Abstract: A head that can be coupled with a mixing apparatus includes a body that defines a longitudinal axis and includes a first side, a second side, a third side, and a fourth side. Each of the sides includes a projection. The body is configured to receive a microplate between the sides, which is removably secured to the body by the projections. At least one vertical channel in the body is configured to removably secure a first test tube to the body so that the longitudinal axis of the tube is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the body. The first vertical channel has a first diameter. At least one horizontal channel in the body is configured to removably secure a second test tube so that the longitudinal axis of the tube is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the body. The first test tube and the second test tube can be coupled to the body at the same time.

Abstract: A head that can be coupled with a mixing apparatus includes a body that defines a longitudinal axis and includes a first side, a second side, a third side, and a fourth side. Each of the sides includes a projection. The body is configured to receive a microplate between the sides, which is removably secured to the body by the projections. At least one vertical channel in the body is configured to removably secure a first test tube to the body so that the longitudinal axis of the tube is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the body. The first vertical channel has a first diameter. At least one horizontal channel in the body is configured to removably secure a second test tube so that the longitudinal axis of the tube is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the body. The first test tube and the second test tube can be coupled to the body at the same time.

Abstract: A cutting system that includes a rotary blade cartridge that can be interchangeably used with a variety of cutting tools is disclosed. The cartridge houses a rotary blade assembly that is maintained in a secure and safe retracted state and that can be activated when the cartridge is inserted into a cutting tool. Activating a plunger of any of the cutting tools causes a piston of the rotary blade assembly to move the blade to an operative cutting position protruding from an aperture provided in the cartridge housing. Deactivating the plunger causes the blade to be return to its retracted and inoperative position within the housing. Cutting tools of the invention include rail cutters such as a primary workstation and a compact workstation, circle cutters, elliptical cutters, and freeform cutters. Each cutting tool is capable of receiving a rotary blade cartridge. Cartridges are freely interchangeable between the cutting tools.