Abstract: An inflow conduit of a ventricular assist device configured to prevent formation of recirculation and stagnation zones as well as collapse due to external forces or pump induced suction can be rigid and have a funnel like shape with an elbow to accommodate a patient anatomy. Stiffening elements and pressure sensing devices can also be provided associated with the inflow conduit.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for managing, in a computer system, design of a software system. Various embodiments include receiving an input to the computer system specifying dependency relationships among subsystems of the software system and providing an output from the computer system responsive to the input. A rule is imposed on at least one of the dependency relationships and data for the rule is provided as part of the input.