Abstract: Device and method for shift control in an automatic transmission of a vehicle wherein the feedback control includes determining relative rate of change in turbine revolution during power-on up-shift, thereby preventing generation of shift impact in the shifting process. The device comprises a vehicle run state detecting unit for detecting a vehicle run state; a shift control unit for performing a power-on up-shift control, including controlling the relative rate of change in turbine revolution; and a driving unit for supplying and stopping supply of oil pressure discharged from an oil pump to perform the shifting in response to shift mode state output synchronization, throttle valve openness, revolution at output shaft, engine revolution, shift lever position and acceleration pedal operation state.

Abstract: A vehicle auxiliary braking system is provided to accomplish a braking effect similar to engine braking inexpensively, to extend the life of the brakes, and to reduce the work cycle time in order to improve work efficiency. The system has a centrifugal sensor 20, an accelerator sensor 21, and a braking clutch engaging means that includes a braking hydraulic circuit 22. The centrifugal sensor 20 detects that the vehicle is traveling when the vehicle is moving at or above a prescribed speed. Accelerator sensor 21 detects when the depression amount of the accelerator pedal 6 is at or below a prescribed amount. The braking clutch engaging means engages the clutch that corresponds to the opposite travel direction when the vehicle is traveling at or above the prescribed speed and the accelerator depression amount is at or below the prescribed depression amount.

Abstract: A lung and breath control exercise device includes an elongated body with an upwardly open channel. An array of pegs are rotatably mounted on an axle extending along the channel and the pegs may be rotated from a first position against one wall of the channel to a second position against the opposite wall. In use, the pegs are positioned in one position and the device is placed on a level surface a predetermined distance from a human user. The user then blows his or her breath on the pegs to blow them to their second positions in a predetermined order or sequence or to keep selected pegs suspended between positions. This exercises the user's lungs and develops breath control. The immediate feedback provided by the moving pegs is a measure of success and progress, which encourages the user to engage and continue to engage in breath and lung exercises with the device.

Abstract: A space pod and space saucer module assembly, for children's use and recreational enjoyment, is disclosed, which can be utilized solely or in interaction with another children's playhouse or structure. In preferred embodiments, a truncate or cross-sectionally accessible enclosure is provided having an elevated base support. The wall, floor and roof of the invention's enclosure have optionable, light-transmitting or see-through characteristics; and also provide an interior recreational play area inside the enclosure and optionable space-vehicle, simulating furnishings, such as control panel and seating. The assembly can be utilized with coupling members, for attachment to a neighboring structure, and for attachment to and additional support of its own guide support. A coupled or secured pathway or stairway structure is also provided in preferred embodiment for entrance to the play area of the invention's recreational-play enclosure.

Abstract: A stepping exerciser includes two foot pedals rotatably secured on a base with a shaft, two actuators pivotally coupled between the foot pedals and the base, and a device for adjusting the actuators relative to the shaft, in order to adjust the resistance of the actuators applied onto the foot pedals. The base includes a curved slot formed in a housing for slidably receiving a rod. A block is slidably received in the base and has a channel for receiving the rod. An adjusting bolt is threaded to the block for moving the block and the rod relative to the base.

Abstract: A treadmill having a folding mechanism includes a base, a support frame pivotally mounted on the base, and a folding mechanism mounted between the base and the support frame. The base is provided with two opposite guide tracks. The folding mechanism includes two opposite first levers, two opposite second levers, two limit levers, and a telescopic control handle. Thus, the folding mechanism is folded and unfolded rapidly, easily and conveniently. In addition, the support frame is folded rapidly and automatically without needing a positioning device, thereby facilitating the user folding the treadmill, and thereby decreasing the cost of fabrication.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a rocker arm of a treadmill including a main frame, a running bed, a front support bar and a rear support bar. Moreover, an electronic console and two handles disposed on the main frame, while a running belt is wrapped around the running bed for an in-place rotation. In addition, the main frame has a set of rocker arms which can be grabbed by the user and swung back and forth. The set of rocker arms has the same relative structural design, each of which includes a base rotation bar and a rocking arm with a handgrip. Meanwhile, one end of the base rotation bar is hingedly attached to a pivot on the main frame, while the other end is pivotably attached to the end of the rocking arm. Furthermore, a spiral shape spring part is interposed between said base rotation bar and the bottom of said running bed, thereby providing said rocking arms with the necessary resistance.

