MXPA98000238A - Implan manufacturing method and apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to an apparatus for manufacturing an implant comprising: a) a base having a platform that is adapted to receive a flat metal sheet to form the implant, the flat metal sheet has a longitudinal axis, a first larger surface, a second larger surface, a first long side and a second long side, the first and second long sides are substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the implant, b) a mandrel having a substantially cylindrical external surface and having a first end and a second end defining a longitudinal axis, the mandrel is sized to have a diameter of cross section substantially equal to or smaller than the internal diameter of the implant to be manufactured, c) means for securing the mandrel against a larger surface of the flat metal sheet; d) a plurality of deflection vanes arranged around the periphery of the mandrel to deform the metal sheet lica flat against the outer surface of the mandrel so that the metal sheet is deformed into a substantially tubular shape, the vanes are placed between the first end and the second end of the mandrel, each of the deformation vanes are adapted for independent movement and selective in a first direction towards the mandrel and a second direction opposite the mandrel to selectively impact on the mandrel or on a portion of the sheet placed between the mandrel and each of the deformation vanes, each of the deformation vanes is further adapted so that the first long side and the second long side of the sheet remain substantially parallel to each other when the implant deforms in the tubular configuration e) means for selectively moving each of the deformation vanes in a first direction toward the mandrel and in a second direction opposite the mandrel, and f) means for securing the first long side of the mandrel; blade to the second long side of the blade, wherein a plurality of the blades of deformation adapt to secure the first long side and the second long side against the outer surface of the mandrel while allowing a laser to come into contact with the first long side and the second long side for securing the first long side to the second long side, and wherein a plurality of the deformation vanes are provided with a plurality of sealed openings, the openings are dimensioned and positioned to allow the plurality of vanes to secure the first long side and long tapping against the external surface of the mandrel while providing access to the laser at predetermined portions of the first side and the long side to secure the first long side to the second side

Description

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MANUFACTURING IMPLANTS FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates generally to methods for manufacturing implants (stent).

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Implants are known in the art. HE ^ 10 typically form a cylindrical metal mesh that can expand when pressure is applied internally. Alternatively, they can be formed from coiled wire in a cylindrical shape. As described in the United States Patent of North America Number 4,776,337 of Palmaz, the "cylindrical" metal mesh shape is produced by laser cutting a thin-walled metal tube, the laser cuts everything except the lines and curves of the mesh. United of 20 North America Number '337 is applicable for relatively large mesh shapes, and for meshes whose lines are relatively wide, however, for more delicate and / or intricate shapes, the size of the laser dot is too large. THE PRESENT INVENTION Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide a method of manufacturing implants, which can produce implants with relatively intricate and / or delicate designs.The method involves first creating a flat version of the desired implant pattern from a piece of thin metal sheet.The flat pattern can be produced through any suitable technique, such as recording n of the design in the metal sheet, or by cutting with a very fine laser, if one were to be commercially available, or by any other technique. Once the metal sheet has been cut, it is deformed to make its edges meet. To create a cylindrical implant from a flat metallic pattern, roughly rectangular, the flat metal is rolled until the edges are found. The places where the edges meet are joined together, such as by spot welding. Then, the implant is polished, either mechanically or electrochemically. It is an object of this invention to provide an apparatus for manufacturing an implant, which comprises: a) a platform adapted to receive a flat metal sheet to form the implant, the flat metal sheet having a longitudinal axis, a first larger surface, a second larger surface, a first long side, and a second long side, the first and second long sides being substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the sheet; 5 b) a mandrel having a substantially cylindrical external surface, and having a first end and a second end defining a longitudinal axis, the mandrel being dimensioned to have a cross-sectional diameter substantially equal to, or smaller than, the diameter f10 internal of the implant to be manufactured; c) an element for securing the mandrel against a larger surface of the flat metal sheet, * and d) an element for deforming the flat metal sheet against the external surface of the mandrel, in such a way that the flat metal sheet is deformed to a substantially tubular configuration, the deforming element adapting in such a manner that the first long side and the second long side remain substantially parallel to each other when the flat metal sheet is deformed to the shape tubular. It is another object of this invention to provide an apparatus for manufacturing an implant, which comprises: a) a base having a platform adapted to receive a flat metal foil to form the implant, The flat metal sheet having a longitudinal axis, a first larger surface, a second larger surface, a first long side, and a second long side, the first and second long sides being substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the implant; 5 b) a mandrel having a substantially cylindrical external surface, and having a first end and a second end defining a longitudinal axis, the mandrel being dimensioned to have a section diameter ^ transverse substantially equal to, or less than, the diameter ^^ 10 internal of the implant to be manufactured; c) an element for securing the mandrel against a larger surface of the flat metal sheet; d) a plurality of deflection vanes arranged around the mandrel periphery, to deform the flat metal sheet against the outer surface of the mandrel, in such a way that the flat metal sheet is deformed to a substantially tubular configuration, the vanes being arranged between the first end and the second end of the mandrel, each of the deformation vanes being adapted for an independent and selective movement in a first direction towards the mandrel, and a second direction away from the mandrel, to selectively impact on the mandrel or on a portion of the sheet disposed between the mandrel and each of the deformation blades, adapting further each one of the deformation vanes so that the first long side and the second long side of the sheet remain substantially parallel to each other when the implant is deformed to the tubular configuration; e) an element for selectively moving each one of the deformation vanes in a first direction towards the mandrel, and in a second direction moving away from the mandrel; and f) an element for securing the first long side of the sheet to the second long side of the sheet. ^ It is still another object of this invention ^ r 10 provide an apparatus for manufacturing an implant, which comprises: an element for securing the first long side of the sheet to the second long side of the sheet. It is still another object of this invention to provide an apparatus for manufacturing an implant, which comprises: a) a base; b) a sheet receiving area disposed on the base, the area adapting to receive a metal sheet flat to be formed in the implant, the flat metal sheet having a longitudinal axis, a first large surface, a second large surface, a long first side, and a long second side, the first and second long sides being substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis; C) an arm having a first end and a second end, the first end of the arm adapting to selectively retain a mandrel having a substantially cylindrical external surface, the second end of the arm being hingedly articulated with the base, and adapted to move in a first direction toward the base, and a second direction away from the base, and further adapted to secure the mandrel against a larger surface of the flat metal sheet disposed on the implant receiving area disposed on the base, the mandrel being dimensioned to have a cross section diameter substantially equal to, or less than, the internal cross section diameter of the implant to be manufactured; d) an element for deforming the flat piece of metal against the outer surface of the mandrel, such that the flat metal sheet is deformed to a substantially tubular configuration, substantially conforming to the outer surface of the mandrel, with the first long side and the second long side substantially parallel to each other. It is still another object of this invention to provide an implant welding and alignment rig, which comprises: a) a base having a first end and a second end, a first wall having a first end and a second end, and a first larger surface and a second larger surface; having a second wall a first end and a second end, and a first larger surface and a second larger surface, defining the second greater surface of the first wall, and the first surface of the second wall, a longitudinal U-shaped channel having a longitudinal axis in the base, the first wall being provided with a plurality of grooves defining a plurality of first fastening portions having an -, upper end and a lower end, and a first The larger surface and a second larger surface, each of the first fastening portions being provided with a first concave channel disposed at the upper end of the second larger surface of the first fastening portion, and a second concave channel disposed therein. bottom end of the second major surface of the first fastening portion, the first and second concave channels being substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the U-shaped channel; being *** & the first wall of each of the plurality of first fastening portions provided with a compensating groove disposed between the first concave channel and the second concave channel, the compensation groove being substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the U-shaped channel. B) a plurality of second holding portions disposed in the U-shaped channel between the second The upper surface of the first wall, and the first larger surface of the second wall, each of the second registration portions being arranged in registration with one of the first securing portions, each of the second securing portions having an upper end. a lower end, a first larger surface, a second larger surface, a first smaller surface disposed at the upper end, a second smaller surface disposed at the lower end, a third smaller surface disposed between the upper end and the lower end, and a fourth smaller surface arranged opposite the third smaller surface between the upper end and the lower end, each of the second securing portions being provided with a first concave channel disposed at the upper end of the first larger surface of the second portion of clamping, and a second concave channel disposed at the lower end of the first surface orb of the second holding portion, the first and second concave channels being substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the U-shaped channel; c) a forcing element disposed between the first larger surface of the second wall, and the second larger surface of each of the plurality of second securing portions, for forcing the first larger surface of each of the second securing portions against the second larger surface of each of the first fastening portions that are in register with each other; d) a first pin for positioning the mandrel support lever, which projects from the third minor surface, and a second pin for positioning the mandrel support lever, which projects from the third minor surface, and a second pin for positioning the mandrel support lever projecting from the fourth minor surface of each of the second securing portions, the positioning pins of the mandrel support lever being substantially parallel to the axis'? 10 longitudinal of the U-shaped channel; e) a forcing control element for selectively controlling the distance between the second larger surface of each of the first holding portions, and the first larger surface of each of the second portions fastening; f) a retaining mandrel disposed in the second concave channel of the first wall and in the second concave channel of each of the second securing portions; and g) a mandrel support lever for supporting the implant during alignment of the first long side of the sheet with the second long side of the sheet, the lever being provided with a first mandrel support slot for supporting the first end of the sheet. mandrel, a second mandrel support notch for supporting the second end 25 of the mandrel, a first engagement surface of the mandrel support lever locating pin for engaging with the first mandrel support lever locating pin , and a second mating surface of ^ pin for chuck support lever to engage the second pin for positioning the mandrel support lever, when the mandrel support lever is disposed on the second wall. It is still another object of this invention to provide a method for manufacturing an implant, which comprises the steps of: a) providing a plurality of implant patterns in a flat metal part, each of the patterns having a first long side and a second long side, the first long side being provided with a plurality of pairs of coupling points, the second long side being provided with a plurality of pairs of coupling points, the plurality of pairs of coupling points being arranged substantially opposite each other, the coupling points being dimensioned and arranged to communicate when the pattern is deformed and rolled to a tubular shape, each pair of the first long-side coupling points being provided with a bridge disposed between each first long-side coupling point comprising the pair, the bridge having a width which is less than the width of the other portions of the implant; b) arranging a mandrel having a substantially cylindrical external surface and a longitudinal axis, between the first long side and the second long side of the sheet, the longitudinal axis being substantially parallel to the first long side and the second long side; c) deforming the pattern to a tubular configuration, such that the first pairs of long sides of coupling points contact the second pairs of long sides of coupling points; d) cut the bridge; and e) joining each of the coupling points with the coupling point with which it is in contact, to form the expandable implant. It is still another object of this invention to provide a rig for electropolishing a tubular implant, which comprises. * A) a base; b) a first electrically conductive member having a first end connected to the base, and a second end adapted to selectively contact the outer surface of the tubular implant without damaging the external surface; c) a second electrically non-conductive member, having a first end connected to the base, and a second end adapted to be selectively disposed < Inside the longitudinal hole of the implant, without damaging the longitudinal hole, the first limb and the second limb also being adapted to force the second end of the second limb towards the second end of the first limb, by a sufficient amount to secure the implant between the limbs. first and second members. It is still another object of this invention to provide a method for electropolishing an implant, which comprises the steps of: F 10 a) mounting an implant on a grid, the grid having a first end and a second end provided with a plurality of implant electropolishing, each of the assemblies having a base; a first electrically conductive member having a first end connected with the base, and a second end adapted to selectively make contact with the outer surface of the tubular implant without damaging the external surface; a second electrically non-conductive member having a first end connected to the base, and a second end adapted to be selectively disposed inside the longitudinal hole of the implant without damaging the longitudinal hole, the first member and the second member also being adapted to force the second end of the second member towards the second end of the first member, by an amount sufficient to securing the implant between the first and second members; b) immersing the implant in an electropolishing bath, and applying electric current to the first member for a predetermined period of time; and c) changing the point where the second end 5 of the first member contacts the external surface of the implant, before the expiration of the previously determined period of time. It is still another object of this invention to provide a method for manufacturing an implant, which comprises the steps of: a) providing a plurality of implant patterns in a flat metal part, with each of the patterns having a first side long and a second long side, the first long side being provided with a plurality of pairs of coupling points, the second long side being provided with a plurality of pairs of coupling points, the plurality of pairs of coupling points being arranged substantially opposite each other, the coupling points being dimensioned and arranged to communicate when the pattern is deformed and rolled to a tubular shape, each pair of the first long-side coupling points being provided with a bridge disposed between each first long-side coupling point comprising the pair, the bridge having a width which is less than the width of the other portions of the implant; b) arranging a mandrel having a substantially cylindrical external surface and a longitudinal axis, between the first long side and the second long side of the sheet, the longitudinal axis being substantially parallel to the first and second long sides; c) deforming the pattern to a tubular configuration, such that the first pairs of long sides of coupling points, and allowing a portion of the implant to remain attached to the metal sheet; and 10 d) cutting the bridge; e) joining each of the coupling points with the coupling point with which it is in contact, to form the implant; f) joining an electrode to the metal sheet; 15 g) electropoly the implant; and f) disconnect the implant from the blade. It is still another object of this invention to provide a sheet for manufacturing an implant having a longitudinal chamber: a) a piece of flat metal foil provided with a plurality of implant patterns, each of the patterns having a long first side and a second long side, the first long side being provided with a plurality of pairs of coupling points, the second long side being provided with a plurality of pairs of coupling points, the plurality of coupling point pairs fp being arranged substantially opposite each other, the coupling points being dimensioned and arranged to communicate when deformed and the pattern 5 is wound up to a tubular shape each pair of the first coupling points of the long side being provided with a bridge disposed between each first coupling point of the long side comprising the pair, the bridge having a width that is smaller than the width of the other portions of the implant; It is yet another object of this invention to provide a method for manufacturing an implant having a longitudinal chamber, which comprises the steps of: a.) Constructing an apparatus comprising: a) a laser housing, - 15 b ) a laser disposed inside, "and selectively movable inside, of the housing; c) a movable table having a first end and a second end, and adapted for a selective movement in and out of the laser housing, adapting the table in such a way that, when the first end of the table is arranged inside the laser housing, the second end of the table is disposed outside the housing, and when the second end of the table is disposed inside the laser housing, the first end of the table 25 is disposed outside the laser housing; d) a plurality of implant beams disposed at the first end of the table, and a plurality of implant beams disposed at the second end of the table, each of the implant beams comprising: a) a base having a platform adapted to receive a flat metal sheet to form the implant, the flat metal sheet having a longitudinal axis, a first larger surface, a second larger surface, a long first side, and a second long side, the first and second sides being long substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis, the sheet provided with a plurality of alignment openings; b) a plurality of alignment pins projecting from each of the platforms, The bolts being dimensioned to engage with the alignment openings, and to align the sheet on the platform; c) a mandrel having a substantially cylindrical external surface, and having a first end, a second end, and a longitudinal axis, The mandrel is dimensioned to have a cross-sectional diameter substantially equal to, or smaller than, the internal diameter of the implant to be manufactured, the platform being provided with a first concave recess adapted to receive the first end of the mandrel, and a second recess concave to receive the second end of the mandrel; d) an articulatedly connected arm, adapted to move in a first direction towards the platform, and in a second direction away from the platform to secure the mandrel against a larger surface of the flat metal sheet, - e) a first deformation blade provided with a first tip of deformation blade; a second deformation blade provided with a second deformation blade tip; a third deformation blade provided with a third deformation blade tip, a fourth deformation blade provided with a fourth deformation blade tip; a fifth deflection blade provided with a fifth deformation blade tip; and a sixth deformation blade provided with a sixth deformation blade tip, the blades being arranged around the outer surface of the mandrel, the tips of the deformation blades being adapted to deform the flat metal sheet against the outer surface of the mandrel, so that the flat metallic sheet is deformed to a substantially tubular configuration, substantially conforming to the outer surface, the deformation vanes being arranged between the first end and the second end of the mandrel, each of the deformation vanes adapting for a movement independent and selective in a first direction towards the mandrel, and in a second direction away from the mandrel, to selectively impact the tips of the deformation blades against the mandrel or against a portion of the sheet disposed between the mandrel and each of the tips of the blades of deformation, adapting in addition each of the blades d e deformation so that the first long side and the second long side of the sheet remain substantially parallel to each other when the implant is deformed to the tubular configuration, the third and sixth tips of deflection vanes being provided with a plurality of laser openings scallops, dimensioning and arranging the openings to allow the third and sixth tips of deflection vanes to secure the first long side and the second long side against the outer surface of the mandrel, while providing the laser access to previously determined portions of the first side long and the second long side of the sheet, in order to weld the first long side with the second long side; f) a first motor connected to the first deformation blade; a second motor connected to the second deformation blade; a third motor connected to the third deformation blade; a fourth motor connected to the fourth deformation blade; a fifth motor connected with the fifth deflection blade; and a sixth motor connected with the sixth deformation blade, each of the motors adapting to selectively move each of the deformation blades with which they are connected, in a first direction towards the mandrel and a second direction away from the mandrel; and g) a computer to control: the sequence in which the first end of the table and the second end of the table are arranged inside the laser housing, - to control the sequence and the degree to which each of the plurality of deformation blade tips impact on the mandrel or a portion of the sheet disposed between the mandrel and each of the deformation blade tips; Y to control the sequence, the pattern, the location, and the amount of energy applied by the laser to each of the first and second long sides of each of the sheets arranged on each of the plurality of beams of the implant; 3 15 b.) Cutting a plurality of implant patterns into a flat piece of metal, each of the patterns having a first larger surface and a second larger surface, a first long side and a second long side, the first long side being provided with a plurality of pairs of coupling points, the second long side being provided with a plurality of pairs of coupling points, the plurality of pairs of coupling points being arranged substantially opposite each other, the coupling points being dimensioned and arranged to communicate when the pattern is deformed and rolled up into a tubular configuration, each pair of the coupling points of the first long side being provided with a bridge disposed between each coupling point of the first long side cising the pair, the bridge having a width which is less than the width of the other portions of the implant, the sheet provided with a plurality of alignment openings sized and arranged to engage with the alignment pins on the base; c.) arranging the sheet on the base, in such a way that the first greater surface of the sheet is in contact with the base; d.) disposing a mandrel having a substantially cylindrical external surface and a longitudinal axis, against the second major surface of the sheet, between the first long side and the second long side of the sheet, the longitudinal axis being substantially parallel to the first side long and the second long side; e.) deforming the pattern to a tubular configuration, such that the pairs of coupling points of the first long side contact the pairs of coupling points of the second long side, the step of deforming cising the steps of: a ) actuate the sixth motor of the deformation blade, so that the sixth motor of the deformation blade moves the sixth blade of deformation in a first direction by a sufficient amount so that the tip of the sixth blade of deformation makes contact with the external surface of the mandrel, in order to secure the mandrel with the sheet; b) actuate the first motor of the deformation blade, in such a way that the first deformation blade motor moves to the first deformation blade in the first direction, by an amount sufficient for the tip of the first deformation blade to make contact with the first larger surface of the sheet, and deforming the sheet against the outer surface of the mandrel; c) driving the second deformation blade motor, in such a way that the second deformation blade motor moves the second deformation blade in the first direction, by an amount sufficient for the tip of the second deformation blade to make contact with the first larger surface of the sheet, and deforming the sheet against the outer surface of the mandrel; d) actuate the third deformation blade motor, in such a way that the third deformation blade motor moves the second deflection blade in the first direction, by an amount sufficient for the tip of the third deformation blade to contact With the first major surface of the sheet, deform the sheet against the outer surface of the mandrel, while driving the sixth deformation blade motor, such that the sixth deformation blade moves in the second direction away from the mandrel; e) actuate the fourth 5-blade fan motor, in such a way that the fourth deformation blade motor moves to the tip of the fourth deformation blade in the first direction, by an amount sufficient for the tip of the fourth blade of deformation makes contact with the first major surface of the sheet, and deforms the sheet '10 against the outer surface of the mandrel; f) actuate the fifth deformation blade motor, in such a way that the fifth deformation blade motor moves to the fifth deformation blade in the first direction, by an amount sufficient for the point of the fifth deflection blade makes contact with the first major surface of the sheet, and deforms the sheet against the outer surface of the mandrel; g) drive the sixth deformation blade motor, in such a way that the sixth blade motor of The deformation moves the second deformation blade in the first direction, by an amount sufficient for the tip of the second deformation blade to contact the first larger surface of the sheet, and deform the sheet against the outer surface of the mandrel; 25 h) actuate simultaneously the third and sixth motors of blades of deformation, in such a way that the third and sixth motors of blades of deformation move the third and sixth blades of deformation in the first direction, by an amount sufficient for the tips of the third 5 and sixth blades of deformation make contact with the first major surface of the sheet, and deform the sheet against the outer surface of the mandrel; d) use the laser to cut the bridge; Y ^ 10 e) use the laser to weld each of the coupling points with the coupling point with which it is in contact, to form the expandable implant. It is a further object of this invention to provide an implant having a longitudinal chamber, the comprising: a first long side and a second long side, the first long side being provided with a plurality of pairs of coupling points, the second long side t i being provided with a plurality of pairs of coupling points, the plurality of pairs of points coupling of the first long side and the plurality of pairs of coupling points of the second long side substantially opposite each other, and connected to each other by means of a weld, the weld being wider than the other portions of the implant. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The present invention will be more fully understood and appreciated from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the drawings, in which: Figure 1 is a flow chart illustration of the manufacturing method of implant of the present invention. Figures 2A, 2B, and 2C are illustrations of three alternative implant patterns to be etched, in accordance with the method of Figure 1, into a flat metal sheet. Figure 3 is an isometric illustration of an implant that is being deformed, useful for understanding the method of Figure 1. Figure 4 is an isometric illustration of an implant formed from the method of Figure 1. Figures 5A and 5B are illustrations in side and top view, respectively, of the location of an implant connection of Figure 4. Figure 6 is a side view illustration of the location of an implant connection of Figure 4, which is connected in the manner of a nail. Figure 7 shows a piece of sheet metal with a plurality of patterns made in accordance with the invention.

