Abstract: An improved tool holder system and method of using the same is disclosed, characterized by use of a plural extension member assemblies which permit the rapid adaptation of conventional machine tool holders for use in both automated machine tool changers as well as manual machine tool changer systems. In addition, the present invention discloses an improved method of mounting a cutting tool within a tool holder to accurately position the cutting tool height within the tool holder and subsequently prevent any backing out of the cutting tool from the tool holder during the cutting operation. Further, an improved apparatus and method of ensuring concentric mounting cutting tool within a tool holder is disclosed.

Abstract: A breakaway engagement mechanism is provided for use in connection with a press having a stationary first platen and a vertically translatable second platen, engagable to a vertically translatable drive cylinder mechanism. The engagement mechanism comprises a drive cylinder coupling shaft for engaging a drive cylinder mechanism and extending vertically therefrom. A second platen coupling member is mounted to the coupling shaft and engagable to the second platen. A spring member is further provided, having a first end connectable to the second platen, and a second end connectable to the coupling member, for resiliently holding the coupling member to the second platen.

Abstract: A probe for monitoring a fluid medium employing at least one fiber optic emitting a wave into the fluid medium. The fluid medium scatters or causes luminescence of the emitted wave which is then collected by at least one fiber optic. The probe includes a base having a hole and a window covering the hole of the base, wherein the window transmits electromagnetic waves. The probe collects scattered and luminescence of waves through one or more fiber optics placed behind the window and transmits the waves to a spectrometer connected to a computer which can analyze the fluid medium on a real-time on-line basis. Piezoresistive and temperature sensing elements are deposited on the window which can also serve as a force collector diaphragm. The elements are located primarily on the periphery of the diaphragm leaving a part of the diaphragm open for transmission and collection of the waves.

Abstract: An electrical power strip device generally including a) an elongate housing having at least one plug-receiving receptacle formed therein; b) a power supply cord extending from the housing and connectable to an electrical power source to deliver electrical current to said at least one plug receiving receptacle; c) a relay switch wired between said power supply cord and said at least one plug receiving receptacle such that, when said relay switch is closed power will flow from said power cord to said at least one plug receiving receptacle and when said relay switch is open power will not flow from said power cord to said at least one plug receiving receptacle; and, b) apparatus for communicating said relay switch to the primary device such that when the primary device is de-energized said relay switch will open so as to prevent power from reaching the secondary device(s) connected to said plug receiving receptacle(s) and when the primary device is energized the relay switch will close, thereby allowing electric

Abstract: An improved heel grounding device includes a pair of buckles, each having a hook member or clip that attaches to the upper portion of the wearer's shoe. The device further includes a conductive strip extending from the first buckle around the shoe heel through the second buckle, and then into electrical contact with the wearer. The second buckle preferably has a locking flap, such that the length of conductive strap between the buckles may be adjusted and locked into place, prior to tucking the end of the strap inside the wearer's sock. The grounding device of the present invention is readily adaptable to a wide range of shoe styles and sizes, offering improved fitting and wearing over existing heel grounders. Additionally, the conductive strap portion is disposable and easily replaced, thereby reducing the costs associated with effective control of electrostatic discharge.

Abstract: A bicycle trailer comprising an elongate support member having proximal and distal ends, the distal end having a wheel depending therefrom and the proximal end being attachable, via a connector, to a conventional bicycle. In a preferred embodiment, the elongate support member is pivotally connected to the connector. The connector is mountable to a seat post of the bicycle and is further configured to allow the support member to rotate relative to the seat post. The support member includes at least one rack member attached thereto upon which objects may be placed and secured.

Abstract: An infant seat sling apparatus for carrying of an infant seat having an infant seated or resting thereon. The sling apparatus comprises a receptacle sized and configured to receive said infant seat and an over-the shoulder strap whereby said receptacle may be suspended from the shoulder of an adult human being. The apparatus is preferably of compactable or flexible construction so as to be alternately changeable between a) an open (i.e., operative) configuration and b) a collapsed (i.e., stowable) configuration. A storage pouch may be provided for holding the apparatus when in its collapsed configuration. The apparatus is useable in conjunction with various commercially available infant seats and effectively distributes the weight of the infant and seat across the adult's back thereby significantly reducing fatigue and freeing one or both of the adult's arms for other activities.

