K001003 · Demite Limited · FMW · Dec 10, 2001 · General Hospital
Device Facts
Record ID
K001003
Device Name
Z-NET
Applicant
Demite Limited
Product Code
FMW · General Hospital
Decision Date
Dec 10, 2001
Decision
SESE
Submission Type
Traditional
Regulation
21 CFR 880.6190
Device Class
Class 1
Attributes
Therapeutic
Indications for Use
Z-Net reduces for up to 15 months house dust mites and their allergens in bedding, a leading cause of allergenic rhinitis, allergenic asthma, and allergenic eczema. Reductions are based on comparisons with untreated bed covers.
Device Story
Z-Net is a mattress and pillow cover system designed to reduce house dust mite (HDM) populations and associated allergens. Unlike traditional barrier-based covers that trap mites, Z-Net utilizes a 100% polyester fabric impregnated with permethrin. The permethrin acts as an acaricide, killing dust mites and preventing the production of new allergens. The device is intended for use in home settings by patients with atopic allergies. It covers only the top and sides of the mattress and does not require washing. By eliminating the source of allergens rather than physically blocking them, the device provides long-term relief from HDM-related symptoms. Clinical effectiveness is derived from the reduction of HDM levels in bedding, thereby decreasing patient exposure to allergens.
Clinical Evidence
Effectiveness established via a two-year, double-blind study at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM). Study compared permethrin-impregnated mattress liners to placebo. Pre-intervention analysis confirmed group comparability. Dust samples collected at 1, 2, 5, 15, and 24 months post-intervention using standardized methods confirmed significant long-term reduction of HDMs. Safety established through biocompatibility testing of the end product and existing regulatory data (FDA, EPA, U.S. Military) confirming permethrin's safety in topical treatments and impregnated fabrics (non-toxic, non-irritating, non-sensitizing).
Technological Characteristics
100% polyester fabric impregnated with permethrin. Operates via chemical acaricidal action rather than physical barrier filtration. Designed for non-washable use. Biocompatibility verified per FDA/EPA standards for skin-contact materials. No electronic components or software.
Indications for Use
Indicated for individuals suffering from atopic allergies, including allergenic rhinitis, allergenic asthma, and allergenic eczema, to reduce exposure to house dust mites and their allergens in bedding.
Regulatory Classification
Identification
A mattress cover for medical purposes is a device intended for medical purposes that is used to protect a mattress. It may be electrically conductive or contain a germicide.
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# DEC 1 0 2001 510(K) SUMMARY OF SAFETY AND EFFECTIVENESS
The following summary is provided pursuant to Section 513(I)(3)(A) of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act.
# A. Applicant Information
- Submitter: Allergy Technology Ltd., Hankerton Field Farm, Crudwell Road, . Malmesbury, Wiltshire, United Kingdom
- Contact: Wharton Shober, D.Sc., Chairman, Telephone: 001-44-1666-577-. 082, Facsimile: 011-44-1666-577-942, E-mail: Zacharias@btinternet.com
- Summary Date: March 28, 2000, revised December 3, 2001 .
# Device Name and Classification B.
- Proprietary Name: Z-Net mattress and pillow covers ●
- Common or Usual Name: Allergy control mattress and pillow covers ●
- Classification Name: Mattress cover for medical purposes (per 21 CFR § ● 880.6190)
- Predicate Device: Allergy Control Covers (K903382) and other mattress . covers classified under 21 CFR § 880.6190.
# C. Device Description
The Z-Net allergy control device consists of a mattress cover and pillow cover created from polyester impregnated with permethrin. The treated fabric reduces the levels of house dust mites (HDM) and their allergens in the mattress and pillow which, in turn, provides relief to individuals suffering from atopic allergies.
#### D. Intended Use
Z-Net reduces for up to 15 months house dust mites and their allergens in bedding, a leading cause of allergenic rhinitis, allergenic asthma, and allergenic eczema. Reductions are based on comparisons with untreated bed covers.
# Comparison to Predicate Device E.
The primary difference between the Z-Net and Allergy Control covers (and similar mattress covers) relates to the mechanism used by each device to reduce HDM allergens in bedding. The Allergy Control covers protect individuals from exposure to HDM allergens by trapping both the dust mites and the allergens within the covers. The
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covers are made of a finely-weaved, semi-permeable fabric, with pore openings significantly smaller than the dust mites or allergens. The device is designed to place between the allergens and the user a barrier through which neither the allergens nor the dust mites can pass. The reduction in exposure is usually short term but can be extended with regular washing of the product.