Figure 8 shows a detailed view of one of Wf ^ - the patterns shown in Figure 7. Figure 9 shows a detailed view of a pair of coupling troughs shown in Figure 8. Figure 10 shows a detailed view of a pair of coupling protuberances shown in the Figure 8. Figure 11 shows the coupling troughs and the coupling protuberances of Figures 9 and 10 in the engaged position. Figure 12 shows a weld practiced in accordance with the invention. Figure 13 is a detailed view of the weld shown in Figure 12. Figure 14 is a detailed view of a cell of an implant made in accordance with this invention. Figure 15 is a detailed view of a cell made in accordance with this invention. Figure 16 shows a cell of an implant made in accordance with this invention. 20 Figure 17 is a view amplified from the cell shown in Figure 16. Figure 18 is a cross-sectional view of a longitudinal member of an implant constructed in accordance with this invention. Figure 19 is a cross-sectional view of f an implant constructed in accordance with this invention. Figure 20 is a perspective view of an implant constructed in accordance with this invention. Figure 21 is a cross-sectional front view of a non-expanded implant made in accordance with the invention. Figure 22 is a front cross-sectional view of the implant shown in Figure 21, after it has expanded. Figure 23 is a front cross-sectional view of a non-expanded implant made by cutting a pattern in a tube. Figure 24 is a cross-sectional front view of the implant shown in Figure 23, after expansion. Figure 25 shows an apparatus for constructing an implant made in accordance with the invention. Figure 26 shows an apparatus for constructing an implant made in accordance with the invention. Figure 27 is an enlarged view of a portion of the apparatus shown in Figure 26. Figure 28 shows the coupling points constructed in accordance with the invention. Figure 29 shows the coupling points 25 constructed in accordance with the invention.

