple.
Similarly, gold can be functionalized by an amine, such as cystamine. A redox couple such as [Os(bpy)2(pyridine-4-carboxylate)Cl]0/+ is activated by 1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)-carbodiimide hydrochloride to form a reactive O-acylisourea which reacts with the gold-bound amine to form an amide.
In one embodiment, in addition to using the conductive traces 52 as electrodes or probe leads, two or more of the conductive traces 52 on the substrate 50 are used to give the patient a mild electrical shock when, for example, the analyte level exceeds a threshold level. This shock may act as a warning or alarm to the patient to initiate some action to restore the appropriate level of the analyte.
The mild electrical shock is produced by applying a potential between any two conductive traces 52 that are not otherwise connected by a conductive path. For example, two of the electrodes 58, 60, 62 or one electrode 58, 60, 62 and the temperature probe 66 may be used to provide the mild shock. Preferably, the working electrode 58 and the reference electrode 62 are not used for this purpose as this may cause some damage to the chemical components on or proximate to the particular electrode (e.g., the sensing layer on the working electrode or the redox couple on the reference electrode).
The current used to produce the mild shock is typically 0.1 to 1 mA. Higher or lower currents may be used, although care should be taken to avoid harm to the patient. The potential between the conductive traces is typically 1 to 10 volts. However, higher or lower voltages may be used depending, for example, on the resistance of the conductive traces 52, the distance between the conductive traces 52 and the desired amount of current. When the mild shock is delivered, potentials at the working electrode 58 and across the temperature probe 66 may be removed to prevent harm to those components caused by unwanted conduction between the working electrode 58 (and/or temperature probe 66, if used) and the conductive traces 52 which provide the mild shock.
Contact Pads
Typically, each of the conductive traces 52 includes a contact pad 49. The contact pad 49 may simply be a portion of the conductive trace 52 that is indistinguishable from the rest of the trace 52 except that the contact pad 49 is brought into contact with the conductive contacts of a control unit (e.g., the sensor control unit 44 of
The contact pads 49 are typically made using the same material as the conductive material 56 of the conductive traces 52. However, this is not necessary. Although metal, alloys, and metallic compounds may be used to form the contact pads 49, in some embodiments, it is desirable to make the contact pads 49 from a carbon or other non-metallic material, such as a conducting polymer. In contrast to metal or alloy contact pads, carbon and other non-metallic contact pads are not easily corroded if the contact pads 49 are in a wet, moist, or humid environment. Metals and alloys may corrode under these conditions, particularly if the contact pads 49 and contacts of the control unit are made using different metals or alloys. However, carbon and non-metallic contact pads 49 do not significantly corrode, even if the contacts of the control device are metal or alloy.
One embodiment of the invention includes a sensor 42 having contact pads 49 and a control unit 44 having conductive contacts (not shown). During operation of the sensor 42, the contact pads 49 and conductive contacts are in contact with each other. In this embodiment, either the contact pads 49 or the conductive contacts are made using a non-corroding, conductive material. Such materials include, for example, carbon and conducting polymers. Preferred non-corroding materials include graphite and vitreous carbon. The opposing contact pad or conductive contact is made using carbon, a conducting polymer, a metal, such as gold, palladium, or platinum group metal, or a metallic compound, such as ruthenium dioxide. This configuration of contact pads and conductive contacts typically reduces corrosion. Preferably, when the sensor is placed in a 3 mM, and more preferably, in a 100 mM, NaCl solution, the signal arising due to the corrosion of the contact pads and/or conductive contacts is less than 3% of the signal generated by the sensor when exposed to concentration of analyte in the normal physiological range. For at least some subcutaneous glucose sensors, the current generated by analyte in a normal physiological range ranges from 3 to 500 nA.
Each of the electrodes 58, 60, 62, as well as the two probe leads 68, 70 of the temperature probe 66 (described below), are connected to contact pads 49 as shown in
In other embodiments, the conductive traces 52 on at least one side are connected through vias in the substrate to contact pads 49a on the opposite surface of the substrate 50, as shown in
In yet other embodiments (not shown), vias through the substrate are used to provide contact pads on both sides of the substrate 50 for each conductive trace 52. The vias connecting the conductive traces 52 with the contact pads 49a can be formed by making holes through the substrate 50 at the appropriate points and then filling the holes with conductive material 56.
Exemplary Electrode Configurations
A number of exemplary electrode configurations are described below, however, it will be understood that other configurations may also be used. In one embodiment, illustrated in
Alternatively, one or more of the electrodes may be formed on an opposing side of the substrate 50. This may be convenient if the electrodes are formed using two different types of conductive material 56 (e.g., carbon and silver/silver chloride). Then, at least in some embodiments, only one type of conductive material 56 needs to be applied to each side of the substrate 50, thereby reducing the number of steps in the manufacturing process and/or easing the registration constraints in the process. For example, if the working electrode 58 is formed using a carbon-based conductive material 56 and the reference or counter/reference electrode is formed using a silver/silver chloride conductive material 56, then the working electrode and reference or counter/reference electrode may be formed on opposing sides of the substrate 50 for case of manufacture.
In another embodiment, two working electrodes 58 and one counter electrode 60 are formed on one side of the substrate 50 and one reference electrode 62 and a temperature probe 66 are formed on an opposing side of the substrate 50, as illustrated in
Sensing Layer
Some analytes, such as oxygen, can be directly electrooxidized or electroreduced on the working electrode 58. Other analytes, such as glucose and lactate, require the presence of at least one electron transfer agent and/or at least one catalyst to facilitate the electrooxidation or electroreduction of the analyte. Catalysts may also be used for those analyte, such as oxygen, that can be directly electrooxidized or electroreduced on the working electrode 58. For these analytes, each working electrode 58 has a sensing layer 64 formed proximate to or on a working surface of the working electrode 58. Typically, the sensing layer 64 is formed near or on only a small portion of the working electrode 58, often near a tip of the sensor 42. This limits the amount of material needed to form the sensor 42 and places the sensing layer 64 in the best position for contact with the analyte-containing fluid (e.g., a body fluid, sample fluid, or carrier fluid).
The sensing layer 64 includes one or more components designed to facilitate the electrolysis of the analyte. The sensing layer 64 may include, for example, a catalyst to catalyze a reaction of the analyte and produce a response at the working electrode 58, an electron transfer agent to indirectly or directly transfer electrons between the analyte and the working electrode 58, or both.
The sensing layer 64 may be formed as a solid composition of the desired components (e.g., an electron transfer agent and/or a catalyst). These components are preferably non-leachable from the sensor 42 and more preferably are immobilized on the sensor 42. For example, the components may be immobilized on a working electrode 58. Alternatively, the components of the sensing layer 64 may be immobilized within or between one or more membranes or films disposed over the working electrode 58 or the components may be immobilized in a polymeric or sol-gel matrix. Examples of immobilized sensing layers are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,262,035, 5,264,104, 5,264,105, 5,320,725, 5,593,852, and 5,665,222, and PCT Patent Application No. US98/02403 entitled “Soybean Peroxidase Electrochemical Sensor”, filed on Feb. 11, 1998, published as WO-1998/035053, incorporated herein by reference.
In some embodiments, one or more of the components of the sensing layer 64 may be solvated, dispersed, or suspended in a fluid within the sensing layer 64, instead of forming a solid composition. The fluid may be provided with the sensor 42 or may be absorbed by the sensor 42 from the analyte-containing fluid. Preferably, the components which are solvated, dispersed, or suspended in this type of sensing layer 64 are non-leachable from the sensing layer. Non-leachability may be accomplished, for example, by providing barriers (e.g., the electrode, substrate, membranes, and/or films) around the sensing layer which prevent the leaching of the components of the sensing layer 64. One example of such a barrier is a microporous membrane or film which allows diffusion of the analyte into the sensing layer 64 to make contact with the components of the sensing layer 64, but reduces or eliminates the diffusion of the sensing layer components (e.g., a electron transfer agent and/or a catalyst) out of the sensing layer 64.
A variety of different sensing layer configurations can be used. In one embodiment, the sensing layer 64 is deposited on the conductive material 56 of a working electrode 58a, as illustrated in
A sensing layer 64 in direct contact with the working electrode 58a may contain an electron transfer agent to transfer electrons directly or indirectly between the analyte and the working electrode, as well as a catalyst to facilitate a reaction of the analyte. For example, a glucose, lactate, or oxygen electrode may be formed having a sensing layer which contains a catalyst, such as glucose oxidase, lactate oxidase, or laccase, respectively, and an electron transfer agent that facilitates the electrooxidation of the glucose, lactate, or oxygen, respectively.
In another embodiment, the sensing layer 64 is not deposited directly on the working electrode 58a. Instead, the sensing layer 64 is spaced apart from the working electrode 58a, as illustrated in
Typically, a sensing layer 64, which is not in direct contact with the working electrode 58a, includes a catalyst that facilitates a reaction of the analyte. However, this sensing layer 64 typically does not include an electron transfer agent that transfers electrons directly from the working electrode 58a to the analyte, as the sensing layer 64 is spaced apart from the working electrode 58a. One example of this type of sensor is a glucose or lactate sensor which includes an enzyme (e.g., glucose oxidase or lactate oxidase, respectively) in the sensing layer 64. The glucose or lactate reacts with a second compound (e.g., oxygen) in the presence of the enzyme. The second compound is then electrooxidized or electroreduced at the electrode. Changes in the signal at the electrode indicate changes in the level of the second compound in the fluid and are proportional to changes in glucose or lactate level and, thus, correlate to the analyte level.
In another embodiment, two sensing layers 63, 64 are used, as shown in
For example, a glucose or lactate sensor may include a first sensing layer 64 which is spaced apart from the working electrode and contains an enzyme, for example, glucose oxidase or lactate oxidase. The reaction of glucose or lactate in the presence of the appropriate enzyme forms hydrogen peroxide. A second sensing layer 63 is provided directly on the working electrode 58a and contains a peroxidase enzyme and an electron transfer agent to generate a signal at the electrode in response to the hydrogen peroxide. The level of hydrogen peroxide indicated by the sensor then correlates to the level of glucose or lactate. Another sensor which operates similarly can be made using a single sensing layer with both the glucose or lactate oxidase and the peroxidase being deposited in the single sensing layer. Examples of such sensors are described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,593,852, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/540,789 issued as U.S. Pat. No. 5,665,222, and PCT Patent Application No. US98/02403 entitled “Soybean Peroxidase Electrochemical Sensor”, filed on Feb. 11, 1998, published as WO-1998/035053, incorporated herein by reference.
In some embodiments, one or more of the working electrodes 58b do not have a corresponding sensing layer 64, as shown in
Sensors having multiple working electrodes 58a may also be used to obtain more precise results by averaging the signals or measurements generated at these working electrodes 58a. In addition, multiple readings at a single working electrode 58a or at multiple working electrodes may be averaged to obtain more precise data.
Electron Transfer Agent
In many embodiments, the sensing layer 64 contains one or more electron transfer agents in contact with the conductive material 56 of the working electrode 58, as shown in
In some embodiments of the invention, to prevent leaching, the electron transfer agents are bound or otherwise immobilized on the working electrode 58 or between or within one or more membranes or films disposed over the working electrode 58. The electron transfer agent may be immobilized on the working electrode 58 using, for example, a polymeric or sol-gel immobilization technique. Alternatively, the electron transfer agent may be chemically (e.g., ionically, covalently, or coordinatively) bound to the working electrode 58, either directly or indirectly through another molecule, such as a polymer, that is in turn bound to the working electrode 58.
Application of the sensing layer 64 on a working electrode 58a is one method for creating a working surface for the working electrode 58a, as shown in
In general, the preferred electron transfer agents are electroreducible and electrooxidizable ions or molecules having redox potentials that are a few hundred millivolts above or below the redox potential of the standard calomel electrode (SCE). Preferably, the electron transfer agents are not more reducing than about −150 mV and not more oxidizing than about +400 mV versus SCE.
The electron transfer agent may be organic, organometallic, or inorganic. Examples of organic redox species are quinones and species that in their oxidized state have quinoid structures, such as Nile blue and indophenol. Some quinones and partially oxidized quinhydrones react with functional groups of proteins such as the thiol groups of cysteine, the amine groups of lysine and arginine, and the phenolic groups of tyrosine which may render those redox species unsuitable for some of the sensors of the present invention because of the presence of the interfering proteins in an analyte-containing fluid. Usually substituted quinones and molecules with quinoid structure are less reactive with proteins and are preferred. A preferred tetrasubstituted quinone usually has carbon atoms in positions 1,2,3, and 4.
In general, electron transfer agents suitable for use in the invention have structures or charges which prevent or substantially reduce the diffusional loss of the electron transfer agent during the period of time that the sample is being analyzed. The preferred electron transfer agents include a redox species bound to a polymer which can in turn be immobilized on the working electrode. The bond between the redox species and the polymer may be covalent, coordinative, or ionic. Useful electron transfer agents and methods for producing them are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,264,104; 5,356,786; 5,262,035; and 5,320,725, incorporated herein by reference. Although any organic or organometallic redox species can be bound to a polymer and used as an electron transfer agent, the preferred redox species is a transition metal compound or complex. The preferred transition metal compounds or complexes include osmium, ruthenium, iron, and cobalt compounds or complexes. The most preferred are osmium compounds and complexes. It will be recognized that many of the redox species described below may also be used, typically without a polymeric component, as electron transfer agents in a carrier fluid or in a sensing layer of a sensor where leaching of the electron transfer agent is acceptable.
One type of non-releasable polymeric electron transfer agent contains a redox species covalently bound in a polymeric composition. An example of this type of mediator is poly(vinylferrocene).
Another type of non-releasable electron transfer agent contains an ionically-bound redox species. Typically, this type of mediator includes a charged polymer coupled to an oppositely charged redox species. Examples of this type of mediator include a negatively charged polymer such as Nafion® (DuPont) coupled to a positively charged redox species such as an osmium or ruthenium polypyridyl cation. Another example of an ionically-bound mediator is a positively charged polymer such as quaternized poly(4-vinyl pyridine) or poly(1-vinyl imidazole) coupled to a negatively charged redox species such as ferricyanide or ferrocyanide. The preferred ionically-bound redox species is a highly charged redox species bound within an oppositely charged redox polymer.
In another embodiment of the invention, suitable non-releasable electron transfer agents include a redox species coordinatively bound to a polymer. For example, the mediator may be formed by coordination of an osmium or cobalt 2,2′-bipyridyl complex to poly(1-vinyl imidazole) or poly(4-vinyl pyridine).
The preferred electron transfer agents are osmium transition metal complexes with one or more ligands, each ligand having a nitrogen-containing heterocycle such as 2,2′-bipyridine, 1,10-phenanthroline, or derivatives thereof. Furthermore, the preferred electron transfer agents also have one or more ligands covalently bound in a polymer, each ligand having at least one nitrogen-containing heterocycle, such as pyridine, imidazole, or derivatives thereof. These preferred electron transfer agents exchange electrons rapidly between each other and the working electrodes 58 so that the complex can be rapidly oxidized and reduced.
One example of a particularly useful electron transfer agent includes (a) a polymer or copolymer having pyridine or imidazole functional groups and (b) osmium cations complexed with two ligands, each ligand containing 2,2′-bipyridine, 1,10-phenanthroline, or derivatives thereof, the two ligands not necessarily being the same. Preferred derivatives of 2,2′-bipyridine for complexation with the osmium cation are 4,4′-dimethyl-2,2′-bipyridine and mono-, di-, and polyalkoxy-2,2′-bipyridines, such as 4,4′-dimethoxy-2,2′-bipyridine. Preferred derivatives of 1,10-phenanthroline for complexation with the osmium cation are 4,7-dimethyl-1,10-phenanthroline and mono, di-, and polyalkoxy-1,10-phenanthrolines, such as 4,7-dimethoxy-1,10-phenanthroline. Preferred polymers for complexation with the osmium cation include polymers and copolymers of poly(1-vinyl imidazole) (referred to as “PVI”) and poly(4-vinyl pyridine) (referred to as “PVP”). Suitable copolymer substituents of poly(1-vinyl imidazole) include acrylonitrile, acrylamide, and substituted or quaternized N-vinyl imidazole. Most preferred are electron transfer agents with osmium complexed to a polymer or copolymer of poly(1-vinyl imidazole).
The preferred electron transfer agents have a redox potential ranging from −100 mV to about +150 mV versus the standard calomel electrode (SCE). Preferably, the potential of the electron transfer agent ranges from −100 mV to +150 mV and more preferably, the potential ranges from −50 mV to +50 mV. The most preferred electron transfer agents have osmium redox centers and a redox potential ranging from +50 mV to −150 mV versus SCE.
Catalyst
The sensing layer 64 may also include a catalyst which is capable of catalyzing a reaction of the analyte. The catalyst may also, in some embodiments, act as an electron transfer agent. One example of a suitable catalyst is an enzyme which catalyzes a reaction of the analyte. For example, a catalyst, such as a glucose oxidase, glucose dehydrogenase (e.g., pyrroloquinoline quinone glucose dehydrogenase (PQQ)), or oligosaccharide dehydrogenase, may be used when the analyte is glucose. A lactate oxidase or lactate dehydrogenase may be used when the analyte is lactate. Laccase may be used when the analyte is oxygen or when oxygen is generated or consumed in response to a reaction of the analyte.
Preferably, the catalyst is non-leachably disposed on the sensor, whether the catalyst is part of a solid sensing layer in the sensor or solvated in a fluid within the sensing layer. More preferably, the catalyst is immobilized within the sensor (e.g., on the electrode and/or within or between a membrane or film) to prevent unwanted leaching of the catalyst away from the working electrode 58 and into the patient. This may be accomplished, for example, by attaching the catalyst to a polymer, cross linking the catalyst with another electron transfer agent (which, as described above, can be polymeric), and/or providing one or more barrier membranes or films with pore sizes smaller than the catalyst.
As described above, a second catalyst may also be used. This second catalyst is often used to catalyze a reaction of a product compound resulting from the catalyzed reaction of the analyte. The second catalyst typically operates with an electron transfer agent to electrolyze the product compound to generate a signal at the working electrode. Alternatively, the second catalyst may be provided in an interferent-eliminating layer to catalyze reactions that remove interferents, as described below.
One embodiment of the invention is an electrochemical sensor in which the catalyst is mixed or dispersed in the conductive material 56 which forms the conductive trace 52 of a working electrode 58. This may be accomplished, for example, by mixing a catalyst, such as an enzyme, in a carbon ink and applying the mixture into a channel 54 on the surface of the substrate 50. Preferably, the catalyst is immobilized in the channel 53 so that it can not leach away from the working electrode 58. This may be accomplished, for example, by curing a binder in the carbon ink using a curing technique appropriate to the binder. Curing techniques include, for example, evaporation of a solvent or dispersant, exposure to ultraviolet light, or exposure to heat. Typically, the mixture is applied under conditions that do not substantially degrade the catalyst. For example, the catalyst may be an enzyme that is heat-sensitive. The enzyme and conductive material mixture should be applied and cured, preferably, without sustained periods of heating. The mixture may be cured using evaporation or UV curing techniques or by the exposure to heat that is sufficiently short that the catalyst is not substantially degraded.
Another consideration for in vivo analyte sensors is the thermostability of the catalyst. Many enzymes have only limited stability at biological temperatures. Thus, it may be necessary to use large amounts of the catalyst and/or use a catalyst that is thermostable at the necessary temperature (e.g., 37.degree. C. or higher for normal body temperature). A thermostable catalyst may be defined as a catalyst which loses less than 5% of its activity when held at 37.degree. C. for at least one hour, preferably, at least one day, and more preferably at least three days. One example of a thermostable catalyst is soybean peroxidase. This particular thermostable catalyst may be used in a glucose or lactate sensor when combined either in the same or separate sensing layers with glucose or lactate oxidase or dehydrogenase. A further description of thermostable catalysts and their use in electrochemical inventions is found in U.S. Pat. No. 5,665,222, and PCT Application No. US98/02403 entitled “Soybean Peroxidase Electrochemical Sensor”, filed on Feb. 11, 1998, published as WO-1998/035053.
Electrolysis of the Analyte
To electrolyze the analyte, a potential (versus a reference potential) is applied across the working and counter electrodes 58, 60. The minimum magnitude of the applied potential is often dependent on the particular electron transfer agent, analyte (if the analyte is directly electrolyzed at the electrode), or second compound (if a second compound, such as oxygen or hydrogen peroxide, whose level is dependent on the analyte level, is directly electrolyzed at the electrode). The applied potential usually equals or is more oxidizing or reducing, depending on the desired electrochemical reaction, than the redox potential of the electron transfer agent, analyte, or second compound, whichever is directly electrolyzed at the electrode. The potential at the working electrode is typically large enough to drive the electrochemical reaction to or near completion.
The magnitude of the potential may optionally be limited to prevent significant (as determined by the current generated in response to the analyte) electrochemical reaction of interferents, such as urate, ascorbate, and acetaminophen. The limitation of the potential may be obviated if these interferents have been removed in another way, such as by providing an interferent-limiting barrier, as described below, or by including a working electrode 58b (see
When a potential is applied between the working electrode 58 and the counter electrode 60, an electrical current will flow. The current is a result of the electrolysis of the analyte or a second compound whose level is affected by the analyte. In one embodiment, the electrochemical reaction occurs via an electron transfer agent and the optional catalyst. Many analytes B are oxidized (or reduced) to products C by an electron transfer agent species A in the presence of an appropriate catalyst (e.g., an enzyme). The electron transfer agent A is then oxidized (or reduced) at the electrode. Electrons are collected by (or removed from) the electrode and the resulting current is measured. This process is illustrated by reaction equations (1) and (2) (similar equations may be written for the reduction of the analyte B by a redox mediator A in the presence of a catalyst):
As an example, an electrochemical sensor may be based on the reaction of a glucose molecule with two non-leachable ferricyanide anions in the presence of glucose oxidase to produce two non-leachable ferrocyanide anions, two hydrogen ions, and gluconolactone. The amount of glucose present is assayed by electrooxidizing the non-leachable ferrocyanide anions to non-leachable ferricyanide anions and measuring the current.
In another embodiment, a second compound whose level is affected by the analyte is electrolyzed at the working electrode. In some cases, the analyte D and the second compound, in this case, a reactant compound E, such as oxygen, react in the presence of the catalyst, as shown in reaction equation (3).
The reactant compound E is then directly oxidized (or reduced) at the working electrode, as shown in reaction equation (4)
Alternatively, the reactant compound E is indirectly oxidized (or reduced) using an electron transfer agent H (optionally in the presence of a catalyst), that is subsequently reduced or oxidized at the electrode, as shown in reaction equations (5) and (6).
In either case, changes in the concentration of the reactant compound, as indicated by the signal at the working electrode, correspond inversely to changes in the analyte (i.e., as the level of analyte increase then the level of reactant compound and the signal at the electrode decreases.)
In other embodiments, the relevant second compound is a product compound F, as shown in reaction equation (3). The product compound F is formed by the catalyzed reaction of analyte D and then be directly electrolyzed at the electrode or indirectly electrolyzed using an electron transfer agent and, optionally, a catalyst. In these embodiments, the signal arising from the direct or indirect electrolysis of the product compound F at the working electrode corresponds directly to the level of the analyte (unless there are other sources of the product compound). As the level of analyte increases, the level of the product compound and signal at the working electrode increases.
Those skilled in the art will recognize that there are many different reactions that will achieve the same result; namely the electrolysis of an analyte or a compound whose level depends on the level of the analyte. Reaction equations (1) through (6) illustrate non-limiting examples of such reactions.
Temperature Probe
A variety of optional items may be included in the sensor. One optional item is a temperature probe 66 (
The two probe leads 68, 70 are typically formed using a metal, an alloy, a semimetal, such as graphite, a degenerate or highly doped semiconductor, or a small-band gap semiconductor. Examples of suitable materials include gold, silver, ruthenium oxide, titanium nitride, titanium dioxide, indium doped tin oxide, tin doped indium oxide, or graphite. The temperature-dependent element 72 is typically made using a fine trace (e.g., a conductive trace that has a smaller cross-section than that of the probe leads 68, 70) of the same conductive material as the probe leads, or another material such as a carbon ink, a carbon fiber, or platinum, which has a temperature-dependent characteristic, such as resistance, that provides a temperature-dependent signal when a voltage source is attached to the two probe leads 68, 70 of the temperature probe 66. The temperature-dependent characteristic of the temperature-dependent element 72 may either increase or decrease with temperature. Preferably, the temperature dependence of the characteristic of the temperature-dependent element 72 is approximately linear with temperature over the expected range of biological temperatures (about 25 to 45° C.), although this is not required.
Typically, a signal (e.g., a current) having an amplitude or other property that is a function of the temperature can be obtained by providing a potential across the two probe leads 68, 70 of the temperature probe 66. As the temperature changes, the temperature-dependent characteristic of the temperature-dependent element 72 increases or decreases with a corresponding change in the signal amplitude. The signal from the temperature probe 66 (e.g., the amount of current flowing through the probe) may be combined with the signal obtained from the working electrode 58 by, for example, scaling the temperature probe signal and then adding or subtracting the scaled temperature probe signal from the signal at the working electrode 58. In this manner, the temperature probe 66 can provide a temperature adjustment for the output from the working electrode 58 to offset the temperature dependence of the working electrode 58.
One embodiment of the temperature probe includes probe leads 68, 70 formed as two spaced-apart channels with a temperature-dependent element 72 formed as a cross-channel connecting the two spaced-apart channels, as illustrated in
One exemplary method for forming this particular temperature probe includes forming the two spaced-apart channels and then filling them with the metallic or alloyed conductive material. Next, the cross-channel is formed and then filled with the desired material. The material in the cross-channel overlaps with the conductive material in each of the two spaced-apart channels to form an electrical connection.
For proper operation of the temperature probe 66, the temperature-dependent element 72 of the temperature probe 66 can not be shorted by conductive material formed between the two probe leads 68, 70. In addition, to prevent conduction between the two probe leads 68, 70 by ionic species within the body or sample fluid, a covering may be provided over the temperature-dependent element 72, and preferably over the portion of the probe leads 68, 70 that is implanted in the patient. The covering may be, for example, a non-conducting film disposed over the temperature-dependent element 72 and probe leads 68, 70 to prevent the ionic conduction. Suitable non-conducting films include, for example, Kapton™ polyimide films (DuPont, Wilmington, Del.).
Another method for eliminating or reducing conduction by ionic species in the body or sample fluid is to use an ac voltage source connected to the probe leads 68, 70. In this way, the positive and negative ionic species are alternately attracted and repelled during each half cycle of the ac voltage. This results in no net attraction of the ions in the body or sample fluid to the temperature probe 66. The maximum amplitude of the ac current through the temperature-dependent element 72 may then be used to correct the measurements from the working electrodes 58.
The temperature probe can be placed on the same substrate as the electrodes. Alternatively, a temperature probe may be placed on a separate substrate. In addition, the temperature probe may be used by itself or in conjunction with other devices.
Another embodiment of a temperature probe utilizes the temperature dependence of the conductivity of a solution (e.g., blood or interstitial fluid). Typically, the conductivity of an electrolyte-containing solution is dependent on the temperature of the solution, assuming that the concentration of electrolytes is relatively constant. Blood, interstitial fluid, and other bodily fluids are solutions with relatively constant levels of electrolytes. Thus, a sensor 42 can include two or more conductive traces (not shown) which are spaced apart by a known distance. A portion of these conductive traces is exposed to the solution and the conductivity between the exposed portions of the conductive traces is measured using known techniques (e.g., application of a constant or known current or potential and measurement of the resulting potential or current, respectively, to determine the conductivity).
A change in conductivity is related to a change in temperature. This relation can be modeled using linear, quadratic, exponential, or other relations. The parameters for this relationship typically do not vary significantly between most people. The calibration for the temperature probe can be determined by a variety of methods, including, for example, calibration of each sensor 42 using an independent method of determining temperature (e.g., a thermometer, an optical or electrical temperature detector, or the temperature probe 66, described above) or calibrating one sensor 42 and using that calibration for all other sensors in a batch based on uniformity in geometry.
Biocompatible Layer
An optional film layer 74 is formed over at least that portion of the sensor 42 which is subcutaneously inserted into the patient, as shown in
For example, the sensor may be completely or partially coated on its exterior with a biocompatible coating. A preferred biocompatible coating is a hydrogel which contains at least 20 wt. % fluid when in equilibrium with the analyte-containing fluid. Examples of suitable hydrogels are described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,593,852, incorporated herein by reference, and include crosslinked polyethylene oxides, such as polyethylene oxide tetraacrylate.
Interferent-Eliminating Layer
An interferent-eliminating layer (not shown) may be included in the sensor 42. The interferent-eliminating layer may be incorporated in the biocompatible layer 75 or in the mass transport limiting layer 74 (described below) or may be a separate layer. Interferents are molecules or other species that are electroreduced or electrooxidized at the electrode, either directly or via an electron transfer agent, to produce a false signal. In one embodiment, a film or membrane prevents the penetration of one or more interferents into the region around the working electrodes 58. Preferably, this type of interferent-eliminating layer is much less permeable to one or more of the interferents than to the analyte.
The interferent-eliminating layer may include ionic components, such as Nafion® incorporated into a polymeric matrix to reduce the permeability of the interferent-eliminating layer to ionic interferents having the same charge as the ionic components. For example, negatively charged compounds or compounds that form negative ions may be incorporated in the interferent-eliminating layer to reduce the permeation of negative species in the body or sample fluid.
Another example of an interferent-eliminating layer includes a catalyst for catalyzing a reaction which removes interferents. One example of such a catalyst is a peroxidase. Hydrogen peroxide reacts with interferents, such as acetaminophen, urate, and ascorbate. The hydrogen peroxide may be added to the analyte-containing fluid or may be generated in situ, by, for example, the reaction of glucose or lactate in the presence of glucose oxidase or lactate oxidase, respectively. Examples of interferent eliminating layers include a peroxidase enzyme crosslinked (a) using gluteraldehyde as a crosslinking agent or (b) oxidation of oligosaccharide groups in the peroxidase glycoenzyme with NaIO4, followed by coupling of the aldehydes formed to hydrazide groups in a polyacrylamide matrix to form hydrazones are describe in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,262,305 and 5,356,786, incorporated herein by reference.
Mass Transport Limiting Layer
A mass transport limiting layer 74 may be included with the sensor to act as a diffusion-limiting barrier to reduce the rate of mass transport of the analyte, for example, glucose or lactate, into the region around the working electrodes 58. By limiting the diffusion of the analyte, the steady state concentration of the analyte in the proximity of the working electrode 58 (which is proportional to the concentration of the analyte in the body or sample fluid) can be reduced. This extends the upper range of analyte concentrations that can still be accurately measured and may also expand the range in which the current increases approximately linearly with the level of the analyte.
It is preferred that the permeability of the analyte through the film layer 74 vary little or not at all with temperature, so as to reduce or eliminate the variation of current with temperature. For this reason, it is preferred that in the biologically relevant temperature range from about 25° C. to about 45° C., and most importantly from 30° C. to 40° C., neither the size of the pores in the film nor its hydration or swelling change excessively. Preferably, the mass transport limiting layer is made using a film that absorbs less than 5 wt. % of fluid over 24 hours. This may reduce or obviate any need for a temperature probe. For implantable sensors, it is preferable that the mass transport limiting layer is made using a film that absorbs less than 5 wt. % of fluid over 24 hours at 37° C.
Particularly useful materials for the film layer 74 are membranes that do not swell in the analyte-containing fluid that the sensor tests. Suitable membranes include 3 to 20,000 nm diameter pores. Membranes having 5 to 500 nm diameter pores with well-defined, uniform pore sizes and high aspect ratios are preferred. In one embodiment, the aspect ratio of the pores is preferably two or greater and more preferably five or greater.
Well-defined and uniform pores can be made by track etching a polymeric membrane using accelerated electrons, ions, or particles emitted by radioactive nuclei. Most preferred are anisotropic, polymeric, track etched membranes that expand less in the direction perpendicular to the pores than in the direction of the pores when heated. Suitable polymeric membranes included polycarbonate membranes from Poretics (Livermore, Calif., catalog number 19401, 0.01 μm pore size polycarbonate membrane) and Corning Costar Corp. (Cambridge, Mass., Nucleopore™ brand membranes with 0.015 μm pore size). Other polyolefin and polyester films may be used. It is preferred that the permeability of the mass transport limiting membrane changes no more than 4%, preferably, no more than 3%, and, more preferably, no more than 2%, per ° C. in the range from 30° C. to 40° C. when the membranes resides in the subcutaneous interstitial fluid.
In some embodiments of the invention, the mass transport limiting layer 74 may also limit the flow of oxygen into the sensor 42. This can improve the stability of sensors 42 that are used in situations where variation in the partial pressure of oxygen causes non-linearity in sensor response. In these embodiments, the mass transport limiting layer 74 restricts oxygen transport by at least 40%, preferably at least 60%, and more preferably at least 80%, than the membrane restricts transport of the analyte. For a given type of polymer, films having a greater density (e.g., a density closer to that of the crystalline polymer) are preferred. Polyesters, such as polyethylene terephthalate, are typically less permeable to oxygen and are, therefore, preferred over polycarbonate membranes.
Anticlotting Agent
An implantable sensor may also, optionally, have an anticlotting agent disposed on a portion the substrate which is implanted into a patient. This anticlotting agent may reduce or eliminate the clotting of blood or other body fluid around the sensor, particularly after insertion of the sensor. Blood clots may foul the sensor or irreproducibly reduce the amount of analyte which diffuses into the sensor. Examples of useful anticlotting agents include heparin and tissue plasminogen activator (TPA), as well as other known anticlotting agents.
The anticlotting agent may be applied to at least a portion of that part of the sensor 42 that is to be implanted. The anticlotting agent may be applied, for example, by bath, spraying, brushing, or dipping. The anticlotting agent is allowed to dry on the sensor 42. The anticlotting agent may be immobilized on the surface of the sensor or it may be allowed to diffuse away from the sensor surface. Typically, the quantities of anticlotting agent disposed on the sensor are far below the amounts typically used for treatment of medical conditions involving blood clots and, therefore, have only a limited, localized effect.
Referring to
The data described below was obtained with the sensors 42 in whole blood, but it is to be understood that analogous results may be obtained using interstitial fluid, that is the sensor 42 in one embodiment may be placed in the interstitial fluid of a patient. During the sensor 42 insertion process, blood vessels will be severed thus resulting in bleeding at or around the sensor 42 location upon placement under the skin of the patient. Moreover, interstitial fluid over a period time may clot, which in general, and white and/or red cells may aggregate around the sensor 42. These packed cells around the sensor 42 consume glucose and in turn, block the glucose from reaching the sensor 42.
By way of illustration, three sensors 42 provided with (for example, coated) with anti-clotting or anti-thrombotic agent such as, for example, heparin are placed in the whole blood from two different donors, and the electrical contacts of the sensors 42 are coupled to respective current monitoring devices. In addition, several control sensors 42 without heparin coating are also placed in the same whole blood, respectively, with the electrical contacts of the sensors 42 coupled to respective current monitoring devices. The current signal levels from all of the sensors 42 are then measured over a predetermined time period and the result shown in
Referring to
Sensor Lifetime
The sensor 42 may be designed to be a replaceable component in an in vivo analyte monitor, and particularly in an implantable analyte monitor. Typically, the sensor 42 is capable of operation over a period of days. Preferably, the period of operation is at least one day, more preferably at least three days, and most preferably at least one week. The sensor 42 can then be removed and replaced with a new sensor. The lifetime of the sensor 42 may be reduced by the fouling of the electrodes or by the leaching of the electron transfer agent or catalyst. These limitations on the longevity of the sensor 42 can be overcome by the use of a biocompatible layer 75 or non-leachable electron transfer agent and catalyst, respectively, as described above.
Another primary limitation on the lifetime of the sensor 42 is the temperature stability of the catalyst. Many catalysts are enzymes, which are very sensitive to the ambient temperature and may degrade at temperatures of the patient's body (e.g., approximately 37° C. for the human body). Thus, robust enzymes should be used where available. The sensor 42 should be replaced when a sufficient amount of the enzyme has been deactivated to introduce an unacceptable amount of error in the measurements.