Rather than placing a barrier between the user and the HDM allergens, the Z-Net covers are treated with permethrin that kills the dust mites and eliminates the production of new allergens. Users are initially exposed to existing allergens, but over time, the allergens break down or migrate away from the mattress and pillow. This provides long term relief from HDM allergens without washing. In addition, whereas the Z-Net mattress cover only covers the top and sides of the mattress, the Allergy Control cover encases the entire mattress, top and bottom. The Z-Net fabric is broadly weaved and is 100 percent polyester. The Allergy Control cover is made of a finely-weaved, semipermeable, cotton-polyester blend fabric. Finally, the Z-Net is not supposed to be washed, whereas the Allergy Control covers require regular washing.
#### F. Performance Data
The effectiveness of the Z-Net cover was established primarily through testing conducted at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM). The twoyear, double-blind study was undertaken to determine whether a permethrin-impregnated mattress liner, placed on a mattress without further maintenance, achieved significant long-term reduction of HDMs and their allergens in mattresses. The LSHTM laboratory conducted a pre-intervention analysis of dust samples to confirm that the test and placebo groups were comparable prior to intervention. Dust samples were then collected one month post-intervention, using standardized sampling methods. Thereafter, samples were collected at two months, five months, fifteen months, and twenty-four months. The results of the test confirmed that the use of permethrin-impregnated mattress covers reduces HDMs in bedding. The effectiveness of the Z-Net cover was further established by supplemental documentation relating to the LSHTM study. In addition, many studies were provided demonstrating that a reduction of HDMs in bedding offers relief to sufferers of atopic allergies by reducing their exposure to HDM allergens.
Numerous studies were also submitted to establish the stability of permethrin in fabrics. In particular, reference was made to permethrin's drug master file on file with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which establishes the stability of the active ingredient under various storage conditions. Additionally, studies demonstrating the persistence of permethrin in fabrics after rinsing, washing, and exposure to weather and detergent were provided.
The safety of the device was established through direct biocompatability testing of the end product and through reports of various biocompatability reviews of permethrin conducted by the FDA, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Military. The reports confirmed that permethrin has been safely used in topical drug treatments approved by FDA. In addition, EPA has registered technical grades of
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permethrin for use in household articles including mattresses and upholstered furniture, as well as in military uniforms – all of which will come into direct contact with the skin. Because permethrin has been used in military uniforms, it has been confirmed as safe by numerous U.S. Military studies. In particular, permethrin is not acutely or subchronically toxic, does not cause skin irritation or sensitization; and is not neurotoxic, immunotoxic, organ toxic, reproductive or developmentally toxic, or carcinogenic. The FDA, EPA, and U.S. Military have all concurred with the general literature in finding permethrin to be safe for use in impregnated fabrics.
#### G. Summary
The safety and effectiveness data submitted to FDA establishes that Z-Net is safe and effective for its intended use and is substantially equivalent to applicable predicate devices.
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Image /page/3/Picture/1 description: The image shows a circular logo for the Department of Health & Human Services. The text "DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES - USA" is arranged around the perimeter of the circle. Inside the circle is a stylized graphic of three figures, represented by simple lines, standing close together.
Food and Drug Administration 9200 Corporate Boulevard Rockville MD 20850
# DEC 1 0 2001
Demite Limited C/O Mr. William H.E. Von Oehsen Powell. Goldstein, Frazer & Murphy LLP 1001 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW 6th Floor Washington, District of Columbia 20004
K001003 Re:
Trade/Device Name: Z-Net Regulation Number: 21 CFR 880.6190 Regulation Name: Mattress Cover for Medical Purposes Regulatory Class: I Product Code: FMW Dated: September 21, 2001 Received: September 21, 2001
Dear Mr. Oehsen:
We have reviewed your Section 510(k) premarket notification of intent to market the device referenced above and have determined the device is substantially equivalent (for the indications for use stated in the enclosure) to legally marketed predicate devices marketed in interstate commerce prior to May 28, 1976, the enactment date of the Medical Device Amendments, or to devices that have been reclassified in accordance with the provisions of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (Act) that do not require approval of a premarket approval application (PMA). You may, therefore, market the device, subject to the general controls provisions of the Act. The general controls provisions of the Act include requirements for annual registration, listing of devices, good manufacturing practice, labeling, and prohibitions against misbranding and adulteration.
If your device is classified (see above) into either class II (Special Controls) or class III (PMA), it may be subject to such additional controls. Existing major regulations affecting your device can be found in the Code of Federal Regulations, Title 21, Parts 800 to 898. In addition, FDA may publish further announcements concerning your device in the Federal Register.