Figures 30A to 301 show the sequence of making * an implant using the apparatus of Figures 25 and 26. Figure 31 shows the details of a V-shaped notch and a recess formed in accordance with the invention. Figure 32 shows the details of two blade deformation tips made in accordance with the invention. Figure 33 shows an alternative embodiment of coupling coupling points constructed in accordance with the invention. Figure 34 shows an alternative embodiment of the coupling points constructed in accordance with the invention. Figure 35 shows a mandrel used according to the invention. Figure 36 shows a mandrel receiving surface made in accordance with the invention. Figure 37 shows an alternative embodiment of an apparatus constructed in accordance with the invention. Figure 38 is a top view of Figure 37. Figure 39 shows an element for deforming an implant made in accordance with the embodiment shown in Figures 37 and 38. Figure 40 is a side view of the deformation element shown in FIG. Figure 39. Figure 41 shows an implant welding and alignment rig constructed in accordance with the invention. Figure 42 shows a mandrel support lever. Figure 43 is a front view of the rig shown in Figure 41. Figure 44 is a top view of the rig shown in Figure 43. Figure 45 shows the mandrel support lever of Figure 42, disposed on the rigging of Figure 41. Figure 46 shows an assembly for electropolishing an implant. Figure 47 shows the assembly of Figure 46, with the implant moved in a longitudinal direction. Figure 48 shows a grid for electropolishing an implant, with material to be sacrificed arranged at the ends. Figure 49 shows an implant still attached to a metal foil for electropolishing by attaching an electrode to the foil. Figure 50 is a side view of Figure 49, showing the implant and the remaining portion of the sheet. > _ DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF A PREFERRED MODALITY? Reference is now made to Figure 1, which illustrates the implant fabrication method of the present invention, and to Figures 2A, 2B, 2C, 3, and 4, which are useful for understanding the method of Figure 1. In the implant manufacturing method of the present invention, an implant designer first prepares a pattern of the desired implant pattern in a flat format (step 10) ™ 10 Figures 2A, 2B, and 2C illustrate three designs of example implant patterns. The pattern of Figure 2A has two types of sections 20 and 22. Each section 20 has two opposite periodic patterns, and each section 22 has a plurality of connecting lines 24. The pattern of the Figure 2A can be formed in any size; A preferable size is to make each section 20 between 1 and 6 millimeters wide, and each section 22 has connecting lines 24 of 1 to 6 millimeters in length. In these sizes, the pattern of the Figure 2A can not be cut using a cutting system with laser. The pattern in Figure 2B is similar to that in the Figure 2A and that also has the sections 20 of opposite periodic patterns. The pattern in Figure 2B also has the connection sections, labeled 30, which have a form of Z.

The pattern in Figure 2C has no connection sections. Instead, it has a series of alternating patterns, labeled 32 and 34. The patterns of Figures 2A, 2B, and 2C, optionally also have a plurality of small protuberances 38 that are useful for forming the implant, as described later in the present. Returning to Figure 1, in step 12, the implant pattern is cut to a piece of flat metal ("foil"). The metal can be any type of biocompatible material, such as stainless steel, or a material that is veneered with a biocompatible material. The cutting operation can be implemented in any of a number of ways, such as by recording, or by cutting with a fine cutting tool, or by cutting with a very fine laser, if one becomes commercially available. If step 12 is implemented with recording, then the process is designed to cut through the metal sheet. This process is known; however, for the purposes of integrity, it will be briefly described later in this. The drawing of the pattern is reduced and printed on a transparent film. Since it is desired to cut completely through the metal, the drawing is printed on two films that are joined together in a few places a. along its banks. The metal sheet is covered, over ? both sides, with a layer of photoresist, and placed between the two transparent printed films. The structure is illuminated on both sides, which makes the portions of the photoresistor that receives the light (which are all the empty spaces of the pattern, such as spaces 26 of the Figure 2A) change properties. The metal sheet is placed in acid, which eats away the portions of the photoresist that change from ^^ 10 properties. Then the metal sheet is placed in a recording solution, which records all the material on which there is no photoresistor removal solution, which removes the photoresist, leaving the metal that has the desired implant pattern. 15 In step 14, the metal pattern is deformed to make its long sides (labeled 28 in the Figures) 2A, 2B, and 2C) meet each other. Figure 3? RW illustrates the deformation process. For cylindrical implants, the deformation process is a process of rolled, as shown. If the protrusions 38 have been produced after the deformation of the metal pattern, the protuberances 38 protrude over the edge 28 to which they are not joined. This is illustrated in Figure 5A. In step 16, the edges 28 are joined together by any suitable process, such as spot welding. If the protuberances 38 were made, the protrusions 38 are joined to the opposite edge 28, either by welding, adhesive, or as illustrated in Figure 6, with a nail-shaped element 40. Figure 5B illustrates the connection of the protrusion with the opposite edge 28. Since the protrusion 38 is typically designed to extend by width of a cycle 39, the pattern is approximately retained. This is seen in Figure 5B. In an alternative way, the edges 28 can be joined and joined at the appropriate places. Figure 4 illustrates an implant 31 formed by the process of steps 10 to 16 for the pattern of Figure 2A. It is noted that this implant has the connection points 32 formed by the junction of the points 30. Finally, the implant 31 is polished to remove any excess material not properly removed by the cutting process (step 12). The polishing can be performed mechanically, by rubbing a polishing rod having diamond powder on its exterior inside the implant 31. Alternatively, an electropolishing unit can be used. Figure 7 shows an alternative embodiment of the invention, wherein a plurality of patterns 120 are engraved and cut into the metal sheet 121 as discussed above. Figure 8 is an amplified view of one of f the plurality of patterns 120 shown in Figure 7. Figure 9 is an amplified view of a pair 127 of the plurality of coupling troughs 128 and 129 5 shown in Figure 8. Figure 10 is an enlarged view of a pair 130 of the plurality of coupling protuberances 131 and 132 shown in Figure 8. The metal sheet 121, and each of the patterns 120, is provided with a plurality of alignment openings 122. and 122 ', adapted to receive the gear teeth (not shown), to move and maintain precisely the precise alignment of the metal sheet 121 and the patterns 120 during the different stages of manufacture. Each pattern 120 has a first long side 123 and a second long side 124, a first short side 125 and a second short side 126. The first long side 123 is provided with a plurality of pairs 127, 127 'and 127"of coupling troughs 128 and 129 (shown in greater detail in Figure 9). 127 ', and 127"of coupling troughs has a first coupling trough 128 and a second coupling trough 129. The second long side 124 is provided with a plurality of pairs 130, 130 ', and 130"of coupling protuberances (shown in greater detail in Figure 10) each pair 130, 130' and 130"of coupling protuberances, is provided with a first coupling protrusion 131 and a second coupling protrusion 132. The pairs of protuberances of • coupling 130, 130 'and 130"are disposed substantially opposite the pairs of coupling troughs 127, 127', and 127". The coupling troughs 128 and 129 are arranged and adapted to receive and engage the coupling protuberances 131 and 132, so that the alignment of the implant is maintained when the pattern 120 is deformed, and the planar metal sheet is wound up. , so that the first long 123 and the second long side 124 meet one another to form a tube, as shown in Figures 19 and 20. A bridge 133 of material is provided between each pair 127, 127 ', and 127"of feeding troughs. coupling 128 and 129. This bridge 133 imparts additional stability and facilitates alignment during manufacturing, and imparts additional strength to the welds of the finished implant as discussed below. After the sheet has been wound on a tubular implant, and that the coupling troughs 128 and 129 have received mating bosses 131 and 132, elements (not shown) are used to maintain alignment, and bridge 133 is cut to leave two substantially equal parts. Bridge 133 can be cut in a variety of ways well known to experts in this field; however, in a preferred embodiment, a laser is used. The coupling trough 128 is welded to the coupling protrusion 131, and the coupling trough 129 is welded to the coupling boss 132, as shown in Figures 12 and 13. This can be done in a variety of well ways. known to experts in this field; however, in a preferred embodiment, a plurality of spot welds are used. In an especially preferred embodiment, approximately 5 spot welds are used. In a particularly preferred embodiment, approximately 5 spot welds are used in each weld, as shown in Figures 12 and 13. The heat produced by the weld fuses the material of the cut bridge 133, and the material is directed towards the tundish. coupling 128 or 129 with which the material is attached, and directs towards the welded area between the coupling trough and the coupling boss, where the additional bridge material becomes part of, and imparts resistance # additional to, welding. Then the implant can be finished as discussed above. Figure 13 is an enlarged view of the welded area shown in Figure 12. In a preferred embodiment, the weld is offset from the point where the coupling trough and the mating protuberance make contact with each other. In an especially preferred embodiment, the welding is out of phase by approximately 0.01 millimeters.

