Abstract: Composite fiber reinforced balloons for medical devices prepared by applying a web of fibers to the exterior of a preformed underlying balloon and encasing the web with a matrix material to form a composite balloon. The fiber web is applied to at least the cone portion of the underlying balloon form. Either the cone portion of the underlying balloon form, or the web fibers applied to said cone portion, or both, have a friction-enhancing material coated thereon.

Abstract: A seal cartridge for providing a fluid seal between a rotating shaft and a housing such as found in a centrifugal pump. The seal cartridge includes rotating and non-rotating seal portions. The non-rotating seal portion includes a seal ring seat that is connected to the support sleeve by a frangible element. During installation, the frangible element is separated to release the non-rotating portion of the seal from the support member. The non-rotation seal portion includes an O-ring held by a stationary seal holder. An O-ring seal seals a circumferential periphery of the seal ring to inhibit fluid leakage between the holder and the seal ring. An inside radial end face of the seal ring abuttingly engages a radial end face defined by the holder which enhances heat transfer between the seal ring and the holder.

Abstract: Composite fiber reinforced balloons for medical devices prepared by applying a web of fibers to the exterior of a preformed underlying balloon and encasing the web with a matrix material to form a composite balloon. The fiber web is applied to at least the cone portion of the underlying balloon form. Either the cone portion of the underlying balloon form, or the web fibers applied to said cone portion, or both, have a friction-enhancing material coated thereon.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for detecting, monitoring, measuring and recording the motion of a patient's spine is disclosed. The apparatus includes a vertical member attached to a belt that fits around the patient's waist. A first sensor for detecting and monitoring flexion and extension of the patient's spine in the midsagittal plane is mounted to the lower end of the vertical member. A second sensor for detecting and monitoring lateral bending and movement of the patient's spine in the frontal plane is mounted to the upper end of the vertical member.

Abstract: In one aspect, there is provided a wear plate for use in combination with a centrifugal pump and impeller. The wear plate has a wear surface defined by a substantially flat surface, a truncated conic section, and/or a curvilinear solid of revolution formed by revolving an area bounded by a curve around a center axis of the wear plate, wherein a notch or recess is provided. The notch or recess extends in a first direction perpendicular to a predetermined direction of rotation of an impeller and a second direction crossing against a direction of rotation of the impeller.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a portable power unit for use with various power tools.