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Page 2 - Mr. Oehsen
Please be advised that FDA's issuance of a substantial equivalence determination does not mean that FDA has made a determination that your device complies with other requirements of the Act or any Federal statutes and regulations administered by other Federal agencies. You must comply with all the Act's requirements, including, but not limited to: registration and listing (21 CFR Part 807); labeling (21 CFR Part 801); good manufacturing practice requirements as set forth in the quality systems (QS) regulation (21 CFR Part 820); and if applicable, the electronic product radiation control provisions (Sections 531-542 of the Act); 21 CFR 1000-1050.
This letter will allow you to begin marketing your device as described in your Section 510(k) premarket notification. The FDA finding of substantial equivalence of your device to a legally marketed predicate device results in a classification for your device and thus, permits your device to proceed to the market.
If you desire specific advice for your device on our labeling regulation (21 CFR Part 801 and additionally 21 CFR Part 809.10 for in vitro diagnostic devices), please contact the Office of Compliance at (301) 594-4618. Additionally, for questions on the promotion and advertising of your device, please contact the Office of Compliance at (301) 594-4639. Also, please note the regulation entitled, "Misbranding by reference to premarket notification" (21CFR Part 807.97). Other general information on your responsibilities under the Act may be obtained from the Division of Small Manufacturers, International and Consumer Assistance at its toll-free number (800) 638-2041 or (301) 443-6597 or at its Internet address http://www.fda.gov/cdrh/dsma/dsmamain.html
Sincerely yours,
K. Whitmore
Timothy A Ulatowski Director Division of Dental, Infection Control and General Hospital Devices Office of Device Evaluation Center for Devices and Radiological Health
Enclosure
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Page 1 of 1
510(k) Number (if known): K001003
Device Name: Z-NET
Indications For Use:
Z-Net reduces for up to 15 months house dust mites and their allergens in bedding, a leading cause of allergenic rhinitis, allergenic asthma, and allergenic eczema. Reductions are based on comparisons with untreated bed covers.
(PLEASE DO NOT WRITE BELOW THIS LINE-CONTINUE ON ANOTHER PAGE IF NEEDED)
Concurrence of CDRH, Office of Device Evaluation (ODE)
Patrica Cicerette (Optional Format 3-10-98)
(Division Sign-Off) Design of Dental, Infection Control, and Ceneral Hospital Davices 1. Ban Number _ 1. 1. C. C. ( C. C. ( C. C. 5
Two short videos show you everything — or skip straight to the written tutorial if you'd rather read. You can reopen this any time from the Tutorial button in the top bar.
Part 1 — Search, results, and everyday workflows 16 min
Part 2 — Embeddings: the galaxy map 3 min
1. Search: exact and fuzzy
Type a phrase like "coronary artery calcification" into the search box. You get two kinds of results. Exact results match the literal phrase — prefix searches work ("coronary artery calcificati") but suffix searches do not. Fuzzy results match on the meaning and intent of your phrase rather than the exact words, and are sorted by relevance score. Hover over the Exact or Fuzzy badge on any row to see exactly why it matched.
Use the checkboxes above the results to narrow: SaMD keeps only software-only devices, AI / ML keeps only devices with AI.
Exact vs. fuzzy search: what's the difference?
Exact matches on the literal phrase (prefix search works, suffix does not). Fuzzy matches on the meaning and intent of the phrase rather than the exact words. Hover over the badge on any row to see why it matched.
You search "coronary artery calcification" and want only software devices with AI. What two filters do you apply?
Narrow by SaMD (software-only devices), then narrow by AI/ML (devices with AI).
2. The results table
Scroll right in the results table. The intended use is extracted for you — no need to open the PDF. The device story gives a high-level snapshot of what the device does and how it's used. The AI Performance sub-table shows each output name, acceptance criteria, observed values, and development/test dataset descriptions — the same format Innolitics uses for regulatory strategy outputs, and the fastest high-level fingerprint of an AI device. It is AI-generated but has been very reliable in practice.
Where do you find a device's intended use without opening the PDF?
Scroll right in the search results table. The intended use column is extracted for you; no need to dig into the 510(k) summary PDF.
What does the AI Performance sub-table show, and why is it useful?
Output name, acceptance criteria, observed values, development dataset description, and test dataset description. It's the same format we use for regulatory strategy output and Fast 510(k) input, and the fastest high-level fingerprint of an AI device. AI-generated but reliable in practice.