Figure 14 is a detailed view of the pattern shown in Figure 8. As shown in Figures 14 and 20, Applicants' invention can also be described as an expandable implant defining a longitudinal opening 80 having a longitudinal axis or extension 79, and a circumferential axis or extension 105, including a plurality of flexible cells 50 connected to each of the flexible cells 50 having a first longitudinal end 77 and a second longitudinal end 78. Each cell 50 is also provided with a first longitudinal apex 100 disposed at the first longitudinal end 77, and a second longitudinal apex 104 disposed at the second longitudinal end 78. Each cell 50 also includes a first member 51 having a longitudinal component having a first end 52 and a second end 53; a second member 54 having a longitudinal component having a first end 55 and a second end 56; a third member 57 having a longitudinal component having a first end 58 and a second end 59; and a fourth member 60 having a longitudinal component having a first end 61 and a second end 62. The implant also includes a first cycle 63 defining a first angle 64 disposed between the first end 52 of the first member 51, and the first end 55 of the second member 54. A second cycle 65 is provided which defines a second angle 66 between the second end 59 of the third member 57, and the second end 62 of the fourth member 60, and is disposed generally opposite the first cycle 63. it provides a first flexible compensation member or flexible link 67, having a first end 68 and a second end 69, between the first member 51 and the third member 57, the first end 68 of the first flexible compensation member or flexible link 67 communicating with the second end 53 of the first member 51, and the second end 69 of the first flexible compensation member or flexible link 67 communicating with the first end 58 of the third member. Figure 57. The first end 68 and the second end 69 are disposed at a variable longitudinal distance 70 from each other. A second flexible compensation member 71 is provided, having a first end 72 and a second end 73, between the second member 54 and the fourth member 60. The first end 72 of the second flexible compensation member or flexible link 71, communicates with the second end 56 of the second member 54, and the second end 73 of the second flexible compensation member or flexible link 71 communicates with the first end 61 of the fourth member 60. The first end 72 and the second end 73 are disposed at a variable longitudinal distance 74 one from the other. In a preferred embodiment, the first and second flexible compensation members or flexible links 67 and 71 are arcuate. The first and second flexible compensation members or flexible links 67 and 71 are differentially extensible or compressible when the implant is bent in a curved direction away from the longitudinal axis 79 of the opening 80. (Shown in Figure 20). The first member 51, the second member 54, the third member 57, and the fourth member 60, and the first cycle 63 and the second cycle 65, and the first flexible compensation member or flexible link 67 and the second flexible compensation member or flexible link 71, are arranged in such a way that, as the implant expands, the distance between the first flexible compensation member or flexible link 67 and the second flexible compensation member or flexible link 71 increases, and the longitudinal component of the first member 51, the second member 54, the third member 57, and the fourth member 60, while the first cycle 63 and the second cycle 65 remain generally opposed to each other, the ends 68 and 69 of the first member of flexible compensation or flexible link 67 and ends 72 and 73 of the second flexible compensation member or flexible link 71 are opened to increase the variable longitudinal distance 70 between the first end 68 and the second end 69 of the first flexible compensation member or flexible link 67, and to increase the variable longitudinal distance 74 between the first end 72 and the second end 73 of the second flexible compensation member or flexible link 71. This compensates for the decrease of the longitudinal component of the first member 51, the second member 54, the third member 57, and the fourth member 60, and substantially decreases the shortening of the implant on its expansion. Upon expansion, the first flexible compensation member 67 and the second flexible compensation member 71 support the camera being treated. Figure 15 shows the dimensions of an especially preferred embodiment of this invention. The f 10 points of deviation, that is, the first and second cycles 63 and 65, and the first and second compensation members 67 and 71, become wider than the first, second, third and fourth members 51, 54, 57 , and 60, in such a way that the force of the deviation is distributed over a wider area over the expansion of the implant. The deviation points can be made wider than the first, second, third and fourth members in different quantities, so that the? F-deviation will occur in the narrower areas first, due to the decreased resistance. In a modality Preferred, the first and second compensation members are wider than the first, second, third, and fourth members, and the first and second cycles are wider than the first and second compensation members. One of the advantages of sizing the first and second cycles of such So that they are wider than the first and second compensation members, it is that the implant will substantially compensate # the shortening as the implant expands. In the embodiment shown in Figure 15, the first, second, third, and fourth members 51, 54, 57, and 60, have a width 5 of approximately 0.1 millimeters. The first and second cycles 63 and 65 have a width of approximately 0.14 millimeters. The first and second compensation members 67 and 71 are provided with a thickened portion 75 and 76, which has a width of approximately 0.12 millimeters. By F 10 accordingly, in this especially preferred embodiment, the first and second cycles have a width that is approximately 40 percent greater, and the first and second compensation members have a width that is approximately 20 percent greater than the width of the first 15, second, third, and fourth members. Figures 16 to 20 show the details of an implant constructed in accordance with this invention. to . Yet another advantage of the applicant's invention is shown in Figures 21 to 24. For greater clarity, the dimension and degree of displacement of the components of the implants shown in Figures 21 to 24 have been intentionally exaggerated. Figure 21 is a cross-sectional front view taken along line A-A of the implant not expanded made in accordance with the applicant's invention, shown in Figure 20. The unexpanded implant 200 of Figure 21 is shown disposed in chamber 202 of a blood vessel 201 before expansion. As discussed above, this implant is made by first cutting the implant pattern in a flat piece of metal foil, and then wrapping the foil in a tube to form the tubular implant. As shown in Figure 21, after rolling, the first and second flexible compensation members 67 and 71 of the unexpanded implant tend to "roll out" in a direction away from the longitudinal axis or implant chamber. Accordingly, the flexible compensation members 67 and 71 define external diameters that are greater than the external diameters defined by the remaining portions of the implant. Figure 22 shows the implant of Figure 21 after it has expanded into the chamber and against the inner wall of the blood vessel. As shown in Figure 22, on the expansion of the unexpanded implant towards the wall of the blood vessels, the wall of the blood vessel imparts a mechanical force to the first and second flexible compensation members 67 and 71, and the compensation members. they move towards the longitudinal axis or camera of the implant, until they are substantially in register with the remaining portion of the implant. Accordingly, the expanded implant chamber is substantially circular when seen in the cross section, with substantially no portion of the expanded implant projecting into the chamber or toward the longitudinal axis of the expanded implant. Figure 23 is similar to Figure 21, with the exception that the pattern has been cut into a tubular member using conventional methods of implant fabrication. As shown in Figure 23, the flexible compensation members do not flip outwardly away from the longitudinal axis of the unexpanded implant 203. Upon expansion of the implant shown in Figure 23 toward the walls of the blood vessel 201, the compensation members flexible 67 'and 71' have to "turn inward", and project into the chamber 204 of the expanded implant 203. Figure 24 shows implant 203 of the Figure 23, after it has expanded into a chamber 204 of a blood vessel 201. The flexible compensation members 67 'and 71' are not in register with the remaining portions of the implant and define a diameter smaller than the diameter of the portions. remaining of the implant. These projections into the implant chamber create turbulence in a fluid flowing through the longitudinal axis of the expanded implant, and could result in the formation of clots. The applicant's invention also relates to an apparatus for manufacturing an implant, which comprises a platform, a mandrel, and an element for deforming a metal foil around the mandrel. The platform is adapted to receive a flat metal foil 5 to be formed in an implant. In a preferred embodiment, the flat metal sheet is provided with a first end, a second end defining a longitudinal axis, a first large surface, a second large surface, a long first side, a long second side, The first and second long sides being substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the sheet. The mandrel has a substantially cylindrical external surface, and a first end and a second end defining a longitudinal axis. The mandrel is dimensioned to have a section diameter transverse substantially equal to, or less than, the internal diameter of an implant to be manufactured. An element is provided to secure the mandrel against a larger surface of the flat metal sheet. An element is also provided for deforming the flat metal foil around the outer surface of the mandrel, in order to deform the flat metal sheet in a substantially tubular configuration substantially conforming to the outer surface of the mandrel. In a preferred embodiment, the element for deforming the sheet is adapted in such a way that the first The long side and the second long side remain substantially JET parallel to each other when the flat metal sheet is deformed into a tubular configuration. An element, for example, a welding apparatus, a laser device, an adhesive, or a screw, secures the first long side of the sheet to the second long side of the sheet. In the operation of a preferred embodiment, a plurality of implant patterns are cut or engraved on a flat metal part. Each of the patterns has a long first side and a long second side, the first being The long side provided with a plurality of pairs of coupling points, and the second long side being provided with a plurality of pairs of coupling points. The plurality of pairs of coupling points are disposed substantially opposite each other, and are sized and arranged to communicate when the pattern deforms and coils in a tubular configuration. Each pair of coupling points of the first long side is provided with a bridge disposed between each coupling point of the first long side comprising the pair, the bridge having a width that is less than the width of the other portions of the implant. A mandrel is disposed between the first and second long sides of the sheet. The mandrel has a substantially cylindrical external surface, and a longitudinal axis substantially parallel to the first long side and the second long side. The pattern is deformed in a tubular configuration, such that the pairs of coupling points of the first long side contact the pairs of coupling points of the second long side. The bridge is cut, and each of the coupling points is attached to the coupling point with which it is in contact, to form the expandable implant. Figures 25 to 28 show a preferred embodiment of an apparatus for manufacturing an implant, constructed in accordance with the applicant's invention. The apparatus comprises a laser housing 300, a laser device 301, a movable table 302, and a plurality of implant beams 303 disposed on the table. The laser device 301 is disposed within and selectively movable within the housing 300. The movable table 302 has a first end 304 and a second end 305, and is adapted for a selective movement in and out of the laser housing 300. The table 302 is adapted in such a way that, when the first end 304 of table 302 is disposed inside laser housing 300, the second end of table 305 is disposed outside housing 300, and when the second end 305 is disposed of the table 302 inside the laser housing 300, the first end 304 of the table 302 is disposed outside the laser housing 300. A plurality of implant folders 303 are disposed on the first end 304 of the table, and a plurality of of implant beams 303 at the second end 305 of the table 302. As shown in Figures 26 and 27, each of the implant beams comprises: A base 306 having a platform 307 ad apt to receive a flat metal sheet 120 which is to be formed in an implant. The flat metal sheet 120 has a longitudinal axis, a first large surface, a second large surface, a long first side, and a long second side, the first and second long sides being substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis. The sheet is also provided with a plurality of alignment openings 122. A plurality of alignment pins 308 project from each of the platforms. The bolts 308 are dimensioned to engage with the alignment openings 122, and to align the sheet on the platform 307. A mandrel 309 is provided having a substantially cylindrical external surface 310, and having a first end 311, a second end 312 , and a longitudinal axis 313, as shown in Figure 35. The mandrel 309 is dimensioned to have a cross-sectional diameter D substantially equal to, or less than, the internal diameter of the implant to be fabricated. The platform 307 is provided with a first concave recess 314 adapted to receive the first end 311 of the mandrel, and a second concave recess 315 adapted to receive the second end 312 of the mandrel 309, as shown in Figure 36. One arm is adapted hingedly connected 376 to move in a first direction to platform 307, and in a second direction away from platform 307, to secure mandrel 309 against a larger surface of the flat metal sheet when disposed on the platform. Each implant folder 303 is provided with a first deformation blade 316, provided with a first deformation blade tip 316 '; a second deformation blade 317 provided with a second deformation blade tip 317 ', - a third deformation blade 318 provided with a third deformation blade tip 318'; a fourth deformation blade 319 provided with a fourth deformation blade tip 319 '; a fifth deformation blade 320 provided with a fifth deformation blade tip 320 ', and a sixth deformation blade 321 provided with a sixth deformation blade tip 321'. The blades are arranged around the outer surface 310 of the mandrel 309 and adapted to deform the flat metal sheet against the outer surface 310 of the mandrel 309, such that the flat metal sheet is deformed to a substantially tubular configuration, which is shaped substantially to the outer surface 310 of the mandrel 309. The deformation vanes are disposed between the first end 311 and the second end 312 f of the mandrel 309. Each of the deformation vanes is adapted for an independent and selective movement in a first direction towards the mandrel 309, and a second direction away from the mandrel, to selectively impact 5 on the deformation blade tips 316 ', 317', 318 ', 319', 320 ', and 321' against the mandrel or against a portion of the mandrel. the sheet disposed between the mandrel and each of the tips of deformation vanes. Each of the deformation blades are also adapted in such a way that the first long side and the The second long side of the sheet will remain substantially parallel to one another as the sheet is deformed in the tubular configuration. The third and sixth tips of deflection vanes 318 'and 321' are provided with a plurality of scalloped laser apertures 322, as shown in FIG.

Figure 32, which are dimensioned and arranged to allow the third and sixth tips of warp blades to secure the first long side and the second long side against the outer surface of the mandrel, while providing the laser device 301 access to the previously determined portions of the first long side and the second long side of the sheet, in order to weld the first long side with the second long side. A first motor 323 is connected to the first deformation blade; a second 324 engine is connected to the second blade of deformation; a third motor 325 is connected to the third deformation blade; a fourth motor 326 is connected to the fourth deformation blade; a fifth motor 327 is connected to the fifth deflection blade; and a sixth motor 328 is connected to the sixth deformation blade. Each of the motors is adapted to selectively move each of the deflection vanes with which it is connected in a first direction towards the mandrel, and a second direction away from the mandrel. A computer 329 controls the sequence in which dispose the first end of the table and the second end of the table inside the laser housing; the sequence and the degree to which each of the deformation blade tips impacts on the mandrel or on a portion of the sheet disposed between the mandrel and each of the tips of the mandrel. deformation blade; and the sequence, pattern, location, and amount of energy applied by the laser to each of the first and second long sides of each of the sheets disposed on each of the plurality of beams of the implant. Each of the deformation blade tips has a length substantially equal to the first and second long sides of the flat metal sheet, and in a preferred embodiment, the tips of the deformation vanes are concave as shown in Figure 27 In a particularly preferred embodiment as shown in Figure 27 the third deformation blade tip is substantially identical to the sixth deformation blade tip; the second deformation blade tip is substantially identical to the fifth deformation blade tip; and the first deformation blade tip is substantially identical to the fourth deformation blade tip. In operation, the apparatus shown in Figures 25 to 27 is constructed and discussed in detail above. HE cut a plurality of implant patterns in a piece of flat metal, each pattern having a first larger surface and a second larger surface, a long first side and a long second side. The first long side and the second long side are provided with a plurality of pairs of coupling points 329, 330, 331, and 332, as shown in Figures 28 and 29, arranged substantially opposite each other, and sized and arranged to communicate when the pattern is deformed and wound up in a tubular configuration. Each pair of coupling points of the first long side is provided with a bridge 333 disposed between each coupling point of the first long side 329 and 330 comprising the pair. Preferably, the bridge 333 has a width that is smaller than the width of the other portions of the implant. The sheet is also provided with a plurality of alignment openings 122 dimensioned and arranged to engage the alignment pins 308 on the base 306. The sheet is disposed on the base, such that the first major surface of the sheet is in contact with the base. base. A mandrel 309 is provided having a substantially cylindrical external surface 310 and a longitudinal axis 313, against the second major surface of the sheet, between the first long side and the second long side of the sheet, the longitudinal axis being substantially parallel to the first long side and second long side, as shown in Figure 30A. The pattern is deformed in a tubular configuration, such that the pairs of coupling points of the The first long side makes contact with the pairs of coupling points of the second long side, as shown in FIG.

Figure 29. The deformation step comprises the steps of. * A) driving the sixth deformation blade motor, in such a way that the sixth deformation blade motor moves 20 to the sixth deformation blade in the first direction, for a Sufficient amount for the sixth tip of the deformation blade to make contact with the outer surface of the mandrel, in order to secure the mandrel against the sheet, as shown in Figure 30B. The first deformation blade motor is activated in such a way that the first deformation blade motor moves the first deformation blade in the first direction, by an amount sufficient for the first deformation blade tip to make contact with the deformation blade. first surface greater than 5 the sheet, and deform the sheet against the outer surface of the mandrel, as shown in Figure 30C. Then the second deformation blade motor is activated, in such a way that the second deformation blade motor moves the second deformation blade in the The first direction by a sufficient amount so that the second deformation blade tip makes contact with the first larger surface of the sheet, and deforms the sheet against the outer surface of the mandrel, as shown in Figure 30D. Then the third deformation blade motor is activated, in such a way that the third deformation blade motor moves the second deformation blade in the first direction, by an amount sufficient for the third deformation blade tip to contact with the The first large surface of the sheet, and deform the sheet against the outer surface of the mandrel, while driving the sixth deformation blade motor, such that the sixth deformation blade moves in the second direction away from the mandrel, as it is shown in Figure 30E.