Abstract: A drive mechanism for bicycles or similar exercise equipment in which the left and right pedals move generally up and down in a vertical plane. The pedals slide on vertical slide bars from their top to bottom positions. The pedals are connected by a pedal chain that engages and rotates a sprocket. The sprocket is in turn connected through a drive shaft to a pair of drive gears. The drive gears are mounted to the drive shaft by means of one way clutches. A reversing bevel gear is mounted between both drive gears to produce a driving output force that is transmitted to the rear drive wheel regardless of whether the left or right pedal is pushed from its top to bottom position. In an alternate embodiment the drive mechanism is adapted for use on a recumbent bicycle and the pedals move in a horizontal plane.

Abstract: An angle-adjustable exerciser comprises a base, an adjustment disk set and a support plate. The base attaches to a spherical cast piece on top and a plate with large surface at bottom. At the periphery of the spherical cast piece, there is an adjustment disk set composed of the first disk, the second disk and a few screws. At center of the first and second disks, there are holes for the disks to install at the periphery of the cast piece. At the corresponding position, there are several through holes at the first and second disks, so the disks can be connected by at least two positioning screws. The distance between the disks is maintained by positioning screws. Another through hole is for an adjustable screw to tighten or loosen the disks. This is also to adjust the declined angle for the adjustment disk set on the spherical cast piece.

Abstract: A device for toning the pubococcygeus (PC) muscles is provided. These feminine toning balls comprise a durable device having metal balls connected to each other with a cord and a hard rubber exterior coating, with the cord extending from end of the toning balls for easy retrieval. The coating seamlessly covers said metal balls and is thick enough for the toning balls to withstand repeated used. There are 2 to 5 spherical or ovate balls in a set, which can be used to promote vaginal health and sexual enjoyment.

Abstract: A segmented roll has a plurality of end-to-end mounted roll segments (10, 10′), each adapted to rotate on bearings supported on a separate support shaft (11). In both axial end surfaces of the support shafts (11) of the roll segments (10) there are coupling means such as an annular projection and an annular recess serving to disengageably connect two adjacent roll segments (10) to each other. The support shaft (11) has at least two parts (16, 18) whose mutual disposition is made alterable for the purpose of altering the axial length of the support shaft (11) so much that the coupling means (29, 41) of the facing axial ends of two adjacent roll segments (10) can be engaged and disengaged with each other. This arrangement makes it possible to change a single roll segment from the central area of the segmented roll without the need for disassembling the entire row of roll segments.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for delivering predetermined amounts of particulate material and/or plasticizer to a location remote from the particulate material, and a cigarette filter and a cigarette made according to the method and apparatus.

Abstract: A process for making prefastened and refastenable garments includes providing a plurality of discrete articles with mating fastening components disposed in the waist regions. First fastening components are separated from one another by an initial transverse distance. The waist region containing the first fastening components is modified to transversely displace these fastening components to a post displacement distance that is not equal to the initial distance. The process allows for convenient alignment of the fastening components to form refastenable seams.

Abstract: A method of tucking a pair of side panels into a body portion of a pant-like garment in which the fold locations can be controlled. The garment is positioned between an upper vacuum conveyor and a lower vacuum conveyor. Opposing vacuum zones from the upper and lower conveyors hold a front region of the garment away from a back region of the garment. While the garment is in the opened, or pulled apart, position, the side panels are pushed between the front and back regions toward one another.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for folding pliable sheet material wherein the sheet material is wound on a mandrel to form a roll which subsequently is stripped off the mandrel and transferred to a pleating station at which successive creases are formed in the roll to produce a pleated packet. During the winding of the sheet material the latter is adhered to the mandrel by the application of negative air pressure to the material via the mandrel. Following the formation of the roll, the application of negative air pressure is discontinued and positive air pressure is applied to the interior of the roll so as to facilitate stripping of the roll from the mandrel. At the pleating station the roll is creased successively to form a plurality of pleats and the direction in which the creasing proceeds is such as to facilitate the escape of air from the roll as it is pleated.

Abstract: A protective tool for a therapeutic material delivery device prevents wrong sticking of the outer needle of the device after use and prevents dissipation of blood adhering to the outer needle and comprises a cover (8′A) and a cap (61) or stopper (65) attached to a forward end of said cover for protecting the forward end of the outer tubular needle (2A), wherein said cover (8′A) is formed of a plurality of tubes (8′A1, 8′A2, 8′A3, . . .