Insertion Device
An insertion device 120 can be used to subcutaneously insert the sensor 42 into the patient, as illustrated in
The insertion device 120 may have a variety of cross-sectional shapes, as shown in
The sensor 42 itself may include optional features to facilitate insertion. For example, the sensor 42 may be pointed at the tip 123 to ease insertion, as illustrated in
In operation, the sensor 42 is placed within or next to the insertion device 120 and then a force is provided against the insertion device 120 and/or sensor 42 to carry the sensor 42 into the skin of the patient. In one embodiment, the force is applied to the sensor 42 to push the sensor into the skin, while the insertion device 120 remains stationary and provides structural support to the sensor 42. Alternatively, the force is applied to the insertion device 120 and optionally to the sensor 42 to push a portion of both the sensor 42 and the insertion device 120 through the skin of the patient and into the subcutaneous tissue. The insertion device 120 is optionally pulled out of the skin and subcutaneous tissue with the sensor 42 remaining in the subcutaneous tissue due to frictional forces between the sensor 42 and the patient's tissue. If the sensor 42 includes the optional barb 125, then this structure may also facilitate the retention of the sensor 42 within the interstitial tissue as the barb catches in the tissue.
The force applied to the insertion device 120 and/or the sensor 42 may be applied manually or mechanically. Preferably, the sensor 42 is reproducibly inserted through the skin of the patient. In one embodiment, an insertion gun is used to insert the sensor. One example of an insertion gun 200 for inserting a sensor 42 is shown in
After the sensor 42 is inserted, the insertion gun 200 may contain a mechanism which pulls the insertion device 120 out of the skin of the patient. Such a mechanism may use a spring, electromagnet, or the like to remove the insertion device 120.
The insertion gun may be reusable. The insertion device 120 is often disposable to avoid the possibility of contamination. Alternatively, the insertion device 120 may be sterilized and reused. In addition, the insertion device 120 and/or the sensor 42 may be coated with an anticlotting agent to prevent fouling of the sensor 42.
In one embodiment, the sensor 42 is injected between 2 to 12 mm into the interstitial tissue of the patient for subcutaneous implantation. Preferably, the sensor is injected 3 to 9 mm, and more preferably 5 to 7 mm, into the interstitial tissue. Other embodiments of the invention, may include sensors implanted in other portions of the patient, including, for example, in an artery, vein, or organ. The depth of implantation varies depending on the desired implantation target.
Although the sensor 42 may be inserted anywhere in the body, it is often desirable that the insertion site be positioned so that the on-skin sensor control unit 44 can be concealed. In addition, it is often desirable that the insertion site be at a place on the body with a low density of nerve endings to reduce the pain to the patient. Examples of preferred sites for insertion of the sensor 42 and positioning of the on-skin sensor control unit 44 include the abdomen, thigh, leg, upper arm, and shoulder.
An insertion angle is measured from the plane of the skin (i.e., inserting the sensor perpendicular to the skin would be a 90° insertion angle). Insertion angles usually range from 10 to 90°, typically from 15 to 60°, and often from 30 to 45°.
On-Skin Sensor Control Unit
The on-skin sensor control unit 44 is configured to be placed on the skin of a patient. The on-skin sensor control unit 44 is optionally formed in a shape that is comfortable to the patient and which may permit concealment, for example, under a patient's clothing. The thigh, leg, upper arm, shoulder, or abdomen are convenient parts of the patient's body for placement of the on-skin sensor control unit 44 to maintain concealment. However, the on-skin sensor control unit 44 may be positioned on other portions of the patient's body. One embodiment of the on-skin sensor control unit 44 has a thin, oval shape to enhance concealment, as illustrated in
The particular profile, as well as the height, width, length, weight, and volume of the on-skin sensor control unit 44 may vary and depends, at least in part, on the components and associated functions included in the on-skin sensor control unit 44, as discussed below. For example, in some embodiments, the on-skin sensor control unit 44 has a height of 1.3 cm or less, and preferably 0.7 cm or less. In some embodiments, the on-skin sensor control unit 44 has a weight of 90 grams or less, preferably 45 grams or less, and more preferably 25 grams or less. In some embodiments, the on-skin sensor control unit 44 has a volume of about 15 cm3 or less, preferably about 10 cm3 or less, more preferably about 5 cm3 or less, and most preferably about 2.5 cm3 or less.
The on-skin sensor control unit 44 includes a housing 45, as illustrated in
The housing 45 of the on-skin sensor control unit 44, illustrated in
In some embodiments, conductive contacts 80 are provided on the exterior of the housing 45. In other embodiments, the conductive contacts 80 are provided on the interior of the housing 45, for example, within a hollow or recessed region.
In some embodiments, the electronic components and/or other items are incorporated into the housing 45 of the on-skin sensor control unit 44 as the plastic or polymeric material is molded or otherwise formed. In other embodiments, the electronic components and/or other items are incorporated into the housing 45 as the molded material is cooling or after the molded material has been reheated to make it pliable. Alternatively, the electronic components and/or other items may be secured to the housing 45 using fasteners, such as screws, nuts and bolts, nails, staples, rivets, and the like or adhesives, such as contact adhesives, pressure sensitive adhesives, glues, epoxies, adhesive resins, and the like. In some cases, the electronic components and/or other items are not affixed to the housing 45 at all.
In some embodiments, the housing 45 of the on-skin sensor control unit 44 is a single piece. The conductive contacts 80 may be formed on the exterior of the housing 45 or on the interior of the housing 45 provided there is a port 78 in the housing 45 through which the sensor 42 can be directed to access the conductive contacts 80.
In other embodiments, the housing 45 of the on-skin sensor control unit 44 is formed in at least two separate portions that fit together to form the housing 45, for example, a base 74 and a cover 76, as illustrated in
These two or more separate portions of the housing 45 of the on-skin sensor control unit 44 may have complementary, interlocking structures, such as, for example, interlocking ridges or a ridge on one component and a complementary groove on another component, so that the two or more separate components may be easily and/or firmly coupled together. This may be useful, particularly if the components are taken apart and fit together occasionally, for example, when a battery or sensor 42 is replaced. However, other fasteners may also be used to couple the two or more components together, including, for example, screws, nuts and bolts, nails, staples, rivets, or the like. In addition, adhesives, both permanent or temporary, may be used including, for example, contact adhesives, pressure sensitive adhesives, glues, epoxies, adhesive resins, and the like.
Typically, the housing 45 is at least water resistant to prevent the flow of fluids into contact with the components in the housing, including, for example, the conductive contacts 80. Preferably, the housing is waterproof. In one embodiment, two or more components of the housing 45, for example, the base 74 and the cover 76, fit together tightly to form a hermetic, waterproof, or water resistant seal so that fluids can not flow into the interior of the on-skin sensor control unit 44. This may be useful to avoid corrosion currents and/or degradation of items within the on-skin sensor control unit 44, such as the conductive contacts, the battery, or the electronic components, particularly when the patient engages in such activities as showering, bathing, or swimming.
Water resistant, as used herein, means that there is no penetration of water through a water resistant seal or housing when immersed in water at a depth of one meter at sea level. Waterproof, as used herein, means that there is no penetration of water through the waterproof seal or housing when immersed in water at a depth of ten meters, and preferably fifty meters, at sea level. It is often desirable that the electronic circuitry, power supply (e.g., battery), and conductive contacts of the on-skin sensor control unit, as well as the contact pads of the sensor, are contained in a water resistant, and preferably, a waterproof, environment.
In addition to the portions of the housing 45, such as the base 74 and cover 76, there may be other individually-formed pieces of the on-skin sensor control unit 44, which may be assembled during or after manufacture. One example of an individually-formed piece is a cover for electronic components that fits a recess in the base 74 or cover 76. Another example is a cover for a battery provided in the base 74 or cover 76. These individually-formed pieces of the on-skin sensor control unit 44 may be permanently affixed, such as, for example, a cover for electronic components, or removably affixed, such as, for example, a removable cover for a battery, to the base 74, cover 76, or other component of the on-skin sensor control unit 44. Methods for affixing these individually-formed pieces include the use of fasteners, such as screws, nuts and bolts, staples, nails, rivets, and the like, frictional fasteners, such as tongue and groove structures, and adhesives, such as contact adhesives, pressure sensitive adhesives, glues, epoxies, adhesive resins, and the like.
One embodiment of the on-skin sensor control unit 44 is a disposable unit complete with a battery for operating the unit. There are no portions of the unit that the patient needs to open or remove, thereby reducing the size of the unit and simplifying its construction. The on-skin sensor control unit 44 optionally remains in a sleep mode prior to use to conserve the battery's power. The on-skin sensor control unit 44 detects that it is being used and activates itself. Detection of use may be through a number of mechanisms. These include, for example, detection of a change in resistance across the electrical contacts, actuation of a switch upon mating the on-skin sensor control unit 44 with a mounting unit 77 (see
The on-skin sensor control unit 44 is typically attached to the skin 75 of the patient, as illustrated in
Another method of attaching the housing 45 of the on-skin sensor control unit 44 to the skin 75 includes using a mounting unit, 77. The mounting unit 77 is often a part of the on-skin sensor control unit 44. One example of a suitable mounting unit 77 is a double-sided adhesive strip, one side of which is adhered to a surface of the skin of the patient and the other side is adhered to the on-skin sensor control unit 44. In this embodiment, the mounting unit 77 may have an optional opening 79 which is large enough to allow insertion of the sensor 42 through the opening 79. Alternatively, the sensor may be inserted through a thin adhesive and into the skin.
A variety of adhesives may be used to adhere the on-skin sensor control unit 44 to the skin 75 of the patient, either directly or using the mounting unit 77, including, for example, pressure sensitive adhesives (PSA) or contact adhesives. Preferably, an adhesive is chosen which is not irritating to all or a majority of patients for at least the period of time that a particular sensor 42 is implanted in the patient. Alternatively, a second adhesive or other skin-protecting compound may be included with the mounting unit so that a patient, whose skin is irritated by the adhesive on the mounting unit 77, can cover his skin with the second adhesive or other skin-protecting compound and then place the mounting unit 77 over the second adhesive or other skin-protecting compound. This should substantially prevent the irritation of the skin of the patient because the adhesive on the mounting unit 77 is no longer in contact with the skin, but is instead in contact with the second adhesive or other skin-protecting compound.
When the sensor 42 is changed, the on-skin sensor control unit 44 may be moved to a different position on the skin 75 of the patient, for example, to avoid excessive irritation. Alternatively, the on-skin sensor control unit 44 may remain at the same place on the skin of the patient until it is determined that the unit 44 should be moved.
Another embodiment of a mounting unit 77 used in an on-skin sensor control unit 44 is illustrated in
The mounting unit 77 typically includes an adhesive on a bottom surface of the mounting unit 77 to adhere to the skin of the patient or the mounting unit 77 is used in conjunction with, for example, double-sided adhesive tape or the like. The mounting unit 77 typically includes an opening 79 through which the sensor 42 is inserted, as shown in
In another embodiment, a coupled mounting unit 77 and housing 45 of an on-skin sensor control unit 44 is provided on an adhesive patch 204 with an optional cover 206 to protect and/or confine the housing 45 of the on-skin sensor control unit 44, as illustrated in
In some embodiments, the adhesive on the on-skin sensor control unit 44 and/or on any of the embodiments of the mounting unit 77 is water resistant or waterproof to permit activities such as showering and/or bathing while maintaining adherence of the on-skin sensor control unit 44 to the skin 75 of the patient and, at least in some embodiments, preventing water from penetrating into the sensor control unit 44. The use of a water resistant or waterproof adhesive combined with a water resistant or waterproof housing 45 protects the components in the sensor control unit 44 and the contact between the conductive contacts 80 and the sensor 42 from damage or corrosion. An example of a non-irritating adhesive that repels water is Tegaderm (3M, St. Paul, Minn.).
In one embodiment, the on-skin sensor control unit 44 includes a sensor port 78 through which the sensor 42 enters the subcutaneous tissue of the patient, as shown in
Alternatively, if the conductive contacts 80 are within the housing 45 the patient may slide the sensor 42 into the housing 45 until contact is made between the contact pads 49 and the conductive contacts 80. The sensor control unit 44 may have a structure which obstructs the sliding of the sensor 42 further into the housing once the sensor 42 is properly positioned with the contact pads 49 in contact with the conductive contacts 80.
In other embodiments, the conductive contacts 80 are on the exterior of the housing 45 (see e.g.,
In some embodiments, when the sensor 42 is inserted using an insertion device 120 (see
In some embodiments, the shapes of a) the guides, opening 79, or sensor port 78, and (b) the insertion device 120 or insertion gun 200 are configured such that the two shapes can only be matched in a single orientation. This aids in inserting the sensor 42 in the same orientation each time a new sensor is inserted into the patient. This uniformity in insertion orientation may be required in some embodiments to ensure that the contact pads 49 on the sensor 42 are correctly aligned with appropriate conductive contacts 80 on the on-skin sensor control unit 44. In addition, the use of the insertion gun, as described above, may ensure that the sensor 42 is inserted at a uniform, reproducible depth.
The sensor 42 and the electronic components within the on-skin sensor control unit 44 are coupled via conductive contacts 80, as shown in
In the illustrated embodiment of
Non-limiting examples of suitable conductive contacts 80 are illustrated in
In another embodiment, the conductive contacts 80 are formed as a series of conducting regions 88 with interspersed insulating regions 90, as illustrated in
In a further embodiment, a unidirectional conducting adhesive 92 may be used between the contact pads 49 on the sensor 42 and conductive contacts 80 implanted or otherwise formed in the on-skin sensor control unit 44, as shown in
In yet another embodiment, the conductive contacts 80 are conductive members 94 that extend from a surface of the on-skin sensor control unit 44 to contact the contact pads 49, as shown in
Any of the exemplary conductive contacts 80 described above may extend from either the upper surface of the interior of the on-skin sensor control unit 44, as illustrated in
Conductive contacts 80 on the exterior of the housing 45 may also have a variety of shapes as indicated in
The conductive contacts 80 are preferably made using a material which will not corrode due to contact with the contact pads 49 of the sensor 42. Corrosion may occur when two different metals are brought in contact. Thus, if the contact pads 49 are formed using carbon then the preferred conductive contacts 80 may be made using any material, including metals or alloys. However, if any of the contact pads 49 are made with a metal or alloy then the preferred conductive contacts 80 for coupling with the metallic contact pads are made using a non-metallic conductive material, such as conductive carbon or a conductive polymer, or the conductive contacts 80 and the contact pads 49 are separated by a non-metallic material, such as a unidirectional conductive adhesive.
In one embodiment, electrical contacts are eliminated between the sensor 42 and the on-skin sensor control unit 44. Power is transmitted to the sensor via inductive coupling, using, for example, closely space antennas (e.g., facing coils) (not shown) on the sensor and the on-skin sensor control unit. Changes in the electrical characteristics of the sensor control unit 44 (e.g., current) induce a changing magnetic field in the proximity of the antenna. The changing magnetic field induces a current in the antenna of the sensor. The close proximity of the sensor and on-skin sensor control unit results in reasonably efficient power transmission. The induced current in the sensor may be used to power potentiostats, operational amplifiers, capacitors, integrated circuits, transmitters, and other electronic components built into the sensor structure. Data is transmitted back to the sensor control unit, using, for example, inductive coupling via the same or different antennas and/or transmission of the signal via a transmitter on the sensor. The use of inductive coupling can eliminate electrical contacts between the sensor and the on-skin sensor control unit. Such contacts are commonly a source of noise and failure. Moreover, the sensor control unit may then be entirely sealed which may increase the waterproofing of the on-skin sensor control unit.
An exemplary on-skin sensor control unit 44 can be prepared and used in the following manner. A mounting unit 77 having adhesive on the bottom is applied to the skin. An insertion gun 200 (see
On-Skin Control Unit Electronics
The on-skin sensor control unit 44 also typically includes at least a portion of the electronic components that operate the sensor 42 and the analyte monitoring device system 40. One embodiment of the electronics in the on-skin control unit 44 is illustrated as a block diagram in
The on-skin sensor control unit 44 may optionally contain a transmitter 98 for transmitting the sensor signals or processed data from the processing circuit 109 to a receiver/display unit 46, 48; a data storage unit 102 for temporarily or permanently storing data from the processing circuit 109; a temperature probe circuit 99 for receiving signals from and operating a temperature probe 66; a reference voltage generator 101 for providing a reference voltage for comparison with sensor-generated signals; and/or a watchdog circuit 103 that monitors the operation of the electronic components in the on-skin sensor control unit 44.
Moreover, the sensor control unit 44 often includes digital and/or analog components utilizing semiconductor devices, such as transistors. To operate these semiconductor devices, the on-skin control unit 44 may include other components including, for example, a bias control generator 105 to correctly bias analog and digital semiconductor devices, an oscillator 107 to provide a clock signal, and a digital logic and timing component 109 to provide timing signals and logic operations for the digital components of the circuit.
As an example of the operation of these components, the sensor circuit 97 and the optional temperature probe circuit 99 provide raw signals from the sensor 42 to the measurement circuit 96. The measurement circuit 96 converts the raw signals to a desired format, using for example, a current-to-voltage converter, current-to-frequency converter, and/or a binary counter or other indicator that produces a signal proportional to the absolute value of the raw signal. This may be used, for example, to convert the raw signal to a format that can be used by digital logic circuits. The processing circuit 109 may then, optionally, evaluate the data and provide commands to operate the electronics.
Functions of the analyte monitoring system 40 and the sensor control unit 44 may be implemented using either software routines, hardware components, or combinations thereof. The hardware components may be implemented using a variety of technologies, including, for example, integrated circuits or discrete electronic components. The use of integrated circuits typically reduces the size of the electronics, which in turn may result in a smaller on-skin sensor control unit 44.
The electronics in the on-skin sensor control unit 44 and the sensor 42 are operated using a power supply 95. One example of a suitable power supply 95 is a battery, for example, a thin circular battery, such as those used in many watches, hearing aids, and other small electronic devices. Preferably, the battery has a lifetime of at least 30 days, more preferably, a lifetime of at least three months, and most preferably, a lifetime of at least one year. The battery is often one of the largest components in the on-skin control unit 44, so it is often desirable to minimize the size of the battery. For example, a preferred battery's thickness is 0.5 mm or less, preferably 35 mm or less, and most preferably 0.2 mm or less. Although multiple batteries may be used, it is typically preferred to use only one battery.
The sensor circuit 97 is coupled via the conductive contacts 80 of the sensor control unit 44 to one or more sensors 42, 42′. Each of the sensors represents, at minimum, a working electrode 58, a counter electrode 60 (or counter/reference electrode), and an optional reference electrode 62. When two or more sensors 42, 42′ are used, the sensors typically have individual working electrodes 58, but may share a counter electrode 60, counter/reference electrode, and/or reference electrode 62.
The sensor circuit 97 receives signals from and operates the sensor 42 or sensors 42, 42′. The sensor circuit 97 may obtain signals from the sensor 42 using amperometric, coulometric, potentiometric, voltammetric, and/or other electrochemical techniques. The sensor circuit 97 is exemplified herein as obtaining amperometric signals from the sensor 42, however, it will be understood that the sensor circuit can be appropriately configured for obtaining signals using other electrochemical techniques. To obtain amperometric measurements, the sensor circuit 97 typically includes a potentiostat that provides a constant potential to the sensor 42. In other embodiments, the sensor circuit 97 includes an amperostat that supplies a constant current to the sensor 42 and can be used to obtain coulometric or potentiometric measurements.
The signal from the sensor 42 generally has at least one characteristic, such as, for example, current, voltage, or frequency, which varies with the concentration of the analyte. For example, if the sensor circuit 97 operates using amperometry, then the signal current varies with analyte concentration. The measurement circuit 96 may include circuitry which converts the information-carrying portion of the signal from one characteristic to another. For example, the measurement circuit 96 may include a current-to-voltage or current-to-frequency converter. The purpose of this conversion may be to provide a signal that is, for example, more easily transmitted, readable by digital circuits, and/or less susceptible to noise contributions.
One example of a standard current-to-voltage converter is provided in
An alternative current-to-voltage converter 141 is illustrated in
A current-to-frequency converter may also be used in the measurement circuit 96. One suitable current-to-frequency converter includes charging a capacitor using the signal from the sensor 42. When the potential across the capacitor exceeds a threshold value, the capacitor is allowed to discharge. Thus, the larger the current from the sensor 42, the quicker the threshold potential is achieved. This results in a signal across the capacitor that has an alternating characteristic, corresponding to the charging and discharging of the capacitor, having a frequency which increases with an increase in current from the sensor 42.
In some embodiments, the analyte monitoring system 40 includes two or more working electrodes 58 distributed over one or more sensors 42. These working electrodes 58 may be used for quality control purposes. For example, the output signals and/or analyzed data derived using the two or more working electrodes 58 may be compared to determine if the signals from the working electrodes agree within a desired level of tolerance. If the output signals do not agree, then the patient may be alerted to replace the sensor or sensors. In some embodiments, the patient is alerted only if the lack of agreement between the two sensors persists for a predetermined period of time. The comparison of the two signals may be made for each measurement or at regular intervals. Alternatively or additionally, the comparison may be initiated by the patient or another person. Moreover, the signals from both sensors may be used to generate data or one signal may be discarded after the comparison.
Alternatively, if, for example, two working electrodes 58 have a common counter electrode 60 and the analyte concentration is measured by amperometry, then the current at the counter electrode 60 should be twice the current at each of the working electrodes, within a predetermined tolerance level, if the working electrodes are operating properly. If not, then the sensor or sensors should be replaced, as described above.
An example of using signals from only one working electrode for quality control includes comparing consecutive readings obtained using the single working electrode to determine if they differ by more than a threshold level. If the difference is greater than the threshold level for one reading or over a period of time or for a predetermined number of readings within a period of time then the patient is alerted to replace the sensor 42. Typically, the consecutive readings and/or the threshold level are determined such that all expected excursions of the sensor signal are within the desired parameters (i.e., the sensor control unit 44 does not consider true changes in analyte concentration to be a sensor failure).
The sensor control unit 44 may also optionally include a temperature probe circuit 99. The temperature probe circuit 99 provides a constant current through (or constant potential) across the temperature probe 66. The resulting potential (or current) varies according to the resistance of the temperature dependent element 72.
The output from the sensor circuit 97 and optional temperature probe circuit is coupled into a measurement circuit 96 that obtains signals from the sensor circuit 97 and optional temperature probe circuit 99 and, at least in some embodiments, provides output data in a form that, for example can be read by digital circuits. The signals from the measurement circuit 96 are sent to the processing circuit 109, which in turn may provide data to an optional transmitter 98. The processing circuit 109 may have one or more of the following functions: 1) transfer the signals from the measurement circuit 96 to the transmitter 98, 2) transfer signals from the measurement circuit 96 to the data storage circuit 102, 3) convert the information-carrying characteristic of the signals from one characteristic to another (when, for example, that has not been done by the measurement circuit 96), using, for example, a current-to-voltage converter, a current-to-frequency converter, or a voltage-to-current converter, 4) modify the signals from the sensor circuit 97 using calibration data and/or output from the temperature probe circuit 99, 5) determine a level of an analyte in the interstitial fluid, 6) determine a level of an analyte in the bloodstream based on the sensor signals obtained from interstitial fluid, 7) determine if the level, rate of change, and/or acceleration in the rate of change of the analyte exceeds or meets one or more threshold values, 8) activate an alarm if a threshold value is met or exceeded, 9) evaluate trends in the level of an analyte based on a series of sensor signals, 10) determine a dose of a medication, and 11) reduce noise and/or errors, for example, through signal averaging or comparing readings from multiple working electrodes 58.
The processing circuit 109 may be simple and perform only one or a small number of these functions or the processing circuit 109 may be more sophisticated and perform all or most of these functions. The size of the on-skin sensor control unit 44 may increase with the increasing number of functions and complexity of those functions that the processing circuit 109 performs. Many of these functions may not be performed by a processing circuit 109 in the on-skin sensor control unit 44, but may be performed by another analyzer 152 in the receiver/display units 46, 48 (see
One embodiment of the measurement circuit 96 and/or processing circuit 109 provides as output data, the current flowing between the working electrode 58 and the counter electrode 60. The measurement circuit 96 and/or processing circuit 109 may also provide as output data a signal from the optional temperature probe 66 which indicates the temperature of the sensor 42. This signal from the temperature probe 66 may be as simple as a current through the temperature probe 66 or the processing circuit 109 may include a device that determines a resistance of the temperature probe 66 from the signal obtained from the measurement circuit 96 for correlation with the temperature of the sensor 42. The output data may then be sent to a transmitter 98 that then transmits this data to at least one receiver/display device 46,48.
Returning to the processing circuit 109, in some embodiments processing circuit 109 is more sophisticated and is capable of determining the analyte concentration or some measure representative of the analyte concentration, such as a current or voltage value. The processing circuit 109 may incorporate the signal of the temperature probe to make a temperature correction in the signal or analyzed data from the working electrode 58. This may include, for example, scaling the temperature probe measurement and adding or subtracting the scaled measurement to the signal or analyzed data from the working electrode 58. The processing circuit 109 may also incorporate calibration data which has been received from an external source or has been incorporated into the processing circuit 109, both of which are described below, to correct the signal or analyzed data from the working electrode 58. Additionally, the processing circuit 109 may include a correction algorithm for converting interstitial analyte level to blood analyte level. The conversion of interstitial analyte level to blood analyte level is described, for example, in Schmidtke, et al., “Measurement and Modeling of the Transient Difference Between Blood and Subcutaneous Glucose Concentrations in the Rat after Injection of Insulin”, Proc. of the Nat'l Acad. of Science, 95, 294-299 (1998) and Quinn, et al., “Kinetics of Glucose Delivery to Subcutaneous Tissue in Rats Measured with 0.3 mm Amperometric Microsensors”, Am. J. Physiol., 269 (Endocrinol. Metab. 32), E155-E161 (1995), incorporated herein by reference.
In some embodiments, the data from the processing circuit 109 is analyzed and directed to an alarm system 94 (see
However, in many embodiments, the data (e.g., a current signal, a converted voltage or frequency signal, or fully or partially analyzed data) from processing circuit 109 is transmitted to one or more receiver/display units 46, 48 using a transmitter 98 in the on-skin sensor control unit 44. The transmitter has an antenna 93, such as a wire or similar conductor, formed in the housing 45. The transmitter 98 is typically designed to transmit a signal up to about 2 meters or more, preferably up to about 5 meters or more, and more preferably up to about 10 meters or more, when transmitting to a small receiver/display unit 46, such as a palm-size, belt-worn receiver. The effective range is longer when transmitting to a unit with a better antenna, such as a bedside receiver. As described in detail below, suitable examples of receiver/display units 46, 48 include units that can be easily worn or carried or units that can be placed conveniently on, for example, a nightstand when the patient is sleeping.
The transmitter 98 may send a variety of different signals to the receiver/display units 46, 48, typically, depending on the sophistication of the processing circuit 109. For example, the processing circuit 109 may simply provide raw signals, for example, currents from the working electrodes 58, without any corrections for temperature or calibration, or the processing circuit 109 may provide converted signals which are obtained, for example, using a current-to-voltage converter 131 or 141 or a current-to-frequency converter. The raw measurements or converted signals may then be processed by an analyzer 152 (see
One potential difficulty that may be experienced with the on-skin sensor control unit 44 is a change in the transmission frequency of the transmitter 98 over time. To overcome this potential difficulty, the transmitter may include optional circuitry that can return the frequency of the transmitter 98 to the desired frequency or frequency band. One example of suitable circuitry is illustrated in
The analyte monitoring device 40 uses an open loop modulation system 200 for RF communication between the transmitter 98 and a receiver of, for example, the one or more receiver/display units 46, 48. This open loop modulation system 200 is designed to provide a high reliability RF link between a transmitter and its associated receiver. The system employs frequency modulation (FM), and locks the carrier center frequency using a conventional phase-locked loop (PLL) 220. In operation, the phase-locked loop 220 is opened prior to the modulation. During the modulation the phase-locked loop 220 remains open for as long as the center frequency of the transmitter is within the receiver's bandwidth. When the transmitter detects that the center frequency is going to move outside of the receiver bandwidth, the receiver is signaled to stand by while the center frequency is captured. Subsequent to the capture, the transmission will resume. This cycle of capturing the center frequency, opening the phase-locked loop 220, modulation, and recapturing the center frequency will repeat for as many cycles as required.
The loop control 240 detects the lock condition of the phase-locked loop 220 and is responsible for closing and opening the phase-locked loop 220. The totalizer 250 in conjunction with the loop control 240, detects the status of the center frequency. The modulation control 230 is responsible for generating the modulating signal. A transmit amplifier 260 is provided to ensure adequate transmit signal power. The reference frequency is generated from a very stable signal source (not shown), and is divided down by N through the divide by N block (÷N) 270. Data and control signals are received by the open loop modulation system 200 via the DATA BUS 280, and the CONTROL BUS 290.
The operation of the open loop modulation system 200 begins with the phase-locked loop 220 in closed condition. When the lock condition is detected by the loop control 240, the phase-locked loop 220 is opened and the modulation control 230 begins generating the modulating signal. The totalizer 250 monitors the VCO frequency (divided by M), for programmed intervals. The monitored frequency is compared to a threshold programmed in the totalizer 250. This threshold corresponds to the 3 dB cut off frequencies of the receiver's intermediate frequency stage. When the monitored frequency approaches the thresholds, the loop control 240 is notified and a stand-by code is transmitted to the receiver and the phase-locked loop 220 is closed.
At this point the receiver is in the wait mode. The loop control 240 in the transmitter closes the phase-locked loop 220. Then, modulation control 230 is taken off line, the monitored value of the totalizer 250 is reset, and the phase-locked loop 220 is locked. When the loop control 240 detects a lock condition, the loop control 240 opens the phase-locked loop 220, the modulation control 230 is brought on line and the data transmission to the receiver will resume until the center frequency of the phase-locked loop 220 approaches the threshold values, at which point the cycle of transmitting the stand-by code begins. The ÷N 270 and ÷M 218 block set the frequency channel of the transmitter.
Accordingly, the open loop modulation system 200 provides a reliable low power FM data transmission for an analyte monitoring system. The open loop modulation system 200 provides a method of wide band frequency modulation, while the center frequency of the carrier is kept within receiver bandwidth. The effect of parasitic capacitors and inductors pulling the center frequency of the transmitter is corrected by the phase-locked loop 220. Further, the totalizer 250 and loop control 240 provide a new method of center frequency drift detection. Finally, the open loop modulation system 200 is easily implemented in CMOS process.
The rate at which the transmitter 98 transmits data may be the same rate at which the sensor circuit 97 obtains signals and/or the processing circuit 109 provides data or signals to the transmitter 98. Alternatively, the transmitter 98 may transmit data at a slower rate. In this case, the transmitter 98 may transmit more than one datapoint in each transmission. Alternatively, only one datapoint may be sent with each data transmission, the remaining data not being transmitted. Typically, data is transmitted to the receiver/display unit 46, 48 at least every hour, preferably, at least every fifteen minutes, more preferably, at least every five minutes, and most preferably, at least every one minute. However, other data transmission rates may be used. In some embodiments, the processing circuit 109 and/or transmitter 98 are configured to process and/or transmit data at a faster rate when a condition is indicated, for example, a low level or high level of analyte or impending low or high level of analyte. In these embodiments, the accelerated data transmission rate is typically at least every five minutes and preferably at least every minute.
In addition to a transmitter 98, an optional receiver 99 may be included in the on-skin sensor control unit 44. In some cases, the transmitter 98 is a transceiver, operating as both a transmitter and a receiver. The receiver 99 may be used to receive calibration data for the sensor 42. The calibration data may be used by the processing circuit 109 to correct signals from the sensor 42. This calibration data may be transmitted by the receiver/display unit 46, 48 or from some other source such as a control unit in a doctor's office. In addition, the optional receiver 99 may be used to receive a signal from the receiver/display units 46, 48, as described above, to direct the transmitter 98, for example, to change frequencies or frequency bands, to activate or deactivate the optional alarm system 94 (as described below), and/or to direct the transmitter 98 to transmit at a higher rate.
Calibration data may be obtained in a variety of ways. For instance, the calibration data may simply be factory-determined calibration measurements which can be input into the on-skin sensor control unit 44 using the receiver 99 or may alternatively be stored in a calibration data storage unit within the on-skin sensor control unit 44 itself (in which case a receiver 99 may not be needed). The calibration data storage unit 100 may be, for example, a readable or readable/writeable memory circuit.
Alternative or additional calibration data may be provided based on tests performed by a doctor or some other professional or by the patient himself. For example, it is common for diabetic individuals to determine their own blood glucose concentration using commercially available testing kits. The results of this test is input into the on-skin sensor control unit 44 either directly, if an appropriate input device (e.g., a keypad, an optical signal receiver, or a port for connection to a keypad or computer) is incorporated in the on-skin sensor control unit 44, or indirectly by inputting the calibration data into the receiver/display unit 46, 48 and transmitting the calibration data to the on-skin sensor control unit 44.
Other methods of independently determining analyte levels may also be used to obtain calibration data. This type of calibration data may supplant or supplement factory-determined calibration values.
In some embodiments of the invention, calibration data may be required at periodic intervals, for example, every eight hours, once a day, or once a week, to confirm that accurate analyte levels are being reported. Calibration may also be required each time a new sensor 42 is implanted or if the sensor exceeds a threshold minimum or maximum value or if the rate of change in the sensor signal exceeds a threshold value. In some cases, it may be necessary to wait a period of time after the implantation of the sensor 42 before calibrating to allow the sensor 42 to achieve equilibrium. In some embodiments, the sensor 42 is calibrated only after it has been inserted. In other embodiments, no calibration of the sensor 42 is needed.
The on-skin sensor control unit 44 and/or a receiver/display unit 46, 48 may include an auditory or visual indicator that calibration data is needed, based, for example, on a predetermined periodic time interval between calibrations or on the implantation of a new sensor 42. The on-skin sensor control unit 44 and/or receiver display units 46, 48 may also include an auditory or visual indicator to remind the patient that information, such as analyte levels, reported by the analyte monitoring device 40, may not be accurate because a calibration of the sensor 42 has not been performed within the predetermined periodic time interval and/or after implantation of a new sensor 42.
The processing circuit 109 of the on-skin sensor control unit 44 and/or an analyzer 152 of the receiver/display unit 46, 48 may determine when calibration data is needed and if the calibration data is acceptable. The on-skin sensor control unit 44 may optionally be configured to not allow calibration or to reject a calibration point if, for example, 1) a temperature reading from the temperature probe indicates a temperature that is not within a predetermined acceptable range (e.g., 30 to 42° C. or 32 to 40° C.) or that is changing rapidly (for example, 0.2° C./minute, 0.5° C./minute, or 0.7° C./minute or greater); 2) two or more working electrodes 58 provide uncalibrated signals that are not within a predetermined range (e.g., within 10% or 20%) of each other; 3) the rate of change of the uncalibrated signal is above a threshold rate (e.g., 0.25 mg/dL per minute or 0.5 mg/dL per minute or greater); 4) the uncalibrated signal exceeds a threshold maximum value (e.g., 5, 10, 20, or 40 nA) or is below a threshold minimum value (e.g., 0.05, 0.2, 0.5, or 1 nA); 5) the calibrated signal exceeds a threshold maximum value (e.g., a signal corresponding to an analyte concentration of 200 mg/dL, 250 mg/dL, or 300 mg/dL) or is below a threshold minimum value (e.g., a signal corresponding to an analyte concentration of 50 mg/dL, 65 mg/dL, or 80 mg/dL); and/or 6) an insufficient amount of time has elapsed since implantation (e.g., 10 minutes or less, 20 minutes or less, or 30 minutes or less).
The processing circuit 109 or an analyzer 152 may also request another calibration point if the values determined using the sensor data before and after the latest calibration disagree by more than a threshold amount, indicating that the calibration may be incorrect or that the sensor characteristics have changed radically between calibrations. This additional calibration point may indicate the source of the difference.
