Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1990-1999
Title: Innovations of Thomas D Maurer
Introduction
Thomas D Maurer is a notable inventor based in San Angelo, TX (US). He has made significant contributions to the field of medical technology, particularly in the area of surgical instruments. With a total of 4 patents, Maurer's work has had a profound impact on surgical procedures and techniques.
Latest Patents
One of his latest patents is titled "Method of and apparatus for welding surgical needle stock to a metal tape." This invention provides a method and apparatus for receiving surgical needle stock from a needle fabrication line and welding it to a metal tape. The apparatus includes a welding station where the needle stock is welded to the tape, along with a tape indexing unit that moves the metal tape through the welding station. Additionally, a preload chuck receives the surgical needle stock from the needle fabrication line, while a gripper assembly transfers the needle stock from the preload chuck to the welding station.
Another significant patent is "Surgical needle configuration with five-sided cross-section." This innovative needle features three fluted edges of the same angular size, resulting in a five-sided cross-section at a tapered end. This design enhances tissue penetration, reduces the cross-sectional needle area, improves wound opening area performance, and minimizes tissue distortion. An alternate embodiment of this needle has the flat surface from which the taper is formed on the inside, allowing the outer fluted edges to be formed outside that configuration.
Career Highlights
Thomas D Maurer is currently employed at Ethicon GmbH, where he continues to develop and refine surgical technologies. His work has been instrumental in advancing the capabilities of surgical instruments, making procedures safer and more efficient.
Collaborations
Maurer has collaborated with notable colleagues, including John Wong and Robert Brown. Their combined expertise has contributed to the successful development of innovative surgical solutions.
Conclusion
Thomas D Maurer is a distinguished inventor whose contributions to surgical technology have made a lasting impact. His innovative patents and collaborations reflect his commitment to improving medical practices and patient outcomes.