3. Judging fuzzy relevance
Fuzzy results trail off in relevance as you scroll. Use three signals to decide how far down to go: the fuzzy badge explanations, the intended use column, and whether your target output (e.g., Cobb angle) still appears in the AI Performance sub-table. Once it stops appearing, you're past the relevant zone. A top hit with a low score (~0.4) and a stretched explanation is a hint the closest predicates are far away — the project may be headed for De Novo. Note the fuzzy search is a pattern match: it doesn't handle negation ("not") well, and hardware devices can appear — filter by SaMD/AI ML to cut them.
How do you judge how far down fuzzy search results to go?
Use the relevancy signals: the fuzzy badge explanations, the intended use column, and whether the target output (e.g., Cobb angle) still appears in the AI Performance sub-table. Once it stops appearing, results are trailing off in relevancy.
4. Device detail page: chat and citations
Click a device name to open its detail page: device facts on the left, a chat window on the right. Ask something like "Describe the training data". The answer carries little citation bubbles — click one to jump to the highlighted passage in the source PDF, so you can verify every AI answer against the document. There's also a Download PDF button for sharing.
How do you verify an AI chat answer on the device detail page?
Click the citation bubbles to jump to the relevant highlight in the source document.
Reading rule for every project: how many summaries do you read in full?
At least the three most relevant 510(k) or De Novo summaries, in full. After that, use targeted chat questions to confirm your memory quickly. The tool supports this professional habit — it doesn't replace it.
5. Side-by-side comparison
Select multiple rows in the results table (aim for under ~10), then open the PDF Viewer tab. Ask one question — it goes to all selected devices in parallel, each with citations. This is the fastest way to compare and contrast devices: training data, PCCP scope, how they handled adding new scanners, and so on.
What does the side-by-side PDF viewer mode do?
Select multiple devices, open the PDF viewer tab, and ask one question (e.g., "Describe the training data"). It queries all selected devices simultaneously with citations, so you can compare and contrast quickly.
6. Collections
With rows selected, go to the Collections tab and create a labeled collection (e.g., "Cobb Angle Project"). Reload that selection any time — before a client call, pull up the collection and ask questions across all of its devices at once.
How do you save a set of selected devices for later use?
Select the rows, go to the Collections tab, and create a labeled collection (e.g., "Cobb Angle Project"). You can reload the selection anytime and carry it into the PDF viewer and other tabs that support selections.
7. Product codes and the regulations tree
Click a product code in the results to jump to it in the regulations tree — identification text, sibling product codes, and devices you can open in a PDF viewer on the right. Click a regulation number to see its identification, special controls, and related product codes. You can also search by product code or regulation number at the top of the tree. Always read the special controls if any exist for your device — it broadens your search and sharpens pre-kickoff research.
What can you do from the regulations tree view?
Browse product codes and regulation numbers, read the identification text and special controls, browse sibling product codes, open device PDFs on the right, and search by product code or regulation number at the top of the tree.
8. Chart view
Click Show Chart and segment by regulation number (or product code) to see which regulations dominate your result set. Clicking a regulation takes you into the regulations tree. Great for spotting that most matches are, say, hardware laparoscopic devices — a cue to go back and filter.
How do you see which regulations dominate a search result set?
Click "Show Chart" and segment by Regulation Number. Clicking a regulation takes you to the regulations tree.
9. The predicate graph
Open the Predicates tab for a family-tree view of predicate relationships. Click a node to trace its parents and children; selections from search carry over pre-selected. Commonly predicated devices are worth reading — a lot of people predicated them for a reason. The visual lineage is also handy on client calls, e.g. to show how a predicate family evolved and justify why your predicate still holds.
In the predicate graph, why are commonly predicated devices worth reading?
A lot of people predicated them for a reason. Clicking a node traces parents and children, and selections from search carry over pre-selected.
10. Embeddings: the galaxy map
The Embeddings tab plots every matching document in a 2-D "galaxy map" where semantically similar devices cluster together. Hover or click clusters to explore, and let AI label the clusters for you. Embeddings beat product codes for grouping: two devices can carry different product codes (LLZ vs. QIH) yet do the same thing — the embedding captures the meaning of the intended use and device story. This is also exactly how retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) works under the hood, and it makes a great visual on client calls.
Try it yourself
Head to the search page and work through a few of these AI/ML fuzzy searches to build intuition: perivascular fat on CT · aortic valve calcification opportunistic screening on noncontrast CT · breast cancer prediction on digital pathology slides · autism detection · gestational age prediction · a hearing aid that can also detect a pulse · foundation model based analysis of ECG · large language models · penetration test. Watch how the relevance scores, intended use, and AI Performance tables tell you when results stop being meaningful.