Abstract: Devices and related methods for treating heart conditions, including, for example, dilatation, valve incompetencies, including mitral valve leakage, and other heart failure conditions, may operate to assist in the apposition of heart valve leaflets to improve valve function. A method for improving the function of a valve of a heart includes placing an elongate member transverse a heart chamber so that each end of the elongate member extends through a wall of the heart, and placing first and second anchoring members external the chamber. The first and second anchoring members are attached to first and second ends of the elongate member to fix the elongate member in a position across the chamber so as to reposition papillary muscles within the chamber. A method of treating the valve may include real-time monitoring the valve function and adjusting the device based on data obtained during the real-time monitoring.

Abstract: An implantable pump system including an external driver. The implantable pump is driven by the external driver during normal operation but may also operate on a battery. The external driver is used to drive the pump with the mechanical energy of the impeller also being used to charge the battery. The external driver is also useful during emergency situations to directly drive the pump if the battery or internal coils should fail. The pump is also preferably implanted in a subpectoral location outside the patient's rib cage.

Abstract: A bowel control probe and method of detecting and preventing bowel incontinence. The probe has a body with a distal end which is permeable to gas. Conductivity sensors on the probe will establish an electrical circuit in the presence of fecal matter to send an alert signal to a control unit. The sensors may be partially shielded by a removable sleeve to reduce false alarms resulting from moisture. The control unit may issue an audible or visual alarm and may transmit a signal to a remote nursing station. An air cuff about the probe body is cyclically inflated and deflated to block passage of fecal matter and to protect tissue and capillaries in the rectal area.

Abstract: A cardiac harness is configured to fit about a portion of a patient's heart so as to exert a compressive force on the heart during at least a portion of the cardiac cycle. The harness can be constructed of a plurality of individual modules assembled ex vivo or in vivo. The modules can have different physical characteristics, such as having different compliance, and may or may not include spring hinges. Portions of a cardiac harness can be connected to each other using a coupling mechanism such as, for example, a zip coupler.

Abstract: A pump and valve assembly for an implantable prosthesis is provided with an internal actuating bar positioned such that when any portion of the housing is compressed, the check valves within are opened allowing for deflation of the cylinders. The pump and valve assembly also includes a textured surface over a portion of the housing to allow for quick identification of the component, as well as to make it easier for the patient to grasp it. The valve assembly further comprising an actuating bar which has ribs to enhance the spring force applied to a flow valve, a support structure to support and appropriately position the actuating bar, and a check valve made of metal with a segment covered with a plastic material.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a surgical instrument assembly that includes an operative element and an insertion instrument removably engageable to the operative element. The insertion instrument is positionable in a patient with the operative element engaged thereto to position the operative element at an operative site in the patient. A transfer instrument is removably engageable to the operative element when the operative instrument is located at the operative site. The insertion instrument can then be removed. Methods for using the surgical instrument assembly are also disclosed.

Abstract: An adjustable retractor is disclosed comprising an inner ring, an outer ring spaced from the inner ring, and an elongate sleeve open at opposite ends. The sleeve is provided and extends between the inner and outer rings and is connected at the opposite ends to the rings. The outer ring is provided with a pre-loaded rotational torque to assist with rotation of the outer ring about its central axis to roll the sleeve about the outer ring to adjust sleeve length. The outer ring may be formed in a mobius configuration to provide the pre-loaded rotational torque. The outer ring has a cross-sectional shape that may have numerous different configurations. The mobius configuration may include the cross-sectional shape having an outer circumference offset by a predetermined amount about the central axis of the outer ring proceeding longitudinally along the central axis from one location on the outer ring to another location on the outer ring. A method of adjusting a retractor is also disclosed.

Abstract: The monitoring device incorporates transducing devices for converting the desired measured parameters into electrical signals capable of being processed by a local computer or microprocessor system. The device interacts with the ambulatory patient and then, via a modem or other electronic communication device, transmits the measured parameters to a computer located at a remote site. At the remote location the various indicia of the ambulatory patient's condition are monitored and analyzed by the medical professional caregiver. To provide the ambulatory patient with an added level of convenience and ease of use, such monitoring device is contained in a single integrated package.

