Ge Medical Systems Information Technologies Gmbh

Marquette Medical Systems

John Tennessen

Alan E Clapp

Eric R Slotty

Michael P Cornelson

Scott W Hoelscher

An antenna is integrated into the handle of a portable patient monitor or other portable medical diagnostic instrument to enable wireless communication with a central station. The handle is made of a rugged plastic material, e.g., polycarbonate, which protects the antennae against damage. In addition, the plastic material used in the handle does not negatively impact RF transmissions to and from the antenna. The antenna is supported in a pair of slots formed in respective ribs of a molded piece forming a part of the handle.

Portable patient monitor with antenna integrated into handle

A connector cable assembly having an end adapted to be connected to a device. The connector cable assembly includes a connector at the end of the connector cable, a wire electrically connected to the connector, an insulating cover at least partially surrounding the wire, an overmolding at least partially surrounding a portion of the insulating cover, a seal portion adjacent the overmolding, and a clip positionable over at least a portion of the overmolding. The clip includes an engaging member for securing the clip and the connector to the device. Preferably, the overmolding is made from a thermoplastic material that at least partially surrounds the connector. It is also preferred that the seal portion is integral with the overmolding. The invention also provides a method of connecting a connector cable to a device having a housing defining an opening and having therein a socket. The method comprises inserting a connector through the opening and into the socket, sealing the opening with a portion of the connector cable, sliding a clip over the connector cable, and releasably engaging the clip with the housing. Preferably, the steps of inserting the connector and sealing the opening occur substantially simultaneously.

Removable connector cable having bend and strain relief with integral seal

Electrical connector

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Richfield, WI, United States of America

John Tennessen