Abstract: A multi-functional exercise device that enables a user to exercise different muscle groups. The exercise device has a a first planar support member, a second planar support member extending from the first planar support member at an angle therebetween, and a handle coupled to the first planar support member and to the second planar support member. The handle has an elongated gripping portion that is oriented generally parallel to the first planar support member and generally perpendicular to the second planar support member. The exercise device is configured to be alternated between a first orientation in which the first planar support member is positioned against a surface, and a second orientation in which the second planar support member is positioned against the surface.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for handling a container having a removable cover, e.g., a vial for holding a biological fluid specimen. The container may have therein an internal element that is releasably coupled to the cover, such as an assembly for processing the specimen in the container. The method involves applying an external force to the covered container sufficient to release the internal element from the cover, and then dislodging the cover from the container. The external force may be an acceleration force applied to the container, such as an impact force to the bottom of the container, or direct contact with the cover with sufficient force to deflect the cover inwardly. A vertically mounted pressing member and a movably mounted gripper can be used. The pressing member may act to eject the cover from the gripper after the container is clear of the gripper. The apparatus may be part of an automated system for processing multiple liquid-based specimens.

Abstract: A lead-in clamp with electric wire protective casing are disclosed. The electric wire protective casing is a long plastic roll tube, whose longitudinal free edges are not sealed, but rather can be expanded out and drawn back, on the roll tube there being formed a series of uniformly spaced transverse recesses. The lead-in clamp comprises left and right clamp stems, left and right clamp bodies and a clamping spring. When the left and right clamp bodies are fitted together, a wire passing cylinder and a casing guiding head are formed. When in use, the wires are put into the wire passing cylinder, then insert the casing guiding head into one end of the wire protective casing tube. After the wire protective casing tube is fixed stationary by hand, the lead-in clamp is pushed toward the other end of the wire protective casing, thereby to encase all of the wires into the wire protection casing.