In one embodiment, delaying calibration after the placement and waiting for the placed sensor to stabilize provides accurate sensor data. Indeed, as discussed in further detail below, awaiting a predetermined time period after the sensor 42 placement to perform the initial calibration (i.e., the first calibration after placement of the sensor in a patient) in one embodiment substantially increases the overall accuracy of the data received from the sensor 42 and provides a clinically acceptable degree of sensor accuracy. For example, performing the initial calibration of the positioned sensor 42 after approximately 10 hours from the time of sensor placement in the patient's body fluid (e.g., interstitial fluid) results in increased accuracy in sensor data. Indeed, in certain embodiments by providing approximately 10 hours of sensor stabilization from when the sensor 42 is first placed in the patient's interstitial fluid, the overall data accuracy from the sensor 42 during the period that the patient is wearing the sensor 42 (for example, at least 1 day, e.g., at least 3 days, e.g., at least 5 days, e.g., at least 7 days or more), improves as compared to a control.
In the system described above, the sensor 42 is configured to be worn by the patient and used for a period of about one to about five days or more, e.g., seven or more days, where the sensor calibration is performed at about 10 hour, about 12 hour, about 24 hour and about 72 hour intervals as measured from the initial sensor 42 placement in which the sensor is placed in fluid contact with a patient's analyte-containing fluid, e.g., whole, blood, interstitial fluid, etc. In this manner, by delaying the initial calibration of the sensor 42 to about 10 hours from the sensor 42 placement, the accuracy of the data from the sensor 42 (e.g., analyte levels monitored by the sensor 42) is increased. In this manner, in one embodiment, a total of four sensor calibration events are performed using, for example, a blood glucose meter. Moreover, in the embodiment discussed above, the sensor 42 is configured to be replaced after about one day or more, e.g., after about 3 days or more, e.g., after about 5 days of use or more, e.g., after about 7 days or more of use, providing for about a 5 day use period approximately 110 hours of clinically analyte monitoring (where the first 10 hours are reserved for sensor 42 stabilization and subsequent initial calibration).
In one embodiment of the present invention, the glucose sensors provide increased accuracy at low glucose levels. Moreover, the 5 day sensor 42 in one embodiment provides sensor data accuracy that is comparable to or improves upon a 3 day sensor, while requiring approximately 4 calibration measurements over the 5 day period.
In the manner described above, the calibrations may be performed at about 10 hours, about 12 hours, about 24 hours and about 72 hours, with no calibration measurements performed on the 4th and the 5th days during the 5 day period for the sensor 42 use. (it is to be understood that the time periods of the calibration events described herein are for exemplary purposes only and are in no way intended to limit the scope of the invention). Moreover, the calibration conditions in one embodiment may include a rate of less than 2 mg/dL per minute, with the glucose level at greater than approximately 60 mg/dL. With the 10 hour initial sensor calibration, the sensor insertion for the 5 day use may be performed during the morning or in the evening without much inconvenience to the patient and to the patient's daily routines. Moreover, this approach also provides a predictable and controlled sensor insertion, calibration and removal time periods for the patients, which is likely to be less intrusive to the patient's daily activities.
By way of examples, the schedule for a 5 day sensor insertion and analyte monitoring may include the following events. In the case of morning sensor insertion, for example, 7 am sensor insertion will require about a 5 pm initial calibration (about a 10 hour calibration), followed by about a 7 pm second calibration measurement (about a 12 hour calibration). Thereafter, the third calibration at about 24 hours will be at the following morning at about 7 am, and followed by the fourth and final calibration measurement performed at about 7 am of the third day (at about 72 hours). Thereafter, at about 7 am following the fifth day, the sensor is removed and may be replaced with a new sensor.
In the case of a bedtime sensor insertion example, the sensor 42 may be inserted at about 9 pm, to be followed by the initial calibration measurement at about 7 am the following morning (about a 10 hour calibration). Thereafter, the second calibration measurement is obtained at about 9 am (about a 12 hour calibration), followed by the third calibration that evening at about 9 pm (about a 24 hour calibration). The final calibration measurement is obtained at about 9 pm of the subsequent evening (about a 72 hour calibration), and after the five days of usage, the sensor 42 is removed and may be replaced at about 9 pm following day 5 of usage with a new sensor 42.
The on-skin sensor control unit 44 may include an optional data storage unit 102 which may be used to hold data (e.g., measurements from the sensor or processed data) from the processing circuit 109 permanently or, more typically, temporarily. The data storage unit 102 may hold data so that the data can be used by the processing circuit 109 to analyze and/or predict trends in the analyte level, including, for example, the rate and/or acceleration of analyte level increase or decrease. The data storage unit 102 may also or alternatively be used to store data during periods in which a receiver/display unit 46, 48 is not within range. The data storage unit 102 may also be used to store data when the transmission rate of the data is slower than the acquisition rate of the data. For example, if the data acquisition rate is 10 points/min and the transmission is 2 transmissions/min, then one to five points of data could be sent in each transmission depending on the desired rate for processing datapoints. The data storage unit 102 typically includes a readable/writeable memory storage device and typically also includes the hardware and/or software to write to and/or read the memory storage device.
The on-skin sensor control unit 44 may include an optional alarm system 104 that, based on the data from the processing circuit 109, warns the patient of a potentially detrimental condition of the analyte. For example, if glucose is the analyte, than the on-skin sensor control unit 44 may include an alarm system 104 that warns the patient of conditions such as hypoglycemia, hyperglycemia, impending hypoglycemia, and/or impending hyperglycemia. The alarm system 104 is triggered when the data from the processing circuit 109 reaches or exceeds a threshold value. Examples of threshold values for blood glucose levels are about 60, 70, or 80 mg/dL for hypoglycemia; about 70, 80, or 90 mg/dL for impending hypoglycemia; about 130, 150, 175, 200, 225, 250, or 275 mg/dL for impending hyperglycemia; and about 150, 175, 200, 225, 250, 275, or 300 mg/dL for hyperglycemia. The actual threshold values that are designed into the alarm system 104 may correspond to interstitial fluid glucose concentrations or electrode measurements (e.g., current values or voltage values obtained by conversion of current measurements) that correlate to the above-mentioned blood glucose levels. The analyte monitor device may be configured so that the threshold levels for these or any other conditions may be programmable by the patient and/or a medical professional.
A threshold value is exceeded if the datapoint has a value that is beyond the threshold value in a direction indicating a particular condition. For example, a datapoint which correlates to a glucose level of 200 mg/dL exceeds a threshold value for hyperglycemia of 180 mg/dL, because the datapoint indicates that the patient has entered a hyperglycemic state. As another example, a datapoint which correlates to a glucose level of 65 mg/dL exceeds a threshold value for hypoglycemia of 70 mg/dL because the datapoint indicates that the patient is hypoglycemic as defined by the threshold value. However, a datapoint which correlates to a glucose level of 75 mg/dL would not exceed the same threshold value for hypoglycemia because the datapoint does not indicate that particular condition as defined by the chosen threshold value.
An alarm may also be activated if the sensor readings indicate a value that is beyond a measurement range of the sensor 42. For glucose, the physiologically relevant measurement range is typically about 50 to 250 mg/dL, preferably about 40-300 mg/dL and ideally 30-400 mg/dL, of glucose in the interstitial fluid.
The alarm system 104 may also, or alternatively, be activated when the rate of change or acceleration of the rate of change in analyte level increase or decrease reaches or exceeds a threshold rate or acceleration. For example, in the case of a subcutaneous glucose monitor, the alarm system might be activated if the rate of change in glucose concentration exceeds a threshold value which might indicate that a hyperglycemic or hypoglycemic condition is likely to occur.
The optional alarm system 104 may be configured to activate when a single data point meets or exceeds a particular threshold value. Alternatively, the alarm may be activated only when a predetermined number of datapoints spanning a predetermined amount of time meet or exceed the threshold value. As another alternative, the alarm may be activated only when the datapoints spanning a predetermined amount of time have an average value which meets or exceeds the threshold value. Each condition that can trigger an alarm may have a different alarm activation condition. In addition, the alarm activation condition may change depending on current conditions (e.g., an indication of impending hyperglycemia may alter the number of datapoints or the amount of time that is tested to determine hyperglycemia).
The alarm system 104 may contain one or more individual alarms. Each of the alarms may be individually activated to indicate one or more conditions of the analyte. The alarms may be, for example, auditory or visual. Other sensory-stimulating alarm systems may be used including alarm systems which heat, cool, vibrate, or produce a mild electrical shock when activated. In some embodiments, the alarms are auditory with a different tone, note, or volume indicating different conditions. For example, a high note might indicate hyperglycemia and a low note might indicate hypoglycemia. Visual alarms may use a difference in color, brightness, or position on the on-skin sensor control device 44 to indicate different conditions. In some embodiments, an auditory alarm system is configured so that the volume of the alarm increases over time until the alarm is deactivated.
In some embodiments, the alarm may be automatically deactivated after a predetermined time period. In other embodiments, the alarm may be configured to deactivate when the data no longer indicate that the condition which triggered the alarm exists. In these embodiments, the alarm may be deactivated when a single data point indicates that the condition no longer exists or, alternatively, the alarm may be deactivated only after a predetermined number of datapoints or an average of datapoints obtained over a given period of time indicate that the condition no longer exists.
In some embodiments, the alarm may be deactivated manually by the patient or another person in addition to or as an alternative to automatic deactivation. In these embodiments, a switch 101 is provided which when activated turns off the alarm. The switch 101 may be operatively engaged (or disengaged depending on the configuration of the switch) by, for example, operating an actuator on the on-skin sensor control unit 44 or the receiver/display unit 46, 48. In some cases, an actuator may be provided on two or more units 44, 46, 48, any of which may be actuated to deactivate the alarm. If the switch 101 and or actuator is provided on the receiver/display unit 46, 48 then a signal may be transmitted from the receiver/display unit 46, 48 to the receiver 98 on the on-skin sensor control unit 44 to deactivate the alarm.
A variety of switches 101 may be used including, for example, a mechanical switch, a reed switch, a Hall effect switch, a Gigantic Magnetic Ratio (GMR) switch (the resistance of the GMR switch is magnetic field dependent) and the like. Preferably, the actuator used to operatively engage (or disengage) the switch is placed on the on-skin sensor control unit 44 and configured so that no water can flow around the button and into the housing. One example of such a button is a flexible conducting strip that is completely covered by a flexible polymeric or plastic coating integral to the housing. In an open position the flexible conducting strip is bowed and bulges away from the housing. When depressed by the patient or another person, the flexible conducting strip is pushed directly toward a metal contact and completes the circuit to shut off the alarm.
For a reed or GMR switch, a piece of magnetic material, such as a permanent magnet or an electromagnet, in a flexible actuator that is bowed or bulges away from the housing 45 and the reed or GMR switch is used. The reed or GMR switch is activated (to deactivate the alarm) by depressing the flexible actuator bringing the magnetic material closer to the switch and causing an increase in the magnetic field within the switch.
In some embodiments of the invention, the analyte monitoring device 40 includes only an on-skin control unit 44 and a sensor 42. In these embodiments, the processing circuit 109 of the on-skin sensor control unit 44 is able to determine a level of the analyte and activate an alarm system 104 if the analyte level exceeds a threshold. The on-skin control unit 44, in these embodiments, has an alarm system 104 and may also include a display, such as those discussed below with respect to the receiver/display units 46, 48. Preferably, the display is an LCD or LED display. The on-skin control unit 44 may not have a transmitter, unless, for example, it is desirable to transmit data, for example, to a control unit in a doctor's office.
The on-skin sensor control unit 44 may also include a reference voltage generator 101 to provide an absolute voltage or current for use in comparison to voltages or currents obtained from or used with the sensor 42. An example of a suitable reference voltage generator is a band-gap reference voltage generator that uses, for example, a semiconductor material with a known band-gap. Preferably, the band-gap is temperature insensitive over the range of temperatures that the semiconductor material will experience during operation. Suitable semiconductor materials includes gallium, silicon and silicates.
A bias current generator 105 may be provided to correctly bias solid-state electronic components. An oscillator 107 may be provided to produce a clock signal that is typically used with digital circuitry.
The on-skin sensor control unit 44 may also include a watchdog circuit 103 that tests the circuitry, particularly, any digital circuitry in the control unit 44 to determine if the circuitry is operating correctly. Non-limiting examples of watchdog circuit operations include: a) generation of a random number by the watchdog circuit, storage of the number in a memory location, writing the number to a register in the watchdog circuit, and recall of the number to compare for equality; b) checking the output of an analog circuit to determine if the output exceeds a predetermined dynamic range; c) checking the output of a timing circuit for a signal at an expected pulse interval. Other examples of functions of a watchdog circuit are known in the art. If the watchdog circuit detects an error that watchdog circuit may activate an alarm and/or shut down the device.
Receiver/Display Unit
One or more receiver/display units 46, 48 may be provided with the analyte monitoring device 40 for easy access to the data generated by the sensor 42 and may, in some embodiments, process the signals from the on-skin sensor control unit 44 to determine the concentration or level of analyte in the subcutaneous tissue. Small receiver/display units 46 may be carried by the patient. These units 46 may be palm-sized and/or may be adapted to fit on a belt or within a bag or purse that the patient carries. One embodiment of the small receiver/display unit 46 has the appearance of a pager, for example, so that the user is not identified as a person using a medical device. Such receiver/display units may optionally have one-way or two-way paging capabilities.
Large receiver/display units 48 may also be used. These larger units 48 may be designed to sit on a shelf or nightstand. The large receiver/display unit 48 may be used by parents to monitor their children while they sleep or to awaken patients during the night. In addition, the large receiver/display unit 48 may include a lamp, clock, or radio for convenience and/or for activation as an alarm. One or both types of receiver/display units 46, 48 may be used.
The receiver/display units 46, 48, as illustrated in block form at
In one embodiment, a receiver/display unit 48 is a bedside unit for use by a patient at home. The bedside unit includes a receiver and one or more optional items, including, for example, a clock, a lamp, an auditory alarm, a telephone connection, and a radio. The bedside unit also has a display, preferably, with large numbers and/or letters that can be read across a room. The unit may be operable by plugging into an outlet and may optionally have a battery as backup. Typically, the bedside unit has a better antenna than a small palm-size unit, so the bedside unit's reception range is longer.
When an alarm is indicated, the bedside unit may activate, for example, the auditory alarm, the radio, the lamp, and/or initiate a telephone call. The alarm may be more intense than the alarm of a small palm-size unit to, for example, awaken or stimulate a patient who may be asleep, lethargic, or confused. Moreover, a loud alarm may alert a parent monitoring a diabetic child at night.
The bedside unit may have its own data analyzer and data storage. The data may be communicated from the on-skin sensor unit or another receiver/display unit, such as a palm-size or small receiver/display unit. Thus, at least one unit has all the relevant data so that the data can be downloaded and analyzed without significant gaps.
Optionally, the beside unit has an interface or cradle into which a small receiver/display unit may be placed. The bedside unit may be capable of utilizing the data storage and analysis capabilities of the small receiver/display unit and/or receive data from the small receiver/display unit in this position. The bedside unit may also be capable of recharging a battery of the small receiver/display unit.
The receiver 150 typically is formed using known receiver and antenna circuitry and is often tuned or tunable to the frequency or frequency band of the transmitter 98 in the on-skin sensor control unit 44. Typically, the receiver 150 is capable of receiving signals from a distance greater than the transmitting distance of the transmitter 98. The small receiver/display unit 46 can typically receive a signal from an on-skin sensor control unit 44 that is up to 2 meters, preferably up to 5 meters, and more preferably up to 10 meters or more, away. A large receiver/display unit 48, such as a bedside unit, can typically receive a receive a signal from an on-skin sensor control unit 44 that is up to 5 meters distant, preferably up to 10 meters distant, and more preferably up to 20 meters distant or more.
In one embodiment, a repeater unit (not shown) is used to boost a signal from an on-skin sensor control unit 44 so that the signal can be received by a receiver/display unit 46, 48 that may be distant from the on-skin sensor control unit 44. The repeater unit is typically independent of the on-skin sensor control unit 44, but, in some cases, the repeater unit may be configured to attach to the on-skin sensor control unit 44. Typically, the repeater unit includes a receiver for receiving the signals from the on-skin sensor control unit 44 and a transmitter for transmitting the received signals. Often the transmitter of the repeater unit is more powerful than the transmitter of the on-skin sensor control unit, although this is not necessary. The repeater unit may be used, for example, in a child's bedroom for transmitting a signal from an on-skin sensor control unit on the child to a receiver/display unit in the parent's bedroom for monitoring the child's analyte levels. Another exemplary use is in a hospital with a display/receiver unit at a nurse's station for monitoring on-skin sensor control unit(s) of patients.
The presence of other devices, including other on-skin sensor control units, may create noise or interference within the frequency band of the transmitter 98. This may result in the generation of false data. To overcome this potential difficulty, the transmitter 98 may also transmit a code to indicate, for example, the beginning of a transmission and/or to identify, preferably using a unique identification code, the particular on-skin sensor control unit 44 in the event that there is more than one on-skin sensor control unit 44 or other transmission source within range of the receiver/display unit 46, 48. The provision of an identification code with the data may reduce the likelihood that the receiver/display unit 46, 48 intercepts and interprets signals from other transmission sources, as well as preventing “crosstalk” with different on-skin sensor control units 44. The identification code may be provided as a factory-set code stored in the sensor control unit 44. Alternatively, the identification code may be randomly generated by an appropriate circuit in the sensor control unit 44 or the receiver/display unit 46, 48 (and transmitted to the sensor control unit 44) or the identification code may be selected by the patient and communicated to the sensor control unit 44 via a transmitter or an input device coupled to the sensor control unit 44.
Other methods may be used to eliminate “crosstalk” and to identify signals from the appropriate on-skin sensor control unit 44. In some embodiments, the transmitter 98 may use encryption techniques to encrypt the datastream from the transmitter 98. The receiver/display unit 46, 48 contains the key to decipher the encrypted data signal. The receiver/display unit 46, 48 then determines when false signals or “crosstalk” signals are received by evaluation of the signal after it has been deciphered. For example, the analyzer 152 in the one or more receiver/display units 46, 48 compares the data, such as current measurements or analyte levels, with expected measurements (e.g., an expected range of measurements corresponding to physiologically relevant analyte levels). Alternatively, an analyzer in the receiver/display units 46, 48 searches for an identification code in the decrypted data signal.
Another method to eliminate “crosstalk”, which is typically used in conjunction with the identification code or encryption scheme, includes providing an optional mechanism in the on-skin sensor control unit 44 for changing transmission frequency or frequency bands upon determination that there is “crosstalk”. This mechanism for changing the transmission frequency or frequency band may be initiated by the receiver/display unit automatically, upon detection of the possibility of cross-talk or interference, and/or by a patient manually. For automatic initiation, the receiver/display unit 46, 48 transmits a signal to the optional receiver 99 on the on-skin sensor control unit 44 to direct the transmitter 98 of the on-skin sensor control unit 44 to change frequency or frequency band.
Manual initiation of the change in frequency or frequency band may be accomplished using, for example, an actuator (not shown) on the receiver/display unit 46, 48 and/or on the on-skin sensor control unit 44 which a patient operates to direct the transmitter 98 to change frequency or frequency band. The operation of a manually initiated change in transmission frequency or frequency band may include prompting the patient to initiate the change in frequency or frequency band by an audio or visual signal from the receiver/display unit 46, 48 and/or on-skin sensor control unit 44.
Returning to the receiver 150, the data received by the receiver 150 is then sent to an analyzer 152. The analyzer 152 may have a variety of functions, similar to the processor circuit 109 of the on-skin sensor control unit 44, including 1) modifying the signals from the sensor 42 using calibration data and/or measurements from the temperature probe 66, 2) determining a level of an analyte in the interstitial fluid, 3) determining a level of an analyte in the bloodstream based on the sensor measurements in the interstitial fluid, 4) determining if the level, rate of change, and/or acceleration in the rate of change of the analyte exceeds or meets one or more threshold values, 5) activating an alarm system 156 and/or 94 if a threshold value is met or exceeded, 6) evaluating trends in the level of an analyte based on a series of sensor signals, 7) determine a dose of a medication, and 8) reduce noise or error contributions (e.g., through signal averaging or comparing readings from multiple electrodes). The analyzer 152 may be simple and perform only one or a small number of these functions or the analyzer 152 may perform all or most of these functions.
The output from the analyzer 152 is typically provided to a display 154. A variety of displays 154 may be used including cathode ray tube displays (particularly for larger units), LED displays, or LCD displays. The display 154 may be monochromatic (e.g., black and white) or polychromatic (i.e., having a range of colors). The display 154 may contain symbols or other indicators that are activated under certain conditions (e.g., a particular symbol may become visible on the display when a condition, such as hyperglycemia, is indicated by signals from the sensor 42). The display 154 may also contain more complex structures, such as LCD or LED alphanumeric structures, portions of which can be activated to produce a letter, number, or symbol. For example, the display 154 may include region 164 to display numerically the level of the analyte, as illustrated in
One example of a receiver/display unit 46, 48 is illustrated in
The display 154 may also be capable of displaying a graph 178 of the analyte level over a period of time, as illustrated in
The receiver/display units 46, 48 also typically include an alarm system 156. The options for configuration of the alarm system 156 are similar to those for the alarm system 104 of the on-skin sensor control unit 44. For example, if glucose is the analyte, than the on-skin sensor control unit 44 may include an alarm system 156 that warns the patient of conditions such as hypoglycemia, hyperglycemia, impending hypoglycemia, and/or impending hyperglycemia. The alarm system 156 is triggered when the data from the analyzer 152 reaches or exceeds a threshold value. The threshold values may correspond to interstitial fluid glucose concentrations or sensor signals (e.g., current or converted voltage values) which correlate to the above-mentioned blood glucose levels.
The alarm system 156 may also, or alternatively, be activated when the rate or acceleration of an increase or decrease in analyte level reaches or exceeds a threshold value. For example, in the case of a subcutaneous glucose monitor, the alarm system 156 might be activated if the rate of change in glucose concentration exceeds a threshold value which might indicate that a hyperglycemic or hypoglycemic condition is likely to occur.
The alarm system 156 may be configured to activate when a single data point meets or exceeds a particular threshold value. Alternatively, the alarm may be activated only when a predetermined number of datapoints spanning a predetermined amount of time meet or exceed the threshold value. As another alternative, the alarm may be activated only when the datapoints spanning a predetermined amount of time have an average value which meets or exceeds the threshold value. Each condition that can trigger an alarm may have a different alarm activation condition. In addition, the alarm activation condition may change depending on current conditions (e.g., an indication of impending hyperglycemia may alter the number of datapoints or the amount of time that is tested to determine hyperglycemia).
The alarm system 156 may contain one or more individual alarms. Each of the alarms may be individually activated to indicate one or more conditions of the analyte. The alarms may be, for example, auditory or visual. Other sensory-stimulating alarm systems by be used including alarm systems 156 that direct the on-skin sensor control unit 44 to heat, cool, vibrate, or produce a mild electrical shock. In some embodiments, the alarms are auditory with a different tone, note, or volume indicating different conditions. For example, a high note might indicate hyperglycemia and a low note might indicate hypoglycemia. Visual alarms may also use a difference in color or brightness to indicate different conditions. In some embodiments, an auditory alarm system might be configured so that the volume of the alarm increases over time until the alarm is deactivated.
In some embodiments, the alarms may be automatically deactivated after a predetermined time period. In other embodiments, the alarms may be configured to deactivate when the data no longer indicate that the condition which triggered the alarm exists. In these embodiments, the alarms may be deactivated when a single data point indicates that the condition no longer exists or, alternatively, the alarm may be deactivated only after a predetermined number of datapoints or an average of datapoints obtained over a given period of time indicate that the condition no longer exists.
In yet other embodiments, the alarm may be deactivated manually by the patient or another person in addition to or as an alternative to automatic deactivation. In these embodiments, a switch is provided which when activated turns off the alarm. The switch may be operatively engaged (or disengaged depending on the configuration of the switch) by, for example, pushing a button on the receiver/display unit 46, 48. One configuration of the alarm system 156 has automatic deactivation after a period of time for alarms that indicate an impending condition (e.g., impending hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia) and manual deactivation of alarms which indicate a current condition (e.g., hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia).
In one embodiment, the alarm systems 94, 156 of the on-skin sensor control unit 44 and the receiver/display units 46, 48, respectively, may also include a progressive alarm or alert features which allows the patient to set or program the on-skin sensor control unit 44 and/or the receiver/display units 46, 48 to provide a series of advance notification to the patient as the occurrence of an anticipated event approaches. For example, it may be desirable to receive a series of alerts (e.g., audio, vibratory, a combination of audio and vibratory, and/or which either increases or decreases in volume or strength of vibration or otherwise increases in intensity) as the patient's monitored analyte level approaches a predetermined level.
In such a case, the on-skin sensor control unit 44 and/or the receiver/display units 46, 48 may be configured to generate and output a first alert at a predetermined time when the patient's monitored analyte level is closer to the predetermined level. Thereafter, a second alert may be generated and output after the occurrence of the first alert as the monitored analyte level is closer to the predetermined level than the level when the first alert was output. This may be repeated with third, fourth . . . alerts. In this manner, the patient may provided with a sequence of progressive alerts based on one or more predetermined event so that the patient is provided with a repeated notification of the anticipated predetermined event.
In one embodiment, the sequence or series of alerts or alarms may be configured to increase in output volume (or the strength of the vibration in the case of the vibratory alert) as the predetermined event approaches, with the sequence or series of alerts or alarms evenly temporally spaced apart in time. Alternatively, the sequence or series of alerts or alarms may be temporally spaced closer together as the occurrence predetermined event is closer in time.
In one embodiment, the occurrence of the predetermined event may include one or more of a monitored analyte level exceeding an upper threshold level, or falling below a lower threshold level, a hyperglycemic state, an impending hyperglycemic state, a hypoglycemic state an impending hypoglycemic state, a low drug dosage level indication, a low battery level indication, or a reminder to take a course of action such as calibration, glucose testing (for example, using a blood glucose strip meter), sensor replacement, infusion set occlusion verification, or the like.
The receiver/display units 46, 48 may also include a number of optional items. One item is a data storage unit 158. The data storage unit 158 may be desirable to store data for use if the analyzer 152 is configured to determine trends in the analyte level. The data storage unit 158 may also be useful to store data that may be downloaded to another receiver/display unit, such as a large display unit 48. Alternatively, the data may be downloaded to a computer or other data storage device in a patient's home, at a doctor's office, etc. for evaluation of trends in analyte levels. A port (not shown) may be provided on the receiver/display unit 46, 48 through which the stored data may be transferred or the data may be transferred using an optional transmitter 160. The data storage unit 158 may also be activated to store data when a directed by the patient via, for example, the optional input device 162. The data storage unit 158 may also be configured to store data upon occurrence of a particular event, such as a hyperglycemic or hypoglycemic episode, exercise, eating, etc. The storage unit 158 may also store event markers with the data of the particular event. These event markers may be generated either automatically by the display/receiver unit 46, 48 or through input by the patient.
The receiver/display unit 46, 48 may also include an optional transmitter 160 which can be used to transmit 1) calibration information, 2) a signal to direct the transmitter 98 of the on-skin sensor control unit 44 to change transmission frequency or frequency bands, and/or 3) a signal to activate an alarm system 104 on the on-skin sensor control unit 44, all of which are described above. The transmitter 160 typically operates in a different frequency band than the transmitter 98 of the on-skin sensor control unit 44 to avoid cross-talk between the transmitters 98, 160. Methods may be used to reduce cross-talk and the reception of false signals, as described above in connection with the transmitter 98 of the on-skin sensor control unit 44. In some embodiments, the transmitter 160 is only used to transmit signals to the sensor control unit 44 and has a range of less than one foot, and preferably less than six inches. This then requires the patient or another person to hold the receiver/display unit 46 near the sensor control unit 44 during transmission of data, for example, during the transmission of calibration information. Transmissions may also be performed using methods other than RF transmission, including optical or wire transmission.
In addition, in some embodiments of the invention, the transmitter 160 may be configured to transmit data to another receiver/display unit 46, 48 or some other receiver. For example, a small receiver/display unit 46 may transmit data to a large receiver/display unit 48, as illustrated in
Another optional component for the receiver/display unit 46, 48 is an input device 162, such as a keypad or keyboard. The input device 162 may allow numeric or alphanumeric input. The input device 162 may also include buttons, keys, or the like which initiate functions of and/or provide input to the analyte monitoring device 40. Such functions may include initiating a data transfer, manually changing the transmission frequency or frequency band of the transmitter 98, deactivating an alarm system 104, 156, inputting calibration data, and/or indicating events to activate storage of data representative of the event.
Another embodiment of the input device 162 is a touch screen display. The touch screen display may be incorporated into the display 154 or may be a separate display. The touch screen display is activated when the patient touches the screen at a position indicated by a “soft button” which corresponds to a desired function. Touch screen displays are well known.
In addition, the analyte monitoring device 40 may include password protection to prevent the unauthorized transmission of data to a terminal or the unauthorized changing of settings for the device 40. A patient may be prompted by the display 154 to input the password using the input device 162 whenever a password-protected function is initiated.
Another function that may be activated by the input device 162 is a deactivation mode. The deactivation mode may indicate that the receiver/display unit 46, 48 should no longer display a portion or all of the data. In some embodiments, activation of the deactivation mode may even deactivate the alarm systems 104, 156. Preferably, the patient is prompted to confirm this particular action. During the deactivation mode, the processing circuit 109 and/or analyzer 152 may stop processing data or they may continue to process data and not report it for display and may optionally store the data for later retrieval.
Alternatively, a sleep mode may be entered if the input device 162 has not been activated for a predetermined period of time. This period of time may be adjustable by the patient or another individual. In this sleep mode, the processing circuit 109 and/or analyzer 152 typically continue to obtain measurements and process data, however, the display is not activated. The sleep mode may be deactivated by actions, such as activating the input device 162. The current analyte reading or other desired information may then be displayed.
In one embodiment, a receiver/display unit 46 initiates an audible and/or visual alarm when the unit 46 has not received a transmission from the on-skin sensor control unit within a predetermined amount of time. The alarm typically continues until the patient responds and/or a transmission is received. This can, for example, remind a patient if the receiver/display unit 46 is inadvertently left behind.
In another embodiment, the receiver/display unit 46, 48 is integrated with a calibration unit (see for example,
Other devices may be used for calibration including those that operate using, for example, electrochemical and colorimetric blood glucose assays, assays of interstitial or dermal fluid, and/or non-invasive optical assays. In one aspect, when calibration of the transcutaneous or subcutaneously implanted sensor 42 is needed, the patient uses the integrated in vitro monitor to generate a reading. The reading may then, for example, be automatically used by the receiver/display unit 46, 48 to calibrate the sensor 42.
Calibration and/or validation of an in vivo sensor system may include obtaining one or more blood glucose measurement values (also referred to as reference measurements or calibration data, and the like) using an in vitro blood glucose monitor integrated with the housing of the receiver/display unit 46, 48 (or otherwise coupled thereto), and comparing or correlating one or more of the obtained one or more blood glucose measurement values to one or more in vivo signals obtained from the in vivo sensor system. The compared or correlated in vitro blood glucose value and in vivo signal may be used in an algorithm or routine executed, for example, by a microprocessor or similar computing device or component of the receiver/display unit 46, 48 to calibrate other in vivo sensor signals (whether calibrated values (e.g., in analyte units of measure such as mg/dL, or the like)) and/or raw or otherwise processed sensor signals (e.g., in raw signal units such as nA, or the like)) either substantially in real time, and/or retrospectively and/or prospectively.
Accordingly, the in vivo system, e.g., receiver/display unit 46, 48, sensor control unit 44, or the like, may include programming to execute one or more routines to calibrate or validate the in vivo sensor data using reference data such as reference data obtained from an integrated in vitro calibration unit. As described herein, validation and/or confirmation (e.g., a user affirmative assertion or indication) of in vivo sensor signal data (calibrated and/or uncalibrated signal) and/or in vitro blood glucose measurement data and/or data or signals that may include both as individual, distinguishable data values or as a result obtained by using one or both, may be required before any of the above is accepted or performed, or calibration is accepted or performed, where validation includes but is not limited to, confirmation or verification of a rate of change or fluctuation of a parameter such as glucose to be within a predetermined range or acceptable limit, determination of the parameter such as glucose values to be within predetermined analyte ranges, determination of time related parameters (for example, based on the sample time of the in vivo sensor data as compared to the time frame of obtaining the reference measurement to be within a certain acceptable time window), analysis of one or more in vivo sensor data related standard deviations or characteristics, absolute values associated with the data, probabilities of signal artifacts, noise contribution in the signal, signal stability analysis and the like.
Calibration and validation protocols for the calibration and validation of in vivo continuous analyte systems are described herein, and in e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,284,478; 7,299,082; and U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 11/365,340; 11/537,991; 11/618,706; 12/242,823; 12/363,712, the disclosures of which are herein incorporated by reference.
In certain embodiments, a calibration unit, e.g., a blood glucose monitor that determines glucose concentration by way of an in vitro process of applying a biological fluid sample to a glucose test strip that is entirely ex vivo and determining the concentration of glucose in the sample, employed with receiver/display unit 46, 48, including integrated therewith or otherwise coupled thereto (e.g., wired to and/or wirelessly coupled) may be configured as both a coding and no-coding system. A coding/no-coding calibration unit may be configured to accept and accurately determine analyte concentration from in vitro analyte test strips that require user calibration action (e.g., require the affirmative action of a user to set (for example, enter or provide to the monitor a test strip parameter such as a calibration code) the in vitro meter for a given in vitro test strip or batch of in vitro test strips), and from in vitro test strips that do not require user calibration action (i.e., no-coding systems that do not require the affirmative action of a user to set the blood glucose monitor for a given in vitro test strip or batch of in vitro test strips). As used herein calibration code and calibration parameter are used interchangeably and are intended to refer to a value, a level, or a characteristic associated with the glucose test strip used to process, validate, confirm, or otherwise accept the signal generated from the fluid sample to determine the corresponding analyte level from the test strip.
As such, a coding/no-coding blood glucose monitor in certain aspects may be programmed to function as a coding monitor and a non-coding monitor. In other words, in aspects of the present disclosure, a universal calibration unit may be provided to calibrate the in vivo continuous analyte sensing system and/or to validate the results of the in vivo continuous analyte sensing system, e.g., prior to executing a therapy action based on results obtained by the continuous analyte sensor system, using either an in vitro test strip that requires user coding or an in vitro test strip that does not require user coding. Various calibration variables and algorithms may be stored in memory of the universal calibration unit and accessed according to the particular calibration requirements of the in vitro analyte test strip. A universal calibration unit in certain embodiments may distinguish without a user selection (e.g., by automatically making a selection or detecting), between an in vitro test strip that requires a user to provide calibration information and an in vitro test strip that does not require active entry of the calibration information, when a particular in vitro analyte test strip is received by the universal calibration unit. In other embodiments, a user may be required to indicate the in vitro test strip type to the universal calibration unit, e.g., using a function selector such as a user input button or the like. In this manner, in one aspect, a universal calibration unit may be configured such that the measured analyte levels obtained from coding and no-coding in vitro test strips are accurately reported (e.g., via a visual display), with or without user indication or programming of the type of the in vitro test strip (e.g., whether the test strip requires a calibration code or whether the test strip is a no-calibration code type test strip).
In certain embodiments, a blood glucose monitor coupled to an in vivo analyte system may be configured to accept universal in vitro analyte test strips. Universal test strips are in vitro test strips that can be used with blood glucose monitors configured to be used with no-coding test strips and blood glucose monitors configured to be used with coding test strips. The blood glucose monitor may determine from an indicator of the universal strip in certain embodiments whether calibration is automatic (no coding) or whether the user needs to input calibration information to the device (coding required), as described in, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,736,671 and U.S. Published Patent Application No. 2008/0267823, the disclosures of which are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety. Automatic recognition or detection of a universal in vitro analyte test strip contacted with a monitor may be accomplished mechanically and/or electrically, for example.
