Abstract: Embodiments of the invention relate to electrophysiology catheters and methods of using the same. According to one embodiment, the catheter includes a braided conductive member at its distal end that can be radially expanded, for example using a mandrel slidably disposed within a shaft of the catheter. According to another embodiment, the catheter comprises a tip portion constructed of an elastomeric material. According to a further embodiment, the catheter includes a braided conductive member wherein a thermocouple is formed using one filament of the braided conductive member and one thermocouple wire. Other embodiments of the invention relate to a handle for use with a catheter and methods of using the same. According to one embodiment, the handle comprises a thumbwheel coupled to a housing, a spring disposed within the housing in contact with the thumbwheel, and means for increasing compression of the spring to increase rotational friction on the thumbwheel.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a shaft-mounted electrode for ablating tissue comprises an end portion and a middle portion. The end portion is configured differently than the middle portion such that, when the electrode is energized, the ratio of a first density of ablation energy that is emitted in a vicinity of the end portion to a second density of ablation energy that is emitted in a vicinity of the middle portion is lower than the ratio would be if the end portion were configured the same as the middle portion. In another embodiment, a shaft-mounted electrode for ablating tissue comprises at least two separate coiled conductors having interleaved spirals.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for control of ablation energy and electrogram acquisition through multiple common electrodes in an electrophysiology catheter. A device that routes ablation energy to and that routes mapping signals received from an electrophysiology catheter having a plurality of conductive filaments including circuitry that provides, for each conductive filament when ablation energy is being delivered, an electrical signal path that has a low impedance for ablation energy and a high impedance for mapping signals. The device also includes circuitry that provides, for each conductive filament, when mapping signals are being received, an electrical signal path that has a high impedance for ablation energy and low impedance for mapping signals. At least one switch is provided that selectively groups electrodes into sectors for delivery of ablation energy.

Abstract: When at least one drive wheel is showing a tendency to spin, at least the torque of the drive unit of the vehicle is influenced so as to reduce the tendency to spin. The tendency to spin is recognized when the slip of at least one of the drive wheels exceeds a predetermined desired value, where this desired value is adjustable as a function of at least one operating variable. This minimum of one operating variable is associated with the drive power called for by the driver, and is based on at least one of gas pedal position and engine rpm. The desired slip is increased in the range of higher power demands to improve the traction.