David J Van Tol

This inventor holds 53 USPTO granted patents and 37 published patent applications, plus 1 CIPO patent and 28 EPO patents, primarily in Ultrasonic Surgical Instruments. Top assignee: Covidien LP. Active years: 2017-2026.

USPTO Granted Patents = 53 (Patent Applications = 37)

% Patents Active = 86.8

CIPO Patents = 1 (Patent Applications = 2)

EPO Patents = 28 (Patent Applications = 56)

Average Co-Inventor Count = 3.3

ph-index = 4

Forward Citations = 474(Granted Patents)

Company Filing History:

53 out of 8,136

Covidien LP

patents

Years Active: 2017-2026

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Areas of Expertise:

Ultrasonic Devices

Surgical Instruments

Tissue Sealing

Electrosurgical Functionality

Articulating Systems

Temperature Estimation

Frequency Response

Surgical Procedures

Cutting Mechanisms

Transducer Assembly

Wear Detection

Fluid-Cooled Instruments

53 patents (USPTO):Sort by Forward CitationsExplore Patents

1. 12661141 - Articulating ultrasonic surgical instruments and systems (2026-06-23),

2. 12648786 - Methods and ultrasonic devices and systems for vessel sealing (2026-06-09),

3. 12636066 - Surgical instruments, systems, and methods incorporating ultrasonic and electrosurgical functionality (2026-05-26),

4. 12629200 - Surgical instruments, systems, and methods incorporating ultrasonic and electrosurgical functionality (2026-05-19),

5. 12569271 - Surgical instruments, systems, and methods incorporating an ultrasonic transducer (2026-03-10),

6. 12564418 - Articulating ultrasonic surgical instruments and systems (2026-03-03),

7. 12539134 - Surgical instruments, systems, and methods incorporating ultrasonic and three-phase electrosurgical functionality (2026-02-03),

8. 12521139 - Methods, instruments, and systems for tissue sealing (2026-01-13),

9. 12514607 - Temperature estimation and tissue detection of an ultrasonic dissector from frequency response monitoring (2026-01-06),

10. 12514606 - Surgical instruments having a movable blade member for treating tissue (2026-01-06),

11. 12510867 - Systems and methods for operating a surgical device (2025-12-30),

12. 12484926 - Surgical instruments, systems, and methods incorporating an offset end effector (2025-12-02),

13. 12446914 - Ultrasonic surgical instruments for detecting wear in jaw liner (2025-10-21),

14. 12433665 - Surgical instruments incorporating ultrasonic and electrosurgical functionality (2025-10-07),

15. 12426912 - Surgical instruments, systems, and methods for frequency dithering control functionality (2025-09-30),

Title: David J Van Tol: Innovator in Surgical Technology

Introduction

David J Van Tol is an esteemed inventor located in Boulder, Colorado, known for his remarkable contribution to the field of surgical instruments. With a total of 36 patents to his name, Van Tol has significantly advanced the functionality and efficacy of medical devices, particularly in surgery.

Latest Patents

Among David J Van Tol's latest patents are innovative designs that enhance surgical instrumentation. One notable patent describes a surgical instrument that incorporates both ultrasonic and electrosurgical functionality. This end effector assembly features two jaw members, one designed with an insulative tissue-contacting surface and the other equipped with an ultrasonic blade body, allowing for precise tissue grasping and cutting. Another significant patent involves an ultrasonic transducer assembly that optimizes the function of surgical instruments. This assembly includes components designed to pre-compress a piezoelectric stack, improving the overall surgical performance.

Career Highlights

David J Van Tol's career is marked by his affiliation with Covidien LP, a leading global provider of healthcare products. His work at this company underscores his dedication to enhancing patient care through innovative surgical technologies. His extensive patent portfolio reflects a commitment to research and development, resulting in numerous advancements in surgical tools.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Van Tol has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Anthony B Ross and Robert B Stoddard. These partnerships have fostered a collaborative environment that encourages innovation and the development of groundbreaking medical instruments.

Conclusion

David J Van Tol is a prominent figure in the medical innovation landscape, with a legacy defined by his significant contributions to surgical technology. His work continues to shape the future of surgery, ensuring better outcomes for patients through advanced instruments and techniques.