Abstract: A coupling for connecting a first pipe part and a second pipe part comprises a first coupling part and a second coupling part, a shut-off valve arranged in the first coupling part, and locking structure. The locking structure can move with respect to one another between an unlocked position and a locked position, in the manner of a bayonet coupling. An actuator for actuating the shut-off valve is arranged in the second coupling part. The locking structure and the actuator are designed in such a manner that the shut-off valve can only be opened by means of the actuator when the locking structure is in the locked position, and in that the coupling can only be uncoupled when the shut-off valve is in the closed position. The actuator and the locking structure can be actuated separately.

Abstract: A suction control valve is disclosed which includes a primary suction device access and an ancillary suction device access. The valve includes a valve core which is linearly movable between a first position in which the primary access is closed against suction pressure therethrough, to a second position in which the primary access is open to suction pressure therethrough. The valve also is rotatable from the first position to a third position to disable its linear movement and to open the ancillary access port. When the core is in the first position, atmospheric air can pass through the valve and into the suction pressure source in such a manner that a "hissing" auditory signal is generated, indicative of the presence of suction pressure within the valve. When the actuator is in the second or third positions, the "hissing" is prevented. The valve is easily assembled and adapted for gas sterilization.

Abstract: Sterilization device intended to sterilize objects, such as bottles, comprising feed and discharge means for objects, a rotatable treatment unit, which in the region of its circumference comprises treatment cavities, each treatment cavity comprising an opening for feeding and discharging the objects, which opening can be closed and opened with the aid of closure means in the form of an endless belt which bears against the treatment unit over at least a part of its circumference, and it being possible to connect the treatment cavities to a feed for process media. A description is also given of a method for sterilizing objects using the device.

Abstract: A valve for relieving an excess negative pressure condition inside a medical device comprising a diaphragm with an inner periphery and an outer periphery and an actuator having a piston extending axially therefrom which is inserted through the inner periphery of the diaphragm. The piston comprises a plurality of legs that form a void therebetween at the free end thereof. The outer periphery of the diaphragm is sandwiched between the upper and lower housings so as to create a hermetic seal that separates the valve into a venting side and a suction side. To relieve an excess negative pressure condition the diaphragm is operable in one of two positions. In the first position, a biasing members forces the inner periphery of the diaphragm in sealing engagement around the circumference of the piston so that a hermetic seal is maintained between the suction side and the venting side.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a detachable barrel assembly for use with an electronically monitored mechanical pipette. The detachable barrel is made to retain all internal elements thereof in proper operating position even when the barrel assembly is detached from the pipette. The barrel assembly may be of a single channel or multi channel configuration. The barrel assembly may be removed from the pipette in order to allow it to be cleaned, such as by autoclaving, and reattached to the pipette. In this manner, the electrical components of the pipette itself do not need to be subjected to autoclaving whenever the barrel assembly needs to be cleaned. Further, the self-contained design of the barrel assembly simplifies detachment and reattachment thereof to the pipette.

Abstract: A medical fluid delivery set is provided with a magnetic field source in the region of its mounting to a fluid flow control apparatus. The flow control apparatus includes a magnetic field sensitive switching component which detects the proper placement of the delivery set on the flow control apparatus and prevents operation of the fluid delivery system unless a set is in proper position.