Abstract: A system and methodology for the acquisition of medical data from multiple, at-home patient measurement devices transfers the data via telephone communications to a remotely accessed data management and display system such as a Web-based data management system. The measurement device, which supports two-way communications between the patient and the database system, is extensible to support multiple plug-in medical devices and devices for patient input or identification. Collection of data is mediated through an interface device that is connected via a digital link (serial, network, or digital RF link) to single or multiple patient measurement devices. This interface device is connected to a network via wide area network means including standard phone lines. In the preferred embodiment, data transfer is mediated through pervasive DTMF phone networks. Although DTMF is the preferred format, alternative analog or digital audio tone formats may be used.

Abstract: It has long been unclear in what degree the brain should be activated and how much the blood volume should be varied for controlling a signal by measuring the concentration of metabolic substance in the tissue or change of concentration thereof using the light and by using the result of measurement. The present invention provides an optical measuring system which can present the concentration of metabolic substance in the tissue which may be detected with a subject by itself or the target value of change of the concentration. Thereby, it is now possible for the subject by itself to more easily detect and control the concentration of metabolic substance in the tissue or change of concentration thereof. As a result, cerebral information can be extracted in direct to realize various applications such as control of the game machines and welfare facilities.

Abstract: An apparatus for non-invasive detection and quantitation of analytes in a sample, such as blood glucose, employs a novel amplifier that uses high-gauss permanent magnets to permit an Rf signal to be transmitted through the sample. The concentration of the analyte can be determined from the magnitude of the reduction in the amplitude of the Rf signal at a characteristic frequency.

Abstract: A method and system are disclosed for recognizing tissue types. Electrical signals are applied to tissue 120 via electrodes 110, 112. Circuitry 106 and the signal processor 116 are used to measure impedance magnitude and phase at a plurality of frequencies. At least the phase information at the plurality of frequencies is compared with phase information of known tissue types. Based on the comparison, the tissue 120 may be assigned to one of the known tissue types.

Abstract: Three dimensional ultrasonic images are formed by volume rendering using a 3D ultrasonic image data set. The data set may be acquired by rocking, sweeping, fanning or rotating a 2D image plane through the volume being scanned, or by steering beams in different angular directions from a two dimensional array of transducer elements. The polar data is volume rendered to form a 3D image by means of projected raylines which are warped to account for the angular geometry of the acquisition.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to systems and methods for assessing blood flow in blood vessels, for assessing vascular health, for conducting clinical trials, for screening therapeutic interventions for adverse effects, and for assessing the effects of risk factors, therapies and substances, including therapeutic substances, on blood vessels, especially cerebral blood vessels, all achieved by measuring various parameters of blood flow in one or more vessels and analyzing the results in a defined manner. The relevant parameters of blood flow include mean flow velocity, systolic acceleration, and pulsatility index. By measuring and analyzing these parameters, one can ascertain the vascular health of a particular vessel, multiple vessels and an individual. Such measurements can also determine whether a substance has an effect, either deleterious or advantageous, on vascular health. The present invention further provides an expert system for achieving the above.

Abstract: Echogenic medical devices, methods of fabrication and methods of use are disclosed. The device can be adapted to be inserted into a patient. The echogenic construction can be incorporated into the device at the time of fabrication providing acoustic impedance different from that of the surrounding biological tissue or fluid. The medical device is designed for use with an ultrasound imaging system to provide real-time location of the insertion and guidance at the time the device is implanted in a patient, such as in brachytherapy. Following placement of the device the position can be evaluated over time to insure the device remains in proper aligmnent and functional. Furthermore, the device is designed to incorporate a spacer element at one or both ends to provide separation between radioactive elements.

Abstract: An esophageal catheter device including a catheter with a balloon pressure sensor affixed to an exterior surface of the catheter, and a stylet assembly including a stylet for providing appropriate rigidity to the catheter to aid insertion in the esophagus and a port for removably mounting a pressure transducer.

Abstract: In a method of measuring pulse transit time of a living subject, first and second pulse wave signals are produced by sensing the pulse at first and second pulse points, respectively, the first and second pulse points being spaced from one another. The first and second pulse wave signals are differentiated, and based on the results, corresponding points of the first and second pulse wave signals are selected (e.g., points of maximum slope). The time delay between the selected points is determined, thus yielding the pulse transit time. A preferred apparatus measures pulse transit time using at least one fiberoptic pulse sensor including a fused-fiber coupling region having at least a portion that can be deflected without putting the coupling region under tension.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a system for measuring respiratory function of living organisms. More particularly, signals indicative of the change in lung volume, defined as active and passive work, required to breathe and the airflow through the respiratory system of the living organism are obtained and processed as waveforms to provide a signal indicative of the respiratory restriction. The methods of the present invention measure clinical forms of airway obstruction, airway reactivity and lung volume and may be used to continuously or intermittently monitor patients with compromised respiratory function. In a preferred embodiment, a head-out, breath in respiratory plethysmograph system provides the signals indicative of change in lung volume as related to pressure changes in a chamber. Further, flowmetric variables are generated that provide a characterization of airway obstructions.

