Biocompatible connectors for implants

ImplanTac connectors are biocompatible for implantable medical devices where reliability, dependability, and ease-of-use are critical. Implanted devices such as pacemakers, internal cardiac defibrillators, neurostimulators, metabolic controls, circulation pumps, bone growth simulators, and pain management devices will benefit from this technology. The ImplanTac contact, based on low-force, low-resistance, Hypertac contact technology, is composed of biocompatible materials and designed to prevent faulty connections and high risk factors that may have been an issue in the past. The ImplanTac biocompatible contact solution offers surgeons the ability to easily mate implanted leads into devices without misalignment, damage to the system, or risk to the patient. Specialty mating tools and the life threatening hazard of applying unnecessary pressure to the patient during the mating process are eliminated.

Hypertronics Corp., 16 Brent Dr., Hudson, MA 01749, (800) 225-9228, www.info.hotims.com/18361-275

Multi-shot injection molding saves time on assembly

Phillips Plastics has broadened its manufacturing capabilities to include multi-shot liquid silicone injection molding (MS LSR), a process that combines liquid silicone rubber and traditional thermoplastics in one molded part. This process brings together the advantages of multi-shot thermoplastic molding with the properties of silicone to produce a versatile, soft feel part with biocompatibility, chemical resistance, clarity, and the ability to withstand harsh environments. MS LSR is an easy way to cost-effectively add product features and opens design options that are aesthetically appealing and economical from an engineering perspective. MS LSR saves on assembly costs, by reducing part count and the amount of material needed to make two separate components.

Phillips Plastics Corp., N4660 1165th St., P.O. Box 185, Prescott, WI 54021, (715) 262-8000, www.info.hotims.com/18361-276

Lightweight, brushless dc pumps

Brushless dc WOB-L air compressors and vacuum pumps are for medical applications requiring a small-size and lightweight pump with variable output. The 250 series pump is extremely small (4.25 × 4.54 × 3.02-in.) and weighs only 1.9 lbs. In addition, the 260 Series features variable output (1,000 to 3,000 rpm) using an efficient brushless dc motor, an enclosed crankcase for reduced sound, and the proven reliability of Thomas' WOB-L piston technology.

Thomas Products Div., 419 Illinois Ave., Sheboygan, WI 53082, (920) 457-4891, www.info.hotims.com/18361-277

How to talk to remote devices

The WST-2000 provides a wireless communication device that combines a 2.4GHz, IEEE 802.15.4 compliant radio transceiver with an 8-bit microcontroller. The radio provides best-in-class RF performance with excellent sensitivity, and it transmits long range. A flexible RF interface allows for single antenna or dual antenna operation to provide multipath diversity.

Winland Electronics Inc., 1950 Excel Dr., Mankato, MN 56001, (507) 625-7231, www.info.hotims.com/18361-278

Sealed bearings keep oil out of production

Sealed solid-lubricant bearings are installed with oil-filled polymers which, while having some of the properties of solids, actually lubricates them with a film of oil. Oil-filled polymers can contain approximately twice the amount of oil than most greases thereby making more oil available for lubrication. The bearings work well in harsh manufacturing environments, are available from 1/8 to 1-in. ID, and from metric 10 to 50mm ID. Most sizes come in chrome steel or stainless steel.

Sapporo Precision Bearings USA, 1193 Tallevast Rd., Sarasota, FL 34243, (941) 358-1655, www.info.hotims.com/18361-280