Abstract: A switch and decoder circuit and method of reading same includes a 4 to 16 line decoder latch for selectively enabling up to 14 manually settable switches, each of which generates a BCD code in response to a switch setting, a plurality of thumb wheel switches each of which is selectively enabled by the decoder latch are connected in parallel to a data bus which can then be sensed by associated circuitry. Two pseudoswitches are provided which may be selectively enabled by the decoder latch and which gate onto the address bus two known, non-BCD codes for hardware checking purposes. A control program in an associated processing unit through input/output circuitry can select a switch whose outputs are to be sensed, read asserted and negated values for the switch, compare the values to a predetermined range of allowable values, and cycle the pseudoswitches to determine whether or not the hardware is functioning properly.

Abstract: A tubular fluid transfer device is operative by itself to seal the end of a conduit. By coupling two of the devices together, a fluid path can be selectively established between two conduits by applying heat energy. The device includes a generally planar surface having a meltable region. The generally planar surface of one device is slidable against the generally planar surface of another one of the devices to bring the meltable regions into registration. The device includes a coupling mechanism which guides the meltable regions into the desired alignment as registration occurs. Furthermore, as the meltable regions register, the coupling mechanism generates forces which bias the meltable regions into intimate contact. The coupling mechanism thereafter releasably retains the devices in this snug interlocked relationship, so that the energy can be applied to jointly heat the meltable regions and melt open a fluid path between the two devices.

Abstract: A fluid processing system includes an integral flow control and distribution manifold for establishing fluid communication between conduit segments of the system. In use, the fluid manifold is received in an actuator head of an associated processor apparatus, wherein valving elements selectively crimp valving passageways in the manifold to perform the procedure. The fluid circuit of the system accommodates multiple procedures, obviating the need to stock multiple systems and enabling manufacturing economics to be realized from higher production volumes.

Abstract: A universal connector for a fluid flow conduit comprises a tubular connector for attachment at one end to the fluid flow conduit and defining a luer taper tube portion at its other end. A sleeve is carried by and surrounding the tubular connector in relatively rotatable relation thereto. The sleeve defines internal threads for threaded locking connection with another connector. A tubular member having external threads at one end is locked by said external thread in removable threaded locking connection with the internal threads. The tubular member defines at its other end an aperture for sealingly receiving a spike connector.

Abstract: A reconstitution device for constituting a drug in a standard drug vial with a liquid in a second container such as a parenteral solution container is provided. The reconstitution device 10 includes a housing 52 and a hollow, double-pointed needle 54 mounted within the housing. The housing includes a sheath 70 having a substantially circular base 72 and a skirt 74 depending from the base. The skirt 72 includes a free end 76, a substantially cylindrical inner surface 78 and an outer surface 80. A plurality of inwardly projecting bumps 82 are intermittently spaced about the inner surface 78. The bumps are disposed a substantially equal distance from the base 72, the distance being substantially equal to the width of the malleable band.

Abstract: A humidifier (10) used in respiratory therapy is disclosed where the surface tension of a light probe (32) used therewith is maintained greater than the surface tension of the aqueous liquid used in the humidifier (10). Maintaining the surface tension of the light probe (32) greater than the surface tension of the aqueous liquid generally avoids erroneous indication of aqueous liquid level in the humidifier (10). Erroneous indications of liquid level can be caused by gas bubbles adhering to submerged portions of the light probe (32) or liquid droplets adhering to unsubmerged portions of the light probe (32).

Abstract: A single needle batch-type blood fractionation system for separating plasma from whole blood includes a disposable flow system having a single-lumen phlebotomy needle and associated donor conduit, a flow-through plasma separation filter, and an in-process fluid reservoir. During an initial draw cycle whole blood is pumped through the filter to the in-process reservoir by a peristaltic-type inlet pump operating at a predetermined draw rate. When a predetermined volume of filtered plasma-deficient blood has been collected in the reservoir, as sensed by the weight of the reservoir, the system reverts to a return cycle wherein a portion of the plasma-deficient blood in the reservoir is pumped back to the donor conduit by a peristaltic-type return pump operating at a predetermined return rate higher than the draw rate of the inlet pump.