Abstract: A towed vehicle deployment apparatus comprising a stationary housing having a spool rotatably connected thereto. Dispensably stored in windings about the spool is the tow line. Rigidly attached to the housing is a line guide and a standoff bar. The tow line is extended from the spool over the standoff bar and subsequently over the line guide for purposes of reducing the pull-off angle of the tow line from the spool.

Abstract: A modular high shear mixer has a shaft guard substantially enclosing the rotating mix shaft thereof and a mixing member guard substantially surrounding the mixing member formed upon the lower end of the mix shaft so as to enhance safety without undesirable affecting the performance of the mixer.. Modular construction facilitates both mechanical and fluid shearing utilizing a plurality of interchangeable mixing members. The mix shaft is driven by a AC motor, the speed of which is determined by a controller so as to eliminate the need for multiple pulleys.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for introducing a catheter into a surgically implanted port. The apparatus has a housing attached to a stylet, with the stylet being received in a catheter. Also provided in the apparatus is a casing with a protective cap that slidably fits within the housing. Also disclosed is a method of catheterizing a surgically implanted port by means of inserting a styler encased in a catheter and retracting the stylet.

Abstract: An endoscope has a fiber optic image bundle which is insertible into a separate sterile sleeve such that the fiber optic image bundle need not be sterilized prior to use. A window formed proximate the distal end of the sleeve facilitates viewing through the fiber optic image bundle. A contractile member urges the fiber optic image bundle into abutment with the window to facilitate proper optical alignment of the distal end of the fiber optic image bundle with the window.

Abstract: A needle core biopsy instrument/extractor for extracting a tissue sample via needle aspiration is disclosed. The extractor comprises a first cannula having a sharpened, beveled cutting tip and biopsy reservoir formed on it distal end. The proximal end of the first cannula is in fluid communication with a conventional syringe such that when the plunger of the syringe is retracted via manipulation o the extractor, a vacuum is created within the biopsy reservoir of the first cannula Axially mounted about the first cannula is a second cutting cannula which is designed and configured to selectively cover and uncover the distal end of the first cannula. A biasing member, preferably a spring, is provided to urge the second cannula forward about the distal end of the first cannula. The syringe, coaxially positioned first and second cannulas, and biasing member are contained within an introducer which is preferably designed and configured to be manipulated by one hand.

Abstract: A hand-held business card image copier is disclosed which includes an image scanner for generating electronic digitized image of a business card. A keypad is provided for assigning identification data to the digitized image. A memory controller is provided for storing the digitized image and assigned identification data. An electronic display is operative to display the digitized image as it is copied, or recalled from memory.

Abstract: A catheter having an elongate body has a first lumen extending therethrough. A concave wall is formed in the body proximate the distal end thereof such that the concave wall is a wall of the first lumen. A first slit is formed in the concave wall. The first slit opens in response to decreased fluid pressure within the lumen so as to facilitate aspiration via the first lumen. Optionally, a first convex wall is formed in the body such that the first convex wall is a wall of the first lumen. A second slit is formed in the first convex wall. The second slit opens in response to increased fluid pressure within the first lumen so as to facilitate infusion via the first lumen. Optionally, a second lumen extends through a substantial portion of the body. A second convex wall is formed in the body proximate the distal end thereof such that the second convex wall is a wall of the second lumen. A third slit is formed in the second convex wall.

Abstract: An inflatable prosthetic cardiovascular valve which is constructed so as to be initially deployable in a deflated "collapsed" configuration wherein the valve may be passed through the lumen of a cardiovascular catheter and subsequently inflated to an "operative" configuration so as to perform its intended valving function at its intended site of implantation within the cardiovascular system. The inflated valve may be held in place by mechanical means (e.g., hooks, projections), by chemical adhesive or through biological assimilation by the heart tissue.

Abstract: A bileaflet mechanical cardiovascular valve comprising an annular valve body having a pair of occluder leaflets pivotally mounted therewithin. The occluder leaflets are pivotally mounted within the valve body by the snap-fitting of ear member which extend from the top and bottom ends of the occluder leaflets into corresponding cropped pivot slots formed within the annular valve body. Each cropped pivot slot comprises a spheroidal depression or recess having a first flat cropped edge and a second flat cropped edge. The ear members of the occluder leaflets are sized and configured relative to the cropped pivot slots to facilitate opening and closing of the occluder leaflets with minimal likelihood of hemolysis or thrombotic complications. Additionally disclosed is a specialized machine tool and method for machining the cropped pivot slots in the annular valve body.