In vitro blood glucose monitoring systems that require coding require a user to manually enter calibration information, e.g., in the form of a calibration code, or the like, into the in vitro blood glucose monitor, and more specifically into the calibration software algorithm of the monitor, which information is related to a given test strip, batch, or a one or more manufacturing lot of test strips. A calibration code is determined the manufacturing process and is usually manufacturing lot-specific. In systems that require coding, this calibration information is provided to the user in a form for entry into the glucose monitoring system, e.g., in the form of a numeric or alphanumeric code to be entered into the blood glucose monitor manually as described above, or in the form of a calibrator such as a data strip that is received by a monitor and includes the calibration code information which can be read from a monitor-received calibrator prior to the use of a test strip, and the like, (see, e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,377,894 and 6,600,997; and U.S. Published Patent Application No. 2004/0118704, the disclosures of which are herein incorporated by reference).
No-coding calibration units include blood glucose monitoring systems that do not require any action on the part of the user to calibrate the in vitro glucose test strip of the system. Such no-coding in vitro analyte systems include those in which no calibration code has to be entered by the user into the blood glucose monitor, and no calibration codes are otherwise obtained by the blood glucose monitor post sensor manufacture, and includes those in which a code is read or otherwise obtained by a blood glucose monitor but which does not require any additional action on the part of a user other than the usual actions (e.g., inserting an in vitro test strip into the in vitro glucose monitor that is integrated with the housing of the receiver/display unit 46,48, pricking a body part to express a biological sample, contacting the expressed biological sample to the in vitro test strip and thereafter the in vitro glucose monitor determines the analyte concentration and reports the analyte results to the user audibly, using tactile outputs and/or visually) that are necessary to test analyte from a sample of biological fluid applied to an in vitro test strip.
For example, no-coding systems include those in which calibration information may be read or otherwise obtained by a glucose monitor automatically and directly from an analyte test strip that is used to determine a glucose concentration and that may include calibration information. Accordingly, in certain embodiments an in vitro blood glucose monitor (which may be integrated into or otherwise coupled to) the receiver/display unit 46, 48 does not require manual entry of a calibration code by the user prior to use of a test strip in order to determine an accurate (including calibrated) blood glucose reading using a test strip received by the monitor. The memory of the receiver/display unit 46, 48 may include a calibration code or algorithm that can be used with all in vitro analyte test strips that are no coding test strips. For example, the receiver/display unit 46, 48 may be configured to access the calibration code or algorithm automatically.
In vitro blood glucose monitoring systems that require coding require a user to enter calibration information, e.g., in the form of a calibration code, code data strip, or the like, into the in vitro blood glucose monitor, and more specifically into the calibration software algorithm of the monitor, which information is related to a given test strip or batch or manufacturing lot of test strips. This calibration code is determined during the manufacturing process and is usually manufacturing lot-specific. In systems that require coding, this calibration information is provided to the user in a form for entry into the glucose monitoring system, e.g., in the form of a code to be entered into the meter manually by the user or in the form of a calibrator such as a code data strip that is received by a monitor and includes the calibration code information which can be read by a monitor-received calibrator prior to use of a test strip, and the like, (see, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 6,377,894; U.S. application Ser. No. 10/326,008, the disclosures of which are herein incorporated by reference). However, if the user enters incorrect calibration information, or the wrong calibrator is inserted into the monitor, the analyte reading determined by the glucose monitor will be incorrect, or such inaccurate results will be indicated to the user.
No-coding may be achieved in any suitable manner. In certain embodiments, no-coding may be accomplished by test strip manufacturing processes, e.g., the test strips may be calibration adjusted (e.g., physically altering a pre-sensor during manufacturing to provide a sensor that meets a pre-determined calibration criteria or code), and/or process controls, and the like. Physically altering a pre-sensor during manufacturing is described in U.S. Published Patent Application No. 2008/0066305, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entity. For example, test strips may be configured to be used with a meter that has a predetermined calibration code present therein, e.g., stored in memory, and test strips may be manufactured to a standardized calibration criteria or code so as to meet or fit the stored code.
In certain embodiments, no-coding may be achieved by encoding calibration information directly on the test strips (e.g., electrical using for example conductive material, optical, and the like), which may be obtained by the blood glucose monitor directly from an in vitro analyte test strip received by the meter. Examples of such encoding methods and devices are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,616,819 and 7,749,740 and U.S. Published Patent Application No. 2006/0091006 and 2008/0267823, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entity. In certain embodiments, test strips may include a compensating electrode(s) as described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,418,285, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
Various calibration variables and algorithms may be stored in memory of a calibration unit and accessed according to particular calibration requirements of an in vitro analyte test strip. For example, memory may include calibration data, e.g., a universal calibration code or algorithm that can be used with all in vitro analyte test strips that are no-coding test strips, or the like. The stored information may be accessed, e.g., a unit may access the information automatically, or the like. For example, the unit (for example, the receiver/display unit 46, 48) may distinguish, without user action, a given test strip type when a given in vitro analyte test strip is received by the unit, may access appropriate stored calibration information to calibrate the received in vitro test strip, and calibrate the test strip accordingly. See, for example, patents and applications described herein, e.g., patent application Ser. No. 12/110,240. See, e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,714,874; 5,856,195; 6,616,819; 6,773,671; 7,418,285; and U.S. application Ser. Nos.: 11/461,725; 12/110,026; and 12/110,240, the disclosures of which are herein incorporated by reference.
In the embodiment of
In certain aspects, the processing unit 3720 may be configured to include some or all of the functionalities including data processing, analysis, and/or data storage (including calibration variables, encoded information, calibration algorithm) of the calibration unit discussed above, in addition to the operations of the receiver/display unit 446/448 discussed above. While
A universal in vitro blood glucose monitor may also be used with a drug administration system such as an insulin delivery system, including integrated therewith or otherwise coupled thereto (e.g., wired to and/or wirelessly coupled), as described herein. In such embodiments, the universal in vitro blood glucose monitor may be used to confirm blood glucose concentration prior to the drug administration system delivery of a drug. A user may be required to confirm a recommended drug administration event before the drug is administered.
Embodiments include an integrated drug administration system for monitoring and treating diabetes that includes a universal in vitro blood glucose monitor as described herein, e.g., integrated with a component of the system such as a receiver unit and/or drug administration device. The integrated drug administration system may include an in vivo glucose sensor that is configured so that at least a portion of which is insertable and positionable beneath a skin surface of a user in contact with a biological fluid such as blood, interstitial fluid, etc., and which substantially continuously measures glucose in a user for a period of time as described herein, e.g., at least about one hour or more, e.g., about 24 hours or more, e.g., about multiple days or more, e.g., about 1 week or more, and outputs a data stream that includes sensor data points. The system may also include a receiver/display unit as described herein that has an integrated blood glucose monitor and analyte test port, and is configured to be received the sensor data stream, and an insulin delivery device that is coupled to the receiver unit, e.g., integrated and/or physically detachably connectable to the receiver, or the like. The insulin delivery device may include a syringe, a transdermal patch, an inhaler or spray delivery device, a pen or pen-type injector, ambulatory infusion device such as an external pump, an implantable pump, any of which may be connected to a component of the system such as the receiver unit, e.g., detachably connected. A component of the system, e.g., the receiver, and/or the insulin delivery device and/or a sensor control unit, may detect (e.g., automatically) conditions or parameters associated with a clinical risk, including impending clinical risk as described herein (e.g., hypoglycemia, impending hypoglycemia, hyperglycemia, impending hyperglycemia), and determines a medication dosage (or example, an insulin dose) recommendation based on the detected clinical risk. Programming may be included that requires a component of the system, e.g., the receiver, and/or the insulin delivery device and/or a sensor control unit, to be validated and/or confirmed by a user. For example, a user may be prompted by the user interface as described herein. Drug administration systems that may be employed include, but are not limited to, U.S. Pat. No. 6,916,159; and U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 11/530,473; 11/462,982; 11/462,974; 11/427,587; 11/427,187; 11/428,299; 11/386,915; 11/106,155; 12/032,593; the disclosures of which are herein incorporated by reference.
Integration with a Drug Administration System
In
If the drug delivery system 250 has two or more sensors 252, the data storage and controller module 258 may verify that the data from the two or more sensors 252 agrees within predetermined parameters before accepting the data as valid. This data may then be processed by the data storage and controller module 258, optionally with previously obtained data, to determine a drug administration protocol. The drug administration protocol is then executed using the drug administration system 260, which may be an internal or external infusion pump, syringe injector, transdermal delivery system (e.g., a patch containing the drug placed on the skin), or inhalation system. Alternatively, the drug storage and controller module 258 may provide the drug administration protocol so that the patient or another person may provide the drug to the patient according to the profile.
In one embodiment of the invention, the data storage and controller module 258 is trainable. For example, the data storage and controller module 258 may store glucose readings over a predetermined period of time, e.g., several weeks. When an episode of hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia is encountered, the relevant history leading to such event may be analyzed to determine any patterns which might improve the system's ability to predict future episodes. Subsequent data might be compared to the known patterns to predict hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia and deliver the drug accordingly. In another embodiment, the analysis of trends is performed by an external system or by the processing circuit 109 in the on-skin sensor control unit 254 or the analyzer 152 in the receiver/display unit 256 and the trends are incorporated in the data storage and controller 258.
In one embodiment, the data storage and controller module 258, processing circuit 109, and/or analyzer 152 utilizes patient-specific data from multiple episodes to predict a patient's response to future episodes. The multiple episodes used in the prediction are typically responses to a same or similar external or internal stimulus. Examples of stimuli include periods of hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia (or corresponding conditions for analytes other than glucose), treatment of a condition, drug delivery (e.g., insulin for glucose), food intake, exercise, fasting, change in body temperature, elevated or lowered body temperature (e.g., fever), and diseases, viruses, infections, and the like. By analyzing multiple episodes, the data storage and controller module 258, processing circuit 109, and/or analyzer 152 can predict the course of a future episode and provide, for example, a drug administration protocol or administer a drug based on this analysis. An input device (not shown) may be used by the patient or another person to indicate when a particular episode is occurring so that, for example, the data storage and controller module 258, processing circuit 109, and/or analyzer 152 can tag the data as resulting from a particular episode, for use in further analyses.
In addition, the drug delivery system 250 may be capable of providing on-going drug sensitivity feedback. For example, the data from the sensor 252 obtained during the administration of the drug by the drug administration system 260 may provide data about the individual patient's response to the drug which can then be used to modify the current drug administration protocol accordingly, both immediately and in the future. An example of desirable data that can be extracted for each patient includes the patient's characteristic time constant for response to drug administration (e.g., how rapidly the glucose concentration falls when a known bolus of insulin is administered). Another example is the patient's response to administration of various amounts of a drug (e.g., a patient's drug sensitivity curve). The same information may be stored by the drug storage and controller module and then used to determine trends in the patient's drug response, which may be used in developing subsequent drug administration protocols, thereby personalizing the drug administration process for the needs of the patient.
In one embodiment, when the sensor data from the two separate sensors 252 are compared and are determined to fall within a range of tolerance, then the sensor-based drug delivery system 250 may be configured to calculate an appropriate drug infusion level to determine a correction factor to compensate for the level of the monitored analyte in the patient falling outside of the acceptable range, or alternatively, to determine a suitable modification to an existing infusion delivery rate based on the sensor data.
In this manner, in one embodiment of the present invention, when the data obtained from the two sensors agree, then a closed loop system may be attained where the sensor-based drug delivery system 250 may be configured to dynamically modify the drug delivery rate for patient therapy based on contemporaneous and accurate measurements of the patient's analyte levels using the sensors 252 in the continuous monitoring system.
On the other hand, if the comparison of the data from the two sensors 252 do not agree or otherwise fall within an acceptance range of tolerance, then the sensor-based drug delivery system 250 reverts to an open loop system, prompting the patient of the user to intervene and for example, instruct the patient to perform a finger stick confirmatory test to confirm the accuracy of the sensor data. For example, the system may prompt the patient to perform a finger stick (or arm) blood glucose testing using a blood glucose meter to confirm the accuracy of the analyte sensor monitoring the glucose level of the patient. In this case, the patient may separately determine the appropriate dosage, or otherwise, confirm a calculated dosage for administration (for example, a bolus, or a modification to the existing basal profile). Alternatively, based on the glucose reading from the finger stick testing, for example, the patient may manually calculate a correction bolus, for example, or a modification to the existing basal profile to improve upon the existing insulin infusion rate.
The present invention should not be considered limited to the particular examples described above, but rather should be understood to cover all aspects of the invention as fairly set out in the attached claims. Various modifications, equivalent processes, as well as numerous structures to which the present invention may be applicable will be readily apparent to those of skill in the art to which the present invention is directed upon review of the instant specification. The claims are intended to cover such modifications and devices.
This application is a continuation in part of Application No. 11/265,787 filed on Nov. 1, 2005 , the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes.
| Number | Name | Date | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2402306 | Turkel | Jun 1946 | A |
| 2719797 | Rosenblatt et al. | Oct 1955 | A |
| 3132123 | Harris, Jr. et al. | May 1964 | A |
| 3210578 | Sherer | Oct 1965 | A |
| 3219533 | Mullins | Nov 1965 | A |
| 3260656 | Ross, Jr. | Jul 1966 | A |
| 3282875 | Connolly et al. | Nov 1966 | A |
| 3304413 | Lehmann et al. | Feb 1967 | A |
| 3310606 | Fritz | Mar 1967 | A |
| 3381371 | Russell | May 1968 | A |
| 3397191 | Beckerbauer | Aug 1968 | A |
| 3635926 | Gresham | Jan 1972 | A |
| 3651318 | Czekajewski | Mar 1972 | A |
| 3652475 | Wada et al. | Mar 1972 | A |
| 3653841 | Klein | Apr 1972 | A |
| 3698386 | Fried | Oct 1972 | A |
| 3719564 | Lilly, Jr. et al. | Mar 1973 | A |
| 3768014 | Smith et al. | Oct 1973 | A |
| 3775182 | Patton et al. | Nov 1973 | A |
| 3776832 | Oswin et al. | Dec 1973 | A |
| 3785939 | Hsu | Jan 1974 | A |
| 3791871 | Rowley | Feb 1974 | A |
| 3826244 | Salcman et al. | Jul 1974 | A |
| 3837339 | Aisenberg et al. | Sep 1974 | A |
| 3838033 | Mindt et al. | Sep 1974 | A |
| 3851018 | Kelly | Nov 1974 | A |
| 3898984 | Mandel et al. | Aug 1975 | A |
| 3919051 | Koch et al. | Nov 1975 | A |
| 3926760 | Allen et al. | Dec 1975 | A |
| 3929971 | Roy | Dec 1975 | A |
| 3930889 | Ruggiero et al. | Jan 1976 | A |
| 3933593 | Sternberg | Jan 1976 | A |
| 3943918 | Lewis | Mar 1976 | A |
| 3957613 | Macur | May 1976 | A |
| 3964974 | Banauch et al. | Jun 1976 | A |
| 3966580 | Janata et al. | Jun 1976 | A |
| 3972320 | Kalman | Aug 1976 | A |
| 3979274 | Newman | Sep 1976 | A |
| 3982530 | Storch | Sep 1976 | A |
| 4008717 | Kowarski | Feb 1977 | A |
| 4016866 | Lawton | Apr 1977 | A |
| 4024312 | Korpman | May 1977 | A |
| 4032729 | Koistinen | Jun 1977 | A |
| 4036749 | Anderson | Jul 1977 | A |
| 4037563 | Pflueger et al. | Jul 1977 | A |
| 4040908 | Clark, Jr. | Aug 1977 | A |
| 4052754 | Homsy | Oct 1977 | A |
| 4055175 | Clemens et al. | Oct 1977 | A |
| 4059406 | Fleet | Nov 1977 | A |
| 4059708 | Heiss, Jr. et al. | Nov 1977 | A |
| 4067322 | Johnson | Jan 1978 | A |
| 4073713 | Newman | Feb 1978 | A |
| 4076596 | Connery et al. | Feb 1978 | A |
| 4076656 | White et al. | Feb 1978 | A |
| 4098574 | Dappen | Jul 1978 | A |
| 4100048 | Pompei et al. | Jul 1978 | A |
| 4120292 | LeBlanc, Jr. et al. | Oct 1978 | A |
| 4129128 | McFarlane | Dec 1978 | A |
| 4146029 | Ellinwood, Jr. | Mar 1979 | A |
| 4151845 | Clemens | May 1979 | A |
| 4154231 | Russell | May 1979 | A |
| 4168205 | Danninger et al. | Sep 1979 | A |
| 4172770 | Semersky et al. | Oct 1979 | A |
| 4178916 | McNamara | Dec 1979 | A |
| 4184429 | Widmer | Jan 1980 | A |
| 4193982 | Avrameas et al. | Mar 1980 | A |
| 4197840 | Beck et al. | Apr 1980 | A |
| 4206755 | Klein | Jun 1980 | A |
| 4215703 | Willson | Aug 1980 | A |
| 4224125 | Nakamura et al. | Sep 1980 | A |
| 4240438 | Updike et al. | Dec 1980 | A |
| 4240889 | Yoda et al. | Dec 1980 | A |
| 4241438 | Kern | Dec 1980 | A |
| 4245634 | Albisser et al. | Jan 1981 | A |
| 4247297 | Berti et al. | Jan 1981 | A |
| 4253469 | Aslan | Mar 1981 | A |
| 4255500 | Hooke | Mar 1981 | A |
| 4259540 | Sabia | Mar 1981 | A |
| 4271449 | Grogan | Jun 1981 | A |
| 4275225 | Krespan | Jun 1981 | A |
| 4282872 | Franetzki et al. | Aug 1981 | A |
| 4294258 | Bernard | Oct 1981 | A |
| 4318784 | Higgins et al. | Mar 1982 | A |
| 4324257 | Albarda et al. | Apr 1982 | A |
| 4327725 | Cortese et al. | May 1982 | A |
| 4331869 | Rollo | May 1982 | A |
| 4335255 | Krespan | Jun 1982 | A |
| 4340458 | Lerner et al. | Jul 1982 | A |
| 4344438 | Schultz | Aug 1982 | A |
| 4345603 | Schulman | Aug 1982 | A |
| 4352960 | Dormer et al. | Oct 1982 | A |
| 4353888 | Sefton | Oct 1982 | A |
| 4356074 | Johnson | Oct 1982 | A |
| 4357282 | Anderson et al. | Nov 1982 | A |
| 4360019 | Portner et al. | Nov 1982 | A |
| 4365637 | Johnson | Dec 1982 | A |
| 4366033 | Richter et al. | Dec 1982 | A |
| 4374013 | Enfors | Feb 1983 | A |
| 4375399 | Havas et al. | Mar 1983 | A |
| 4384586 | Christiansen | May 1983 | A |
| 4388166 | Suzuki et al. | Jun 1983 | A |
| 4390621 | Bauer | Jun 1983 | A |
| 4392933 | Nakamura et al. | Jul 1983 | A |
| 4401122 | Clark, Jr. | Aug 1983 | A |
| 4403847 | Chrestensen | Sep 1983 | A |
| 4403984 | Ash et al. | Sep 1983 | A |
| 4404066 | Johnson | Sep 1983 | A |
| 4407288 | Langer et al. | Oct 1983 | A |
| 4407959 | Tsuji et al. | Oct 1983 | A |
| 4415666 | D'Orazio et al. | Nov 1983 | A |
| 4417588 | Houghton et al. | Nov 1983 | A |
| 4418148 | Oberhardt | Nov 1983 | A |
| 4419535 | O'Hara | Dec 1983 | A |
| 4420564 | Tsuji et al. | Dec 1983 | A |
| 4425920 | Bourland et al. | Jan 1984 | A |
| 4427004 | Miller | Jan 1984 | A |
| 4427770 | Chen et al. | Jan 1984 | A |
| 4431004 | Bessman et al. | Feb 1984 | A |
| 4431507 | Nankai et al. | Feb 1984 | A |
| 4436094 | Cerami | Mar 1984 | A |
| 4440175 | Wilkins | Apr 1984 | A |
| 4442841 | Uehara et al. | Apr 1984 | A |
| 4443218 | DeCant, Jr. et al. | Apr 1984 | A |
| 4444892 | Malmros | Apr 1984 | A |
| 4450842 | Zick et al. | May 1984 | A |
| 4458686 | Clark, Jr. | Jul 1984 | A |
| 4461691 | Frank | Jul 1984 | A |
| 4467811 | Clark, Jr. | Aug 1984 | A |
| 4469110 | Slama | Sep 1984 | A |
| 4476003 | Frank et al. | Oct 1984 | A |
| 4477314 | Richter et al. | Oct 1984 | A |
| 4478976 | Goertz et al. | Oct 1984 | A |
| 4483924 | Tsuji et al. | Nov 1984 | A |
| 4484987 | Gough | Nov 1984 | A |
| 4494950 | Fischell | Jan 1985 | A |
| 4498843 | Schneider et al. | Feb 1985 | A |
| 4499249 | Nakagawa et al. | Feb 1985 | A |
| 4506680 | Stokes | Mar 1985 | A |
| 4512348 | Uchigaki et al. | Apr 1985 | A |
| RE31916 | Oswin et al. | Jun 1985 | E |
| 4522690 | Venkatasetty | Jun 1985 | A |
| 4524114 | Samuels et al. | Jun 1985 | A |
| 4526661 | Steckhan et al. | Jul 1985 | A |
| 4526948 | Resnick | Jul 1985 | A |
| 4527240 | Kvitash | Jul 1985 | A |
| 4530696 | Bisera et al. | Jul 1985 | A |
| 4534356 | Papadakis | Aug 1985 | A |
| 4534825 | Koning et al. | Aug 1985 | A |
| 4538616 | Rogoff | Sep 1985 | A |
| 4543955 | Schroeppel | Oct 1985 | A |
| 4544869 | Pittaway | Oct 1985 | A |
| 4545382 | Higgins et al. | Oct 1985 | A |
| 4552840 | Riffer | Nov 1985 | A |
| 4554927 | Fussell | Nov 1985 | A |
| 4560534 | Kung et al. | Dec 1985 | A |
| 4561443 | Hogrefe et al. | Dec 1985 | A |
| 4569589 | Neufeld | Feb 1986 | A |
| 4571292 | Liu et al. | Feb 1986 | A |
| 4573994 | Fischell et al. | Mar 1986 | A |
| 4577642 | Stokes | Mar 1986 | A |
| 4578215 | Bradley | Mar 1986 | A |
| 4581336 | Malloy et al. | Apr 1986 | A |
| 4583976 | Ferguson | Apr 1986 | A |
| 4595011 | Phillips | Jun 1986 | A |
| 4595479 | Kimura et al. | Jun 1986 | A |
| 4614760 | Homan et al. | Sep 1986 | A |
| 4619754 | Niki et al. | Oct 1986 | A |
| 4619793 | Lee | Oct 1986 | A |
| 4627445 | Garcia et al. | Dec 1986 | A |
| 4627908 | Miller | Dec 1986 | A |
| 4633878 | Bombardieri | Jan 1987 | A |
| 4633881 | Moore et al. | Jan 1987 | A |
| 4637403 | Garcia et al. | Jan 1987 | A |
| RE32361 | Duggan | Feb 1987 | E |
| 4648408 | Hutcheson et al. | Mar 1987 | A |
| 4650547 | Gough | Mar 1987 | A |
| 4653513 | Dombrowski | Mar 1987 | A |
| 4654197 | Lilja et al. | Mar 1987 | A |
| 4655880 | Liu | Apr 1987 | A |
| 4655885 | Hill et al. | Apr 1987 | A |
| 4658463 | Sugita et al. | Apr 1987 | A |
| 4663824 | Kenmochi | May 1987 | A |
| 4671288 | Gough | Jun 1987 | A |
| 4672970 | Uchida et al. | Jun 1987 | A |
| 4674652 | Aten et al. | Jun 1987 | A |
| 4679562 | Luksha | Jul 1987 | A |
| 4680268 | Clark, Jr. | Jul 1987 | A |
| 4681111 | Silvian | Jul 1987 | A |
| 4682602 | Prohaska | Jul 1987 | A |
| 4684537 | Graetzel et al. | Aug 1987 | A |
| 4685463 | Williams | Aug 1987 | A |
| 4686624 | Blum et al. | Aug 1987 | A |
| 4698582 | Braun et al. | Oct 1987 | A |
| 4699157 | Shonk | Oct 1987 | A |
| 4703756 | Gough et al. | Nov 1987 | A |
| 4711245 | Higgins et al. | Dec 1987 | A |
| 4711251 | Stokes | Dec 1987 | A |
| 4714462 | DiDomenico | Dec 1987 | A |
| 4714874 | Morris et al. | Dec 1987 | A |
| 4717673 | Wrighton et al. | Jan 1988 | A |
| 4718893 | Dorman et al. | Jan 1988 | A |