Abstract: A gas sample containing an inorganic constituent, such as a sample of exhaled air is collected in a bag (b 1) comprising an inlet/outlet (2) and a reagent chamber (3) which makes possible the storage and transport of said sample and thus enables efficient and repeatable off-line determinations of inorganic components in said sample. A sample collection device, a system comprising said device and a method of its use is disclosed.

Abstract: A spatula for taking cell samples for histological examination formed with a body portion and a head portion, in which the spatula is formed from a non-absorbent plastics material and includes a frangible zone between the body and the neck portions whereby the head portion can be broken away from the body portion by relative bending about a lateral axis in the frangible zone. The frangible zone preferably has sufficient strength to resist fracture under rotational forces about the longitudinal axis of the spatula during use.

Abstract: Device for determining the size of a blind void comprises an elongated rigid rod, an actuator slidably movable relative to the rod, the actuator having a distal end for insertion into the void, a distal flexible element fixed at one end thereof to the rod, a second flexible element fixed at one end thereof to the rod and proximally removed from the distal flexible element. Movement of the actuator is operative to cause equal movements of the distal end portions of the distal and proximal elements, to cause the distal element to bulge outwardly from the rod to engage interior walls of the void and to cause the proximal element to bulge outwardly in a configuration duplicative of the distal element bulge, the proximal element being outside of the void and subject to observation.

Abstract: A therapeutic bed mattress. In one embodiment, the bed mattress includes a mattress frame (1A), rope elements (26) are secured substantially to an upper surface of the bed frame. The rope elements are secured between at least two sides of the bed frame. At least one vibration member (16) is attached to and below the rope elements. The vibration member includes a shaft (12), a pulley (13) attached axially to one end of the shaft, and a counterweight (11) attached to the shaft. At least one motor (10) including an output shaft (12) and a motor pulley (14) axially attached to the output shaft vibrates the rope elements. At least one belt (9) is secured between the pulley of the vibration member and the motor pulley of the motor, such that when the motor is powered, the output shaft of the motor rotates the motor pulley which rotates the belt such that the pulley of the vibration member is rotated to rotate the shaft of the vibration member and the counterweight, in order to vibrate the rope elements.

Abstract: A therapeutic vibrator comprising a motor contained in a housing, a diaphragm mounted on said housing, and a reciprocating arm connecting the motor to the diaphragm. The housing is fitted with at least one one-way air valve, and at least one air hole so that in operation, the changing volume in the housing effects the pumping of air across the motor and any circuitry to provide cooling. To improve efficiency, a divider plate with at least one air hole is disposed proximate the reciprocating arm to limit the volume of the pumping chamber.

Abstract: A method and appliance for the application of a continuous, low level force tending to oppose rotational movement of the hand about the carpus. This opposing force tends to relieve contractatures of the transverse carpal, volar carpal, and intra carpal ligaments over time, thus relieving the pain caused by carpal tunnel syndrome and correcting altered kinematics associated therewith. This opposing force tends to increase the carpal volume. According to the principles of the invention, a dynamic splint appliance is described which provides free movement of the patient's wrist with minimal impediment during activities of daily living, both at home and at work, while simultaneously applying this opposing force.

Abstract: Blood processing systems and related methods place first and second fluid pressure actuated pump stations in in-line communication between a source and a destination. The systems and methods apply fluid pressure pump strokes to the first and second pump stations to convey fluid from the source to the destination. The systems and methods switch between a first flow mode and a second flow mode. In the first flow mode, the pump strokes draw a fluid volume into the first pump station from the source and expel a fluid volume from the second pump station to the destination. In the second flow mode, the pump strokes draw a fluid volume into the second pump station from the source and expel a fluid volume from the first pump station to the destination. The systems and methods synchronize the pump strokes so that fluid flow from the source is essentially continuous while fluid flow to the destination is pulsatile.

