Abstract: A handle for removably holding a substantially planar surgical blade having a slot therein comprises a rearward end to be held by the user and a forward end. An elongate tang at the forward end includes a proximal end, a distal end and a boss projecting outwardly from a side of the tang adjacent to the distal end thereof. This tang includes a pair of opposed longitudinal grooves extending from the distal end to the proximal end of the tang wherein the grooves run substantially along the interface of the tang and the boss. The tang also includes a relief recess projecting into the boss to a depth at least as deep as that portion of the boss extending outwardly from the grooves. The recess divides the boss into a forward boss portion and a rearward boss portion.

Abstract: The disclosure is of an improved method and apparatus for humidifying medical gases. The apparatus improved is of the type which comprises a portable housing enclosing a water reservoir, a gas chamber, gas inlet and outlet conduits to carry the gas through the water reservoir and gas chamber. The improvement comprises an audible pressure relief valve in association with the gas chamber. When a predetermined pressure within the gas chamber has been exceeded, the pressure relief valve opens to relieve the excess pressure and to simultaneously warn the operator than the predetermined pressure level has been exceeded. The alerted operator may then check to determine if there has been a malfunction in the apparatus or ancillary apparatus.

Abstract: The disclosure is of a captured nut coupling particularly adapted to join two articles and to convey fluids between the joined articles. The coupling is a fastener comprising a split ring inner or male member and a solid retaining and locking outer or female member. The male and female members are locked together after the male member is connected to one of the articles to be joined. In one embodiment the inner male member bears an inner rib which rotatably engages a groove in one of the articles for connection and the outer female member includes a means for engaging the other article for connection.

Abstract: The disclosure is of a ring type opener for removing the cap portion of a hermetically sealed molded plastic container having an integrally molded cap portion. The opener includes a means for engaging and holding the cap during and after removal, in a plane parallel to the normal axis of the container so that it will lift evenly and remain within the ring opener following severance.

Abstract: Sterilizing apparatus is provided in accordance with the teachings of the instant invention wherein a programmed cycle of operation is initiated and maintained unless electrical failure occurs. According to one exemplary embodiment, upon activation and cycle initiation, a door to a sterilizing chamber is locked and a control relay is latched in an enabled condition. The enabling of the control relay energizes a heater disposed in a heating relationship to the sterilizing chamber and the heat generated within said sterilizing chamber is monitored by a sensor which selectively controls the heater to maintain a selected heat within the sterilizing chamber. When a predetermined temperature within the sterilizing chamber is detected a timer is initiated for the sterilization cycle selected.