Abstract: Various embodiments of anchors are configured to be inserted into a heart wall of a patient to anchor a suture as an artificial chordae under an appropriate tension for proper valve function. Each of the disclosed anchor embodiments “toggles” from a first position for delivery of the anchor to the heart wall and a second position for insertion of the anchor into the heart wall. In some embodiments, it is the “toggle” to the second position that provides the insertion force for inserting the anchor into the heart muscle sufficient to retain the anchor from accidental withdrawal from the heart wall during normal valve operation (e.g., when a valve leaflet pulls on the suture attached to the anchor during systole). Such anchors are particularly suitable for use in intravascular, transcatheter procedures as described above given the inherent difficulties in providing sufficient force for insertion of an anchor into the heart wall with a flexible catheter.

Abstract: Various embodiments of anchors are configured to be inserted into a heart wall of a patient to anchor a suture as an artificial chordae under an appropriate tension for proper valve function. Each of the disclosed anchor embodiments “toggles” from a first position for delivery of the anchor to the heart wall and a second position for insertion of the anchor into the heart wall. In some embodiments, it is the “toggle” to the second position that provides the insertion force for inserting the anchor into the heart muscle sufficient to retain the anchor from accidental withdrawal from the heart wall during normal valve operation (e.g., when a valve leaflet pulls on the suture attached to the anchor during systole). Such anchors are particularly suitable for use in intravascular, transcatheter procedures as described above given the inherent difficulties in providing sufficient force for insertion of an anchor into the heart wall with a flexible catheter.

Abstract: One embodiment of the present invention comprises a thermal flow sensor having a first capillary tube coupled to a mass flow controller main flow line across a mass flow controller bypass. A first pair of sensing elements is coupled to the first capillary tube. The thermal sensor also comprise a second capillary tube having a substantially similar cross-sectional area to the first capillary tube, a first end thermally coupled to one of a mass flow controller base and the first tube proximal the first tube inlet port, and a second end thermally coupled to one of the mass flow controller base and the first tube proximal the outlet port. The second tube is not adapted to receive and eject a fluid flow. A second pair of sensing elements is coupled to the second tube.

Abstract: A system and method for controlling a flow of a fluid using an adaptive closed-loop-control algorithm is described. One embodiment includes a method for receiving a set point indicator and/or a sensor indicator generated by a sensor. A response time of a closed-loop-control algorithm is modified when at least one threshold value is satisfied based on the sensor indicator and/or the set point indicator. The closed-loop-control algorithm, which is implemented by a flow controller, is stabilized in response to the modifying of the response time of the closed-loop-control algorithm by adjusting at least one parameter associated with the closed-loop-control algorithm.

Abstract: A system and method for delivering a specified-quantity of a fluid using a flow controller based on a fluid delivery profile is described. One embodiment includes a fluid delivery profile that includes a delivery time window with a plurality of set points that each correspond with a specified instant in time within the delivery time window. The method also includes delivering the fluid according to the fluid delivery profile through a variable valve using the flow controller and a feedback signal from a flow sensor.