Abstract: Systems and methods for modifying a heart valve annulus in a minimally invasive surgical procedure. A helical anchor is provided, having a memory set to a coiled shape or state. The helical anchor is further configured to self-revert from a substantially straight state to the coiled state. The helical anchor is loaded within a needle that constrains the helical anchor to the substantially straight state. The needle is delivered to the valve annulus and inserted into tissue of the annulus. The helical anchor is then deployed from the needle (e.g., the needle is retracted from over the helical anchor). Once deployed, the helical anchor self-transitions toward the coiled shape, cinching engaged tissue of the valve annulus.

Abstract: Aspects of the disclosure relate to devices and methods for preparing an existing, implanted prosthetic aortic valve for subsequent prosthetic aortic valve implantation. To prepare the existing valve, a valve preparation device is delivered to the valve and valve leaflets are severed either via mechanical cutting or electrodes so that the leaflets cannot obstruct a blood flow path once a prosthetic valve is subsequently implanted within the valve. Similarly, in alternate embodiments, devices and methods of the disclosure can be used for preparing a native aortic valve for delivery and implantation of a prosthetic valve.

Abstract: Apparatus for removing and/or placing a workpiece from or into an injection mold of an injection molding machine includes a fixed platen and a moving platen which have attached thereon respective half-molds. A toothed rack is firmly connected to the fixed platen and engages with a drive pinion of a globoid cam gear which is disposed on the moving platen or attached half-mold and has an output shaft for attachment of a gripper arm. To prevent the gripper arm from moving into an undesired position, when the injection mold is opened beyond a predefined distance, the toothed rack and the fixed platen are connected through the intervention of a detachable coupling, whereby a release mechanism is provided to disengage the coupling when a distance between the fixed and moving platens exceeds a predetermined value.

Abstract: A multi-format spindle transport device for transporting and cooling flat substrates, in particular data carriers that can be optically read includes four spindles arranged in parallel relationship in a spindle holder, and a drive for rotating the spindles. The spindle holder is configured in such a way that the relative spatial arrangement of the spindles in relation to one another can be adjusted, so that substrates of different formats can be engaged simultaneously by all four spindles.

Abstract: Apparatus for removing and/or placing a workpiece from or into an injection mold of an injection molding machine includes a fixed platen and a moving platen which have attached thereon respective half-molds. A toothed rack is firmly connected to the fixed platen and engages with a drive pinion of a globoid cam gear which is disposed on the moving platen or attached half-mold and has an output shaft for attachment of a gripper arm. To prevent the gripper arm from moving into an undesired position, when the injection mold is opened beyond a predefined distance, the toothed rack and the fixed platen are connected through the intervention of a detachable coupling, whereby a release mechanism is provided to disengage the coupling when a distance between the fixed and moving platens exceeds a predetermined value.