Then the fourth deformation blade motor is activated, in such a way that the fourth blade motor * deformation moves the fourth deformation blade tip in the first direction, by an amount sufficient for the fourth blade tip to contact the first larger surface of the blade, and deform the blade against the outer surface of the blade. mandrel, as shown in Figure 30F. Then the fifth deformation blade motor is activated, in such a way that the fifth blade motor of The deformation moves the fifth deflection blade in the first direction, by a sufficient amount so that the fifth deformation blade tip contacts the first larger surface of the sheet, and deforms the sheet against the outer surface of the mandrel, as It is shown in Figure 30G. Then the sixth deformation blade motor is activated, so that the sixth deformation blade motor moves to the sixth deformation blade in the first direction, by an amount sufficient for the sixth tip of deformation blade makes contact with the first major surface of the sheet, and deforms the sheet against the outer surface of the mandrel, as shown in Figure 3OH. Then the third and sixth blades of deformation engines are activated simultaneously, in such a way that the third and sixth deflection vane motors move to the third and sixth blades of deformation in the first direction, by an amount sufficient for the third and sixth tips of blades of deformation to make contact with the first major surface of the blade, and deform the blade against the outer surface of the mandrel, as shown in Figure 301. The laser device is used to cut the bridge. The laser device is then used to weld each of the coupling points with the coupling point with which they are in contact, to form the expandable implant. In a preferred embodiment, the bridge has a width that is from about 25 percent to about 50 percent of the width of the other portions of the implant, and in an especially preferred embodiment, the bridge has a width of about 40 microns. The coupling points, as shown in the Figures 28 and 29 are dimensioned and adapted to move by a sufficient amount, in order to reduce the possibility of material stresses occurring during the heating and cooling cycles of the weld. A V-shaped notch 334 can be formed between the first long side and the second long side when the implant is deformed, to provide a stronger weld, as shown in Figure 31. In addition, as shown in the Figure 31, a gap 335 can be provided between the coupling points and the outer surface of the mandrel 309 during the deformation side. This recess 335 provides a larger area for the welding material, and therefore welding is reinforced and heat dissipation through the mandrel is reduced during welding, thereby reducing the amount of energy that must be put into the weld . An additional weld filler material 336 can be provided on the side of each of the coupling points substantially opposite the bridge, as shown in Figures 33 and 34. The weld filler material 336 is sized and arranged for allow the additional weld filler material to be directed into the weld spot during welding. After the implant has been deformed, and the coupling points have made contact with each other, the bridge is cut using the laser device. The first side and the long sides are then connected using the laser device to form a weld, which is preferably wider than the other portions of the implant. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the weld is approximately 20 percent wider than the other portions of the implant, and has a width of about 140 microns. The weld preferably runs from the outside inwards. Preferably a plurality of welds are used, and in a particularly preferred embodiment, two welds are used. The weld can be offset from the point where the coupling points contact one another, and in a preferred embodiment, it is offset by approximately 0.01 millimeters from the point where the coupling points contact each other. The weld may be a spot weld, a plurality of spot welds, and in a preferred embodiment, the weld comprises 5 spot welds. In a preferred embodiment, the pattern is cut into the sheet, using multiple recordings, and comprises the step of inspecting both sides of the sheet after recording and before the sheet is disposed on the base. In an especially preferred embodiment, the inspection step is performed using an automated optical inspection apparatus. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the implant patterns are adapted in such a way that, on the expansion of the implant against the internal wall of a vessel, substantially no portion of the implant projects into the longitudinal chamber of the implant. The implant can be finished by electropolishing. Figures 37 to 40 show another embodiment of an apparatus for manufacturing an implant constructed in accordance with the invention. A base 401 is provided with a sheet receiving area 402, and is adapted to receive a flat metal sheet, to be formed in an implant. The sheet receiving area 402 is also provided with a mandrel receiving groove 409. In a preferred embodiment, the flat metal part has a longitudinal axis, a first larger surface, a second larger surface, a long first side and a second side length, the first and second long sides being substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis. An arm 403 having a first end 404 and a second end 405 is provided. The first end 404 of the arm is adapted to selectively retain a mandrel 406 having a substantially cylindrical external surface. The second end of the arm 405 is hingedly connected to the base 401, and is adapted to move in a first direction towards the base 401, and in a second direction away from the base 401, to secure the mandrel 406 against a larger surface of the flat metal sheet. The mandrel 406 is dimensioned to have a cross-sectional diameter substantially equal to, or less than, the internal cross-sectional diameter of the implant to be fabricated. An element 407 is provided to deform the flat metal part against and around the outer surface of the mandrel, such that the flat metal sheet is deformed into a substantially tubular configuration, conforming to the outer surface of the mandrel, the first long side and second long side substantially parallel to each other. Figure 39 shows a top view of one embodiment, wherein the deformation element 407 is a member provided with a deformation tip 408 having a length substantially equal to the length of the first and second long sides of the metal sheet. In a preferred embodiment, the deformation tip is concave, as shown in Figure 40. In the operation, a sheet is placed on the sheet receiving area 402. A mandrel 406 is provided on the first end 404 of the arm 403, and the arm 403 is moved in the first direction, such that the mandrel is in contact with the sheet. A deformation element is then used to deform the sheet around the mandrel as discussed above. The arm 403 is then moved in the second direction, and the mandrel 406 is removed with the sheet wrapped around the first end 404 of the arm 403. The first and second long sides are then connected as discussed above, to form the implant . In a preferred embodiment, the mandrel, with the sheet wrapped around it, is transferred to the implant welding and alignment rig shown in Figures 41 to 45. The implant welding and alignment rig shown in Figures 41 to 45 comprises a base 500 having a first end and a second end, provided with a first wall 501 having a first end and a second end, and a first major surface 502 and a second major surface 503, and a second wall 504 having a first end and a second end, and a first major surface 505 and a second major surface 506. The second major surface 503 of the first wall 501, and the first major surface 505 of the second wall 504, define a longitudinal channel in the form of U 507, having a longitudinal axis in the base 500. The first wall 501 is provided with a plurality of grooves 508 defining a plurality of first fastening portions 509, having an extrusion upper emo 511 and a lower end 512, and a first major surface 502 and a second major surface 503. Each of the first securing portions 509 is provided with a first concave channel 510 disposed at the upper end 511 of the second larger surface 503 of the first clamping portion 509, and a second concave channel 513 disposed at the lower end 512 of the second major surface 503 of the first clamping portion 509. The first and second concave channels 510 and 513 are substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the U-shaped channel 507- The second major surface 503 of each of the plurality of first securing portions 509, is also provided with a compensating groove 514 disposed between the first concave channel 510 and the second concave channel 513, which it is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the U-shaped channel 507. A plurality of second securing portions 515 are disposed in the the U-shaped channel 507, between the second larger surface 503 of the first wall 501, and the first larger surface 505 of the second wall 504. Each of the second securing portions 515 is arranged in register with one of the first fastening portions 509. Each of the second fastening portions 515 has an upper end 516, a lower end 517, a first large surface 518, a second large surface 519, a first smaller surface disposed at the upper end, a second smaller surface disposed at the lower end, a third smaller surface disposed between the upper end and the extreme bottom, and a fourth smaller surface disposed opposite the third minor surface between the upper end 516 and the lower end 517. Each of the second holding portions 515 is provided with a first concave channel 521 disposed at the upper end 516 of the first major surface 518 of the second holding portion 515 and a second concave channel 522 disposed at the lower end f 517 of the first major surface 518 of the second holding portion 515. The first and second concave channels 521 and 522 are substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the U-shaped channel 507. 5 A forging element 523 is disposed between the first surface ie greater 505 of the second wall 504, and the second larger surface 503 of each of the second securing portions 509, for forcing the first larger surface 518 of each of the second securing portions 515 against the second major surface 503 of each of the first fastening portions 509 that are in register with each other. A first pin for positioning the mandrel support lever 524 projects from the third smaller surface 520, and a second pin for positioning the mandrel support lever 521 projects from the fourth minor surface of each of the second securing portions 515. The positioning pins of the mandrel support lever 524 and 521 are substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the U-shaped channel. A force control element 522 selectively controls the distance between the second major surface 503 of each of the first clamping portions 509, and the first major surface 518 of each of the second ones. fastening portions 515.

A retaining mandrel 523 is provided in the second concave channel 513 of the first wall 501, and in the second concave channel 522 of each of the second securing portions 515. A mandrel support lever 534, as shown in FIG. Figure 42 supports the implant during alignment of the first long side of the sheet with the second long side of the sheet. The lever 534 is provided with a first mandrel support groove 525, for supporting the first end of the mandrel, and a second mandrel support groove 526 for supporting the second end of the mandrel. A first mating surface of the chuck support lever positioning bolt 527 engages with the first bolt for positioning the support lever 524, and a second mating surface of the bolt for positioning the chuck support lever 528 it engages with the second pin for positioning the mandrel support lever 521, when the mandrel support lever is disposed on the second wall 504. It will be appreciated that various elastic materials well known to those skilled in the art can be used as suitable for this purpose, for example, a spring; however, in an especially preferred embodiment, the elastic material is rubber. In a preferred embodiment, the forcing control element 522 is a threaded screw disposed in each of the first clamping portions 509, each of the screws 522 communicating with the first major surface 502 and the second major surface 503 of each of the first 5 fastening portions 509. The screws 522 can be selectively moved in a direction toward and away from the first major surface 518 of the second fastening portion 515, to selectively move the second fastening portion 515 in a direction toward and away from of the first portion of clamping 509, to selectively vary the distance between the second major surface 503 of each of the first clamping portions 509, and the first major surface 518 of each of the second clamping portions 515. In operation, the mandrel , with the wrapped sheet around it, it is secured in the first concave channels 510 and 521. The forcing control element 522, for example a screw, is adjusted to secure the mandrel in the first concave channels, while allowing the first and second long sides of the sheet are adjusted, in such a way that the contact points are aligned as desired. In a preferred embodiment, the mandrel support lever shown in Figure 42 is used to support the mandrel during the alignment operation. As shown in Figure 45, the first mandrel support groove 5 supports the first end of the mandrel, and the second mandrel support groove supports the second end of the mandrel. The first surface of the positioning pin of the mandrel support lever 527 is engaged with the first positioning pin of the mandrel support lever 524, and the second surface of the positioning pin of the mandrel support lever 528 engages with the second mandrel support positioning pin 521, to align the chuck support lever 534 when it is supporting the mandrel. Figures 46 to 48 show a rig 612 for electropolishing a tubular implant, which comprises a grid 600 having a first end 601 and a second end 602, and provided with a plurality of electropolishing assemblies of implants 603. Each of the mounts 603 is provided with a base 604 and a first electrically conductive member 605 having a first end 606 connected to the base 604, and a second end 607 adapted to make contact selectively with the outer surface of the tubular implant to be electropolished without damage its external surface. Mounts 603 are also provided with a second electrically non-conductive member 608, having a first end 609 connected to the base, and a second end 610 adapted to be selectively disposed within the longitudinal hole of the implant, without damaging the surface defining the hole. longitudinal. The first member 605 and the second member 608 are also adapted to force the second end 610 of the second member 608 towards the second end 607 of the first member 605, by an amount sufficient to secure the implant between the first and second members 605 and 608. The advantage of an assembly constructed in accordance with the applicants' invention is that the electrically conductive member 605 contacts the external surface of the implant. This reduces the possibility of undulations and lines of erosion that appear on the surface that defines the longitudinal hole. These lines of erosion often occur in electropolished implants that use conventional mounts, which place the electrically conductive member against the surface that defines the longitudinal hole. The electropolishing of an implant with the applicants assembly reduces the possibility that the longitudinal chamber of the implant has an irregular surface, which could result in a turbulent fluid flow, which could result in thrombosis or platelet accumulation. In a preferred electropolishing method, an implant is placed on a grid constructed as discussed above. The method comprises immersing the implant in an electropolishing bath, and applying an electric current to the first member for a predetermined period of time.; and changing the point where the second end of the first member contacts the external surface of the implant before the expiration of the previously determined time period. The change of the contact point minimizes the concentration of undulations or lines of erosion at any given point on the implant, near the point of contact of the electrically conductive member. The contact point can be changed by rotating the implant. In an especially preferred embodiment, the contact point is changed by varying the distance between the implant and the base, by longitudinal movement of the implant toward or away from the base 604, as shown in Figures 46 and 47. The contact point it changes around the midpoint of the previously determined time period. In an especially preferred embodiment, the treatment is interrupted before the expiration of the previously determined time, the effect of the electropolishing is evaluated before the interruption step, and the remaining period of the previously determined time is adjusted to compensate for any variations in the amount of material actually removed before the interruption step. Treatment can be interrupted at any time, * however, interruption is preferred at approximately the midpoint of the previously determined time period. Sacrificial material pieces 611 can be added at the first end 601 and at the second end 602 of the grid 600 to compensate for the additional material normally removed from the implants, disposed at the first end and at the second end of the grid, as shown in Figure 48. The material is selected and added in an amount sufficient to substantially equalize the amount of additional material normally removed from the implants, disposed at the first and second ends of the grid. In still another preferred method for electropolishing an implant, the implant is manufactured as discussed above; however, when the pattern is deformed in a tubular configuration, such that the coupling point pairs of the first long side contact the pairs of coupling points of the second long side, a portion of the implant is allowed to remain attached to the metal foil, as shown in Figures 49 and 50 (which is an end view taken along line AA of Figure 49). The bridge is then cut, the coupling points are connected to form the implant, the implant is electroputed by connecting an electrode to the blade, and then the implant is removed from the blade. This reduces the possibility of damaging the implant, because the lamina to which the implant is attached is disposable. This method also provides an additional advantage, because the disposable sheet to which the implant is attached, acts as a sacrificial material, as discussed above.