| 4721601 | Wrighton et al. | Jan 1988 | A |
| 4721677 | Clark, Jr. | Jan 1988 | A |
| 4726378 | Kaplan | Feb 1988 | A |
| 4726716 | McGuire | Feb 1988 | A |
| 4731051 | Fischell | Mar 1988 | A |
| 4731726 | Allen, III | Mar 1988 | A |
| 4747828 | Tseo | May 1988 | A |
| 4749985 | Corsberg | Jun 1988 | A |
| 4750496 | Reinhart | Jun 1988 | A |
| 4753652 | Langer et al. | Jun 1988 | A |
| 4755173 | Konopka | Jul 1988 | A |
| 4757022 | Shults et al. | Jul 1988 | A |
| 4758323 | Davis et al. | Jul 1988 | A |
| 4759371 | Franetzki | Jul 1988 | A |
| 4759828 | Young et al. | Jul 1988 | A |
| 4764416 | Ueyama et al. | Aug 1988 | A |
| 4776904 | Charlton et al. | Oct 1988 | A |
| 4776944 | Janata et al. | Oct 1988 | A |
| 4777953 | Ash et al. | Oct 1988 | A |
| 4779618 | Mund et al. | Oct 1988 | A |
| 4781798 | Gough | Nov 1988 | A |
| 4784736 | Lonsdale et al. | Nov 1988 | A |
| 4787398 | Garcia et al. | Nov 1988 | A |
| 4787837 | Bell | Nov 1988 | A |
| 4795707 | Niiyama et al. | Jan 1989 | A |
| 4796634 | Huntsman et al. | Jan 1989 | A |
| 4803243 | Fujimoto et al. | Feb 1989 | A |
| 4803625 | Fu et al. | Feb 1989 | A |
| 4803726 | Levine et al. | Feb 1989 | A |
| 4805624 | Yao et al. | Feb 1989 | A |
| 4805625 | Wyler | Feb 1989 | A |
| 4810470 | Burkhardt et al. | Mar 1989 | A |
| 4813424 | Wilkins | Mar 1989 | A |
| 4815469 | Cohen et al. | Mar 1989 | A |
| 4820399 | Senda et al. | Apr 1989 | A |
| 4821733 | Peck | Apr 1989 | A |
| 4822337 | Newhouse et al. | Apr 1989 | A |
| 4826810 | Aoki | May 1989 | A |
| 4830959 | McNeil et al. | May 1989 | A |
| 4832034 | Pizziconi et al. | May 1989 | A |
| 4832797 | Vadgama et al. | May 1989 | A |
| 4835372 | Gombrich et al. | May 1989 | A |
| RE32947 | Dormer et al. | Jun 1989 | E |
| 4836904 | Armstrong et al. | Jun 1989 | A |
| 4837049 | Byers et al. | Jun 1989 | A |
| 4838887 | Idriss | Jun 1989 | A |
| 4840893 | Hill et al. | Jun 1989 | A |
| RE32974 | Porat et al. | Jul 1989 | E |
| 4844076 | Lesho et al. | Jul 1989 | A |
| 4845035 | Fanta et al. | Jul 1989 | A |
| 4848351 | Finch | Jul 1989 | A |
| 4849458 | Reed et al. | Jul 1989 | A |
| 4852573 | Kennedy | Aug 1989 | A |
| 4854322 | Ash et al. | Aug 1989 | A |
| 4856340 | Garrison | Aug 1989 | A |
| 4857713 | Brown | Aug 1989 | A |
| 4858617 | Sanders | Aug 1989 | A |
| 4870561 | Love et al. | Sep 1989 | A |
| 4871351 | Feingold | Oct 1989 | A |
| 4871440 | Nagata et al. | Oct 1989 | A |
| 4874499 | Smith et al. | Oct 1989 | A |
| 4874500 | Madou et al. | Oct 1989 | A |
| 4875486 | Rapoport et al. | Oct 1989 | A |
| 4882013 | Turner et al. | Nov 1989 | A |
| 4883057 | Broderick | Nov 1989 | A |
| 4886740 | Vadgama | Dec 1989 | A |
| 4889744 | Quaid | Dec 1989 | A |
| 4890620 | Gough | Jan 1990 | A |
| 4890621 | Hakky | Jan 1990 | A |
| 4891104 | Liston et al. | Jan 1990 | A |
| 4894137 | Takizawa et al. | Jan 1990 | A |
| 4896142 | Aycox et al. | Jan 1990 | A |
| 4897162 | Lewandowski et al. | Jan 1990 | A |
| 4897173 | Nankai et al. | Jan 1990 | A |
| 4897457 | Nakamura et al. | Jan 1990 | A |
| 4899839 | Dessertine et al. | Feb 1990 | A |
| 4900405 | Otagawa et al. | Feb 1990 | A |
| 4902294 | Gosserez | Feb 1990 | A |
| 4907857 | Giuliani et al. | Mar 1990 | A |
| 4909908 | Ross et al. | Mar 1990 | A |
| 4911794 | Parce et al. | Mar 1990 | A |
| 4917800 | Lonsdale et al. | Apr 1990 | A |
| 4919114 | Miyazaki | Apr 1990 | A |
| 4919141 | Zier et al. | Apr 1990 | A |
| 4919767 | Vadgama et al. | Apr 1990 | A |
| 4919770 | Preidel et al. | Apr 1990 | A |
| 4920969 | Suzuki et al. | May 1990 | A |
| 4920977 | Haynes | May 1990 | A |
| 4923586 | Katayama et al. | May 1990 | A |
| 4925268 | Iyer et al. | May 1990 | A |
| 4927407 | Dorman | May 1990 | A |
| 4927516 | Yamaguchi et al. | May 1990 | A |
| 4929426 | Bodai et al. | May 1990 | A |
| 4931795 | Gord | Jun 1990 | A |
| 4934369 | Maxwell | Jun 1990 | A |
| 4935105 | Churchouse | Jun 1990 | A |
| 4935345 | Guilbeau et al. | Jun 1990 | A |
| 4936956 | Wrighton | Jun 1990 | A |
| 4938860 | Wogoman | Jul 1990 | A |
| 4942127 | Wada et al. | Jul 1990 | A |
| 4944299 | Silvian | Jul 1990 | A |
| 4945045 | Forrest et al. | Jul 1990 | A |
| 4950378 | Nagata | Aug 1990 | A |
| 4953552 | DeMarzo | Sep 1990 | A |
| 4954129 | Giuliani et al. | Sep 1990 | A |
| 4955861 | Enegren et al. | Sep 1990 | A |
| 4957115 | Selker | Sep 1990 | A |
| 4958148 | Olson | Sep 1990 | A |
| 4958632 | Duggan | Sep 1990 | A |
| 4963245 | Weetall | Oct 1990 | A |
| 4963595 | Ward et al. | Oct 1990 | A |
| 4968400 | Shimomura et al. | Nov 1990 | A |
| 4969468 | Byers et al. | Nov 1990 | A |
| 4970145 | Bennetto et al. | Nov 1990 | A |
| 4974592 | Branco | Dec 1990 | A |
| 4974929 | Curry | Dec 1990 | A |
| 4975175 | Karube et al. | Dec 1990 | A |
| 4979509 | Hakky | Dec 1990 | A |
| 4984929 | Rock et al. | Jan 1991 | A |
| 4986271 | Wilkins | Jan 1991 | A |
| 4986671 | Sun et al. | Jan 1991 | A |
| 4988341 | Columbus et al. | Jan 1991 | A |
| 4988758 | Fukuda et al. | Jan 1991 | A |
| 4990845 | Gord | Feb 1991 | A |
| 4991582 | Byers et al. | Feb 1991 | A |
| 4992794 | Brouwers | Feb 1991 | A |
| 4994068 | Hufnagie | Feb 1991 | A |
| 4994167 | Shults et al. | Feb 1991 | A |
| 4995402 | Smith et al. | Feb 1991 | A |
| 5001054 | Wagner | Mar 1991 | A |
| 5002054 | Ash et al. | Mar 1991 | A |
| 5002055 | Merki et al. | Mar 1991 | A |
| 5002572 | Picha | Mar 1991 | A |
| 5007427 | Suzuki et al. | Apr 1991 | A |
| 5007929 | Quaid | Apr 1991 | A |
| 5014718 | Mitchen | May 1991 | A |
| 5016172 | Dessertine | May 1991 | A |
| 5016201 | Bryan et al. | May 1991 | A |
| 5016631 | Hogrefe et al. | May 1991 | A |
| 5019974 | Beckers | May 1991 | A |
| 5027499 | Prohaska | Jul 1991 | A |
| 5029583 | Meserol et al. | Jul 1991 | A |
| 5030333 | Clark, Jr. | Jul 1991 | A |
| 5034112 | Murase et al. | Jul 1991 | A |
| 5034192 | Wrighton et al. | Jul 1991 | A |
| 5035860 | Kleingeld et al. | Jul 1991 | A |
| 5036860 | Leigh et al. | Aug 1991 | A |
| 5036861 | Sembrowich et al. | Aug 1991 | A |
| 5037527 | Hayashi et al. | Aug 1991 | A |
| 5047044 | Smith et al. | Sep 1991 | A |
| 5049487 | Phillips et al. | Sep 1991 | A |
| 5050612 | Matsumura | Sep 1991 | A |
| 5055171 | Peck | Oct 1991 | A |
| 5058592 | Whisler | Oct 1991 | A |
| 5059654 | Hou et al. | Oct 1991 | A |
| 5063081 | Cozzette et al. | Nov 1991 | A |
| 5067491 | Taylor et al. | Nov 1991 | A |
| 5068536 | Rosenthal | Nov 1991 | A |
| 5070535 | Hochmair et al. | Dec 1991 | A |
| 5072732 | Rapoport et al. | Dec 1991 | A |
| 5073500 | Saito et al. | Dec 1991 | A |
| 5074977 | Cheung et al. | Dec 1991 | A |
| 5076273 | Schoendorfer et al. | Dec 1991 | A |
| 5077476 | Rosenthal | Dec 1991 | A |
| 5078854 | Burgess et al. | Jan 1992 | A |
| 5082550 | Rishpon et al. | Jan 1992 | A |
| 5082786 | Nakamoto | Jan 1992 | A |
| 5084828 | Kaufman et al. | Jan 1992 | A |
| 5088981 | Howson et al. | Feb 1992 | A |
| 5089112 | Skotheim et al. | Feb 1992 | A |
| 5094951 | Rosenberg | Mar 1992 | A |
| 5095904 | Seligman et al. | Mar 1992 | A |
| 5096560 | Takai et al. | Mar 1992 | A |
| 5096836 | Macho et al. | Mar 1992 | A |
| 5097834 | Skrabal | Mar 1992 | A |
| 5101814 | Palti | Apr 1992 | A |
| 5106365 | Hernandez | Apr 1992 | A |
| 5108564 | Szuminsky et al. | Apr 1992 | A |
| 5108819 | Heller et al. | Apr 1992 | A |
| 5108889 | Smith et al. | Apr 1992 | A |
| 5109850 | Blanco et al. | May 1992 | A |
| 5111539 | Hiruta et al. | May 1992 | A |
| 5111818 | Suzuki et al. | May 1992 | A |
| 5114678 | Crawford et al. | May 1992 | A |
| 5120420 | Nankai et al. | Jun 1992 | A |
| 5120421 | Glass et al. | Jun 1992 | A |
| 5126034 | Carter et al. | Jun 1992 | A |
| 5126247 | Palmer et al. | Jun 1992 | A |
| 5130009 | Marsoner et al. | Jul 1992 | A |
| 5131441 | Simpson et al. | Jul 1992 | A |
| 5133856 | Yamaguchi et al. | Jul 1992 | A |
| 5134391 | Okada | Jul 1992 | A |
| 5135003 | Souma | Aug 1992 | A |
| 5137028 | Nishimura | Aug 1992 | A |
| 5139023 | Stanley et al. | Aug 1992 | A |
| 5140393 | Hijikihigawa et al. | Aug 1992 | A |
| 5140985 | Schroeder et al. | Aug 1992 | A |
| 5141868 | Shanks et al. | Aug 1992 | A |
| 5147725 | Pinchuk | Sep 1992 | A |
| 5153827 | Coutre et al. | Oct 1992 | A |
| 5160418 | Mullen | Nov 1992 | A |
| 5161532 | Joseph | Nov 1992 | A |
| 5165407 | Wilson et al. | Nov 1992 | A |
| 5168046 | Hamamoto et al. | Dec 1992 | A |
| 5171689 | Kawaguri et al. | Dec 1992 | A |
| 5174291 | Schoonen et al. | Dec 1992 | A |
| 5176632 | Bernardi | Jan 1993 | A |
| 5176644 | Srisathapat et al. | Jan 1993 | A |
| 5176662 | Bartholomew et al. | Jan 1993 | A |
| 5182707 | Cooper et al. | Jan 1993 | A |
| 5184359 | Tsukamura et al. | Feb 1993 | A |
| 5185256 | Nankai et al. | Feb 1993 | A |
| 5190038 | Polson et al. | Mar 1993 | A |
| 5190041 | Palti | Mar 1993 | A |
| 5192415 | Yoshioka et al. | Mar 1993 | A |
| 5192416 | Wang et al. | Mar 1993 | A |
| 5193539 | Schulman et al. | Mar 1993 | A |
| 5193540 | Schulman et al. | Mar 1993 | A |
| 5197322 | Indravudh | Mar 1993 | A |
| 5198192 | Saito et al. | Mar 1993 | A |
| 5198367 | Aizawa et al. | Mar 1993 | A |
| 5198771 | Fidler et al. | Mar 1993 | A |
| 5200051 | Cozzette et al. | Apr 1993 | A |
| 5202261 | Musho et al. | Apr 1993 | A |
| 5205920 | Oyama et al. | Apr 1993 | A |
| 5206145 | Cattell | Apr 1993 | A |
| 5208147 | Kagenow et al. | May 1993 | A |
| 5208154 | Weaver et al. | May 1993 | A |
| 5209229 | Gilli | May 1993 | A |
| 5215887 | Saito | Jun 1993 | A |
| 5216597 | Beckers | Jun 1993 | A |
| 5217442 | Davis | Jun 1993 | A |
| 5217595 | Smith et al. | Jun 1993 | A |
| 5226423 | Tenerz et al. | Jul 1993 | A |
| 5227042 | Zawodzinski et al. | Jul 1993 | A |
| 5229282 | Yoshioka et al. | Jul 1993 | A |
| 5231988 | Wernicke et al. | Aug 1993 | A |
| 5232668 | Grant et al. | Aug 1993 | A |
| 5234835 | Nestor et al. | Aug 1993 | A |
| 5235003 | Ward et al. | Aug 1993 | A |
| 5243696 | Carr et al. | Sep 1993 | A |
| 5243983 | Tarr et al. | Sep 1993 | A |
| 5246867 | Lakowicz et al. | Sep 1993 | A |
| 5249576 | Goldberger et al. | Oct 1993 | A |
| 5250439 | Musho et al. | Oct 1993 | A |
| 5251126 | Kahn et al. | Oct 1993 | A |
| 5257971 | Lord et al. | Nov 1993 | A |
| 5257980 | Van Antwerp et al. | Nov 1993 | A |
| 5259769 | Cruise et al. | Nov 1993 | A |
| 5261401 | Baker et al. | Nov 1993 | A |
| 5262035 | Gregg et al. | Nov 1993 | A |
| 5262305 | Heller et al. | Nov 1993 | A |
| 5264092 | Skotheim et al. | Nov 1993 | A |
| 5264103 | Yoshioka et al. | Nov 1993 | A |
| 5264104 | Gregg et al. | Nov 1993 | A |
| 5264105 | Gregg et al. | Nov 1993 | A |
| 5264106 | McAleer et al. | Nov 1993 | A |
| 5265888 | Yamamoto et al. | Nov 1993 | A |
| 5266179 | Nankai et al. | Nov 1993 | A |
| 5269212 | Peters et al. | Dec 1993 | A |
| 5269891 | Colin | Dec 1993 | A |
| 5271736 | Picha | Dec 1993 | A |
| 5271815 | Wong | Dec 1993 | A |
| 5272060 | Hamamoto et al. | Dec 1993 | A |
| 5275159 | Griebel | Jan 1994 | A |
| 5276610 | Maeda et al. | Jan 1994 | A |
| 5278079 | Gubinski et al. | Jan 1994 | A |
| 5279294 | Anderson et al. | Jan 1994 | A |
| 5279543 | Glikfeld et al. | Jan 1994 | A |
| 5281319 | Kaneko et al. | Jan 1994 | A |
| 5282848 | Schmitt | Feb 1994 | A |
| 5282950 | Dietze et al. | Feb 1994 | A |
| 5284140 | Allen et al. | Feb 1994 | A |
| 5284156 | Schramm et al. | Feb 1994 | A |
| 5284570 | Savage et al. | Feb 1994 | A |
| 5284748 | Mroczkowski et al. | Feb 1994 | A |
| 5285513 | Kaufman et al. | Feb 1994 | A |
| 5285792 | Sjoquist et al. | Feb 1994 | A |
| 5286362 | Hoenes et al. | Feb 1994 | A |
| 5286364 | Yacynych et al. | Feb 1994 | A |
| 5288636 | Pollmann et al. | Feb 1994 | A |
| 5291887 | Stanley et al. | Mar 1994 | A |
| 5293546 | Tadros et al. | Mar 1994 | A |
| 5298144 | Spokane | Mar 1994 | A |
| 5299571 | Mastrototaro | Apr 1994 | A |
| 5304127 | Kawahara et al. | Apr 1994 | A |
| 5304468 | Phillips et al. | Apr 1994 | A |
| 5307263 | Brown | Apr 1994 | A |
| 5309919 | Snell et al. | May 1994 | A |
| 5310469 | Cunningham et al. | May 1994 | A |
| 5310885 | Maier et al. | May 1994 | A |
| 5312361 | Zadini et al. | May 1994 | A |
| 5312762 | Guiseppi-Elie | May 1994 | A |
| 5314450 | Thompson | May 1994 | A |
| 5314471 | Brauker et al. | May 1994 | A |
| 5316008 | Suga et al. | May 1994 | A |
| 5318521 | Slettenmark | Jun 1994 | A |
| 5320098 | Davidson | Jun 1994 | A |
| 5320725 | Gregg et al. | Jun 1994 | A |
| 5322063 | Allen et al. | Jun 1994 | A |
| 5324303 | Strong et al. | Jun 1994 | A |
| 5324316 | Schulman et al. | Jun 1994 | A |
| 5324322 | Grill et al. | Jun 1994 | A |
| 5326356 | Della Valle et al. | Jul 1994 | A |
| 5326449 | Cunningham | Jul 1994 | A |
| 5328460 | Lord et al. | Jul 1994 | A |
| 5330521 | Cohen | Jul 1994 | A |
| 5330634 | Wong et al. | Jul 1994 | A |
| 5331555 | Hashimoto et al. | Jul 1994 | A |
| 5331966 | Bennett et al. | Jul 1994 | A |
| 5332479 | Uenoyama et al. | Jul 1994 | A |
| 5336204 | Matyas | Aug 1994 | A |
| 5337258 | Dennis | Aug 1994 | A |
| 5337747 | Neftel | Aug 1994 | A |
| 5340722 | Wolfbeis et al. | Aug 1994 | A |
| 5342409 | Mullett | Aug 1994 | A |
| 5342789 | Chick et al. | Aug 1994 | A |
| 5343869 | Pross et al. | Sep 1994 | A |
| 5344454 | Clarke et al. | Sep 1994 | A |
| 5348788 | White | Sep 1994 | A |
| 5350407 | McClure et al. | Sep 1994 | A |
| 5352348 | Young et al. | Oct 1994 | A |
| 5352351 | White | Oct 1994 | A |
| 5354319 | Wyborny et al. | Oct 1994 | A |
| 5354447 | Uenoyama et al. | Oct 1994 | A |
| 5354449 | Band et al. | Oct 1994 | A |
| 5356348 | Bellio et al. | Oct 1994 | A |
| 5356786 | Heller et al. | Oct 1994 | A |
| 5358514 | Schulman et al. | Oct 1994 | A |
| 5362307 | Guy et al. | Nov 1994 | A |
| 5364797 | Olson et al. | Nov 1994 | A |
| 5366609 | White et al. | Nov 1994 | A |
| 5368028 | Palti | Nov 1994 | A |
| 5368224 | Richardson et al. | Nov 1994 | A |
| 5368562 | Blomquist et al. | Nov 1994 | A |
| 5370622 | Livingston et al. | Dec 1994 | A |
| 5371687 | Holmes, II et al. | Dec 1994 | A |
| 5371734 | Fischer | Dec 1994 | A |
| 5372133 | Hogen Esch | Dec 1994 | A |
| 5372719 | Afejan et al. | Dec 1994 | A |
| 5375604 | Kelly et al. | Dec 1994 | A |
| 5376070 | Purvis et al. | Dec 1994 | A |
| 5376251 | Kaneko et al. | Dec 1994 | A |
| 5377258 | Bro | Dec 1994 | A |
| 5378628 | Gratzel et al. | Jan 1995 | A |
| 5379238 | Stark | Jan 1995 | A |
| 5380422 | Negishis et al. | Jan 1995 | A |
| 5380536 | Hubbell et al. | Jan 1995 | A |
| 5382346 | Uenoyama et al. | Jan 1995 | A |
| 5384028 | Ito | Jan 1995 | A |
| 5387327 | Khan | Feb 1995 | A |
| 5390671 | Lord et al. | Feb 1995 | A |
| 5391250 | Cheney, II et al. | Feb 1995 | A |
| 5393903 | Gratzel et al. | Feb 1995 | A |
| 5395504 | Saurer et al. | Mar 1995 | A |
| 5397848 | Yang et al. | Mar 1995 | A |
| 5399823 | McCusker | Mar 1995 | A |
| 5400782 | Beaubiah | Mar 1995 | A |
| 5401376 | Foos et al. | Mar 1995 | A |
| 5405510 | Betts et al. | Apr 1995 | A |
| 5407554 | Saurer | Apr 1995 | A |
| 5408999 | Singh et al. | Apr 1995 | A |
| 5410471 | Alyfuku et al. | Apr 1995 | A |
| 5410474 | Fox | Apr 1995 | A |
| 5411536 | Armstrong | May 1995 | A |
| 5411647 | Johnson et al. | May 1995 | A |
| 5411866 | Luong | May 1995 | A |
| 5413690 | Kost et al. | May 1995 | A |
| 5422246 | Koopal et al. | Jun 1995 | A |
| 5425361 | Fenzlein et al. | Jun 1995 | A |
| 5425717 | Mohiuddin | Jun 1995 | A |
| 5426032 | Phillips et al. | Jun 1995 | A |
| 5429129 | Lovejoy et al. | Jul 1995 | A |
| 5429735 | Johnson et al. | Jul 1995 | A |
| 5431160 | Wilkins | Jul 1995 | A |
| 5431691 | Snell et al. | Jul 1995 | A |
| 5431806 | Suzuki et al. | Jul 1995 | A |
| 5431921 | Thombre | Jul 1995 | A |
| 5433710 | VanAntwerp et al. | Jul 1995 | A |
| 5437973 | Vadgama et al. | Aug 1995 | A |
| 5437999 | Diebold et al. | Aug 1995 | A |
| 5438984 | Schoendorfer | Aug 1995 | A |
| 5445611 | Eppstein et al. | Aug 1995 | A |
| 5445920 | Saito | Aug 1995 | A |
| 5448992 | Kupershmidt | Sep 1995 | A |
| 5451260 | Versteeg et al. | Sep 1995 | A |
| 5452173 | Brannon et al. | Sep 1995 | A |
| 5453199 | Afejan et al. | Sep 1995 | A |
| 5453278 | Chan et al. | Sep 1995 | A |
| 5456692 | Smith, Jr. et al. | Oct 1995 | A |
| 5456940 | Funderburk | Oct 1995 | A |
| 5458140 | Eppstein et al. | Oct 1995 | A |
| 5460618 | Harreld | Oct 1995 | A |
| 5462051 | Oka et al. | Oct 1995 | A |
| 5462064 | D'Angelo et al. | Oct 1995 | A |
| 5462525 | Srisathapat et al. | Oct 1995 | A |
| 5462645 | Albery et al. | Oct 1995 | A |
| 5466218 | Srisathapat et al. | Nov 1995 | A |
| 5466356 | Schneider et al. | Nov 1995 | A |
| 5469846 | Khan | Nov 1995 | A |
| 5472317 | Field et al. | Dec 1995 | A |
| 5473990 | Anderson et al. | Dec 1995 | A |
| 5474552 | Palti | Dec 1995 | A |
| 5476460 | Montalvo | Dec 1995 | A |
| 5476488 | Morgan et al. | Dec 1995 | A |
| 5476776 | Wilkins | Dec 1995 | A |
| 5477855 | Schindler et al. | Dec 1995 | A |
| 5482008 | Stafford et al. | Jan 1996 | A |
| 5482473 | Lord et al. | Jan 1996 | A |
| 5484404 | Schulman et al. | Jan 1996 | A |
| 5487751 | Radons et al. | Jan 1996 | A |
| 5491474 | Suni et al. | Feb 1996 | A |
| 5494562 | Maley et al. | Feb 1996 | A |
| 5496453 | Uenoyama et al. | Mar 1996 | A |
| 5497772 | Schulman et al. | Mar 1996 | A |
| 5501665 | Jhuboo et al. | Mar 1996 | A |
| 5501956 | Wada et al. | Mar 1996 | A |
| 5502396 | Desarzens et al. | Mar 1996 | A |
| 5505709 | Funderburk | Apr 1996 | A |
| 5505713 | Van Antwerp et al. | Apr 1996 | A |
| 5507288 | Bocker et al. | Apr 1996 | A |
| 5508171 | Walling et al. | Apr 1996 | A |
| 5508203 | Fuller et al. | Apr 1996 | A |
| 5509410 | Hill et al. | Apr 1996 | A |
| 5513636 | Palti | May 1996 | A |
| 5514103 | Srisathapat et al. | May 1996 | A |
| 5514253 | Davis et al. | May 1996 | A |
| 5518006 | Mawhirt et al. | May 1996 | A |
| 5518601 | Foos et al. | May 1996 | A |
| 5520731 | Esser et al. | May 1996 | A |
| 5520787 | Hanagan et al. | May 1996 | A |
| 5522865 | Schulman et al. | Jun 1996 | A |
| 5525511 | D'Costa | Jun 1996 | A |
| 5526120 | Jina et al. | Jun 1996 | A |
| 5527288 | Gross et al. | Jun 1996 | A |
| 5527307 | Srisathapat et al. | Jun 1996 | A |
| 5529676 | Maley et al. | Jun 1996 | A |
| 5531679 | Schulman et al. | Jul 1996 | A |
| 5531878 | Vadgama et al. | Jul 1996 | A |
| 5538007 | Gorman | Jul 1996 | A |
| 5538511 | Van Antwerp et al. | Jul 1996 | A |
| 5540828 | Yacynych | Jul 1996 | A |
| 5544651 | Wilk | Aug 1996 | A |
| 5545152 | Funderburk et al. | Aug 1996 | A |
| 5545191 | Mann et al. | Aug 1996 | A |
| 5545220 | Andrews et al. | Aug 1996 | A |
| 5545223 | Neuenfeldt et al. | Aug 1996 | A |
| 5549113 | Halleck et al. | Aug 1996 | A |
| 5549115 | Morgan et al. | Aug 1996 | A |
| 5549675 | Neuenfeldt et al. | Aug 1996 | A |
| 5551427 | Altman | Sep 1996 | A |
| 5551953 | Lattin et al. | Sep 1996 | A |
| 5552027 | Birkle et al. | Sep 1996 | A |
| 5553616 | Ham et al. | Sep 1996 | A |
| 5554166 | Lange et al. | Sep 1996 | A |
| 5556524 | Albers | Sep 1996 | A |
| 5558640 | Pfeiler et al. | Sep 1996 | A |
| 5560357 | Faupel et al. | Oct 1996 | A |
| 5562713 | Silvian | Oct 1996 | A |
| 5564439 | Picha | Oct 1996 | A |
| 5565085 | Ikeda et al. | Oct 1996 | A |
| 5567302 | Song et al. | Oct 1996 | A |
| 5568806 | Cheney, II et al. | Oct 1996 | A |
| 5569186 | Lord et al. | Oct 1996 | A |
| 5569212 | Brown | Oct 1996 | A |
| 5569462 | Martinson et al. | Oct 1996 | A |
| 5571395 | Park et al. | Nov 1996 | A |
| 5571682 | Jacobs et al. | Nov 1996 | A |
| 5573506 | Vasko | Nov 1996 | A |
| 5573647 | Maley et al. | Nov 1996 | A |
| 5575895 | Ikeda et al. | Nov 1996 | A |
| 5575930 | Tietje-Girault et al. | Nov 1996 | A |
| 5580527 | Bell et al. | Dec 1996 | A |
| 5580794 | Allen | Dec 1996 | A |
| 5582184 | Erickson et al. | Dec 1996 | A |
| 5582593 | Hultman | Dec 1996 | A |
| 5582697 | Ikeda et al. | Dec 1996 | A |
| 5582698 | Flaherty et al. | Dec 1996 | A |
| 5584813 | Livingston et al. | Dec 1996 | A |
| 5584876 | Bruchman et al. | Dec 1996 | A |
| 5586553 | Halili et al. | Dec 1996 | A |
| 5587273 | Yan et al. | Dec 1996 | A |
| 5588560 | Benedict et al. | Dec 1996 | A |
| 5589045 | Hyodo | Dec 1996 | A |
| 5589133 | Suzuki | Dec 1996 | A |
| 5589326 | Deng et al. | Dec 1996 | A |
| 5589563 | Ward et al. | Dec 1996 | A |
| 5590651 | Shaffer et al. | Jan 1997 | A |
| 5593390 | Castellano et al. | Jan 1997 | A |
| 5593440 | Brauker et al. | Jan 1997 | A |
| 5593852 | Heller et al. | Jan 1997 | A |
| 5594906 | Holmes, II et al. | Jan 1997 | A |
| 5596150 | Arndt et al. | Jan 1997 | A |
| 5596994 | Bro | Jan 1997 | A |
| 5601435 | Quy | Feb 1997 | A |
| 5601694 | Maley et al. | Feb 1997 | A |
| 5605152 | Slate et al. | Feb 1997 | A |
| 5607565 | Azarnia et al. | Mar 1997 | A |
| 5611900 | Worden et al. | Mar 1997 | A |
| 5615671 | Schoonen et al. | Apr 1997 | A |
| 5616222 | Maley et al. | Apr 1997 | A |
| 5617851 | Lipkovker | Apr 1997 | A |
| 5623925 | Swenson et al. | Apr 1997 | A |
| 5624537 | Turner et al. | Apr 1997 | A |
| 5628309 | Brown | May 1997 | A |
| 5628310 | Rao et al. | May 1997 | A |
| 5628890 | Carter et al. | May 1997 | A |
| 5629981 | Nerlikar | May 1997 | A |
| 5637095 | Nason et al. | Jun 1997 | A |
| 5640470 | Iyer et al. | Jun 1997 | A |
| 5640764 | Strojnik | Jun 1997 | A |
| 5640954 | Pfeiffer et al. | Jun 1997 | A |
| 5642365 | Murakami et al. | Jun 1997 | A |
| 5643212 | Coutre et al. | Jul 1997 | A |
| 5647853 | Feldmann et al. | Jul 1997 | A |
| 5650062 | Ikeda et al. | Jul 1997 | A |
| 5651767 | Schulman et al. | Jul 1997 | A |
| 5651869 | Yoshioka et al. | Jul 1997 | A |
| 5653735 | Chen et al. | Aug 1997 | A |
| 5653756 | Clarke et al. | Aug 1997 | A |
| 5653863 | Glenshaw et al. | Aug 1997 | A |
| 5658250 | Blomquist et al. | Aug 1997 | A |
| 5658330 | Carlisle et al. | Aug 1997 | A |
| 5660163 | Schulman et al. | Aug 1997 | A |
| 5662694 | Lidman et al. | Sep 1997 | A |
| 5665065 | Colman et al. | Sep 1997 | A |
| 5667983 | Abel et al. | Sep 1997 | A |
| 5670031 | Hintsche et al. | Sep 1997 | A |
| 5676820 | Wang et al. | Oct 1997 | A |
| 5678571 | Brown | Oct 1997 | A |
| 5679690 | Andre et al. | Oct 1997 | A |
| 5680858 | Hansen et al. | Oct 1997 | A |
| 5682233 | Brinda | Oct 1997 | A |
| 5682884 | Hill et al. | Nov 1997 | A |
| 5683562 | Schaffar et al. | Nov 1997 | A |
| 5686717 | Knowles et al. | Nov 1997 | A |
| 5686829 | Girault | Nov 1997 | A |
| 5694952 | Lidman et al. | Dec 1997 | A |
| 5695473 | Olsen | Dec 1997 | A |
| 5695623 | Michel et al. | Dec 1997 | A |
| 5695947 | Guo et al. | Dec 1997 | A |
| 5695949 | Galen et al. | Dec 1997 | A |
| 5696314 | McCaffrey et al. | Dec 1997 | A |
| 5701894 | Cherry et al. | Dec 1997 | A |
| 5704354 | Preidel et al. | Jan 1998 | A |
| 5704922 | Brown | Jan 1998 | A |
| 5706807 | Picha | Jan 1998 | A |
| 5707502 | McCaffrey et al. | Jan 1998 | A |
| 5708247 | McAleer et al. | Jan 1998 | A |
| 5710011 | Forrow et al. | Jan 1998 | A |
| 5710630 | Essenpreis et al. | Jan 1998 | A |
| 5711001 | Bussan et al. | Jan 1998 | A |
| 5711297 | Iliff | Jan 1998 | A |
| 5711861 | Ward et al. | Jan 1998 | A |
| 5711862 | Sakoda et al. | Jan 1998 | A |
| 5711868 | Maley et al. | Jan 1998 | A |
| 5713353 | Castano | Feb 1998 | A |
| 5713888 | Neuenfeldt et al. | Feb 1998 | A |
| 5714123 | Sohrab | Feb 1998 | A |
| 5718234 | Warden et al. | Feb 1998 | A |
| 5720720 | Laske et al. | Feb 1998 | A |
| 5720733 | Brown | Feb 1998 | A |
| 5720862 | Hamamoto et al. | Feb 1998 | A |
| 5721783 | Anderson | Feb 1998 | A |
| 5722397 | Eppstein | Mar 1998 | A |
| 5727548 | Hill et al. | Mar 1998 | A |
| 5728074 | Castellano et al. | Mar 1998 | A |
| 5728352 | Poto et al. | Mar 1998 | A |
| 5730124 | Yamauchi | Mar 1998 | A |
| 5730654 | Brown | Mar 1998 | A |
| 5730714 | Guy et al. | Mar 1998 | A |
| 5733336 | Neuenfeldt et al. | Mar 1998 | A |
| 5735273 | Kurnik et al. | Apr 1998 | A |
| 5735285 | Albert et al. | Apr 1998 | A |
| 5739039 | Girault et al. | Apr 1998 | A |
| 5741211 | Renirie et al. | Apr 1998 | A |
| 5741319 | Woloszko et al. | Apr 1998 | A |
| 5741330 | Brauker et al. | Apr 1998 | A |
| 5741634 | Nozoe et al. | Apr 1998 | A |
| 5741688 | Oxenboll et al. | Apr 1998 | A |
| 5743262 | Lepper, Jr. et al. | Apr 1998 | A |
| 5746217 | Erickson et al. | May 1998 | A |
| 5746697 | Swedlow et al. | May 1998 | A |
| 5747453 | Holladay et al. | May 1998 | A |
| 5747669 | Suzuki | May 1998 | A |
| 5748103 | Flach et al. | May 1998 | A |
| 5749832 | Vadgama et al. | May 1998 | A |
| 5749907 | Mann | May 1998 | A |
| 5750926 | Schulman et al. | May 1998 | A |
| 5756632 | Ward et al. | May 1998 | A |
| 5759364 | Charlton et al. | Jun 1998 | A |
| 5766151 | Valley et al. | Jun 1998 | A |
| 5770028 | Maley et al. | Jun 1998 | A |
| 5771001 | Cobb | Jun 1998 | A |
| 5771890 | Tamada | Jun 1998 | A |
| 5771891 | Gozani | Jun 1998 | A |
| 5772586 | Heinonen et al. | Jun 1998 | A |
| 5776106 | Matyas | Jul 1998 | A |
| 5777060 | Van Antwerp | Jul 1998 | A |
| 5779665 | Mastrototaro et al. | Jul 1998 | A |
| 5781455 | Hyodo | Jul 1998 | A |
| 5782814 | Brown et al. | Jul 1998 | A |
| 5782912 | Brauker et al. | Jul 1998 | A |
| 5785681 | Indravudh | Jul 1998 | A |
| 5786439 | Van Antwerp et al. | Jul 1998 | A |
| 5786584 | Button et al. | Jul 1998 | A |
| 5787900 | Butler et al. | Aug 1998 | A |
| 5788678 | Van Antwerp | Aug 1998 | A |
| 5791344 | Schulman et al. | Aug 1998 | A |
| 5792117 | Brown | Aug 1998 | A |
| 5792668 | Fuller et al. | Aug 1998 | A |
| 5795543 | Poto et al. | Aug 1998 | A |
| 5795774 | Matsumoto et al. | Aug 1998 | A |
| 5798065 | Picha | Aug 1998 | A |
| 5800387 | Duffy et al. | Sep 1998 | A |
| 5800420 | Gross et al. | Sep 1998 | A |
| 5800529 | Brauker et al. | Sep 1998 | A |
| 5804047 | Karube et al. | Sep 1998 | A |
| 5804048 | Wong et al. | Sep 1998 | A |
| 5806517 | Gerhardt et al. | Sep 1998 | A |
| 5807315 | Van Antwerp et al. | Sep 1998 | A |
| 5807375 | Gross et al. | Sep 1998 | A |
| 5807406 | Brauker et al. | Sep 1998 | A |
| 5811487 | Schulz, Jr. et al. | Sep 1998 | A |
| 5814599 | Mitragotri et al. | Sep 1998 | A |
| 5820551 | Hill et al. | Oct 1998 | A |
| 5820570 | Erickson et al. | Oct 1998 | A |
| 5820622 | Gross et al. | Oct 1998 | A |
