Abstract: A forming device includes an input including wire in an unformed state. The forming device has a forming station configured to receive the wire, the forming station comprising a plurality of forms, each independently movable toward and away from the wire such that the forms collectively bend the wire into a formed state that is periodic and defines a wavelength.

Abstract: A catheter assembly defines a lumen. The catheter assembly includes a tight wound spring coil comprised of a lubricious coil material wherein the spring coil defines the lumen and has an outer surface. A wrap is wound about the outer surface of the spring coil. An exterior coating covers the spring coil and the wrap.

Abstract: An electromagnetically actuated clutch having an integrated sensor activated control circuit for selectively engaging and disengaging the clutch.

Abstract: An apparatus includes means for feeding a wire from a fixed outlet against a coiling surface having a variable location in relation to the fixed outlet. The fixed outlet directs the wire in a path and the wire is deflected from the path by the coiling surface to bend the wire. The wire is monitored and output signals indicative of a physical characteristic of the deflected wire are generated. A controller receives the signals and generates control signals as a function thereof. An actuator, responsive to the control signals, adjusts the location of the coiling surface such that the physical characteristics are substantially uniformly maintained during the forming of the spring.

Abstract: Apparatus for forming a spring having a spring body and first and second generally axial toes from a wire is disclosed. The apparatus includes mechanisms for feeding the wire from a fixed outlet, wherein the fixed outlet directs the wire in a path; bending a first length of wire fed from the fixed outlet to form a first generally axial toe; bending a second length of wire fed from said fixed outlet to form a spring body; and bending a third length of the wire fed from the fixed outlet to form a second generally axial toe. The wire is then clipped after the formation of the second generally axial toe to separate the spring from a remaining portion of the wire. A method of forming such a spring is also disclosed.