It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to what has been shown and described particularly hereinbefore. Instead, the scope of the present invention is defined only by the following claims.

Claims (137)

1. An apparatus for manufacturing an implant, comprising: a) a platform adapted to receive a flat metal sheet to form the implant, the flat metal sheet having a longitudinal axis, a first larger surface, a second larger surface, a long first side , and a second long side, the first and second long sides being substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the sheet; b) a mandrel having a substantially cylindrical external surface, and having a first end and a second end defining a longitudinal axis, the mandrel being dimensioned to have a cross-sectional diameter substantially equal to, or less than, the internal diameter of the mandrel. implant that is going to be manufactured; c) an element for securing the mandrel against a larger surface of the flat metal sheet; and d) an element for deforming the flat metal sheet against the outer surface of the mandrel, such that the flat metal sheet is deformed to a substantially tubular configuration, the deforming element adapting in such a way that the first long side and the second side long remain substantially parallel to each other when the flat metal sheet is deformed to the tubular shape.

The apparatus of claim 1, which further comprises an element for securing the first long side of the sheet with the second long side of the sheet.

3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the securing element is a welding apparatus.

4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the welding apparatus is a laser device.

The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the platform is provided with a concave recess for receiving the mandrel.

The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the chuck securing element is an articulatedly connected arm, adapted to move in a first direction towards the platform, and in a second direction away from the platform.

The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus is adapted to provide a substantially V-shaped notch between the first long side and the second long side, when the sheet is deformed in the tubular configuration.

8. An apparatus for manufacturing an implant, comprising: a) a base having a platform adapted to receive a flat metal sheet to form the implant, the flat metal sheet having a longitudinal axis, a first larger surface, a second surface greater, a first long side, and a second long side, the first and second long sides being substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the implant; b) a mandrel having an external surface -i substantially cylindrical, and having a first end and a second end defining a longitudinal axis, the mandrel being dimensioned to have a cross-sectional diameter substantially equal to, or smaller than, the internal diameter of the implant to be manufactured; c) an element for securing the mandrel against a larger surface of the flat metal sheet; 'd) a plurality of deflection vanes arranged around the mandrel periphery, to deform the flat metal sheet against the outer surface of the mandrel, in such a way that the flat metal sheet is deformed 20 to a substantially tubular configuration, the blades disposed between the first end and the second end of the mandrel, each of the deformation blades adapting for an independent and selective movement in a first direction towards the mandrel, and a second direction moving away 25 of the mandrel, to selectively impact on the mandrel or on a portion of the sheet disposed between the mandrel and each of the deformation blades, each of the deformation blades also being adapted so that the first long side and the second long side of the sheet remain substantially parallel to each other when the implant is deformed to the tubular configuration; e) an element for selectively moving each of the deformation vanes in a first direction towards the mandrel, and in a second direction moving away from the mandrel; and f) an element for securing the first long side of the sheet to the second long side of the sheet.

The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the element for securing the first long side of the sheet with the second long side of the sheet is a welding apparatus.

10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the welding apparatus is a laser device.

The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the plurality of deflection vanes comprises six vanes.

The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the chuck securing element is an articulatedly connected arm, adapted to move in a first direction toward the platform, and in a second direction away from the platform.

The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the base is provided with a first concave recess for receiving the first end of the mandrel, and a second concave recess for receiving the second end of the mandrel.

The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the element for selectively moving each of the deformation vanes is an electric motor.

The apparatus of claim 8, which further comprises an element for controlling the sequence and the degree to which each of the blades impacts on the mandrel, or on a portion of the sheet disposed between the mandrel and each of the deformation blades.

16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the element to control is a computer.

The apparatus of claim 8, which further comprises an alignment element disposed on the base, and adapted to engage with, and align, the metal sheet.

The apparatus of claim 8, wherein a plurality of the deformation vanes are adapted to secure the first long side and the second long side against the outer surface of the mandrel, while allowing a laser device to make contact with the first long side and the second long side, to secure the first long side with the second long side.

The apparatus of claim 18, wherein a plurality of the deflection vanes are provided with a plurality of scalloped openings, the openings being dimensioned and arranged to allow the plurality of vanes to secure the first long side and the second long side against the external surface of the mandrel, while providing access to the laser to the previously determined portions of the first long side and the second long side, to secure the first long side with the second long side.

20. An apparatus for manufacturing an implant, which comprises: a) a laser housing; b) a laser disposed inside, and selectively movable within, the housing; c) a movable table having a first end and a second end, and adapted for a selective movement in and out of the laser housing, the table adapting in such a way that, when the first end of the table is arranged inside the laser housing, the second end of the table is disposed outside the housing, and when the second end of the table is disposed inside the laser housing, the first end of the table is disposed outside the laser housing; d) a plurality of implant beams disposed at the first end of the table, and a plurality of implant beams disposed at the second end of the table, each of the implant beams comprising: a) a base having a platform adapted to receive a flat metal sheet to form the implant, the flat metal sheet having a longitudinal axis, a first larger surface, a second larger surface, a long first side, and a long second side, the first and second sides being substantially long parallel to the longitudinal axis, the sheet provided with a plurality of alignment openings; B) a plurality of alignment bolts projecting from each of the platforms, the bolts being dimensioned to engage with the alignment openings, and to align the sheet on the platform; C) a mandrel having a substantially cylindrical external surface, and having a first end, a second end, and a longitudinal axis, the mandrel being dimensioned to have a cross-sectional diameter substantially equal to, or less than, the diameter 0 internal of the implant to be manufactured, the platform being provided with a first concave recess adapted to receive the first end of the mandrel, and a second concave recess for receiving the second end of the mandrel; d) an articulatedly connected arm, 5 adapted to move in a first direction towards the platform, and in a second direction away from the * platform to secure the mandrel against a larger surface of the flat metal sheet; e) a first deformation blade 5 provided with a first deformation blade tip; a second deformation blade provided with a second deformation blade tip; a third deformation blade provided with a third deformation blade tip, a fourth blade . of deformation provided with a fourth blade tip of r 10 deformation; a fifth deflection blade provided with a fifth deformation blade tip; and a sixth deformation blade provided with a sixth deformation blade tip, the blades being arranged around the outer surface of the mandrel, the tips of the blades being adapted 15 deformation blades to deform the flat metal sheet against the external surface of the mandrel, such that the flat metal sheet is deformed to a substantially tubular configuration, which substantially conforms to the outer surface, the deformation blades being arranged 20, between the first end and the second end of the mandrel, each of the deformation blades adapting for an independent and selective movement in a first direction towards the mandrel, and in a second direction away from the mandrel, to selectively impact the tips of the mandrel. the blades 25 deformation against the mandrel or against a portion of the sheet 11 disposed between the mandrel and each of the tips of the deformation vanes, each of the deformation vanes also being adapted so that the first long side and the second long side the sheet remains substantially 5 parallel to one another when the implant is deformed to the tubular configuration, the third and sixth tips of deflection vanes being provided with a plurality of laser-cut openings, dimensioned and arranged - openings to allow the third and sixth points of ^^ 10 deformation vanes secure the first long side and the second long side against the outer surface of the mandrel, while providing the laser access to previously determined portions of the first long side and the second long side of the sheet, with the object of welding the first 15 long side with the second long side; f) a first motor connected to the first deformation blade; a second motor connected to the second deformation blade; a third motor connected to the third deformation blade; a fourth motor connected to the 20 fourth blade of deformation; a fifth motor connected with the fifth deflection blade; and a sixth motor connected to the sixth deformation blade, each of the motors adapting to selectively move each of the deformation blades with which they are connected, in a first direction towards 25 the mandrel and a second direction away from the mandrel; and g) a computer for controlling: the sequence in which the first end of the table and the second end of the table are arranged inside the laser housing; to control the sequence and the degree to which each of the plurality of deformation blade tips impacts on the mandrel or a portion of the sheet disposed between the mandrel and each of the blades tips of deformation; and to control the sequence, pattern, location, and amount of energy applied by the laser to each of the first and second long sides of each of the sheets disposed on each of the plurality of beams of the implant.

The apparatus of claim 20, wherein each of the blade deformation tips has a length substantially equal to the first and second long sides of the flat metal sheet.

22. The apparatus of claim 20, wherein the tips of deflection vanes are concave.

23. The apparatus of claim 20, wherein the third deformation blade tip is substantially identical to the sixth deformation blade tip; the second deformation blade tip is substantially identical to the fifth deformation blade tip; and the first deformation blade tip is substantially identical to the fourth deformation blade tip.

24. An apparatus for manufacturing an implant, which comprises: a) a base; b) a sheet receiving area disposed on the base, the area adapting to receive a flat metal sheet to be formed in the implant, the flat metal sheet having a longitudinal axis, a first larger surface, a second larger surface, a first side long, and a second long side, the first and second long sides being substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis; c) an arm having a first end and a second end, the first end of the arm adapting to selectively retain a mandrel having a substantially cylindrical external surface, the second connecting 15 end of the arm articulated with the base, and adapting to move in a first direction towards the base, and a second direction away from the base, and further adapting to secure the mandrel against a larger surface of the flat metal sheet disposed on the area recipient of 20 implant disposed on the base, the mandrel being dimensioned to have a cross-sectional diameter substantially equal to, or less than, the internal cross-sectional diameter of the implant to be fabricated; d) an element for deforming the flat piece of metal against the outer surface of the mandrel, such that the flat metal sheet is deformed to a substantially tubular configuration, substantially conforming to the outer surface of the mandrel, with the first side long and the second long side substantially parallel to each other.

25. The apparatus of claim 24, wherein the deformation element is a member provided with a deformation tip, having a length substantially equal to the first and second long sides of the metal foil.