| 5822715 | Worthington et al. | Oct 1998 | A |
| 5823802 | Bartley | Oct 1998 | A |
| 5825488 | Kohl et al. | Oct 1998 | A |
| 5827179 | Lichter et al. | Oct 1998 | A |
| 5827183 | Kurnik et al. | Oct 1998 | A |
| 5827184 | Netherly et al. | Oct 1998 | A |
| 5828943 | Brown | Oct 1998 | A |
| 5830132 | Robinson | Nov 1998 | A |
| 5830341 | Gilmartin | Nov 1998 | A |
| 5832448 | Brown | Nov 1998 | A |
| 5833603 | Kovacs et al. | Nov 1998 | A |
| 5834224 | Ruger et al. | Nov 1998 | A |
| 5836887 | Oka et al. | Nov 1998 | A |
| 5836989 | Shelton | Nov 1998 | A |
| 5837454 | Cozzette et al. | Nov 1998 | A |
| 5837546 | Allen et al. | Nov 1998 | A |
| 5837728 | Purcell | Nov 1998 | A |
| 5840020 | Heinonen et al. | Nov 1998 | A |
| 5840148 | Campbell et al. | Nov 1998 | A |
| 5840240 | Stenoien et al. | Nov 1998 | A |
| 5842983 | Abel et al. | Dec 1998 | A |
| 5843140 | Strojnik | Dec 1998 | A |
| 5844862 | Cocatre-Zilgien | Dec 1998 | A |
| 5846702 | Deng et al. | Dec 1998 | A |
| 5846744 | Athey et al. | Dec 1998 | A |
| 5848991 | Gross et al. | Dec 1998 | A |
| 5851197 | Marano et al. | Dec 1998 | A |
| 5854078 | Asher et al. | Dec 1998 | A |
| 5854189 | Kruse et al. | Dec 1998 | A |
| 5857967 | Frid et al. | Jan 1999 | A |
| 5857983 | Douglas et al. | Jan 1999 | A |
| 5860917 | Comanor et al. | Jan 1999 | A |
| 5861009 | Armstrong et al. | Jan 1999 | A |
| 5861019 | Sun et al. | Jan 1999 | A |
| 5862803 | Besson et al. | Jan 1999 | A |
| 5871465 | Vasko | Feb 1999 | A |
| 5871499 | Hahn et al. | Feb 1999 | A |
| 5871514 | Wiklund et al. | Feb 1999 | A |
| 5872713 | Douglas et al. | Feb 1999 | A |
| 5872820 | Upadrasta | Feb 1999 | A |
| 5873990 | Wojciechowski et al. | Feb 1999 | A |
| 5876484 | Raskin et al. | Mar 1999 | A |
| 5879163 | Brown et al. | Mar 1999 | A |
| 5879311 | Duchon et al. | Mar 1999 | A |
| 5879373 | Roper et al. | Mar 1999 | A |
| 5880829 | Kauhaniemi et al. | Mar 1999 | A |
| 5882494 | Van Antwerp | Mar 1999 | A |
| 5885211 | Eppstein et al. | Mar 1999 | A |
| 5885245 | Lynch et al. | Mar 1999 | A |
| 5885429 | Friese et al. | Mar 1999 | A |
| 5887133 | Brown et al. | Mar 1999 | A |
| 5895235 | Droz | Apr 1999 | A |
| 5895371 | Levitas et al. | Apr 1999 | A |
| 5897493 | Brown | Apr 1999 | A |
| 5897578 | Wiklund et al. | Apr 1999 | A |
| 5898025 | Burg et al. | Apr 1999 | A |
| 5899855 | Brown | May 1999 | A |
| 5899931 | Deschamp et al. | May 1999 | A |
| 5904708 | Goedeke | May 1999 | A |
| 5913310 | Brown | Jun 1999 | A |
| 5913827 | Gorman | Jun 1999 | A |
| 5913998 | Butler et al. | Jun 1999 | A |
| 5914026 | Blubaugh, Jr. et al. | Jun 1999 | A |
| 5916445 | Hjerten et al. | Jun 1999 | A |
| 5917346 | Gord | Jun 1999 | A |
| 5918603 | Brown | Jul 1999 | A |
| 5919215 | Wiklund et al. | Jul 1999 | A |
| 5924979 | Swedlow et al. | Jul 1999 | A |
| 5925021 | Castellano et al. | Jul 1999 | A |
| 5928130 | Schmidt | Jul 1999 | A |
| 5931791 | Saltzstein et al. | Aug 1999 | A |
| 5931814 | Alex et al. | Aug 1999 | A |
| 5933136 | Brown | Aug 1999 | A |
| 5935099 | Peterson et al. | Aug 1999 | A |
| 5935785 | Reber et al. | Aug 1999 | A |
| 5940801 | Brown | Aug 1999 | A |
| 5942979 | Luppino | Aug 1999 | A |
| 5944661 | Swette et al. | Aug 1999 | A |
| 5945345 | Blatt et al. | Aug 1999 | A |
| 5947749 | Rathburn | Sep 1999 | A |
| 5947921 | Johnson et al. | Sep 1999 | A |
| 5948512 | Kubota et al. | Sep 1999 | A |
| 5950632 | Reber et al. | Sep 1999 | A |
| 5951300 | Brown | Sep 1999 | A |
| 5951492 | Douglas et al. | Sep 1999 | A |
| 5951521 | Mastrototaro et al. | Sep 1999 | A |
| 5951836 | McAleer et al. | Sep 1999 | A |
| 5954643 | Van Antwerp | Sep 1999 | A |
| 5954685 | Tierney | Sep 1999 | A |
| 5954700 | Kovelman | Sep 1999 | A |
| 5954954 | Houck et al. | Sep 1999 | A |
| 5956501 | Brown | Sep 1999 | A |
| 5957854 | Besson et al. | Sep 1999 | A |
| 5957890 | Mann et al. | Sep 1999 | A |
| 5957903 | Mirzaee et al. | Sep 1999 | A |
| 5957958 | Schulman et al. | Sep 1999 | A |
| 5959050 | Mosbach et al. | Sep 1999 | A |
| 5960403 | Brown | Sep 1999 | A |
| 5961451 | Reber et al. | Oct 1999 | A |
| 5963132 | Yoakum | Oct 1999 | A |
| 5964804 | Brauker et al. | Oct 1999 | A |
| 5964993 | Blubaugh, Jr. et al. | Oct 1999 | A |
| 5965380 | Heller et al. | Oct 1999 | A |
| 5968839 | Blatt et al. | Oct 1999 | A |
| 5971922 | Arita et al. | Oct 1999 | A |
| 5971941 | Simons et al. | Oct 1999 | A |
| 5972199 | Heller et al. | Oct 1999 | A |
| 5974124 | Schlueter, Jr. et al. | Oct 1999 | A |
| 5976085 | Kimball et al. | Nov 1999 | A |
| 5977476 | Guha et al. | Nov 1999 | A |
| 5981294 | Blatt et al. | Nov 1999 | A |
| 5985129 | Gough et al. | Nov 1999 | A |
| 5987352 | Klein et al. | Nov 1999 | A |
| 5987353 | Khatchatrian et al. | Nov 1999 | A |
| 5989409 | Kurnik et al. | Nov 1999 | A |
| 5994476 | Shin et al. | Nov 1999 | A |
| 5995860 | Sun et al. | Nov 1999 | A |
| 5995869 | Cormier et al. | Nov 1999 | A |
| 5997475 | Bortz | Dec 1999 | A |
| 5997476 | Brown | Dec 1999 | A |
| 5997501 | Gross et al. | Dec 1999 | A |
| 5998791 | Matsumora | Dec 1999 | A |
| 5999848 | Gord et al. | Dec 1999 | A |
| 5999849 | Gord et al. | Dec 1999 | A |
| 6001067 | Shults et al. | Dec 1999 | A |
| 6001471 | Bries et al. | Dec 1999 | A |
| 6002954 | Van Antwerp et al. | Dec 1999 | A |
| 6002961 | Mitragotri et al. | Dec 1999 | A |
| 6004441 | Fujiwara et al. | Dec 1999 | A |
| 6007845 | Domb | Dec 1999 | A |
| 6011984 | Van Antwerp et al. | Jan 2000 | A |
| 6013113 | Mika | Jan 2000 | A |
| 6014577 | Henning et al. | Jan 2000 | A |
| 6015390 | Krag | Jan 2000 | A |
| 6016448 | Busacker et al. | Jan 2000 | A |
| 6017435 | Hassard et al. | Jan 2000 | A |
| 6018678 | Mitragotri et al. | Jan 2000 | A |
| 6020110 | Williams et al. | Feb 2000 | A |
| 6023629 | Tamada | Feb 2000 | A |
| 6024699 | Surwit et al. | Feb 2000 | A |
| 6026320 | Carlson et al. | Feb 2000 | A |
| 6027445 | Von Bahr | Feb 2000 | A |
| 6027459 | Shain et al. | Feb 2000 | A |
| 6027692 | Galen et al. | Feb 2000 | A |
| 6032059 | Henning et al. | Feb 2000 | A |
| 6032199 | Lim et al. | Feb 2000 | A |
| 6033866 | Guo et al. | Mar 2000 | A |
| 6034622 | Levine | Mar 2000 | A |
| 6035237 | Schulman et al. | Mar 2000 | A |
| 6036924 | Simons et al. | Mar 2000 | A |
| 6040194 | Chick et al. | Mar 2000 | A |
| 6041253 | Kost et al. | Mar 2000 | A |
| 6043437 | Schulman et al. | Mar 2000 | A |
| 6046056 | Parce et al. | Apr 2000 | A |
| 6048691 | Maracas | Apr 2000 | A |
| 6049727 | Crothall | Apr 2000 | A |
| 6051372 | Bayerl et al. | Apr 2000 | A |
| 6051389 | Ahl et al. | Apr 2000 | A |
| 6056718 | Funderburk et al. | May 2000 | A |
| 6057377 | Sasaki et al. | May 2000 | A |
| 6059946 | Yukawa et al. | May 2000 | A |
| 6063459 | Velte | May 2000 | A |
| 6063637 | Arnold et al. | May 2000 | A |
| 6065154 | Hulings et al. | May 2000 | A |
| 6066083 | Slater et al. | May 2000 | A |
| 6066243 | Anderson et al. | May 2000 | A |
| 6066448 | Wohlstadter et al. | May 2000 | A |
| 6067474 | Schulman et al. | May 2000 | A |
| 6068615 | Brown et al. | May 2000 | A |
| 6071249 | Cunningham et al. | Jun 2000 | A |
| 6071251 | Cunningham et al. | Jun 2000 | A |
| 6071294 | Simons et al. | Jun 2000 | A |
| 6071391 | Gotoh et al. | Jun 2000 | A |
| 6071406 | Tsou | Jun 2000 | A |
| 6073049 | Alt et al. | Jun 2000 | A |
| 6074725 | Kennedy | Jun 2000 | A |
| 6081735 | Diab et al. | Jun 2000 | A |
| 6081736 | Colvin et al. | Jun 2000 | A |
| 6083523 | Dionne et al. | Jul 2000 | A |
| 6083710 | Heller et al. | Jul 2000 | A |
| 6088608 | Schulman et al. | Jul 2000 | A |
| 6091975 | Daddona et al. | Jul 2000 | A |
| 6091976 | Pfeiffer et al. | Jul 2000 | A |
| 6093156 | Cunningham et al. | Jul 2000 | A |
| 6093167 | Houben et al. | Jul 2000 | A |
| 6093172 | Funderburk et al. | Jul 2000 | A |
| 6097831 | Wieck et al. | Aug 2000 | A |
| 6099484 | Douglas et al. | Aug 2000 | A |
| 6101478 | Brown | Aug 2000 | A |
| 6103033 | Say et al. | Aug 2000 | A |
| 6103533 | Hassard et al. | Aug 2000 | A |
| 6106780 | Douglas et al. | Aug 2000 | A |
| 6107083 | Collins et al. | Aug 2000 | A |
| 6110148 | Brown et al. | Aug 2000 | A |
| 6110152 | Kovelman | Aug 2000 | A |
| 6113537 | Castano | Sep 2000 | A |
| 6113578 | Brown | Sep 2000 | A |
| 6115634 | Donders et al. | Sep 2000 | A |
| 6117290 | Say | Sep 2000 | A |
| 6119028 | Schulman et al. | Sep 2000 | A |
| 6120676 | Heller et al. | Sep 2000 | A |
| 6121009 | Heller et al. | Sep 2000 | A |
| 6122351 | Schlueter, Jr. et al. | Sep 2000 | A |
| 6122536 | Sun et al. | Sep 2000 | A |
| 6123827 | Wong et al. | Sep 2000 | A |
| 6123902 | Koch et al. | Sep 2000 | A |
| 6125978 | Ando et al. | Oct 2000 | A |
| 6134461 | Say et al. | Oct 2000 | A |
| 6134504 | Douglas et al. | Oct 2000 | A |
| 6135978 | Houben et al. | Oct 2000 | A |
| 6139718 | Kurnik et al. | Oct 2000 | A |
| 6141573 | Kurnik et al. | Oct 2000 | A |
| 6142939 | Eppstein et al. | Nov 2000 | A |
| 6142972 | Cheikh | Nov 2000 | A |
| 6143164 | Heller et al. | Nov 2000 | A |
| 6144837 | Quy | Nov 2000 | A |
| 6144869 | Berner et al. | Nov 2000 | A |
| 6144871 | Saito et al. | Nov 2000 | A |
| 6144922 | Douglas et al. | Nov 2000 | A |
| 6148094 | Kinsella | Nov 2000 | A |
| 6150128 | Uretsky | Nov 2000 | A |
| 6151586 | Brown | Nov 2000 | A |
| 6153062 | Saito et al. | Nov 2000 | A |
| 6153069 | Pottgen et al. | Nov 2000 | A |
| 6154675 | Juran et al. | Nov 2000 | A |
| 6154676 | Levine | Nov 2000 | A |
| 6159147 | Lichter et al. | Dec 2000 | A |
| 6161095 | Brown | Dec 2000 | A |
| 6162611 | Heller et al. | Dec 2000 | A |
| 6162639 | Douglas | Dec 2000 | A |
| 6164284 | Schulman et al. | Dec 2000 | A |
| 6167362 | Brown et al. | Dec 2000 | A |
| 6167614 | Tuttle et al. | Jan 2001 | B1 |
| 6168563 | Brown | Jan 2001 | B1 |
| 6168568 | Gavriely | Jan 2001 | B1 |
| 6169155 | Alvarez et al. | Jan 2001 | B1 |
| 6170318 | Lewis | Jan 2001 | B1 |
| 6171294 | Southam et al. | Jan 2001 | B1 |
| 6175752 | Say et al. | Jan 2001 | B1 |
| 6180416 | Kurnik et al. | Jan 2001 | B1 |
| 6186145 | Brown | Feb 2001 | B1 |
| 6187062 | Oweis et al. | Feb 2001 | B1 |
| 6189536 | Martinez et al. | Feb 2001 | B1 |
| 6192891 | Gravel et al. | Feb 2001 | B1 |
| 6193873 | Ohara et al. | Feb 2001 | B1 |
| 6196970 | Brown | Mar 2001 | B1 |
| 6198957 | Green | Mar 2001 | B1 |
| 6200265 | Walsh et al. | Mar 2001 | B1 |
| 6200772 | Vadgama et al. | Mar 2001 | B1 |
| 6201979 | Kurnik et al. | Mar 2001 | B1 |
| 6201980 | Darrow et al. | Mar 2001 | B1 |
| 6201993 | Kruse et al. | Mar 2001 | B1 |
| 6206841 | Cunningham et al. | Mar 2001 | B1 |
| 6206856 | Mahurkar | Mar 2001 | B1 |
| 6207400 | Kwon | Mar 2001 | B1 |
| 6208894 | Schulman et al. | Mar 2001 | B1 |
| 6210272 | Brown | Apr 2001 | B1 |
| 6210976 | Sabbadini | Apr 2001 | B1 |
| 6212416 | Ward et al. | Apr 2001 | B1 |
| 6212424 | Robinson | Apr 2001 | B1 |
| 6214185 | Offenbacher et al. | Apr 2001 | B1 |
| 6216033 | Southam et al. | Apr 2001 | B1 |
| 6219565 | Cupp et al. | Apr 2001 | B1 |
| 6219574 | Cormier et al. | Apr 2001 | B1 |
| 6223083 | Rosar | Apr 2001 | B1 |
| 6223471 | Barber | May 2001 | B1 |
| 6224745 | Baltruschat | May 2001 | B1 |
| 6230051 | Cornier et al. | May 2001 | B1 |
| 6230059 | Duffin | May 2001 | B1 |
| 6231879 | Li et al. | May 2001 | B1 |
| 6232130 | Wolf | May 2001 | B1 |
| 6232370 | Kubota et al. | May 2001 | B1 |
| 6232783 | Merrill | May 2001 | B1 |
| 6233080 | Brenner et al. | May 2001 | B1 |
| 6233471 | Berner et al. | May 2001 | B1 |
| 6233539 | Brown | May 2001 | B1 |
| 6238813 | Maile et al. | May 2001 | B1 |
| 6239925 | Ardrey et al. | May 2001 | B1 |
| 6241704 | Peterson et al. | Jun 2001 | B1 |
| 6241862 | McAleer et al. | Jun 2001 | B1 |
| 6241863 | Monbouquette | Jun 2001 | B1 |
| 6246330 | Nielsen | Jun 2001 | B1 |
| 6246992 | Brown | Jun 2001 | B1 |
| 6248065 | Brown | Jun 2001 | B1 |
| 6248067 | Causey, III et al. | Jun 2001 | B1 |
| 6248093 | Moberg | Jun 2001 | B1 |
| 6251260 | Heller et al. | Jun 2001 | B1 |
| 6251280 | Dai et al. | Jun 2001 | B1 |
| 6252032 | Van Antwerp et al. | Jun 2001 | B1 |
| 6253804 | Safabash | Jul 2001 | B1 |
| 6254586 | Mann et al. | Jul 2001 | B1 |
| 6256522 | Schultz | Jul 2001 | B1 |
| 6256643 | Cork et al. | Jul 2001 | B1 |
| 6259587 | Sheldon et al. | Jul 2001 | B1 |
| 6259937 | Schulman et al. | Jul 2001 | B1 |
| 6260022 | Brown | Jul 2001 | B1 |
| 6264825 | Blackburn et al. | Jul 2001 | B1 |
| 6266645 | Simpson | Jul 2001 | B1 |
| 6267724 | Taylor | Jul 2001 | B1 |
| 6268161 | Han et al. | Jul 2001 | B1 |
| 6268913 | Rising | Jul 2001 | B1 |
| 6270455 | Brown | Aug 2001 | B1 |
| 6272364 | Kurnik | Aug 2001 | B1 |
| 6272480 | Tresp et al. | Aug 2001 | B1 |
| 6274285 | Gries et al. | Aug 2001 | B1 |
| 6274686 | Mosbach | Aug 2001 | B1 |
| 6275717 | Gross et al. | Aug 2001 | B1 |
| 6280416 | Van Antwerp et al. | Aug 2001 | B1 |
| 6280587 | Matsumoto | Aug 2001 | B1 |
| 6281006 | Heller et al. | Aug 2001 | B1 |
| 6283943 | Dy et al. | Sep 2001 | B1 |
| 6284126 | Kurnik et al. | Sep 2001 | B1 |
| 6284478 | Heller et al. | Sep 2001 | B1 |
| 6285897 | Kilcoyne et al. | Sep 2001 | B1 |
| 6289238 | Besson et al. | Sep 2001 | B1 |
| 6293925 | Safabash et al. | Sep 2001 | B1 |
| 6294281 | Heller | Sep 2001 | B1 |
| 6295463 | Stenzler | Sep 2001 | B1 |
| 6295506 | Heinonen et al. | Sep 2001 | B1 |
| 6298254 | Tamada | Oct 2001 | B2 |
| 6299578 | Kurnik et al. | Oct 2001 | B1 |
| 6299757 | Feldman et al. | Oct 2001 | B1 |
| 6300002 | Webb et al. | Oct 2001 | B1 |
| 6301499 | Carlson et al. | Oct 2001 | B1 |
| 6302855 | Lav et al. | Oct 2001 | B1 |
| 6304766 | Colvin, Jr. et al. | Oct 2001 | B1 |
| 6306104 | Cunningham et al. | Oct 2001 | B1 |
| 6309351 | Kurnik et al. | Oct 2001 | B1 |
| 6309384 | Harrington et al. | Oct 2001 | B1 |
| 6309526 | Fujiwara et al. | Oct 2001 | B1 |
| 6309884 | Cooper et al. | Oct 2001 | B1 |
| 6310110 | Markowitz et al. | Oct 2001 | B1 |
| 6312388 | Marcovecchio et al. | Nov 2001 | B1 |
| 6315721 | Schulman et al. | Nov 2001 | B2 |
| 6315738 | Nishikawa et al. | Nov 2001 | B1 |
| 6319540 | Van Antwerp et al. | Nov 2001 | B1 |
| 6319566 | Polanyi et al. | Nov 2001 | B1 |
| 6320357 | Peters et al. | Nov 2001 | B1 |
| 6324428 | Weinberg et al. | Nov 2001 | B1 |
| 6325978 | Labuda et al. | Dec 2001 | B1 |
| 6325979 | Hahn et al. | Dec 2001 | B1 |
| 6326160 | Dunn et al. | Dec 2001 | B1 |
| 6329161 | Heller et al. | Dec 2001 | B1 |
| 6329929 | Weijand et al. | Dec 2001 | B1 |
| 6330426 | Brown et al. | Dec 2001 | B2 |
| 6330464 | Colvin, Jr. et al. | Dec 2001 | B1 |
| 6331518 | Hemm et al. | Dec 2001 | B2 |
| 6333189 | Holladay et al. | Dec 2001 | B1 |
| 6334778 | Brown | Jan 2002 | B1 |
| 6336900 | Alleckson et al. | Jan 2002 | B1 |
| 6338790 | Feldman et al. | Jan 2002 | B1 |
| 6340421 | Vachon et al. | Jan 2002 | B1 |
| 6340588 | Nova et al. | Jan 2002 | B1 |
| 6341232 | Conn et al. | Jan 2002 | B1 |
| 6343225 | Clark, Jr. | Jan 2002 | B1 |
| 6352505 | Bortz | Mar 2002 | B1 |
| 6356774 | Bernstein et al. | Mar 2002 | B1 |
| 6356776 | Berner et al. | Mar 2002 | B1 |
| 6358237 | Paukovits et al. | Mar 2002 | B1 |
| 6360888 | McIvor et al. | Mar 2002 | B1 |
| 6363282 | Nichols et al. | Mar 2002 | B1 |
| 6365670 | Fry | Apr 2002 | B1 |
| 6366793 | Bell et al. | Apr 2002 | B1 |
| 6366794 | Moussy et al. | Apr 2002 | B1 |
| 6368141 | Van Antwerp et al. | Apr 2002 | B1 |
| 6368272 | Porumbescu | Apr 2002 | B1 |
| 6368274 | Van Antwerp et al. | Apr 2002 | B1 |
| 6370410 | Kurnik et al. | Apr 2002 | B2 |
| 6370941 | Nakamura | Apr 2002 | B2 |
| 6377894 | Deweese et al. | Apr 2002 | B1 |
| 6379301 | Worthington et al. | Apr 2002 | B1 |
| 6379317 | Kintzig et al. | Apr 2002 | B1 |
| 6383767 | Polak | May 2002 | B1 |
| 6387048 | Schulman et al. | May 2002 | B1 |
| 6391643 | Chen et al. | May 2002 | B1 |
| 6393318 | Conn et al. | May 2002 | B1 |
| 6394952 | Anderson et al. | May 2002 | B1 |
| 6398562 | Butler et al. | Jun 2002 | B1 |
| 6398727 | Bui et al. | Jun 2002 | B1 |
| 6402689 | Scarantino et al. | Jun 2002 | B1 |
| 6402691 | Peddicord et al. | Jun 2002 | B1 |
| 6405066 | Essenpreis et al. | Jun 2002 | B1 |
| 6406066 | Uegane | Jun 2002 | B1 |
| 6406426 | Reuss et al. | Jun 2002 | B1 |
| 6409674 | Brockway et al. | Jun 2002 | B1 |
| 6413393 | Van Antwerp et al. | Jul 2002 | B1 |
| 6416471 | Kumar et al. | Jul 2002 | B1 |
| 6416651 | Millar | Jul 2002 | B1 |
| 6418332 | Mastrototaro et al. | Jul 2002 | B1 |
| 6418346 | Nelson et al. | Jul 2002 | B1 |
| 6424847 | Mastrototaro et al. | Jul 2002 | B1 |
| 6424867 | Snell et al. | Jul 2002 | B1 |
| 6427088 | Bowman, IV et al. | Jul 2002 | B1 |
| 6434409 | Pfeiffer et al. | Aug 2002 | B1 |
| 6438414 | Conn et al. | Aug 2002 | B1 |
| 6440068 | Brown et al. | Aug 2002 | B1 |
| 6441747 | Khair et al. | Aug 2002 | B1 |
| 6442433 | Linberg | Aug 2002 | B1 |
| 6442637 | Hawkins et al. | Aug 2002 | B1 |
| 6443942 | Van Antwerp et al. | Sep 2002 | B2 |
| 6447448 | Ishikawa et al. | Sep 2002 | B1 |
| 6447542 | Weadock | Sep 2002 | B1 |
| 6454710 | Ballerstadt et al. | Sep 2002 | B1 |
| 6459917 | Gowda et al. | Oct 2002 | B1 |
| 6461496 | Feldman et al. | Oct 2002 | B1 |
| 6462162 | Van Antwerp et al. | Oct 2002 | B2 |
| 6464687 | Ishikawa et al. | Oct 2002 | B1 |
| 6464848 | Matsumoto | Oct 2002 | B1 |
| 6464849 | Say et al. | Oct 2002 | B1 |
| 6466810 | Ward et al. | Oct 2002 | B1 |
| 6468222 | Mault et al. | Oct 2002 | B1 |
| 6469526 | Franklin | Oct 2002 | B1 |
| 6471645 | Warkentin et al. | Oct 2002 | B1 |
| 6471689 | Joseph et al. | Oct 2002 | B1 |
| 6472122 | Schulman et al. | Oct 2002 | B1 |
| 6475180 | Peterson et al. | Nov 2002 | B2 |
| 6475750 | Han et al. | Nov 2002 | B1 |
| 6477392 | Honigs et al. | Nov 2002 | B1 |
| 6477395 | Schulman et al. | Nov 2002 | B2 |
| 6478736 | Mault | Nov 2002 | B1 |
| 6480730 | Darrow et al. | Nov 2002 | B2 |
| 6481440 | Gielen et al. | Nov 2002 | B2 |
| 6482158 | Mault | Nov 2002 | B2 |
| 6482604 | Kwon | Nov 2002 | B2 |
| 6484045 | Holker et al. | Nov 2002 | B1 |
| 6484046 | Say et al. | Nov 2002 | B1 |
| 6485138 | Kubota et al. | Nov 2002 | B1 |
| 6485465 | Moberg et al. | Nov 2002 | B2 |
| 6487429 | Hockersmith et al. | Nov 2002 | B2 |
| 6494830 | Wessel | Dec 2002 | B1 |
| 6496728 | Li et al. | Dec 2002 | B2 |
| 6498043 | Schulman et al. | Dec 2002 | B1 |
| 6498941 | Jackson | Dec 2002 | B1 |
| 6505059 | Kollias et al. | Jan 2003 | B1 |
| 6510329 | Heckel | Jan 2003 | B2 |
| 6512939 | Colvin et al. | Jan 2003 | B1 |
| 6513532 | Mault et al. | Feb 2003 | B2 |
| 6514460 | Fendrock | Feb 2003 | B1 |
| 6514718 | Heller et al. | Feb 2003 | B2 |
| 6515593 | Stark et al. | Feb 2003 | B1 |
| 6520326 | McIvor et al. | Feb 2003 | B2 |
| 6520997 | Pekkarinen et al. | Feb 2003 | B1 |
| 6526298 | Khalil et al. | Feb 2003 | B1 |
| 6527729 | Turcott | Mar 2003 | B1 |
| 6528584 | Kennedy et al. | Mar 2003 | B2 |
| 6529755 | Kurnik et al. | Mar 2003 | B2 |
| 6529772 | Carlson et al. | Mar 2003 | B2 |
| 6530915 | Eppstein et al. | Mar 2003 | B1 |
| 6534322 | Sabbadini | Mar 2003 | B1 |
| 6534323 | Sabbadini | Mar 2003 | B1 |
| 6534711 | Pollack | Mar 2003 | B1 |
| 6535753 | Raskas | Mar 2003 | B1 |
| 6537243 | Henning et al. | Mar 2003 | B1 |
| 6537318 | Ita et al. | Mar 2003 | B1 |
| 6540675 | Aceti et al. | Apr 2003 | B2 |
| 6541107 | Zhong et al. | Apr 2003 | B1 |
| 6544212 | Galley et al. | Apr 2003 | B2 |
| 6545085 | Kilgour et al. | Apr 2003 | B2 |
| 6546268 | Ishikawa et al. | Apr 2003 | B1 |
| 6546269 | Kurnik | Apr 2003 | B1 |
| 6547839 | Zhang et al. | Apr 2003 | B2 |
| 6549796 | Sohrab | Apr 2003 | B2 |
| 6551276 | Mann et al. | Apr 2003 | B1 |
| 6551494 | Heller et al. | Apr 2003 | B1 |
| 6551496 | Moles et al. | Apr 2003 | B1 |
| 6553241 | Mannheimer et al. | Apr 2003 | B2 |
| 6553244 | Lesho et al. | Apr 2003 | B2 |
| 6554798 | Mann et al. | Apr 2003 | B1 |
| 6558320 | Causey, III et al. | May 2003 | B1 |
| 6558321 | Burd et al. | May 2003 | B1 |
| 6558351 | Steil et al. | May 2003 | B1 |
| 6560471 | Heller et al. | May 2003 | B1 |
| 6561978 | Conn et al. | May 2003 | B1 |
| 6562001 | Lebel et al. | May 2003 | B2 |
| 6564105 | Starkweather et al. | May 2003 | B2 |
| 6565509 | Say et al. | May 2003 | B1 |
| 6569309 | Otsuka et al. | May 2003 | B2 |
| 6569521 | Sheridan et al. | May 2003 | B1 |
| 6571128 | Lebel et al. | May 2003 | B2 |
| 6571200 | Mault | May 2003 | B1 |
| 6572545 | Knobbe et al. | Jun 2003 | B2 |
| 6574490 | Abbink et al. | Jun 2003 | B2 |
| 6575905 | Knobbe et al. | Jun 2003 | B2 |
| 6576101 | Heller et al. | Jun 2003 | B1 |
| 6576117 | Iketaki et al. | Jun 2003 | B1 |
| 6577893 | Besson et al. | Jun 2003 | B1 |
| 6577899 | Lebel et al. | Jun 2003 | B2 |
| 6579242 | Bui et al. | Jun 2003 | B2 |
| 6579498 | Eglise | Jun 2003 | B1 |
| 6579690 | Bonnecaze et al. | Jun 2003 | B1 |
| 6584335 | Haar et al. | Jun 2003 | B1 |
| 6585644 | Lebel et al. | Jul 2003 | B2 |
| 6585675 | O'Mahony et al. | Jul 2003 | B1 |
| 6585763 | Keilman et al. | Jul 2003 | B1 |
| 6587705 | Kim et al. | Jul 2003 | B1 |
| 6588644 | Simon | Jul 2003 | B2 |
| 6589205 | Meadows | Jul 2003 | B1 |
| 6589229 | Connelly et al. | Jul 2003 | B1 |
| 6591125 | Buse et al. | Jul 2003 | B1 |
| 6591126 | Roeper et al. | Jul 2003 | B2 |
| 6594514 | Berner et al. | Jul 2003 | B2 |
| 6595919 | Berner et al. | Jul 2003 | B2 |
| 6595929 | Stivoric et al. | Jul 2003 | B2 |
| 6599406 | Kawanaka et al. | Jul 2003 | B1 |
| 6602678 | Kwon et al. | Aug 2003 | B2 |
| 6602909 | Jarowski | Aug 2003 | B1 |
| 6605072 | Struys et al. | Aug 2003 | B2 |
| 6605200 | Mao et al. | Aug 2003 | B1 |
| 6605201 | Mao et al. | Aug 2003 | B1 |
| 6607509 | Bobroff et al. | Aug 2003 | B2 |
| 6607658 | Heller et al. | Aug 2003 | B1 |
| 6610012 | Mault | Aug 2003 | B2 |
| 6612306 | Mault | Sep 2003 | B1 |
| 6612984 | Kerr | Sep 2003 | B1 |
| 6613379 | Ward et al. | Sep 2003 | B2 |
| 6615078 | Burson et al. | Sep 2003 | B1 |
| 6616819 | Liamos et al. | Sep 2003 | B1 |
| 6618603 | Varalli et al. | Sep 2003 | B2 |
| 6618934 | Feldman et al. | Sep 2003 | B1 |
| 6620106 | Mault | Sep 2003 | B2 |
| 6627058 | Chan | Sep 2003 | B1 |
| 6629776 | Bell et al. | Oct 2003 | B2 |
| 6629934 | Mault et al. | Oct 2003 | B2 |
| 6633772 | Ford et al. | Oct 2003 | B2 |
| 6635014 | Starkweather et al. | Oct 2003 | B2 |
| 6635167 | Batman et al. | Oct 2003 | B1 |
| 6638772 | Douglas et al. | Oct 2003 | B1 |
| 6641533 | Causey, III et al. | Nov 2003 | B2 |
| 6642015 | Vachon et al. | Nov 2003 | B2 |
| 6644321 | Behm | Nov 2003 | B1 |
| 6645142 | Braig et al. | Nov 2003 | B2 |
| 6645181 | Lavi et al. | Nov 2003 | B1 |
| 6648821 | Lebel et al. | Nov 2003 | B2 |
| 6653091 | Dunn et al. | Nov 2003 | B1 |
| 6654625 | Say et al. | Nov 2003 | B1 |
| 6659948 | Lebel et al. | Dec 2003 | B2 |
| 6668196 | Villegas et al. | Dec 2003 | B1 |
| 6671554 | Gibson et al. | Dec 2003 | B2 |
| 6673596 | Sayler et al. | Jan 2004 | B1 |
| 6673625 | Satcher, Jr. et al. | Jan 2004 | B2 |
| 6682938 | Satcher, Jr. et al. | Jan 2004 | B1 |
| 6683040 | Bragulla et al. | Jan 2004 | B2 |
| 6683535 | Utke | Jan 2004 | B1 |
| 6687522 | Tamada | Feb 2004 | B2 |
| 6687546 | Lebel et al. | Feb 2004 | B2 |
| 6689056 | Kilcoyne et al. | Feb 2004 | B1 |
| 6689091 | Bui et al. | Feb 2004 | B2 |
| 6689265 | Heller et al. | Feb 2004 | B2 |
| 6693069 | Korber et al. | Feb 2004 | B2 |
| 6694158 | Polak | Feb 2004 | B2 |
| 6694191 | Starkweather et al. | Feb 2004 | B2 |
| 6695860 | Ward et al. | Feb 2004 | B1 |
| 6699218 | Flaherty et al. | Mar 2004 | B2 |
| 6699383 | Lemire et al. | Mar 2004 | B2 |
| 6702857 | Brauker et al. | Mar 2004 | B2 |
| 6702972 | Markle | Mar 2004 | B1 |
| 6704587 | Kumar et al. | Mar 2004 | B1 |
| 6705833 | Tam et al. | Mar 2004 | B2 |
| 6708049 | Berson et al. | Mar 2004 | B1 |
| 6711423 | Colvin, Jr. | Mar 2004 | B2 |
| 6721587 | Gough | Apr 2004 | B2 |
| 6723046 | Lichtenstein et al. | Apr 2004 | B2 |
| 6728560 | Kollias et al. | Apr 2004 | B2 |
| 6730200 | Stewart et al. | May 2004 | B1 |
| 6731976 | Penn et al. | May 2004 | B2 |
| 6733446 | Lebel et al. | May 2004 | B2 |
| 6733655 | Davies et al. | May 2004 | B1 |
| 6734162 | Van Antwerp et al. | May 2004 | B2 |
| 6736777 | Kim et al. | May 2004 | B2 |
| 6737401 | Kim et al. | May 2004 | B2 |
| 6738654 | Sohrab | May 2004 | B2 |
| 6740075 | Lebel et al. | May 2004 | B2 |
| 6741163 | Roberts | May 2004 | B1 |
| 6741876 | Scecina et al. | May 2004 | B1 |
| 6741877 | Shults et al. | May 2004 | B1 |
| 6743635 | Neel et al. | Jun 2004 | B2 |
| 6749587 | Flaherty | Jun 2004 | B2 |
| 6750311 | Van Antwerp et al. | Jun 2004 | B1 |
| 6758810 | Lebel et al. | Jul 2004 | B2 |
| 6764581 | Forrow et al. | Jul 2004 | B1 |
| 6766183 | Walsh et al. | Jul 2004 | B2 |
| 6766201 | Von Arx et al. | Jul 2004 | B2 |
| 6768425 | Flaherty et al. | Jul 2004 | B2 |
| 6770030 | Schaupp et al. | Aug 2004 | B1 |
| 6770729 | Van Antwerp et al. | Aug 2004 | B2 |
| 6771995 | Kurnik et al. | Aug 2004 | B2 |
| 6773563 | Matsumoto | Aug 2004 | B2 |
| 6773565 | Kunimoto et al. | Aug 2004 | B2 |
| 6773671 | Lewis et al. | Aug 2004 | B1 |
| 6780297 | Matsumoto et al. | Aug 2004 | B2 |
| 6780871 | Glick et al. | Aug 2004 | B2 |
| 6784274 | Van Antwerp et al. | Aug 2004 | B2 |
| 6790178 | Mault et al. | Sep 2004 | B1 |
| 6793802 | Lee et al. | Sep 2004 | B2 |
| 6794195 | Colvin, Jr. | Sep 2004 | B2 |
| 6799149 | Hartlaub | Sep 2004 | B2 |
| 6800451 | Daniloff et al. | Oct 2004 | B2 |
| 6800488 | Khan et al. | Oct 2004 | B2 |
| 6801041 | Karinka et al. | Oct 2004 | B2 |
| 6801420 | Talbot et al. | Oct 2004 | B2 |
| 6802957 | Jung et al. | Oct 2004 | B2 |
| 6804544 | Van Antwerp et al. | Oct 2004 | B2 |
| 6809507 | Morgan et al. | Oct 2004 | B2 |
| 6809653 | Mann et al. | Oct 2004 | B1 |
| 6809807 | Erickson et al. | Oct 2004 | B1 |
| 6810290 | Lebel et al. | Oct 2004 | B2 |
| 6811533 | Lebel et al. | Nov 2004 | B2 |
| 6811534 | Bowman, IV et al. | Nov 2004 | B2 |
| 6811659 | Vachon | Nov 2004 | B2 |
| 6812031 | Carlsson | Nov 2004 | B1 |
| 6813516 | Ujhelyi et al. | Nov 2004 | B2 |
| 6813519 | Lebel et al. | Nov 2004 | B2 |
| 6814843 | Bhullar et al. | Nov 2004 | B1 |
| 6815186 | Clark, Jr. | Nov 2004 | B2 |
| 6816742 | Kim et al. | Nov 2004 | B2 |
| 6827829 | Kawanaka et al. | Dec 2004 | B2 |
| 6830549 | Bui et al. | Dec 2004 | B2 |
