Abstract: A method for producing an implant, such as a stent, includes providing an implant blank, such as a stent preform, formed from a degradable material, preferably a magnesium alloy. Recess are introduced into the implant blank through laser beam ablation using laser radiation in the form of pulse bundles, each pulse bundle having at least two pulses.

Abstract: A machining process, associated with a workpiece, may include controlling, by a control device, a pulse repetition frequency (PRF) of an ultrashort pulse laser. The PRF may be controlled to maintain a substantially constant distance, on the workpiece, between adjacent pulses on a path. The substantially constant distance may be maintained despite changes in a speed of the path relative to the workpiece. An amount of energy of each pulse on the path may be substantially constant despite changes to the PRF associated with controlling the PRF.

Abstract: A thermal flow sensor has a first, second and third substrate, each having a first side and a second opposite side. The first substrate is connected to the second substrate such that the second side of the first substrate abuts the first side of the second substrate. The third substrate is connected to the second substrate such that the second side of the second substrate abuts the first side of the third substrate. The second substrate has a groove formed therein so as to form a conduit bounded by the second substrate and the second side of the first substrate and the first side of the third substrate. The conduit has a fluid flow direction. A heater is disposed on the first side of the first substrate opposed to the conduit. A first temperature sensor is disposed on the first side of the first substrate opposed to the conduit and at a first predetermined distance from the heater in a direction opposite to the fluid flow direction.