26. The apparatus of claim 24, wherein the deformation tip is concave.

27. An alignment and implant welding tool, which comprises: a) a base having a first end and a second end, a first wall having a first end and a second end, and a first major surface and a second larger surface; a second wall having a first end and a second end, and a first major surface and a second major surface, the second major surface of the first wall defining, and the first major surface of the second wall, a longitudinal U-shaped channel having a longitudinal axis at the base, the first wall being provided with a plurality of grooves defining a plurality of first fastening portions having an upper end and a lower end, and a first major surface and a second major surface, being each of the first fastening portions provided with a first concave channel disposed at the upper end of the second major surface of the first fastening portion, and a second concave channel disposed at the lower end of the second major surface of the first portion of clamping, the first and second concave channels being substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the channel in the form of e U; the first wall of each of the plurality of first clamping portions provided with a compensation groove disposed between the first concave channel and the second concave channel being, the compensation groove being substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the U-shaped channel. b) a plurality of second fastening portions disposed in the U-shaped channel between the second larger surface of the first wall, and the first larger surface of the second wall, each of the second holding portions being arranged in register with one of the first holding portions, each of the second holding portions having an upper end, a lower end, a first larger surface, a second larger surface, a first smaller surface disposed at the upper end, a second smaller surface disposed at the lower end, a third smaller surface disposed between the upper end and the lower end, and a fourth smaller surface disposed opposite the third minor surface between the upper end and the lower end, each of which is the second fastening portions provided with a first concave channel disposed at the upper end of the first major surface of the second fastening portion, and a second concave channel disposed at the lower end of the first major surface of the second fastening portion , the first and second concave channels being substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the U-shaped channel; C) a forcing element disposed between the first larger surface of the second wall, and the second larger surface of each of the plurality of second securing portions, for forcing the first larger surface of each of the second securing portions against the second 15 greater area of each of the first holding portions that are in register with each other; d) a first pin for positioning the mandrel support lever, projecting from the third minor surface, and a second positioning pin for the 20 mandrel support lever, projecting from the third minor surface, and a second pin for positioning the mandrel support lever projecting from the fourth minor surface of each of the second securing portions, the bolts being of positioning of the lever The mandrel support is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the U-shaped channel; e) a forcing control element for selectively controlling the distance between the second larger surface of each of the first clamping portions, and the 5 first larger surface of each of the second fastening portions; f) a retaining mandrel disposed in the second concave channel of the first wall and in the second concave channel of each of the second securing portions; Y 10 g) a mandrel support lever for supporting the implant during alignment of the first long side of the sheet with the second long side of the sheet, the lever being provided with a first mandrel support notch for supporting the first end of the sheet. chuck, a second 15 mandrel support notch for supporting the second end of the mandrel, a first mating surface of the mandrel support lever positioning pin for engaging with the first mandrel support lever setting pin, and a second surface coupling 20 of the pin for positioning the mandrel support lever to engage with the second pin for positioning the mandrel support lever, when the mandrel support lever is arranged on the second wall.

28. The apparatus of claim 27, wherein the 25 Forcing element is an elastic material.

29. The apparatus of claim 28, wherein the elastic material is rubber.

30. The apparatus of claim 28, wherein the elastic material is a spring.

31. The apparatus of claim 27, wherein the forcing control element is a threaded screw disposed in each of the first fastening portions, each of the screws communicating with the first larger surface and the second larger surface of each one of the first clamping portions, and being able to selectively move in a direction toward and away from the first major surface of the second clamping portion, to selectively move the second clamping portion in a direction toward and away from the first clamping portions. portions of 15, to selectively vary the distance between the second major surface of each of the first clamping portions, and the first major surface of each of the second clamping portions.

32. A method for manufacturing an implant, which 20 comprises the steps of: a) providing a plurality of implant patterns in a flat metal part, each of the patterns having a first long side and a second long side, the first long side being provided with a plurality of pairs of 25 coupling points, the second long side being provided with a plurality of pairs of coupling points, the plurality of coupling point pairs being substantially opposite one another, the coupling points being dimensioned and arranged to communicate when deformed and the pattern is rolled up to a tubular shape, with each pair of the first coupling points on the long side provided with a bridge disposed between each first coupling point on the long side comprising the pair, the bridge having a width that is less than the width of the other portions of the implant; b) arranging a mandrel having a substantially cylindrical external surface and a longitudinal axis, between the first long side and the second long side of the sheet, the longitudinal axis being substantially parallel to the first long side and the second long side; c) deforming the pattern to a tubular configuration, such that the first pairs of long sides of coupling points contact the second pairs of long sides of coupling points; d) cut the bridge; and e) joining each of the coupling points with the coupling point with which it is in contact, to form the expandable implant.

The method of claim 32, wherein the bridge has a width that is from about 25 percent to about 50 percent of the width of the other portions of the implant.

34. The method of claim 33, wherein the bridge has a width of about 40 microns.

35. The method of claim 32, wherein the coupling points are dimensioned and adapted to move by a sufficient amount to reduce the possibility of stresses of the material during # the heating and cooling cycles of the welding.

36. The method of claim 32, further comprising the step of forming a V-shaped notch between the first long side and the second long side during step c).

37. The method of claim 32, which further comprises the step of providing a gap between the coupling points and the external surface of the mandrel during step c).

38. The method of claim 32, which comprises the additional step of providing a material of 20 additional solder filler on the side of each of the coupling points substantially opposite the bridge, the welding filler material being sized and arranged to allow the additional solder filler material to be directed into the point of 25 welding during welding.

39. The method of claim 32, which further comprises the step of providing the sheet with a plurality of alignment openings.

40. The method of claim 32, wherein step d) is performed using a laser device.

41. The method of claim 32, wherein step e) is performed using a weld.

42. The method of claim 40, wherein the welding is run from the outside inward.

43. The method of claim 40, wherein the weld is wider than the other portions of the implant.

44. The method of claim 42, wherein the weld is approximately 20 percent wider than the other portions of the implant.

45. The method of claim 41, wherein the weld has a width of about 140 microns.

46. The method of claim 41, wherein step e) is performed using a weld that is offset from the point where the coupling points contact one another.

47. The method of claim 41, wherein step e) is performed using a plurality of welds.

48. The method of claim 47, wherein 2 welds are used.

49. The method of claim 46, wherein the weld is offset by approximately 0.01 millimeters from the point where the coupling points contact each other.

50. The method of claim 42, wherein the weld is a spot weld.

51. The method of claim 50, wherein a plurality of spot welds are used.

52. The method of claim 51, wherein 5 point welds are used. ~ 10

53. The method of claim 34, which further comprises the step of electropolishing the implant.

54. The method of claim 34, wherein step e) is performed using an adhesive.

55. The method of claim 34, wherein step e) is performed using a nail-like element.

56. The method of claim 34, wherein the pattern is cut into the implant using multiple recording. ?

57. The method of claim 34, which further comprises the step of inspecting both sides of the sheet after step a) and before step b).

58. The method of claim 57, wherein the inspection step is performed using an automated optical inspection apparatus.

59. A rig for electropolishing a tubular implant 25, which comprises: a grid having a first end and a second end, this grid being provided with a plurality of implant electropolishing assemblies, each of these assemblies having: a) one base; b) a first electrically conductive member having a first end connected to the base, and a second end adapted to selectively contact the outer surface of the tubular implant without damaging the external surface; c) a second electrically non-conductive member, having a first end connected to the base, and a second end adapted to be selectively disposed within the longitudinal hole of the implant, without damaging the longitudinal hole, the first member and the second member also being adapted to force the second end of the second member towards the second end of the first member, by an amount sufficient to secure the implant between the first and second members.

60. A method for electropolishing an implant, which comprises the steps of: a) mounting an implant on a grid, the grid having a first end and a second end provided with a plurality of implant electropolishing assemblies, each having mounts a base; a first electrically conductive member having a first end connected to the base, and a second end adapted to selectively contact the outer surface of the tubular implant without damaging the external surface; a second electrically non-conductive member having a first end connected to the base, and a second end adapted to be selectively disposed inside the longitudinal hole of the implant without damaging the longitudinal hole, the first member and the second member being adapted to force the second end from the second member to the second end of the first member, by an amount sufficient to secure the implant between the first and second members; b) immersing the implant in an electropolishing bath, and applying electric current to the first member for a predetermined period of time; and c) changing the point where the second end of the first member makes contact with the external surface of the implant, before the expiration of the previously determined period of time.

61. The method of claim 60, wherein the contact point is changed by rotating the implant.

62. The method of claim 60, wherein the contact point is changed by varying the distance between the implant and the base.

63. The method of claim 60, wherein the point of contact is changed approximately at the midpoint # of the previously determined time period.

64. The method of claim 60, which further comprises the step of stopping the treatment before the expiration of the previously determined time, evaluating the effect of the electropolishing before the interruption step, and adjusting the remaining period of the previously determined time to compensate any variations in the amount of material actually removed before the interruption step.

65. The method of claim 60, wherein the treatment is interrupted at approximately the midpoint of the previously determined time period.

66. The method of claim 60, which further comprises the step of adding pieces of material from Sacrifice at the first end and at the second end of the grid, to substantially compensate for the additional material normally removed from the implant, disposed at the first end and at the second end of the grid, selecting and adding this material in an amount sufficient to 20 substantially equalize the amount of additional material normally removed from the implants, disposed at the first end and at the second end of the grid.

67. A method for manufacturing an implant having a longitudinal chamber, which comprises the steps of: a) providing a plurality of implant patterns in a flat metal part, each of the patterns having a long first side and a second long side, the first long side being provided with a plurality of pairs of coupling points, the second long side being provided with a plurality of pairs of coupling points, the plurality of coupling point pairs substantially opposite one another being arranged. , the coupling points being dimensioned and arranged to communicate when the pattern is deformed and rolled up to a tubular shape, with each pair of the first long side coupling points being provided with a bridge disposed between each first coupling point on the long side comprises the pair, the bridge having a width that is less than the width of the other portions of the implant; b) arranging a mandrel having a substantially cylindrical external surface and a longitudinal axis, between the first long side and the second long side of the sheet, the longitudinal axis being substantially parallel to the first and second long sides; c) deforming the pattern to a tubular configuration, such that the first pairs of long sides of coupling points, and allowing a portion of the implant to remain attached to the metal sheet; d) cut the bridge; e) joining each of the coupling points with the coupling point with which it is in contact, to form the implant; f) joining an electrode to the metal sheet; g) electropolishing the implant; and f) disconnect the implant from the blade.

68. The method of claim 67, wherein the bridge has a width that is from about 25 percent to about 50 percent of the width of the other portions of the implant.

69. The method of claim 67, wherein the bridge is provided with a width of about 40 microns.

70. The method of claim 67, wherein the coupling points are dimensioned and adapted to move by an amount sufficient to reduce the possibility of material stresses occurring during the heating and cooling cycles of the weld.

71. The method of claim 67, which comprises the additional step of providing an additional weld filler material on the side of the coupling points substantially opposite the bridge, this weld filler material being sized and arranged at the points of coupling, to allow the additional weld filler material to be directed into the weld spot during welding.

72. The method of claim 67, which further comprises the step of forming a V-shaped notch between the first long side and the second long side during step c).

73. The method of claim 67, further comprising the step of providing a gap between the coupling points and the outer surface of the mandrel during step c).

74. The method of claim 67, which further comprises the step of providing the sheet with a plurality of alignment apertures.

75. The method of claim 67, wherein step d) is performed using a laser device.

76. The method of claim 67, wherein step e) is performed using a weld.

77. The method of claim 76, wherein the welding is run from the outside inward.

78. The method of claim 76, wherein the weld is wider than the other portions of the implant.

79. The method of claim 78, wherein the weld is approximately 20 percent wider than the other portions of the implant.

80. The method of claim 76, wherein the weld has a width of about 140 microns.

81. The method of claim 76, wherein step e) is performed using a weld that is offset from the point where the coupling points contact each other.

82. The method of claim 76, wherein step e) is performed using a plurality of welds.

83. The method of claim 82, wherein two welds are used.

84. The method of claim 81, wherein the welds are offset by approximately 0.01 millimeters from the point where the coupling points contact each other.

85. The method of claim 76, wherein the weld is a spot weld.

86. The method of claim 76, wherein a plurality of spot welds are used.

87. The method of claim 86, wherein the plurality of point welds comprises 5 point welds.

88. The method of claim 67, wherein step e) is performed using an adhesive.

89. The method of claim 67, wherein step e) is performed using a nail-like element.

90. The method of claim 67, wherein the pattern is cut into the implant using multiple recording.

91. The method of claim 67, which x further comprises the step of inspecting both sides of the sheet after step a) and before step b).

92. The method of claim 91, wherein the inspection step is performed using an apparatus of 5 automated optical inspection.

93. The method of claim 67, wherein the implant patterns are adapted in such a manner that, over the expansion of the implant against the inner wall of a vessel, substantially no portion of the implant protrudes towards the inside of the chamber. Longitudinal of the implant.