| 6835553 | Han et al. | Dec 2004 | B2 |
| RE38681 | Kurnik et al. | Jan 2005 | E |
| 6837858 | Cunningham et al. | Jan 2005 | B2 |
| 6840912 | Kloepfer et al. | Jan 2005 | B2 |
| 6844023 | Schulman et al. | Jan 2005 | B2 |
| 6849237 | Housefield et al. | Feb 2005 | B2 |
| 6850790 | Berner et al. | Feb 2005 | B2 |
| 6852500 | Hoss et al. | Feb 2005 | B1 |
| 6852694 | Van Antwerp et al. | Feb 2005 | B2 |
| 6853854 | Proniewicz et al. | Feb 2005 | B1 |
| 6855115 | Fonseca et al. | Feb 2005 | B2 |
| 6856928 | Harmon | Feb 2005 | B2 |
| 6858403 | Han et al. | Feb 2005 | B2 |
| 6862465 | Shults et al. | Mar 2005 | B2 |
| 6862466 | Ackerman | Mar 2005 | B2 |
| 6867051 | Anderson et al. | Mar 2005 | B1 |
| 6869413 | Langley et al. | Mar 2005 | B2 |
| 6872200 | Mann et al. | Mar 2005 | B2 |
| 6873268 | Lebel et al. | Mar 2005 | B2 |
| 6875386 | Ward et al. | Apr 2005 | B1 |
| 6879849 | Begic | Apr 2005 | B2 |
| 6881378 | Zimmer et al. | Apr 2005 | B1 |
| 6881551 | Heller et al. | Apr 2005 | B2 |
| 6882940 | Potts et al. | Apr 2005 | B2 |
| 6885883 | Parris et al. | Apr 2005 | B2 |
| 6891317 | Pei et al. | May 2005 | B2 |
| 6892085 | McIvor et al. | May 2005 | B2 |
| 6893552 | Wang et al. | May 2005 | B1 |
| 6895263 | Shin et al. | May 2005 | B2 |
| 6899683 | Mault et al. | May 2005 | B2 |
| 6899684 | Mault et al. | May 2005 | B2 |
| 6902905 | Burson et al. | Jun 2005 | B2 |
| 6904301 | Raskas | Jun 2005 | B2 |
| 6907127 | Kravitz et al. | Jun 2005 | B1 |
| 6915147 | Lebel et al. | Jul 2005 | B2 |
| 6918874 | Hatch et al. | Jul 2005 | B1 |
| 6922578 | Eppstein et al. | Jul 2005 | B2 |
| 6922584 | Wang et al. | Jul 2005 | B2 |
| RE38775 | Kurnik et al. | Aug 2005 | E |
| 6923764 | Aceti et al. | Aug 2005 | B2 |
| 6923936 | Swanson et al. | Aug 2005 | B2 |
| 6925317 | Samuels et al. | Aug 2005 | B1 |
| 6925393 | Kalatz et al. | Aug 2005 | B1 |
| 6927246 | Noronha et al. | Aug 2005 | B2 |
| 6931327 | Goode, Jr. et al. | Aug 2005 | B2 |
| 6932084 | Estes et al. | Aug 2005 | B2 |
| 6932894 | Mao et al. | Aug 2005 | B2 |
| 6936006 | Sabra | Aug 2005 | B2 |
| 6936029 | Mann et al. | Aug 2005 | B2 |
| 6940590 | Colvin, Jr. et al. | Sep 2005 | B2 |
| 6941163 | Ford et al. | Sep 2005 | B2 |
| 6946299 | Neel et al. | Sep 2005 | B2 |
| 6946996 | Koyama | Sep 2005 | B2 |
| 6949816 | Brown et al. | Sep 2005 | B2 |
| 6950708 | Bowman IV et al. | Sep 2005 | B2 |
| 6951631 | Catt et al. | Oct 2005 | B1 |
| 6952603 | Gerber et al. | Oct 2005 | B2 |
| 6952604 | DeNuzzio et al. | Oct 2005 | B2 |
| 6953693 | Neel et al. | Oct 2005 | B2 |
| 6954673 | Von Arx et al. | Oct 2005 | B2 |
| 6955650 | Mault et al. | Oct 2005 | B2 |
| 6957102 | Silver et al. | Oct 2005 | B2 |
| 6957107 | Rogers et al. | Oct 2005 | B2 |
| 6958691 | Anderson et al. | Oct 2005 | B1 |
| 6958705 | Lebel et al. | Oct 2005 | B2 |
| 6959247 | Neel et al. | Oct 2005 | B2 |
| 6964871 | Bell et al. | Nov 2005 | B2 |
| 6965791 | Hitchcock et al. | Nov 2005 | B1 |
| 6968294 | Gutta et al. | Nov 2005 | B2 |
| 6968375 | Brown | Nov 2005 | B1 |
| 6972080 | Tomioka et al. | Dec 2005 | B1 |
| 6973706 | Say et al. | Dec 2005 | B2 |
| 6974437 | Lebel et al. | Dec 2005 | B2 |
| 6978182 | Mazar et al. | Dec 2005 | B2 |
| 6979326 | Mann et al. | Dec 2005 | B2 |
| 6990366 | Say et al. | Jan 2006 | B2 |
| 6991096 | Gottlieb et al. | Jan 2006 | B2 |
| 6997907 | Safabash et al. | Feb 2006 | B2 |
| 6997920 | Mann et al. | Feb 2006 | B2 |
| 6998247 | Monfre et al. | Feb 2006 | B2 |
| 6999810 | Berner et al. | Feb 2006 | B2 |
| 7003336 | Holker et al. | Feb 2006 | B2 |
| 7003341 | Say et al. | Feb 2006 | B2 |
| 7004901 | Fish | Feb 2006 | B2 |
| 7005048 | Watanabe et al. | Feb 2006 | B1 |
| 7005857 | Stiene et al. | Feb 2006 | B2 |
| 7011630 | Desai et al. | Mar 2006 | B2 |
| 7016721 | Lee et al. | Mar 2006 | B2 |
| 7018366 | Easter | Mar 2006 | B2 |
| 7018568 | Tierney | Mar 2006 | B2 |
| 7022072 | Fox et al. | Apr 2006 | B2 |
| 7024236 | Ford et al. | Apr 2006 | B2 |
| 7024245 | Lebel et al. | Apr 2006 | B2 |
| 7025743 | Mann et al. | Apr 2006 | B2 |
| 7029444 | Shin et al. | Apr 2006 | B2 |
| 7034677 | Steinthal et al. | Apr 2006 | B2 |
| 7039810 | Nichols | May 2006 | B1 |
| 7041057 | Faupel et al. | May 2006 | B1 |
| 7041468 | Drucker et al. | May 2006 | B2 |
| 7045054 | Buck et al. | May 2006 | B1 |
| 7049277 | Bagulla et al. | May 2006 | B2 |
| 7052472 | Miller et al. | May 2006 | B1 |
| 7052483 | Wojcik | May 2006 | B2 |
| 7056302 | Douglas | Jun 2006 | B2 |
| 7058437 | Buse et al. | Jun 2006 | B2 |
| 7060059 | Keith et al. | Jun 2006 | B2 |
| 7070580 | Nielsen | Jul 2006 | B2 |
| 7072718 | VonArx et al. | Jul 2006 | B2 |
| 7072802 | Hartlaub | Jul 2006 | B2 |
| 7074307 | Simpson et al. | Jul 2006 | B2 |
| 7077328 | Krishnaswamy et al. | Jul 2006 | B2 |
| 7081195 | Simpson et al. | Jul 2006 | B2 |
| 7082334 | Boute et al. | Jul 2006 | B2 |
| 7098803 | Mann et al. | Aug 2006 | B2 |
| 7108778 | Simpson et al. | Sep 2006 | B2 |
| 7109878 | Mann et al. | Sep 2006 | B2 |
| 7110803 | Shults et al. | Sep 2006 | B2 |
| 7112265 | McAleer et al. | Sep 2006 | B1 |
| 7113821 | Sun et al. | Sep 2006 | B1 |
| 7115884 | Walt et al. | Oct 2006 | B1 |
| 7133710 | Acosta et al. | Nov 2006 | B2 |
| 7134999 | Brauker et al. | Nov 2006 | B2 |
| 7135100 | Lau et al. | Nov 2006 | B1 |
| 7136689 | Shults et al. | Nov 2006 | B2 |
| 7137964 | Flaherty | Nov 2006 | B2 |
| 7150975 | Tamada et al. | Dec 2006 | B2 |
| 7153265 | Vachon | Dec 2006 | B2 |
| 7160251 | Neel et al. | Jan 2007 | B2 |
| 7160678 | Kayyem et al. | Jan 2007 | B1 |
| 7163511 | Conn et al. | Jan 2007 | B2 |
| 7166074 | Reghabit et al. | Jan 2007 | B2 |
| 7169289 | Schulein et al. | Jan 2007 | B2 |
| 7171274 | Starkweather et al. | Jan 2007 | B2 |
| 7177690 | Woods et al. | Feb 2007 | B2 |
| 7183068 | Burson et al. | Feb 2007 | B2 |
| 7183102 | Monfre et al. | Feb 2007 | B2 |
| 7187528 | Talbot et al. | Mar 2007 | B2 |
| 7189341 | Li et al. | Mar 2007 | B2 |
| 7190988 | Say et al. | Mar 2007 | B2 |
| 7192450 | Brauker et al. | Mar 2007 | B2 |
| 7198606 | Boecker et al. | Apr 2007 | B2 |
| 7203549 | Schommer et al. | Apr 2007 | B2 |
| 7207974 | Safabash et al. | Apr 2007 | B2 |
| 7215991 | Besson et al. | May 2007 | B2 |
| 7225535 | Feldman et al. | Jun 2007 | B2 |
| 7226978 | Tapsak et al. | Jun 2007 | B2 |
| 7228163 | Ackerman | Jun 2007 | B2 |
| 7233817 | Yen | Jun 2007 | B2 |
| 7241265 | Cummings et al. | Jul 2007 | B2 |
| 7248912 | Gough et al. | Jul 2007 | B2 |
| 7248929 | Meadows et al. | Jul 2007 | B2 |
| 7261691 | Asomani | Aug 2007 | B1 |
| 7267665 | Steil et al. | Sep 2007 | B2 |
| 7276029 | Goode, Jr. et al. | Oct 2007 | B2 |
| 7278983 | Ireland et al. | Oct 2007 | B2 |
| 7295867 | Berner et al. | Nov 2007 | B2 |
| 7299082 | Feldman et al. | Nov 2007 | B2 |
| 7310544 | Brister et al. | Dec 2007 | B2 |
| 7318816 | Bobroff et al. | Jan 2008 | B2 |
| 7324012 | Mann et al. | Jan 2008 | B2 |
| 7329239 | Safabash et al. | Feb 2008 | B2 |
| 7344499 | Prausnitz et al. | Mar 2008 | B1 |
| 7347973 | Douglas et al. | Mar 2008 | B2 |
| 7354420 | Steil et al. | Apr 2008 | B2 |
| 7364592 | Carr-Brendel et al. | Apr 2008 | B2 |
| 7366556 | Brister et al. | Apr 2008 | B2 |
| 7379765 | Petisce et al. | May 2008 | B2 |
| 7384396 | Samuels et al. | Jun 2008 | B2 |
| 7399277 | Saidara et al. | Jul 2008 | B2 |
| 7402153 | Steil et al. | Jul 2008 | B2 |
| 7406105 | DelMain et al. | Jul 2008 | B2 |
| 7417164 | Suri | Aug 2008 | B2 |
| 7424318 | Brister et al. | Sep 2008 | B2 |
| 7426408 | DeNuzzio et al. | Sep 2008 | B2 |
| 7460898 | Brister et al. | Dec 2008 | B2 |
| 7467003 | Brister et al. | Dec 2008 | B2 |
| 7467065 | Neel et al. | Dec 2008 | B2 |
| 7471972 | Rhodes et al. | Dec 2008 | B2 |
| 7494465 | Brister et al. | Feb 2009 | B2 |
| 7497827 | Brister et al. | Mar 2009 | B2 |
| 7519408 | Rasdal et al. | Apr 2009 | B2 |
| 7519478 | Bartkowiak et al. | Apr 2009 | B2 |
| 7523004 | Bartkowiak et al. | Apr 2009 | B2 |
| 7525298 | Morgan et al. | Apr 2009 | B2 |
| 7545272 | Goodnow et al. | Jun 2009 | B2 |
| 7583990 | Goode, Jr. et al. | Sep 2009 | B2 |
| 7587287 | Connolly et al. | Sep 2009 | B2 |
| 7591801 | Brauker et al. | Sep 2009 | B2 |
| 7599726 | Goode, Jr. et al. | Oct 2009 | B2 |
| 7613491 | Boock et al. | Nov 2009 | B2 |
| 7615007 | Shults et al. | Nov 2009 | B2 |
| 7618369 | Hayter et al. | Nov 2009 | B2 |
| 7624028 | Brown | Nov 2009 | B1 |
| 7632228 | Brauker et al. | Dec 2009 | B2 |
| 7637868 | Saint et al. | Dec 2009 | B2 |
| 7640048 | Dobbles et al. | Dec 2009 | B2 |
| 7651596 | Petisce et al. | Jan 2010 | B2 |
| 7654956 | Brister et al. | Feb 2010 | B2 |
| 7657297 | Simpson et al. | Feb 2010 | B2 |
| 7689437 | Teller et al. | Mar 2010 | B1 |
| 7711402 | Shults et al. | May 2010 | B2 |
| 7713574 | Brister et al. | May 2010 | B2 |
| 7715893 | Kamath et al. | May 2010 | B2 |
| 7761130 | Simpson et al. | Jul 2010 | B2 |
| 7771352 | Shults et al. | Aug 2010 | B2 |
| 7774145 | Brauker et al. | Aug 2010 | B2 |
| 7775975 | Brister et al. | Aug 2010 | B2 |
| 7778680 | Goode, Jr. et al. | Aug 2010 | B2 |
| 7783333 | Brister et al. | Aug 2010 | B2 |
| 7792562 | Shults et al. | Sep 2010 | B2 |
| 7797028 | Goode, Jr. et al. | Sep 2010 | B2 |
| 7819161 | Neel et al. | Oct 2010 | B2 |
| 7826981 | Goode, Jr. et al. | Nov 2010 | B2 |
| 7828728 | Boock et al. | Nov 2010 | B2 |
| 7831287 | Brister et al. | Nov 2010 | B2 |
| 7835777 | Shults et al. | Nov 2010 | B2 |
| 7857760 | Brister et al. | Dec 2010 | B2 |
| 7860545 | Shults et al. | Dec 2010 | B2 |
| 7875293 | Shults et al. | Jan 2011 | B2 |
| 7881763 | Brauker et al. | Feb 2011 | B2 |
| 7883015 | Ackermann et al. | Feb 2011 | B2 |
| 7885697 | Brister et al. | Feb 2011 | B2 |
| 7896809 | Simpson et al. | Mar 2011 | B2 |
| 7899511 | Shults et al. | Mar 2011 | B2 |
| 7901354 | Shults et al. | Mar 2011 | B2 |
| 7901394 | Ireland et al. | Mar 2011 | B2 |
| 7914450 | Goode, Jr. et al. | Mar 2011 | B2 |
| 7925321 | Goode et al. | Apr 2011 | B2 |
| 7933639 | Goode et al. | Apr 2011 | B2 |
| 7955261 | Goode et al. | Jun 2011 | B2 |
| 7955856 | Neel et al. | Jun 2011 | B2 |
| 7959569 | Goode et al. | Jun 2011 | B2 |
| 7979104 | Kamath et al. | Jul 2011 | B2 |
| 7986986 | Goode et al. | Jul 2011 | B2 |
| 8160669 | Brauker et al. | Apr 2012 | B2 |
| 20010011224 | Brown | Aug 2001 | A1 |
| 20010016310 | Brown et al. | Aug 2001 | A1 |
| 20010016682 | Berner et al. | Aug 2001 | A1 |
| 20010016683 | Darrow et al. | Aug 2001 | A1 |
| 20010020124 | Tamada | Sep 2001 | A1 |
| 20010029340 | Mault et al. | Oct 2001 | A1 |
| 20010032278 | Brown et al. | Oct 2001 | A1 |
| 20010037060 | Thompson et al. | Nov 2001 | A1 |
| 20010037069 | Carlson et al. | Nov 2001 | A1 |
| 20010039504 | Linberg et al. | Nov 2001 | A1 |
| 20010041830 | Varalli et al. | Nov 2001 | A1 |
| 20010044581 | Mault | Nov 2001 | A1 |
| 20010044588 | Mault | Nov 2001 | A1 |
| 20010047125 | Quy | Nov 2001 | A1 |
| 20010049096 | Brown | Dec 2001 | A1 |
| 20010049470 | Mault et al. | Dec 2001 | A1 |
| 20010051768 | Schulman et al. | Dec 2001 | A1 |
| 20010056328 | Trippel et al. | Dec 2001 | A1 |
| 20020002326 | Causey, III et al. | Jan 2002 | A1 |
| 20020002328 | Tamada | Jan 2002 | A1 |
| 20020004640 | Conn et al. | Jan 2002 | A1 |
| 20020009810 | O'Connor et al. | Jan 2002 | A1 |
| 20020010414 | Coston et al. | Jan 2002 | A1 |
| 20020016530 | Brown | Feb 2002 | A1 |
| 20020016535 | Martin et al. | Feb 2002 | A1 |
| 20020019022 | Dunn et al. | Feb 2002 | A1 |
| 20020019330 | Murray et al. | Feb 2002 | A1 |
| 20020019586 | Teller et al. | Feb 2002 | A1 |
| 20020019748 | Brown | Feb 2002 | A1 |
| 20020022883 | Burg | Feb 2002 | A1 |
| 20020023852 | McIvor et al. | Feb 2002 | A1 |
| 20020026111 | Ackerman | Feb 2002 | A1 |
| 20020026937 | Mault | Mar 2002 | A1 |
| 20020027164 | Mault et al. | Mar 2002 | A1 |
| 20020028995 | Mault | Mar 2002 | A1 |
| 20020040208 | Flaherty et al. | Apr 2002 | A1 |
| 20020042090 | Heller et al. | Apr 2002 | A1 |
| 20020042561 | Schulman et al. | Apr 2002 | A1 |
| 20020043471 | Ikeda et al. | Apr 2002 | A1 |
| 20020045808 | Ford et al. | Apr 2002 | A1 |
| 20020047867 | Mault et al. | Apr 2002 | A1 |
| 20020049482 | Fabian et al. | Apr 2002 | A1 |
| 20020053637 | Conn et al. | May 2002 | A1 |
| 20020055673 | Van Antwerp et al. | May 2002 | A1 |
| 20020062069 | Mault | May 2002 | A1 |
| 20020063060 | Gascoyne et al. | May 2002 | A1 |
| 20020065453 | Lesho et al. | May 2002 | A1 |
| 20020068858 | Braig et al. | Jun 2002 | A1 |
| 20020068860 | Clark, Jr. | Jun 2002 | A1 |
| 20020072858 | Cheng | Jun 2002 | A1 |
| 20020077765 | Mault | Jun 2002 | A1 |
| 20020077766 | Mault | Jun 2002 | A1 |
| 20020081559 | Brown et al. | Jun 2002 | A1 |
| 20020083461 | Hutcheson et al. | Jun 2002 | A1 |
| 20020084196 | Liamos et al. | Jul 2002 | A1 |
| 20020087056 | Aceti et al. | Jul 2002 | A1 |
| 20020091312 | Berner et al. | Jul 2002 | A1 |
| 20020099282 | Knobbe et al. | Jul 2002 | A1 |
| 20020099997 | Piret | Jul 2002 | A1 |
| 20020103425 | Mault | Aug 2002 | A1 |
| 20020107433 | Mault | Aug 2002 | A1 |
| 20020107476 | Mann et al. | Aug 2002 | A1 |
| 20020109600 | Mault et al. | Aug 2002 | A1 |
| 20020109621 | Khair et al. | Aug 2002 | A1 |
| 20020111547 | Knobbe et al. | Aug 2002 | A1 |
| 20020119711 | Van Antwerp et al. | Aug 2002 | A1 |
| 20020124017 | Mault | Sep 2002 | A1 |
| 20020128594 | Das et al. | Sep 2002 | A1 |
| 20020130042 | Moerman et al. | Sep 2002 | A1 |
| 20020133378 | Mault et al. | Sep 2002 | A1 |
| 20020151796 | Koulik | Oct 2002 | A1 |
| 20020151816 | Rich et al. | Oct 2002 | A1 |
| 20020155615 | Novikov et al. | Oct 2002 | A1 |
| 20020161286 | Gerber et al. | Oct 2002 | A1 |
| 20020161288 | Shin et al. | Oct 2002 | A1 |
| 20020169369 | Ward et al. | Nov 2002 | A1 |
| 20020177764 | Sohrab | Nov 2002 | A1 |
| 20020182241 | Borenstein et al. | Dec 2002 | A1 |
| 20020188185 | Sohrab | Dec 2002 | A1 |
| 20020188216 | Kayyali et al. | Dec 2002 | A1 |
| 20020193885 | Legeay et al. | Dec 2002 | A1 |
| 20020198513 | Lebel et al. | Dec 2002 | A1 |
| 20030004457 | Andersson | Jan 2003 | A1 |
| 20030006669 | Pei et al. | Jan 2003 | A1 |
| 20030023171 | Sato et al. | Jan 2003 | A1 |
| 20030023182 | Mault et al. | Jan 2003 | A1 |
| 20030023317 | Brauker et al. | Jan 2003 | A1 |
| 20030028089 | Galley et al. | Feb 2003 | A1 |
| 20030028120 | Mault et al. | Feb 2003 | A1 |
| 20030032077 | Itoh et al. | Feb 2003 | A1 |
| 20030032867 | Crothall et al. | Feb 2003 | A1 |
| 20030032868 | Graskov et al. | Feb 2003 | A1 |
| 20030032874 | Rhodes et al. | Feb 2003 | A1 |
| 20030036773 | Whitehurst et al. | Feb 2003 | A1 |
| 20030040683 | Rule et al. | Feb 2003 | A1 |
| 20030042137 | Mao et al. | Mar 2003 | A1 |
| 20030050537 | Wessel | Mar 2003 | A1 |
| 20030050546 | Desai et al. | Mar 2003 | A1 |
| 20030059631 | Al-Lamee | Mar 2003 | A1 |
| 20030065254 | Schulman et al. | Apr 2003 | A1 |
| 20030065257 | Mault et al. | Apr 2003 | A1 |
| 20030065273 | Mault et al. | Apr 2003 | A1 |
| 20030065274 | Mault et al. | Apr 2003 | A1 |
| 20030065275 | Mault et al. | Apr 2003 | A1 |
| 20030065308 | Lebel et al. | Apr 2003 | A1 |
| 20030070548 | Clausen | Apr 2003 | A1 |
| 20030076082 | Morgan et al. | Apr 2003 | A1 |
| 20030078481 | McIvor et al. | Apr 2003 | A1 |
| 20030078560 | Miller et al. | Apr 2003 | A1 |
| 20030097082 | Purdy et al. | May 2003 | A1 |
| 20030100040 | Bonnecaze et al. | May 2003 | A1 |
| 20030100821 | Heller et al. | May 2003 | A1 |
| 20030105407 | Pearce et al. | Jun 2003 | A1 |
| 20030108976 | Braig et al. | Jun 2003 | A1 |
| 20030117296 | Seely | Jun 2003 | A1 |
| 20030125612 | Fox et al. | Jul 2003 | A1 |
| 20030125613 | Enegren et al. | Jul 2003 | A1 |
| 20030130616 | Steil et al. | Jul 2003 | A1 |
| 20030134347 | Heller et al. | Jul 2003 | A1 |
| 20030135100 | Kim et al. | Jul 2003 | A1 |
| 20030135333 | Aceti et al. | Jul 2003 | A1 |
| 20030138674 | Zeikus et al. | Jul 2003 | A1 |
| 20030153820 | Berner et al. | Aug 2003 | A1 |
| 20030153821 | Berner et al. | Aug 2003 | A1 |
| 20030158472 | Sohrab | Aug 2003 | A1 |
| 20030158707 | Doi | Aug 2003 | A1 |
| 20030168338 | Gao et al. | Sep 2003 | A1 |
| 20030175806 | Rule et al. | Sep 2003 | A1 |
| 20030176183 | Drucker et al. | Sep 2003 | A1 |
| 20030176933 | Lebel et al. | Sep 2003 | A1 |
| 20030181794 | Rini et al. | Sep 2003 | A1 |
| 20030181851 | Mann et al. | Sep 2003 | A1 |
| 20030181852 | Mann et al. | Sep 2003 | A1 |
| 20030187338 | Say et al. | Oct 2003 | A1 |
| 20030187525 | Mann et al. | Oct 2003 | A1 |
| 20030188427 | Say et al. | Oct 2003 | A1 |
| 20030191376 | Samuels et al. | Oct 2003 | A1 |
| 20030191431 | Mann et al. | Oct 2003 | A1 |
| 20030195403 | Berner et al. | Oct 2003 | A1 |
| 20030195462 | Mann et al. | Oct 2003 | A1 |
| 20030199744 | Buse et al. | Oct 2003 | A1 |
| 20030199791 | Boecker et al. | Oct 2003 | A1 |
| 20030199903 | Boecker et al. | Oct 2003 | A1 |
| 20030208110 | Mault et al. | Nov 2003 | A1 |
| 20030208113 | Mault et al. | Nov 2003 | A1 |
| 20030208133 | Mault | Nov 2003 | A1 |
| 20030208409 | Mault | Nov 2003 | A1 |
| 20030211625 | Cohan et al. | Nov 2003 | A1 |
| 20030212317 | Kovatchev et al. | Nov 2003 | A1 |
| 20030212346 | Yuzhakov et al. | Nov 2003 | A1 |
| 20030212347 | Sohrab | Nov 2003 | A1 |
| 20030212364 | Mann et al. | Nov 2003 | A1 |
| 20030212379 | Bylund et al. | Nov 2003 | A1 |
| 20030217966 | Tapsak et al. | Nov 2003 | A1 |
| 20030225437 | Ferguson | Dec 2003 | A1 |
| 20030226695 | Mault | Dec 2003 | A1 |
| 20030229514 | Brown | Dec 2003 | A2 |
| 20030232370 | Trifiro | Dec 2003 | A1 |
| 20030235817 | Bartkowiak et al. | Dec 2003 | A1 |
| 20040010207 | Flaherty et al. | Jan 2004 | A1 |
| 20040011671 | Shults et al. | Jan 2004 | A1 |
| 20040015063 | DeNuzzio et al. | Jan 2004 | A1 |
| 20040015134 | Lavi et al. | Jan 2004 | A1 |
| 20040018486 | Dunn et al. | Jan 2004 | A1 |
| 20040024327 | Brodnick | Feb 2004 | A1 |
| 20040030285 | Lavi et al. | Feb 2004 | A1 |
| 20040030294 | Mahurkar | Feb 2004 | A1 |
| 20040039256 | Kawatahara et al. | Feb 2004 | A1 |
| 20040039298 | Abreu | Feb 2004 | A1 |
| 20040039406 | Jessen | Feb 2004 | A1 |
| 20040040840 | Mao et al. | Mar 2004 | A1 |
| 20040045879 | Shults et al. | Mar 2004 | A1 |
| 20040054263 | Moerman et al. | Mar 2004 | A1 |
| 20040059201 | Ginsberg | Mar 2004 | A1 |
| 20040068230 | Estes et al. | Apr 2004 | A1 |
| 20040069164 | Nakamura et al. | Apr 2004 | A1 |
| 20040072357 | Stiene et al. | Apr 2004 | A1 |
| 20040073095 | Causey, III et al. | Apr 2004 | A1 |
| 20040074785 | Holker | Apr 2004 | A1 |
| 20040078219 | Kaylor | Apr 2004 | A1 |
| 20040096959 | Stiene et al. | May 2004 | A1 |
| 20040106857 | Gough | Jun 2004 | A1 |
| 20040106858 | Say et al. | Jun 2004 | A1 |
| 20040106859 | Say et al. | Jun 2004 | A1 |
| 20040108226 | Polychronakos et al. | Jun 2004 | A1 |
| 20040122353 | Shahmirian et al. | Jun 2004 | A1 |
| 20040122489 | Mazar et al. | Jun 2004 | A1 |
| 20040133131 | Kuhn et al. | Jul 2004 | A1 |
| 20040133164 | Funderburk et al. | Jul 2004 | A1 |
| 20040138588 | Saikley et al. | Jul 2004 | A1 |
| 20040143173 | Reghabi et al. | Jul 2004 | A1 |
| 20040152187 | Haight et al. | Aug 2004 | A1 |
| 20040152622 | Keith et al. | Aug 2004 | A1 |
| 20040153585 | Kawatahara et al. | Aug 2004 | A1 |
| 20040162473 | Sohrab | Aug 2004 | A1 |
| 20040164961 | Bal et al. | Aug 2004 | A1 |
| 20040167383 | Kim et al. | Aug 2004 | A1 |
| 20040167801 | Say et al. | Aug 2004 | A1 |
| 20040171921 | Say et al. | Sep 2004 | A1 |
| 20040172284 | Sullivan et al. | Sep 2004 | A1 |
| 20040173472 | Jung et al. | Sep 2004 | A1 |
| 20040176913 | Kawatahara et al. | Sep 2004 | A1 |
| 20040186362 | Brauker et al. | Sep 2004 | A1 |
| 20040186365 | Jin et al. | Sep 2004 | A1 |
| 20040193025 | Steil et al. | Sep 2004 | A1 |
| 20040193090 | Lebel et al. | Sep 2004 | A1 |
| 20040199059 | Brauker et al. | Oct 2004 | A1 |
| 20040202576 | Aceti et al. | Oct 2004 | A1 |
| 20040204687 | Mogensen et al. | Oct 2004 | A1 |
| 20040219664 | Heller et al. | Nov 2004 | A1 |
| 20040225338 | Lebel et al. | Nov 2004 | A1 |
| 20040236200 | Say et al. | Nov 2004 | A1 |
| 20040236251 | Roe et al. | Nov 2004 | A1 |
| 20040248204 | Moerman | Dec 2004 | A1 |
| 20040249250 | McGee et al. | Dec 2004 | A1 |
| 20040249253 | Racchini et al. | Dec 2004 | A1 |
| 20040249254 | Racchini et al. | Dec 2004 | A1 |
| 20040249999 | Connolly et al. | Dec 2004 | A1 |
| 20040253736 | Stout et al. | Dec 2004 | A1 |
| 20040254429 | Yang | Dec 2004 | A1 |
| 20040254433 | Bandis et al. | Dec 2004 | A1 |
| 20040254434 | Goodnow et al. | Dec 2004 | A1 |
| 20040260363 | Von Arx et al. | Dec 2004 | A1 |
| 20040263354 | Mann et al. | Dec 2004 | A1 |
| 20050003470 | Nelson et al. | Jan 2005 | A1 |
| 20050004439 | Shin et al. | Jan 2005 | A1 |
| 20050006122 | Burnette | Jan 2005 | A1 |
| 20050010087 | Banet et al. | Jan 2005 | A1 |
| 20050010265 | Fassio et al. | Jan 2005 | A1 |
| 20050010269 | Lebel et al. | Jan 2005 | A1 |
| 20050027177 | Shin et al. | Feb 2005 | A1 |
| 20050027179 | Berner et al. | Feb 2005 | A1 |
| 20050027180 | Goode, Jr. et al. | Feb 2005 | A1 |
| 20050027181 | Goode, Jr. et al. | Feb 2005 | A1 |
| 20050027182 | Siddiqui et al. | Feb 2005 | A1 |
| 20050027462 | Goode, Jr. et al. | Feb 2005 | A1 |
| 20050027463 | Goode, Jr. et al. | Feb 2005 | A1 |
| 20050031689 | Shults et al. | Feb 2005 | A1 |
| 20050033132 | Shults et al. | Feb 2005 | A1 |
| 20050038332 | Saidara et al. | Feb 2005 | A1 |
| 20050038680 | McMahon | Feb 2005 | A1 |
| 20050043598 | Goode, Jr. et al. | Feb 2005 | A1 |
| 20050043894 | Fernandez | Feb 2005 | A1 |
| 20050049473 | Desai et al. | Mar 2005 | A1 |
| 20050051427 | Brauker et al. | Mar 2005 | A1 |
| 20050051440 | Simpson et al. | Mar 2005 | A1 |
| 20050054909 | Petisce et al. | Mar 2005 | A1 |
| 20050056551 | White et al. | Mar 2005 | A1 |
| 20050056552 | Simpson et al. | Mar 2005 | A1 |
| 20050090607 | Tapsak et al. | Apr 2005 | A1 |
| 20050096519 | DeNuzzio et al. | May 2005 | A1 |
| 20050101847 | Routt et al. | May 2005 | A1 |
| 20050103625 | Rhodes et al. | May 2005 | A1 |
| 20050112169 | Brauker et al. | May 2005 | A1 |
| 20050113653 | Fox et al. | May 2005 | A1 |
| 20050113657 | Alarcon et al. | May 2005 | A1 |
| 20050113658 | Jacobson et al. | May 2005 | A1 |
| 20050115832 | Simpson et al. | Jun 2005 | A1 |
| 20050118726 | Schultz et al. | Jun 2005 | A1 |
| 20050121322 | Say et al. | Jun 2005 | A1 |
| 20050124873 | Shults et al. | Jun 2005 | A1 |
| 20050131346 | Douglas | Jun 2005 | A1 |
| 20050133368 | Davies et al. | Jun 2005 | A1 |
| 20050137471 | Haar et al. | Jun 2005 | A1 |
| 20050139489 | Davies et al. | Jun 2005 | A1 |
| 20050143635 | Kamath et al. | Jun 2005 | A1 |
| 20050143636 | Zhang et al. | Jun 2005 | A1 |
| 20050143675 | Neel et al. | Jun 2005 | A1 |
| 20050148003 | Keith et al. | Jul 2005 | A1 |
| 20050154271 | Rasdal et al. | Jul 2005 | A1 |
| 20050161346 | Simpson et al. | Jul 2005 | A1 |
| 20050171503 | Van Den Berghe et al. | Aug 2005 | A1 |
| 20050171513 | Mann et al. | Aug 2005 | A1 |
| 20050173245 | Feldman et al. | Aug 2005 | A1 |
| 20050176136 | Burd et al. | Aug 2005 | A1 |
| 20050177036 | Shults et al. | Aug 2005 | A1 |
| 20050181012 | Saint et al. | Aug 2005 | A1 |
| 20050182306 | Sloan et al. | Aug 2005 | A1 |
| 20050182451 | Griffin et al. | Aug 2005 | A1 |
| 20050183954 | Hitchcock et al. | Aug 2005 | A1 |
| 20050187720 | Goode, Jr. et al. | Aug 2005 | A1 |
| 20050192557 | Brauker et al. | Sep 2005 | A1 |
| 20050195930 | Spital et al. | Sep 2005 | A1 |
| 20050199494 | Say et al. | Sep 2005 | A1 |
| 20050203360 | Brauker et al. | Sep 2005 | A1 |
| 20050203707 | Tsutsui et al. | Sep 2005 | A1 |
| 20050211571 | Schulein et al. | Sep 2005 | A1 |
| 20050214892 | Kovatchev et al. | Sep 2005 | A1 |
| 20050215871 | Feldman et al. | Sep 2005 | A1 |
| 20050215872 | Berner et al. | Sep 2005 | A1 |
| 20050239154 | Feldman et al. | Oct 2005 | A1 |
| 20050239156 | Drucker et al. | Oct 2005 | A1 |
| 20050242479 | Petisce et al. | Nov 2005 | A1 |
| 20050245795 | Goode, Jr. et al. | Nov 2005 | A1 |
| 20050245799 | Brauker et al. | Nov 2005 | A1 |
| 20050251083 | Carr-Brendel et al. | Nov 2005 | A1 |
| 20050261563 | Zhou et al. | Nov 2005 | A1 |
| 20050261660 | Choi | Nov 2005 | A1 |
| 20050267780 | Ray et al. | Dec 2005 | A1 |
| 20050271546 | Gerber et al. | Dec 2005 | A1 |
| 20050271547 | Gerber et al. | Dec 2005 | A1 |
| 20050272640 | Doyle, III et al. | Dec 2005 | A1 |
| 20050272985 | Kotulla et al. | Dec 2005 | A1 |
| 20050272989 | Shah et al. | Dec 2005 | A1 |
| 20050277164 | Drucker et al. | Dec 2005 | A1 |
| 20050287620 | Heller et al. | Dec 2005 | A1 |
| 20060001538 | Kraft et al. | Jan 2006 | A1 |
| 20060001550 | Mann et al. | Jan 2006 | A1 |
| 20060001551 | Kraft et al. | Jan 2006 | A1 |
| 20060003398 | Heller et al. | Jan 2006 | A1 |
| 20060004271 | Peyser et al. | Jan 2006 | A1 |
| 20060007017 | Mann et al. | Jan 2006 | A1 |
| 20060015020 | Neale et al. | Jan 2006 | A1 |
| 20060015024 | Brister et al. | Jan 2006 | A1 |
| 20060016700 | Brister et al. | Jan 2006 | A1 |
| 20060019327 | Brister et al. | Jan 2006 | A1 |
| 20060020186 | Brister et al. | Jan 2006 | A1 |
| 20060020187 | Brister et al. | Jan 2006 | A1 |
| 20060020188 | Kamath et al. | Jan 2006 | A1 |
| 20060020189 | Brister et al. | Jan 2006 | A1 |
| 20060020190 | Kamath et al. | Jan 2006 | A1 |
| 20060020191 | Brister et al. | Jan 2006 | A1 |
| 20060020192 | Brister et al. | Jan 2006 | A1 |
| 20060025663 | Talbot et al. | Feb 2006 | A1 |
| 20060031094 | Cohen et al. | Feb 2006 | A1 |
| 20060036139 | Brister et al. | Feb 2006 | A1 |
| 20060036140 | Brister et al. | Feb 2006 | A1 |
| 20060036141 | Kamath et al. | Feb 2006 | A1 |
| 20060036142 | Brister et al. | Feb 2006 | A1 |
| 20060036143 | Brister et al. | Feb 2006 | A1 |
| 20060036144 | Brister et al. | Feb 2006 | A1 |
| 20060036145 | Brister et al. | Feb 2006 | A1 |
| 20060036187 | Vos et al. | Feb 2006 | A1 |
| 20060040402 | Brauker et al. | Feb 2006 | A1 |
| 20060047215 | Newman et al. | Mar 2006 | A1 |
| 20060052679 | Kotulla et al. | Mar 2006 | A1 |
| 20060058602 | Kwiatkowski et al. | Mar 2006 | A1 |
| 20060063218 | Bartkowiak et al. | Mar 2006 | A1 |
| 20060068208 | Tapsak et al. | Mar 2006 | A1 |
