Abstract: A transmission system that is used in conjunction with a microturbine engine for propelling an aircraft body, such as a propeller-based fixed-wing aircraft or a rotor-based vertical lift aircraft, or for a wide variety of other applications. The output shaft of the microturbine engine preferably operates at a rotational speed in a range between 72,000 RPM and 150,000 RPM with an output power between 150 HP and 5 HP (and most preferably operates in an extended range between 50,000 RPM and 200,000 RPM with an output power between 200 HP and 5 HP). The two reduction stages provide a reduction ratio preferably having a value of at least 19, and most preferably greater than 24. The transmission system is of small-size preferably having a maximum diameter less than twelve inches.

Abstract: The extension wire for a fixed balloon on a guidewire comprises a length of extension wire and a connector assembly mounted on the distal end of the length of extension wire. The connector assembly includes a tube which is received on and fixed to a distal end of the length of extension wire and which has means within the tube for grippingly engaging an outer covering sheath of a cut proximal end of the sheath and core wire of a fixed balloon on a guidewire.The fixed balloon on a guidewire extension wire assembly kit includes the extension wire and connector assembly at the distal end of the extension wire, and an alignment tool having a body and a throughbore adapted to receive the tube of the connector assembly at the distal end of the extension wire in one end thereof and the cut proximal end of a fixed balloon on a guidewire in the other end for guiding the cut end into the tube of the connector assembly.

Abstract: The guidewire extension system includes an extension guidewire adapted to be releasably but firmly connected to proximal end of an initial guidewire. The extension guidewire has a distal end and a proximal end, and the system further comprises a connecting assembly mounted at the distal end of extension guidewire and including a coiled spring constructed and arranged to receive and grippingly engage and lock against a distal end of the initial guidewire.

Abstract: A hemostasis valve, for example, for a catheter for entering coronary blood vessels. The valve defines an adjustable high pressure seal and a second seal of typically lower pressure resistance.

Abstract: A hemostasis valve in which the valve member is a tubular, resilient gasket which may be compressed with variable pressure to provide a variable pressure seal to an elongated member extending through the tubular bore of the gasket. The gasket bore also defines at least one resilient, annular rib whereby the elongated member passing through the tubular gasket bore may be subjected at all times to at least a relatively low pressure seal from the resilient, annular rib, irrespective of the pressure of the variable pressure seal. Additionally, the pressure on the gasket may be applied and released by means of a pressure member positioned against the gasket. Structure is provided permitting longitudinal motion, but preventing rotational motion, of the pressure member.