94. A sheet for manufacturing an implant having a longitudinal chamber, which comprises: a) a piece of flat metal sheet provided with a plurality of implant patterns, each having 15 the patterns a first long side and a second long side, the first long side being provided with a plurality of pairs of coupling points, the second long side being provided with a plurality of pairs of coupling points, the plurality of pairs being arranged knit 20 coupling substantially opposite each other, dimensioning and arranging the coupling points • to communicate when the pattern is deformed and rolled up to a tubular shape, with each pair of the first coupling points on the long side being provided with a bridge 25 arranged between each first coupling point of the long side comprising the pair, the bridge having a width that is less than the width of the other portions of the implant;

95. The sheet of claim 94, wherein the bridge has a width that is from about 25 percent to about 50 percent of the width of the other portions of the implant.

96. The sheet of claim 94, wherein the bridge has a width of about 40 microns.

97. The sheet of claim 94, wherein the coupling points are dimensioned and adapted to move by an amount sufficient to reduce the possibility of material stresses occurring during the heating and cooling cycles of the weld.

98. The sheet of claim 94, which further comprises, additional solder filler material on the side of each of the coupling points substantially opposite the bridge, the welding filler material being sized and arranged to allow the material Additional solder filler is directed into the weld spot during welding.

99. The sheet of claim 94, which further comprises a plurality of alignment apertures disposed in the sheet.

100. The sheet of claim 94, wherein the implant patterns are adapted in such a manner that, over the expansion of the implant against the inner wall of a vessel, substantially no portion of the implant protrudes into the longitudinal chamber of the implant. .

101. A method for manufacturing an implant having a longitudinal chamber, which comprises the steps of: a.) Constructing an apparatus comprising: a) a laser housing; b) a laser disposed inside, and selectively movable within, the housing; c) a movable table having a first end and a second end, and adapted for a selective movement in and out of the laser housing, the table adapting in such a way that, when the first end of the table is arranged inside the laser housing, the second end of the table is disposed outside the housing, and when the second end of the table is disposed inside the laser housing, the first end of the table is disposed outside the laser housing; d) a plurality of implant beams disposed at the first end of the table, and a plurality of implant beams disposed at the second end of the table, each of the implant beams comprising: a) a base having a platform adapted to receive a flat metal sheet to form the implant, the flat metal sheet having a longitudinal axis, a first larger surface, a second larger surface, a long first side, and a long second side, the first and second long sides being substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis, the sheet provided with a plurality of alignment apertures; b) a plurality of alignment bolts projecting from each of the platforms, the bolts being dimensioned to engage with the alignment openings, and to align the sheet on the platform; c) a mandrel having a substantially cylindrical external surface, and having a first end, a second end, and a longitudinal axis, the mandrel being dimensioned to have a cross-sectional diameter substantially equal to, or less than, the internal diameter of the mandrel. implant to be manufactured, the platform being provided with a first concave recess adapted to receive the first end of the mandrel, and a second concave recess for receiving the second end of the mandrel; d) an articulatedly connected arm, adapted to move in a first direction towards the platform, and in a second direction away from the platform to secure the mandrel against a larger surface of the flat metal sheet; e) a first deformation blade provided with a first deformation blade tip; a second deformation blade provided with a second deformation blade tip; a third deformation blade provided with a third deformation blade tip, a fourth deformation blade provided with a fourth deformation blade tip; a fifth deflection blade provided with a fifth deformation blade tip; and a sixth deformation blade provided with a sixth deformation blade tip, the blades being arranged around the outer surface of the mandrel, the tips of the deformation blades being adapted to deform the flat metal sheet against the outer surface of the mandrel, so that the flat metallic sheet is deformed to a substantially tubular configuration, substantially conforming to the outer surface, the deformation vanes being arranged between the first end and the second end of the mandrel, each of the deformation vanes adapting for a movement independent and selective in a first direction towards the mandrel, and in a second direction away from the mandrel, to selectively impact the tips of the deformation blades against the mandrel or against a portion of the sheet disposed between the mandrel and each of the tips of the blades of deformation, adapting in addition each of the blades d deformation so that the first long side and the second long side of the sheet remain substantially parallel to each other when the implant is deformed to the tubular configuration, the third and sixth tips of deflection vanes being provided with a plurality of openings 5 of Setated lasers, the apertures being sized and arranged to allow the third and sixth tips of the deflection vanes to secure the first long side and the second long side against the outer surface of the mandrel, while providing the laser access to previously determined portions. of the first long side and the second long side of the sheet, in order to weld the first long side with the second long side; f) a first motor connected to the first deformation blade; a second motor connected to the 15 second deformation blade; a third motor connected to the third deformation blade; a fourth motor connected to the fourth deformation blade; a fifth motor connected with the fifth deflection blade; and a sixth motor connected with the sixth deformation blade, adapting each of the motors 20 to selectively move each of the deformation blades with which they are connected, in a first direction towards the mandrel and a second direction away from the mandrel; and g) a computer to control: the sequence in which the first end of the table and the 25 seconds' end of the table inside the laser housing; j- to control the sequence and the degree to which each of the plurality of deformation blade tips impacts on the mandrel or a portion of the sheet disposed between the mandrel and each of the deformation blade tips; Y 5 to control the sequence, pattern, location, and amount of energy applied by the laser to each of the first and second long sides of each of the sheets disposed on each of the plurality of beams of the implant r. ~ 10 b.) Cutting a plurality of implant patterns into a flat piece of metal, each of the patterns having a first larger surface and a second larger surface, a long first side and a long second side, the first long side being provided with a plurality of pairs of 15 coupling points, the second long side being provided with a plurality of pairs of coupling points, the plurality of pairs of coupling points being arranged substantially opposite each other, the coupling points being dimensioned and arranged to communicate 20 when the pattern is deformed and rolled up into a tubular configuration, each pair of the coupling points of the first long side being provided with a bridge disposed between each coupling point of the first long side comprising the pair, the bridge having a width What is it Less than the width of the other portions of the implant, the sheet provided with a plurality of alignment apertures dimensioned and arranged to mate with the alignment pins on the base; c.) arranging the sheet on the base, in such a way that the first greater surface of the sheet is in contact with the base; d.) disposing a mandrel having a substantially cylindrical external surface and a longitudinal axis, against the second major surface of the sheet, between the first long side and the second long side of the sheet, the longitudinal axis being substantially parallel to the first side long and the second long side; e.) deforming the pattern to a tubular configuration, such that the pairs of coupling points of the first long side contact the pairs of coupling points of the second long side, the step of deforming comprising the steps of: a ) actuate the sixth motor of the deformation blade, so that the sixth motor of the deformation blade moves the sixth blade of deformation in a first direction by a sufficient amount so that the tip of the sixth blade of deformation makes contact with the external surface of the mandrel, in order to secure the mandrel with the sheet; b) actuate the first motor of the deformation blade, in such a way that the first deformation blade motor moves to the first deformation blade in the first direction, by an amount sufficient for the tip of the first deformation blade to make contact with the first larger surface of the sheet, and deforming the sheet against the outer surface of the mandrel; c) driving the second deformation blade motor, in such a way that the second deformation blade motor moves the second deformation blade in the first direction, by an amount sufficient for the tip of the second deformation blade to make contact with the first larger surface of the sheet, and deforming the sheet against the outer surface of the mandrel; d) actuate the third deformation blade motor, in such a way that the third deformation blade motor moves the second deflection blade in the first direction, by an amount sufficient for the tip of the third deformation blade to contact With the first major surface of the sheet, deform the sheet against the outer surface of the mandrel, while driving the sixth deformation blade motor, such that the sixth deformation blade moves in the second direction away from the mandrel; e) actuate the fourth deformation blade motor, in such a way that the fourth deformation blade motor moves to the tip of the fourth deformation blade in the first direction, by an amount sufficient for the tip of the fourth blade deformation makes contact with the first major surface of the sheet, and deforms the sheet 5 against the outer surface of the mandrel; f) actuate the fifth deformation blade motor, in such a way that the fifth deformation blade motor moves the fifth blade of deformation in the first direction, by an amount sufficient for the tip of the fifth deformation blade to make contact with the first major surface of the sheet, and deform the sheet against the outer surface of the mandrel; g) drive the sixth deformation blade motor, in such a way that the sixth blade motor of The deformation moves the second deformation blade in the first direction, by an amount sufficient for the tip of the second deformation blade to contact the first larger surface of the sheet, and deform the sheet against the outer surface of the mandrel; 20 h) actuate simultaneously the third and sixth motors of blades of deformation, in such a way that the third and sixth motors of blades of deformation move the third and sixth blades of deformation in the first direction, by an amount sufficient for the tips of the third 25 and sixth deflection blades make contact with the first major surface of the sheet, and deform the sheet against the outer surface of the mandrel; d) use the laser to cut the bridge; And e) use the laser to weld each of the coupling points with the coupling point with which it is in contact, to form the expandable implant.

102. The method of claim 101, wherein the bridge has a width that is from about 25 percent to about 50 percent of the width of the other portions of the implant.

103. The method of claim 101, wherein the bridge has a width of about 40 microns.

104. The method of claim 101, wherein the coupling points are dimensioned. and they are adapted to move by an amount sufficient to reduce the possibility of stresses of the material during the heating and cooling cycles of the weld.

105. The method of claim 101, further comprising the step of forming a V-shaped notch between the first long side and the second long side during step e).

106. The method of claim 101, further comprising the step of providing a gap between the coupling points and the outer surface of the mandrel during step e). *

107. The method of claim 101, which comprises the additional step of providing additional solder filler material on the side of each of the coupling points substantially opposite the bridge, the weld filler material being sized and disposed. to allow additional solder filling material to be directed into the weld spot during welding. ^

108. The method of claim 101, wherein step d) is performed using a laser device.

109. The method of claim 101, wherein step e) is performed using a weld.

110. The method of claim 109, wherein the weld is run from the outside to the inside.

111. The method of claim 109, wherein the weld is wider than the other portions of the implant.

112. The method of claim 111, wherein the weld is approximately 20 percent wider than 20 the other portions of the implant.

113. The method of claim 109, wherein the weld has a width of about 140 microns.

114. The method of claim 109, wherein step e) is performed using a weld that is out of phase 25 from the point where the coupling points make contact with each other.

115. The method of claim 109, wherein step e) is performed using a plurality of welds.

116. The method of claim 115, wherein two welds are used.

117. The method of claim 114, wherein the welds are offset by approximately 0.01 millimeters from the point where the coupling points contact each other.

118. The method of claim 109, wherein the weld is a spot weld.

119. The method of claim 109, wherein a plurality of spot welds are used.

120. The method of claim 119, wherein the plurality of point welds comprises 5 point welds.

121. The method of claim 101, which further comprises the step of electropolishing the implant.

122. The method of claim 101, wherein step e) is carried out using an adhesive.

123. The method of claim 101, wherein step e) is performed using a nail-like element.

124. The method of claim 101, wherein the pattern is cut into the implant using multiple recording.

125. The method of claim 101, further comprising the step of inspecting both sides of the sheet after step a) and before step b).

126. The method of claim 125, wherein the inspection step is performed using an apparatus of 5 automated optical inspection.

127. The method of claim 101, wherein the patterns of the implant are aggregated in such a way that, upon expansion of the implant against the inner wall of a vessel, • do not substantially project any portion of the implant 10 into the longitudinal chamber?

128. An implant having a longitudinal chamber, which comprises: a first long side and a second long side, the first long side being provided with a plurality of 15 pairs of coupling points, the second long side being provided with a plurality of pairs of coupling points, the plurality of pairs of coupling points of the first long side and the plurality of pairs of coupling points of the second long side being arranged. 20 substantially opposite one another, and connected to each other by means of a weld, the weld being wider than the other portions of the implant.

129. The implant of claim 128, wherein the weld is run from the outside inward.

130. The implant of claim 128, wherein the weld is approximately 20 percent wider than the other portions of the implant.

131. The implant of claim 128, wherein the weld has a width of about 140 microns.

132. The implant of claim 128, wherein the weld is comprised of a plurality of welds.

133. The implant of claim 132, wherein the weld is comprised of two welds. -

134. The implant of claim 128, wherein 10 the welding is a spot welding.

135. The implant of claim 128, wherein the weld comprises a plurality of spot welds.

136. The implant of claim 135, wherein the plurality of spot welds comprises 5 welds of 15 point.

137. The implant of claim 128, wherein the patterns of the implant are adapted in such a way that, over the expansion of the implant against the inner wall of a vessel, substantially no portion of the implant 20 protrudes into the longitudinal chamber of the implant. implant.