Abstract: A system for delivering ultrasound energy to a treatment section in a vessel is disclosed. The system includes a sheath with a utility lumen and an energy delivery section at least partially constructed from a material which transmits ultrasound energy. The system also includes a drug delivery member having a plurality of drug delivery ports which are positioned adjacent the energy delivery section. The system further includes an elongated body including at least one ultrasound element and configured to be movably positioned within the utility lumen to transmit the ultrasound energy from the ultrasound element through the energy delivery section.

Abstract: An ultrasonic catheter drug delivery device comprises an ultrasound transducer to produce ultrasonic waves, which transducer is mechanically attached to a catheter body or chamber. The ultrasonic transducer has a distal tip with a distal radiation surface, and when a therapeutic agent from a fluid source is directed to the catheter body or chamber, the radiation surface creates ultrasonic pressure and delivers liquid and simultaneously ultrasonic energy to a patient's vascularity or a selected body lumen. The method applies therapeutic agent and ultrasonic waves to the vascular area, lung or any body lumen without requiring direct contact between ultrasound transducer and body, dissolves blood clots, and stimulates tissue cells.

Abstract: An intraocular surgical apparatus including an introduction tube for introducing perfusate into a closed intraocular affected part, a discharge tube for discharging the affected part and the perfusate, a perfusate feed passage connected to the introduction tube and incorporating a perfusate reservoir for feeding the perfusate with a predetermined rest liquid head pressure, a valve for controlling the amount of perfusate fed from the reservoir to the introduction tube, and a discharge passage connected to the discharge tube and incorporating a suction pump. The perfusate feed passage further incorporates, at a passage portion thereof from the control valve to an outlet opening of the introduction tube, a pressure-reduction compensating means for feeding supplementary perfusate into the closed intraocular affected part through a supplementing passage having a smaller passage resistance than the perfusate feed passage in the event of and in association with abnormal pressure reduction inside the affected part.

Abstract: A breastpump is provided with a universal suction hood base that can be used with a set of different shields. An improved shield is further disclosed which is more flexible and conforms more readily to the breast, and also provides massage.

Abstract: An apparatus for delivering aerosolized fibrin endoscopically to a wound is disclosed. The apparatus has a pair of syringes for holding fibrin precursors, a mixing chamber for mixing the fibrin precursors separately with pressurized gas to form individual aerosol solutions, and a delivery tube for delivery of the aerosol solutions to a remote surgical site for formation of an aerosolized fibrin seal.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a drug delivery device for mixing and delivering a drug by injection. The device includes a housing having a first port or opening therein that receives a first container that contains a fluid or powdered drug, for example a lyophilized drug. The housing can also include a second port or opening that receives a second container that contains a fluid to be mixed with the drug to form an injectable fluid. The device includes a manifold having a channel that fluidly connects the first and second containers. A penetrating membrane such as a needle is used to inject the drug into a patient which is in fluid communication with the first container. The needle is movable from a storage position in the housing to an injection position extending through the housing.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are disclosed for treating body tissue whereby a section of tissue is drawn into contact with the open distal end of the first passageway of the apparatus. A tissue treatment fluid is introduced into the second passageway for treating the desired section of tissue retained within the first passageway. Methods and apparatus are also disclosed for positioning a medical device at a desired location within the heart. A portion of the apparatus is retained at a desired location of the heart and a medical device is extended through a passageway of the apparatus for contacting the heart at the desired location.

Abstract: A balloon catheter is provided with a core insertable from a connector into an inside of a shaft. When an operation for insertion/retraction of the core is carried out by pinching an operating part, the core slides along the shaft and the depth of the core in the shaft is thereby adjusted. When the core is inserted deeper in the shaft, the region of the shaft with a high rigidity increases with the core out to the shaft's distal end. On the other hand, when the core is retracted to the fore side, the rigidity of the shaft at its distal end side becomes lower and the flexibility of the balloon catheter becomes higher.

Abstract: A rapid exchange stent delivery catheter which includes an inner tubular member and an outer tubular member slidably disposed thereon. The inner tubular member and the outer tubular member have rapid exchange type guide wire openings. The guide wire opening of the outer tubular member is preferably shorter in length than the guide wire opening of the inner tubular member to protect the inner workings of the catheter. The outer tubular member may include a guide wire access sleeve having a guide wire ramp extending into the guide wire lumen of the inner tubular member. The guide wire sleeve may be a separate component from the remainder of the outer tubular member to facilitate efficient manufacture.