| 20060074564 | Bartkowiak et al. | Apr 2006 | A1 |
| 20060086624 | Tapsak et al. | Apr 2006 | A1 |
| 20060093556 | Gonda et al. | May 2006 | A1 |
| 20060100588 | Brunnberg et al. | May 2006 | A1 |
| 20060155180 | Brister et al. | Jul 2006 | A1 |
| 20060173444 | Choy et al. | Aug 2006 | A1 |
| 20060183984 | Dobbles et al. | Aug 2006 | A1 |
| 20060183985 | Brister et al. | Aug 2006 | A1 |
| 20060189856 | Petisce et al. | Aug 2006 | A1 |
| 20060189863 | Peyser et al. | Aug 2006 | A1 |
| 20060195029 | Shults et al. | Aug 2006 | A1 |
| 20060198864 | Shults et al. | Sep 2006 | A1 |
| 20060200019 | Petisce et al. | Sep 2006 | A1 |
| 20060200020 | Brister et al. | Sep 2006 | A1 |
| 20060200022 | Brauker et al. | Sep 2006 | A1 |
| 20060211921 | Brauker et al. | Sep 2006 | A1 |
| 20060222566 | Brauker et al. | Oct 2006 | A1 |
| 20060224108 | Brauker et al. | Oct 2006 | A1 |
| 20060235285 | Brister et al. | Oct 2006 | A1 |
| 20060247985 | Liamos et al. | Nov 2006 | A1 |
| 20060258761 | Boock et al. | Nov 2006 | A1 |
| 20060258929 | Goode, Jr. et al. | Nov 2006 | A1 |
| 20060270922 | Brauker et al. | Nov 2006 | A1 |
| 20060270923 | Brauker et al. | Nov 2006 | A1 |
| 20070016381 | Kamath et al. | Jan 2007 | A1 |
| 20070017805 | Hodges et al. | Jan 2007 | A1 |
| 20070027381 | Stafford | Feb 2007 | A1 |
| 20070027384 | Brister et al. | Feb 2007 | A1 |
| 20070027385 | Brister et al. | Feb 2007 | A1 |
| 20070032706 | Kamath et al. | Feb 2007 | A1 |
| 20070032717 | Brister et al. | Feb 2007 | A1 |
| 20070032718 | Shults et al. | Feb 2007 | A1 |
| 20070038044 | Dobbles et al. | Feb 2007 | A1 |
| 20070045902 | Brauker et al. | Mar 2007 | A1 |
| 20070049873 | Hansen et al. | Mar 2007 | A1 |
| 20070060814 | Stafford | Mar 2007 | A1 |
| 20070066873 | Kamath et al. | Mar 2007 | A1 |
| 20070078320 | Stafford | Apr 2007 | A1 |
| 20070078321 | Mazza et al. | Apr 2007 | A1 |
| 20070093704 | Brister et al. | Apr 2007 | A1 |
| 20070106135 | Sloan et al. | May 2007 | A1 |
| 20070149873 | Say et al. | Jun 2007 | A1 |
| 20070149874 | Say et al. | Jun 2007 | A1 |
| 20070151869 | Heller et al. | Jul 2007 | A1 |
| 20070161879 | Say et al. | Jul 2007 | A1 |
| 20070161880 | Say et al. | Jul 2007 | A1 |
| 20070163880 | Woo et al. | Jul 2007 | A1 |
| 20070173711 | Shah et al. | Jul 2007 | A1 |
| 20070179370 | Say et al. | Aug 2007 | A1 |
| 20070179372 | Say et al. | Aug 2007 | A1 |
| 20070191699 | Say et al. | Aug 2007 | A1 |
| 20070191700 | Say et al. | Aug 2007 | A1 |
| 20070197889 | Brister et al. | Aug 2007 | A1 |
| 20070197890 | Boock et al. | Aug 2007 | A1 |
| 20070200254 | Curry | Aug 2007 | A1 |
| 20070202672 | Curry | Aug 2007 | A1 |
| 20070203408 | Say et al. | Aug 2007 | A1 |
| 20070203410 | Say et al. | Aug 2007 | A1 |
| 20070203411 | Say et al. | Aug 2007 | A1 |
| 20070203966 | Brauker et al. | Aug 2007 | A1 |
| 20070208244 | Brauker et al. | Sep 2007 | A1 |
| 20070208245 | Brauker et al. | Sep 2007 | A1 |
| 20070208246 | Brauker et al. | Sep 2007 | A1 |
| 20070208247 | Say et al. | Sep 2007 | A1 |
| 20070213610 | Say et al. | Sep 2007 | A1 |
| 20070213611 | Simpson et al. | Sep 2007 | A1 |
| 20070215491 | Heller et al. | Sep 2007 | A1 |
| 20070218097 | Heller et al. | Sep 2007 | A1 |
| 20070232879 | Brister et al. | Oct 2007 | A1 |
| 20070235331 | Simpson et al. | Oct 2007 | A1 |
| 20070244380 | Say et al. | Oct 2007 | A1 |
| 20070249919 | Say et al. | Oct 2007 | A1 |
| 20070249920 | Say et al. | Oct 2007 | A1 |
| 20070249922 | Peyser et al. | Oct 2007 | A1 |
| 20070259217 | Logan | Nov 2007 | A1 |
| 20080021436 | Wolpert et al. | Jan 2008 | A1 |
| 20080021666 | Goode, Jr. et al. | Jan 2008 | A1 |
| 20080033254 | Kamath et al. | Feb 2008 | A1 |
| 20080033271 | Say et al. | Feb 2008 | A1 |
| 20080045824 | Tapsak et al. | Feb 2008 | A1 |
| 20080071156 | Brister et al. | Mar 2008 | A1 |
| 20080076997 | Peyser et al. | Mar 2008 | A1 |
| 20080083617 | Simpson et al. | Apr 2008 | A1 |
| 20080086039 | Heller et al. | Apr 2008 | A1 |
| 20080086040 | Heller et al. | Apr 2008 | A1 |
| 20080086041 | Heller et al. | Apr 2008 | A1 |
| 20080086042 | Brister et al. | Apr 2008 | A1 |
| 20080086043 | Heller et al. | Apr 2008 | A1 |
| 20080086044 | Brister et al. | Apr 2008 | A1 |
| 20080086273 | Shults et al. | Apr 2008 | A1 |
| 20080091094 | Heller et al. | Apr 2008 | A1 |
| 20080091095 | Heller et al. | Apr 2008 | A1 |
| 20080091096 | Say et al. | Apr 2008 | A1 |
| 20080108942 | Brister et al. | May 2008 | A1 |
| 20080154101 | Jain et al. | Jun 2008 | A1 |
| 20080167543 | Say et al. | Jul 2008 | A1 |
| 20080183061 | Goode, Jr. et al. | Jul 2008 | A1 |
| 20080183399 | Goode, Jr. et al. | Jul 2008 | A1 |
| 20080187655 | Markle et al. | Aug 2008 | A1 |
| 20080188722 | Markle et al. | Aug 2008 | A1 |
| 20080188725 | Markle et al. | Aug 2008 | A1 |
| 20080188731 | Brister et al. | Aug 2008 | A1 |
| 20080189051 | Goode, Jr. et al. | Aug 2008 | A1 |
| 20080194935 | Brister et al. | Aug 2008 | A1 |
| 20080194936 | Goode, Jr. et al. | Aug 2008 | A1 |
| 20080194937 | Goode, Jr. et al. | Aug 2008 | A1 |
| 20080194938 | Brister et al. | Aug 2008 | A1 |
| 20080195232 | Carr-Brendel et al. | Aug 2008 | A1 |
| 20080195967 | Goode, Jr. et al. | Aug 2008 | A1 |
| 20080197024 | Simpson et al. | Aug 2008 | A1 |
| 20080200788 | Brister et al. | Aug 2008 | A1 |
| 20080200789 | Brister et al. | Aug 2008 | A1 |
| 20080200791 | Simpson et al. | Aug 2008 | A1 |
| 20080208025 | Shults et al. | Aug 2008 | A1 |
| 20080210557 | Heller et al. | Sep 2008 | A1 |
| 20080214914 | Say et al. | Sep 2008 | A1 |
| 20080214915 | Brister et al. | Sep 2008 | A1 |
| 20080214918 | Brister et al. | Sep 2008 | A1 |
| 20080228051 | Shults et al. | Sep 2008 | A1 |
| 20080228054 | Shults et al. | Sep 2008 | A1 |
| 20080242961 | Brister et al. | Oct 2008 | A1 |
| 20080262329 | Say et al. | Oct 2008 | A1 |
| 20080262469 | Brister et al. | Oct 2008 | A1 |
| 20080269672 | Say et al. | Oct 2008 | A1 |
| 20080275313 | Brister et al. | Nov 2008 | A1 |
| 20080287764 | Rasdal et al. | Nov 2008 | A1 |
| 20080287765 | Rasdal et al. | Nov 2008 | A1 |
| 20080287766 | Rasdal et al. | Nov 2008 | A1 |
| 20080296155 | Shults et al. | Dec 2008 | A1 |
| 20080305009 | Gamsey et al. | Dec 2008 | A1 |
| 20080305506 | Suri | Dec 2008 | A1 |
| 20080306368 | Goode, Jr. et al. | Dec 2008 | A1 |
| 20080306434 | Dobbles et al. | Dec 2008 | A1 |
| 20080306435 | Kamath et al. | Dec 2008 | A1 |
| 20080306444 | Brister et al. | Dec 2008 | A1 |
| 20080319292 | Say et al. | Dec 2008 | A1 |
| 20090011449 | Karinka et al. | Jan 2009 | A1 |
| 20090012379 | Goode, Jr. et al. | Jan 2009 | A1 |
| 20090018418 | Markle et al. | Jan 2009 | A1 |
| 20090018424 | Kamath et al. | Jan 2009 | A1 |
| 20090018426 | Markle et al. | Jan 2009 | A1 |
| 20090030294 | Petisce et al. | Jan 2009 | A1 |
| 20090030297 | Miller et al. | Jan 2009 | A1 |
| 20090036758 | Brauker et al. | Feb 2009 | A1 |
| 20090036763 | Brauker et al. | Feb 2009 | A1 |
| 20090043181 | Brauker et al. | Feb 2009 | A1 |
| 20090043182 | Brauker et al. | Feb 2009 | A1 |
| 20090043525 | Brauker et al. | Feb 2009 | A1 |
| 20090043541 | Brauker et al. | Feb 2009 | A1 |
| 20090043542 | Brauker et al. | Feb 2009 | A1 |
| 20090045055 | Rhodes et al. | Feb 2009 | A1 |
| 20090061528 | Suri | Mar 2009 | A1 |
| 20090062633 | Brauker et al. | Mar 2009 | A1 |
| 20090062634 | Say et al. | Mar 2009 | A1 |
| 20090062635 | Brauker et al. | Mar 2009 | A1 |
| 20090069655 | Say et al. | Mar 2009 | A1 |
| 20090069656 | Say et al. | Mar 2009 | A1 |
| 20090069657 | Say et al. | Mar 2009 | A1 |
| 20090069658 | Say et al. | Mar 2009 | A1 |
| 20090076356 | Simpson et al. | Mar 2009 | A1 |
| 20090076360 | Brister et al. | Mar 2009 | A1 |
| 20090076361 | Kamath et al. | Mar 2009 | A1 |
| 20090081803 | Gamsey et al. | Mar 2009 | A1 |
| 20090089999 | Say et al. | Apr 2009 | A1 |
| 20090093696 | Say et al. | Apr 2009 | A1 |
| 20090099432 | Say et al. | Apr 2009 | A1 |
| 20090099434 | Liu et al. | Apr 2009 | A1 |
| 20090099435 | Say et al. | Apr 2009 | A1 |
| 20090099436 | Brister et al. | Apr 2009 | A1 |
| 20090124877 | Goode, Jr. et al. | May 2009 | A1 |
| 20090124878 | Goode, Jr. et al. | May 2009 | A1 |
| 20090124879 | Brister et al. | May 2009 | A1 |
| 20090124964 | Leach et al. | May 2009 | A1 |
| 20090131768 | Simpson et al. | May 2009 | A1 |
| 20090131769 | Leach et al. | May 2009 | A1 |
| 20090131776 | Simpson et al. | May 2009 | A1 |
| 20090131777 | Simpson et al. | May 2009 | A1 |
| 20090137886 | Shariati et al. | May 2009 | A1 |
| 20090137887 | Shariati et al. | May 2009 | A1 |
| 20090143659 | Li et al. | Jun 2009 | A1 |
| 20090143660 | Brister et al. | Jun 2009 | A1 |
| 20090156919 | Brister et al. | Jun 2009 | A1 |
| 20090156924 | Shariati et al. | Jun 2009 | A1 |
| 20090163781 | Say et al. | Jun 2009 | A1 |
| 20090163788 | Say et al. | Jun 2009 | A1 |
| 20090163789 | Say et al. | Jun 2009 | A1 |
| 20090163790 | Brister et al. | Jun 2009 | A1 |
| 20090163791 | Brister et al. | Jun 2009 | A1 |
| 20090171179 | Say et al. | Jul 2009 | A1 |
| 20090173628 | Say et al. | Jul 2009 | A1 |
| 20090177054 | Say et al. | Jul 2009 | A1 |
| 20090177055 | Say et al. | Jul 2009 | A1 |
| 20090177056 | Say et al. | Jul 2009 | A1 |
| 20090177057 | Say et al. | Jul 2009 | A1 |
| 20090177058 | Say et al. | Jul 2009 | A1 |
| 20090177059 | Say et al. | Jul 2009 | A1 |
| 20090177060 | Say et al. | Jul 2009 | A1 |
| 20090177061 | Say et al. | Jul 2009 | A1 |
| 20090177062 | Say et al. | Jul 2009 | A1 |
| 20090177063 | Say et al. | Jul 2009 | A1 |
| 20090177064 | Say et al. | Jul 2009 | A1 |
| 20090177065 | Say et al. | Jul 2009 | A1 |
| 20090177066 | Say et al. | Jul 2009 | A1 |
| 20090177143 | Markle et al. | Jul 2009 | A1 |
| 20090178459 | Li et al. | Jul 2009 | A1 |
| 20090182212 | Say et al. | Jul 2009 | A1 |
| 20090182213 | Say et al. | Jul 2009 | A1 |
| 20090182214 | Say et al. | Jul 2009 | A1 |
| 20090182215 | Say et al. | Jul 2009 | A1 |
| 20090182217 | Li et al. | Jul 2009 | A1 |
| 20090187088 | Say et al. | Jul 2009 | A1 |
| 20090187089 | Say et al. | Jul 2009 | A1 |
| 20090187090 | Say et al. | Jul 2009 | A1 |
| 20090187091 | Say et al. | Jul 2009 | A1 |
| 20090187092 | Say et al. | Jul 2009 | A1 |
| 20090187093 | Say et al. | Jul 2009 | A1 |
| 20090187094 | Say et al. | Jul 2009 | A1 |
| 20090187095 | Say et al. | Jul 2009 | A1 |
| 20090192366 | Mensinger et al. | Jul 2009 | A1 |
| 20090192368 | Say et al. | Jul 2009 | A1 |
| 20090192369 | Say et al. | Jul 2009 | A1 |
| 20090192370 | Say et al. | Jul 2009 | A1 |
| 20090192371 | Say et al. | Jul 2009 | A1 |
| 20090192372 | Say et al. | Jul 2009 | A1 |
| 20090192373 | Say et al. | Jul 2009 | A1 |
| 20090192374 | Say et al. | Jul 2009 | A1 |
| 20090192375 | Say et al. | Jul 2009 | A1 |
| 20090192376 | Say et al. | Jul 2009 | A1 |
| 20090192377 | Say et al. | Jul 2009 | A1 |
| 20090192378 | Say et al. | Jul 2009 | A1 |
| 20090192379 | Say et al. | Jul 2009 | A1 |
| 20090192380 | Shariati et al. | Jul 2009 | A1 |
| 20090192722 | Shariati et al. | Jul 2009 | A1 |
| 20090192724 | Brauker et al. | Jul 2009 | A1 |
| 20090192745 | Kamath et al. | Jul 2009 | A1 |
| 20090192751 | Kamath et al. | Jul 2009 | A1 |
| 20090198115 | Say et al. | Aug 2009 | A1 |
| 20090198116 | Say et al. | Aug 2009 | A1 |
| 20090198175 | Say et al. | Aug 2009 | A1 |
| 20090203978 | Say et al. | Aug 2009 | A1 |
| 20090203981 | Brauker et al. | Aug 2009 | A1 |
| 20090204341 | Brauker et al. | Aug 2009 | A1 |
| 20090209838 | Say et al. | Aug 2009 | A1 |
| 20090216100 | Ebner et al. | Aug 2009 | A1 |
| 20090216101 | Say et al. | Aug 2009 | A1 |
| 20090216103 | Brister et al. | Aug 2009 | A1 |
| 20090227940 | Say et al. | Sep 2009 | A1 |
| 20090227941 | Say et al. | Sep 2009 | A1 |
| 20090228214 | Say et al. | Sep 2009 | A1 |
| 20090240120 | Mensinger et al. | Sep 2009 | A1 |
| 20090240128 | Mensinger et al. | Sep 2009 | A1 |
| 20090240193 | Mensinger et al. | Sep 2009 | A1 |
| 20090242399 | Kamath et al. | Oct 2009 | A1 |
| 20090242425 | Kamath et al. | Oct 2009 | A1 |
| 20090247855 | Boock et al. | Oct 2009 | A1 |
| 20090247856 | Boock et al. | Oct 2009 | A1 |
| 20090264719 | Markle et al. | Oct 2009 | A1 |
| 20090287073 | Boock et al. | Nov 2009 | A1 |
| 20090287074 | Shults et al. | Nov 2009 | A1 |
| 20090299155 | Yang et al. | Dec 2009 | A1 |
| 20090299156 | Simpson et al. | Dec 2009 | A1 |
| 20090299162 | Brauker et al. | Dec 2009 | A1 |
| 20090299276 | Brauker et al. | Dec 2009 | A1 |
| 20100010324 | Brauker et al. | Jan 2010 | A1 |
| 20100010331 | Brauker et al. | Jan 2010 | A1 |
| 20100010332 | Brauker et al. | Jan 2010 | A1 |
| 20100016687 | Brauker et al. | Jan 2010 | A1 |
| 20100016698 | Rasdal et al. | Jan 2010 | A1 |
| 20100022855 | Brauker et al. | Jan 2010 | A1 |
| 20100030038 | Brauker et al. | Feb 2010 | A1 |
| 20100030053 | Goode, Jr. et al. | Feb 2010 | A1 |
| 20100030484 | Brauker et al. | Feb 2010 | A1 |
| 20100030485 | Brauker et al. | Feb 2010 | A1 |
| 20100036215 | Goode, Jr. et al. | Feb 2010 | A1 |
| 20100036216 | Goode, Jr. et al. | Feb 2010 | A1 |
| 20100036222 | Goode, Jr. et al. | Feb 2010 | A1 |
| 20100036223 | Goode, Jr. et al. | Feb 2010 | A1 |
| 20100036224 | Goode, Jr. et al. | Feb 2010 | A1 |
| 20100036225 | Goode, Jr. et al. | Feb 2010 | A1 |
| 20100041971 | Goode, Jr. et al. | Feb 2010 | A1 |
| 20100045465 | Brauker et al. | Feb 2010 | A1 |
| 20100049024 | Saint et al. | Feb 2010 | A1 |
| 20100063373 | Kamath et al. | Mar 2010 | A1 |
| 20100076283 | Simpson et al. | Mar 2010 | A1 |
| 20100081908 | Dobbles et al. | Apr 2010 | A1 |
| 20100081910 | Brister et al. | Apr 2010 | A1 |
| 20100087724 | Brauker et al. | Apr 2010 | A1 |
| 20100094111 | Heller et al. | Apr 2010 | A1 |
| 20100096259 | Zhang et al. | Apr 2010 | A1 |
| 20100099970 | Shults et al. | Apr 2010 | A1 |
| 20100099971 | Shults et al. | Apr 2010 | A1 |
| 20100119693 | Tapsak et al. | May 2010 | A1 |
| 20100121169 | Petisce et al. | May 2010 | A1 |
| 20100145172 | Petisce et al. | Jun 2010 | A1 |
| 20100160760 | Shults et al. | Jun 2010 | A1 |
| 20100161269 | Kamath et al. | Jun 2010 | A1 |
| 20100168540 | Kamath et al. | Jul 2010 | A1 |
| 20100168541 | Kamath et al. | Jul 2010 | A1 |
| 20100168542 | Kamath et al. | Jul 2010 | A1 |
| 20100168543 | Kamath et al. | Jul 2010 | A1 |
| 20100168544 | Kamath et al. | Jul 2010 | A1 |
| 20100168545 | Kamath et al. | Jul 2010 | A1 |
| 20100168546 | Kamath et al. | Jul 2010 | A1 |
| 20100168657 | Kamath et al. | Jul 2010 | A1 |
| 20100174157 | Brister et al. | Jul 2010 | A1 |
| 20100174158 | Kamath et al. | Jul 2010 | A1 |
| 20100174163 | Brister et al. | Jul 2010 | A1 |
| 20100174164 | Brister et al. | Jul 2010 | A1 |
| 20100174165 | Brister et al. | Jul 2010 | A1 |
| 20100174166 | Brister et al. | Jul 2010 | A1 |
| 20100174167 | Kamath et al. | Jul 2010 | A1 |
| 20100174168 | Goode et al. | Jul 2010 | A1 |
| 20100179399 | Goode et al. | Jul 2010 | A1 |
| 20100179400 | Brauker et al. | Jul 2010 | A1 |
| 20100179401 | Rasdal et al. | Jul 2010 | A1 |
| 20100179402 | Goode et al. | Jul 2010 | A1 |
| 20100179404 | Kamath et al. | Jul 2010 | A1 |
| 20100179405 | Goode et al. | Jul 2010 | A1 |
| 20100179406 | Goode, Jr. et al. | Jul 2010 | A1 |
| 20100179407 | Goode et al. | Jul 2010 | A1 |
| 20100179408 | Kamath et al. | Jul 2010 | A1 |
| 20100179409 | Kamath et al. | Jul 2010 | A1 |
| 20100185065 | Goode et al. | Jul 2010 | A1 |
| 20100185069 | Brister et al. | Jul 2010 | A1 |
| 20100185070 | Brister et al. | Jul 2010 | A1 |
| 20100185071 | Simpson et al. | Jul 2010 | A1 |
| 20100185072 | Goode et al. | Jul 2010 | A1 |
| 20100185073 | Goode et al. | Jul 2010 | A1 |
| 20100185074 | Goode et al. | Jul 2010 | A1 |
| 20100185075 | Brister et al. | Jul 2010 | A1 |
| 20100191082 | Brister et al. | Jul 2010 | A1 |
| 20100198035 | Kamath et al. | Aug 2010 | A1 |
| 20100198036 | Kamath et al. | Aug 2010 | A1 |
| 20100204555 | Shults et al. | Aug 2010 | A1 |
| 20100204559 | Shults et al. | Aug 2010 | A1 |
| 20100212583 | Brister et al. | Aug 2010 | A1 |
| 20100214104 | Goode, Jr. et al. | Aug 2010 | A1 |
| 20100217106 | Goode, Jr. et al. | Aug 2010 | A1 |
| 20100217555 | Kamath et al. | Aug 2010 | A1 |
| 20100217557 | Kamath et al. | Aug 2010 | A1 |
| 20100223013 | Kamath et al. | Sep 2010 | A1 |
| 20100223022 | Kamath et al. | Sep 2010 | A1 |
| 20100223023 | Kamath et al. | Sep 2010 | A1 |
| 20100228109 | Kamath et al. | Sep 2010 | A1 |
| 20100228497 | Kamath et al. | Sep 2010 | A1 |
| 20100234707 | Goode, Jr. et al. | Sep 2010 | A1 |
| 20100234796 | Kamath et al. | Sep 2010 | A1 |
| 20100235106 | Kamath et al. | Sep 2010 | A1 |
| 20100240975 | Goode, Jr. et al. | Sep 2010 | A1 |
| 20100240976 | Goode, Jr. et al. | Sep 2010 | A1 |
| 20100261987 | Kamath et al. | Oct 2010 | A1 |
| 20100274107 | Boock et al. | Oct 2010 | A1 |
| 20100280341 | Boock et al. | Nov 2010 | A1 |
| 20100286496 | Simpson et al. | Nov 2010 | A1 |
| 20100298684 | Leach et al. | Nov 2010 | A1 |
| 20100305869 | Brauker et al. | Dec 2010 | A1 |
| 20100324403 | Brister et al. | Dec 2010 | A1 |
| 20100331644 | Neale et al. | Dec 2010 | A1 |
| 20100331648 | Kamath et al. | Dec 2010 | A1 |
| 20100331655 | Kamath et al. | Dec 2010 | A1 |
| 20100331656 | Mensinger et al. | Dec 2010 | A1 |
| 20100331657 | Mensinger et al. | Dec 2010 | A1 |
| 20110004085 | Mensinger et al. | Jan 2011 | A1 |
| 20110009727 | Mensinger et al. | Jan 2011 | A1 |
| 20110024043 | Boock et al. | Feb 2011 | A1 |
| 20110024307 | Simpson et al. | Feb 2011 | A1 |
| 20110027127 | Simpson et al. | Feb 2011 | A1 |
| 20110027453 | Boock et al. | Feb 2011 | A1 |
| 20110027458 | Boock et al. | Feb 2011 | A1 |
| 20110028815 | Simpson et al. | Feb 2011 | A1 |
| 20110028816 | Simpson et al. | Feb 2011 | A1 |
| 20110046467 | Simpson et al. | Feb 2011 | A1 |
| Number | Date | Country |
|---|---|---|
| 2002246889 | Dec 2005 | AU |
| 2433144 | Aug 2002 | CA |
| 1735375 | Feb 2006 | CN |
| 100407988 | Aug 2008 | CN |
| 2903216 | Aug 1979 | DE |
| 227029 | Sep 1985 | DE |
| 3934299 | Oct 1990 | DE |
| 4234553 | Jan 1995 | DE |
| 4401400 | Jul 1995 | DE |
| 0010375 | Apr 1980 | EP |
| 0026995 | Apr 1981 | EP |
| 0048090 | Mar 1982 | EP |
| 0078636 | May 1983 | EP |
| 0080304 | Jun 1983 | EP |
| 0096228 | Dec 1983 | EP |
| 0096288 | Dec 1983 | EP |
| 0098592 | Jan 1984 | EP |
| 0107634 | May 1984 | EP |
| 0125139 | Nov 1984 | EP |
| 0127958 | Dec 1984 | EP |
| 0136362 | Apr 1985 | EP |
| 0170375 | Feb 1986 | EP |
| 0177743 | Apr 1986 | EP |
| 0184909 | Jun 1986 | EP |
| 0206218 | Dec 1986 | EP |
| 0230472 | Aug 1987 | EP |
| 0241309 | Oct 1987 | EP |
| 0245073 | Nov 1987 | EP |
| 0255291 | Feb 1988 | EP |
| 0278647 | Aug 1988 | EP |
| 0284518 | Sep 1988 | EP |
| 0320109 | Jun 1989 | EP |
| 0353328 | Feb 1990 | EP |
| 0359831 | Mar 1990 | EP |
| 0368209 | May 1990 | EP |
| 0368290 | May 1990 | EP |
| 0390390 | Oct 1990 | EP |
| 0396788 | Nov 1990 | EP |
| 0400918 | Dec 1990 | EP |
| 0453283 | Oct 1991 | EP |
| 0470290 | Feb 1992 | EP |
| 0476980 | Mar 1992 | EP |
| 0504835 | Sep 1992 | EP |
| 0512122 | Nov 1992 | EP |
| 0534074 | Mar 1993 | EP |
| 0535898 | Apr 1993 | EP |
| 0539625 | May 1993 | EP |
| 0563795 | Oct 1993 | EP |
| 0561966 | Oct 1994 | EP |
| 0286118 | Jan 1995 | EP |
| 0653718 | May 1995 | EP |
| 0727891 | Aug 1996 | EP |
| 0776628 | Jun 1997 | EP |
| 0800082 | Oct 1997 | EP |
| 0817809 | Jan 1998 | EP |
| 0838230 | Apr 1998 | EP |
| 0880936 | Dec 1998 | EP |
| 0885932 | Dec 1998 | EP |
| 0967788 | Dec 1999 | EP |
| 0970655 | Jan 2000 | EP |
| 0995805 | Apr 2000 | EP |
| 1034734 | Sep 2000 | EP |
| 1048264 | Nov 2000 | EP |
| 1077634 | Feb 2001 | EP |
| 1078258 | Feb 2001 | EP |
| 1355568 | Oct 2003 | EP |
| 2187555 | May 2010 | EP |
| 2201969 | Jun 2010 | EP |
| 2305107 | Apr 2011 | EP |
| 2305108 | Apr 2011 | EP |
| 2656423 | Jun 1991 | FR |
| 2760962 | Sep 1998 | FR |
| 1394171 | May 1975 | GB |
| 1442303 | Jul 1976 | GB |
| 1579690 | Nov 1980 | GB |
| 1599241 | Sep 1981 | GB |
| 2073891 | Oct 1981 | GB |
| 2149918 | Jun 1985 | GB |
| 2154003 | Aug 1985 | GB |
| 2194892 | Mar 1988 | GB |
| 2204408 | Nov 1988 | GB |
| 2225637 | Jun 1990 | GB |
| 2254436 | Oct 1992 | GB |
| 54-041191 | Apr 1979 | JP |
| 55-010581 | Jan 1980 | JP |
| 55-010583 | Jan 1980 | JP |
| 55-010584 | Jan 1980 | JP |
| 55-012406 | Jan 1980 | JP |
| 56-163447 | Dec 1981 | JP |
| 57-070448 | Apr 1982 | JP |
| 60-173457 | Sep 1985 | JP |
| 60-173458 | Sep 1985 | JP |
| 60-173459 | Sep 1985 | JP |
| 60-210243 | Oct 1985 | JP |
| 61-090050 | May 1986 | JP |
| 62-083649 | Apr 1987 | JP |
| 62-083849 | Apr 1987 | JP |
| 62-085855 | Apr 1987 | JP |
| 62-114747 | May 1987 | JP |
| 63-058149 | Mar 1988 | JP |
| 63-128252 | May 1988 | JP |
| 63-139246 | Jun 1988 | JP |
| 63-259457 | Oct 1988 | JP |
| 63-294799 | Dec 1988 | JP |
| 63-317757 | Dec 1988 | JP |
| 63-317758 | Dec 1988 | JP |
| 1-114746 | May 1989 | JP |
| 1-114747 | May 1989 | JP |
| 1-124060 | May 1989 | JP |
| 1-134244 | May 1989 | JP |
| 1-156658 | Jun 1989 | JP |
| 2-062958 | Mar 1990 | JP |
| 2-120655 | May 1990 | JP |
| 2-287145 | Nov 1990 | JP |
| 2-310457 | Dec 1990 | JP |
| 3-026956 | Feb 1991 | JP |
| 3-028752 | Feb 1991 | JP |
| 3-202764 | Sep 1991 | JP |
| 5-072171 | Mar 1993 | JP |
| 5-196595 | Aug 1993 | JP |
| 6-190050 | Jul 1994 | JP |
| 7-055757 | Mar 1995 | JP |
| 7-072585 | Mar 1995 | JP |
| 7-275227 | Oct 1995 | JP |
| 8-154903 | Jun 1996 | JP |
| 8-285814 | Nov 1996 | JP |
| 8-285815 | Nov 1996 | JP |
| 9-021778 | Jan 1997 | JP |
| 9-101280 | Apr 1997 | JP |
| 9-285459 | Nov 1997 | JP |
| 9-512200 | Dec 1997 | JP |
| 10-170471 | Jun 1998 | JP |
| 11-153575 | Jun 1999 | JP |
| 11-192886 | Jul 1999 | JP |
| 2000-000231 | Jan 2000 | JP |
| 2000-060826 | Feb 2000 | JP |
| 2000-116628 | Apr 2000 | JP |
| 2002-189015 | Jul 2002 | JP |
| 2003-108679 | Apr 2003 | JP |
| 2004-520898 | Jul 2004 | JP |
| 2007-203092 | Aug 2007 | JP |
| 2008-062072 | Mar 2008 | JP |
| 1281988 | Jan 1987 | SU |
| WO-8505119 | Nov 1985 | WO |
| WO-8600513 | Jan 1986 | WO |
| WO-8605339 | Sep 1986 | WO |
| WO-8700513 | Jan 1987 | WO |
| WO-8706040 | Oct 1987 | WO |
| WO-8902246 | Mar 1989 | WO |
| WO-8902720 | Apr 1989 | WO |
| WO-8905119 | Jun 1989 | WO |
| WO-8908713 | Sep 1989 | WO |
| WO-9000367 | Jan 1990 | WO |
| WO-9000738 | Jan 1990 | WO |
| WO-9005300 | May 1990 | WO |
| WO-9005910 | May 1990 | WO |
| WO-9010861 | Sep 1990 | WO |
| WO-9013021 | Nov 1990 | WO |
| WO-9101680 | Feb 1991 | WO |
| WO-9104704 | Apr 1991 | WO |
| WO-9115993 | Oct 1991 | WO |
| WO-9204153 | Mar 1992 | WO |
| WO-9207525 | May 1992 | WO |
| WO-9210584 | Jun 1992 | WO |
| WO-9213271 | Aug 1992 | WO |
| WO-9305703 | Apr 1993 | WO |
| WO-9314693 | Aug 1993 | WO |
| WO-9319701 | Oct 1993 | WO |
| WO-9323744 | Nov 1993 | WO |
| WO-9420602 | Sep 1994 | WO |
| WO-9422367 | Oct 1994 | WO |
| WO-9427140 | Nov 1994 | WO |
| WO-9506240 | Mar 1995 | WO |
| WO-9507109 | Mar 1995 | WO |
| WO-9601611 | Jan 1996 | WO |
| WO-9607908 | Mar 1996 | WO |
| WO-9614026 | May 1996 | WO |
| WO-9625089 | Aug 1996 | WO |
| WO-9630431 | Oct 1996 | WO |
| WO-9632076 | Oct 1996 | WO |
| WO-9635370 | Nov 1996 | WO |
| WO-9636296 | Nov 1996 | WO |
| WO-9701986 | Jan 1997 | WO |
| WO-9702847 | Jan 1997 | WO |
| WO-9706727 | Feb 1997 | WO |
| WO-9719344 | May 1997 | WO |
| WO-9720207 | Jun 1997 | WO |
| WO-9728737 | Aug 1997 | WO |
| WO-9741421 | Nov 1997 | WO |
| WO-9742882 | Nov 1997 | WO |
| WO-9742883 | Nov 1997 | WO |
| WO-9742886 | Nov 1997 | WO |
| WO-9742888 | Nov 1997 | WO |
| WO-9743962 | Nov 1997 | WO |
| WO-9746868 | Dec 1997 | WO |
| WO-9809167 | Mar 1998 | WO |
| WO-9810699 | Mar 1998 | WO |
| WO-9819159 | May 1998 | WO |
| WO-9824358 | Jun 1998 | WO |
| WO-9824366 | Jun 1998 | WO |
| WO-9852045 | Nov 1998 | WO |
| WO-9852293 | Nov 1998 | WO |
| WO-9856293 | Dec 1998 | WO |
| WO-9905966 | Feb 1999 | WO |
| WO-9913574 | Mar 1999 | WO |
| WO-9932883 | Jul 1999 | WO |
| WO-9948419 | Sep 1999 | WO |
| WO-9956613 | Nov 1999 | WO |
| WO-9958051 | Nov 1999 | WO |
| WO-9958973 | Nov 1999 | WO |
| WO-0013580 | Mar 2000 | WO |
| WO-0018294 | Apr 2000 | WO |
| WO-0019887 | Apr 2000 | WO |
| WO-0020626 | Apr 2000 | WO |
| WO-0032098 | Jun 2000 | WO |
| WO-0033065 | Jun 2000 | WO |
| WO-0049940 | Aug 2000 | WO |
| WO-0059370 | Oct 2000 | WO |
| WO-0059373 | Oct 2000 | WO |
| WO-0062664 | Oct 2000 | WO |
| WO-0062665 | Oct 2000 | WO |
| WO-0074753 | Dec 2000 | WO |
| WO-0078210 | Dec 2000 | WO |
| WO-0078992 | Dec 2000 | WO |
| WO-0112158 | Feb 2001 | WO |
| WO-0120019 | Mar 2001 | WO |
| WO-0120334 | Mar 2001 | WO |
| WO-0124038 | Apr 2001 | WO |
| WO-0133216 | May 2001 | WO |
| WO-0134243 | May 2001 | WO |
| WO-0143660 | Jun 2001 | WO |
| WO-0152727 | Jul 2001 | WO |
| WO-0152935 | Jul 2001 | WO |
| WO-0154753 | Aug 2001 | WO |
| WO-0157238 | Aug 2001 | WO |
| WO-0157239 | Aug 2001 | WO |
| WO-0158348 | Aug 2001 | WO |
| WO-0167009 | Sep 2001 | WO |
| WO-0168901 | Sep 2001 | WO |
| WO-0169222 | Sep 2001 | WO |
| WO-0188524 | Nov 2001 | WO |
| WO-0188534 | Nov 2001 | WO |
| WO-0216905 | Feb 2002 | WO |
| WO-0217210 | Feb 2002 | WO |
| WO-0224065 | Mar 2002 | WO |
| WO-02058537 | Aug 2002 | WO |
| WO-02078512 | Oct 2002 | WO |
| WO-02082989 | Oct 2002 | WO |
| WO-02100266 | Dec 2002 | WO |
| WO-03072269 | Sep 2003 | WO |
| WO-03076893 | Sep 2003 | WO |
| WO-03082091 | Oct 2003 | WO |
| WO-03101862 | Dec 2003 | WO |
| WO-2004061420 | Jul 2004 | WO |
| WO-2005041766 | May 2005 | WO |
| WO-2005065542 | Jul 2005 | WO |
| WO-2005089103 | Sep 2005 | WO |
| WO-2005026689 | Oct 2005 | WO |
| WO-2006105146 | Oct 2006 | WO |
| WO-2006119084 | Nov 2006 | WO |
| WO-2007002189 | Jan 2007 | WO |
| WO-2007016399 | Feb 2007 | WO |
| WO-2007027381 | Mar 2007 | WO |
| WO-2007027788 | Mar 2007 | WO |
| WO-2007051139 | May 2007 | WO |
| WO-2007053832 | May 2007 | WO |
| WO-2007056638 | May 2007 | WO |
| WO-2007120363 | Oct 2007 | WO |
| WO-2009029662 | Mar 2009 | WO |
| WO-2011002692 | Jan 2011 | WO |
| WO-2011002693 | Jan 2011 | WO |
| WO-2011002694 | Jan 2011 | WO |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20100094111 A1 | Apr 2010 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | 11265787 | Nov 2007 | US |
| Child | 12495803 | US |