Abstract: A carton for packaging fragile containers is provided. The carton includes an energy absorbing insert member, two rigid plates, and packaging. Fragile containers are located on each side of the energy absorbing insert member and the rigid plates compress the containers against the energy absorbing insert member. The packaging surrounds the energy absorbing insert, containers, and rigid plates.

Abstract: An apparatus for shaping a web of film with attached fitments into a tubular shape. The apparatus including a plate member including a cut-out portion and an oblong member. The plate member and oblong member defining a channel and cooperating to fold a web of film with attached fitments into a substantially tubular shape.

Abstract: Antimicrobial compositions finding particular utility for coating access systems, lead devices including shunts, cannulae, catheters, catheter adapters, wires and other solid or hollow tubular devices used for a variety of medical purposes is provided. The composition comprises a material selected from the group consisting of acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymers, polyvinyl chloride, mixtures thereof, polyesters, polyurethanes, styrene-block copolymers, natural and synthetic rubbers, polycarbonates, nylon and silicone rubber mixed with an oligodynamic material consisting essentially of compounds of physiological, antimicrobial metals.

Abstract: A module containing a reverse osmosis membrane for a water purification system is provided. A membrane assembly is mounted in the center of a pressure vessel with a seal surrounding the membrane assembly between the outside of the assembly and the inner wall of the pressure vessel. An inlet port passes through the pressure vessel and enters the vessel between the seal and one end of the pressure vessel in close prximity to the seal. An outlet port passes through the pressure vessel at a point between the seal and the other end of the pressure vessel, also in close proximity to the seal. The water pressure differential between the two ports maintains the integrity of the seal and their location insures a turbulent water flow throughout the module.

Abstract: A sealing closure for a male Luer fitment includes a rigid hollow cap and flange means for a pressure lock with the fitment. The sealing closure includes a compressively retained elastomeric insert which deforms over time to compensate for creep between the fitment and the hollow cap. The sealing closure provides a liquid-tight seal over time against a pressurized liquid supply in open communication with the fitment.

Abstract: A protective shroud for a connection site also strengthens the connection site by restraining movement of the connection site in a manner which would cause its separation. One end of the protective shroud is buttressed to resist yielding in response to forces acting upon the connection site. When an oversized connection site is inserted into the shroud, the shroud provides a camming action which compresses the connection site to a length which securely nests within the shroud.

Abstract: A blood flow system for processing blood has two phases of operation, an arterial phase and a venous phase. During the arterial phase, the system is filled with blood through operation of an arterial blood pump. When a predetermined blood pressure level in the system has been attained, the arterial blood pump is inactivated and a venous blood pump removes blood from the system for a given number of pump turns. By accurately monitoring both arterial and venous pumps operating cycles, ultrafiltration volume and rate may be determined.

Abstract: A tubing clamp for firmly retaining flexible tubing without occluding flow through it and for forcing the tube into straight and open configuration. The tubing clamp rests on a platform member and comprises a pair of jaws positioned in opposed relation to each other and pivotally mounted on the platform member to be pivotally movable between open and closed positions. Facing surfaces of the jaws defines recesses that together define a tube port in the closed position of substantially the outer diameter of the tubing intended for retention therein. The tube has a parting line, and the jaws also define overlapping members at the parting line to prevent pinching of tubing occupying the tube port in the parting line as the jaws are moved to closed position.

Abstract: An occluder valve for closing off the flow of fluid in a flexible plastic tube includes a linearly movable pinch member coupled to a rotatable shaft through a nut. The shaft is coupled to an electric motor through an electrically energizable clutch. The output shaft of the motor is mechanically constrained to rotate in only one direction. The motor, coupled through the clutch, rotates the shaft causing the pinch member to move linearly away from the tubing. A torsion spring opposes this rotation. Once opened the valve will stay opened as long as the clutch is energized as the shaft of the motor will not rotate in a closing direction. To close the valve, the clutch is deenergized and the torsion spring moves the pinch member linearly against the flexible tubing closing it off.

Abstract: A nebulizer is provided which includes a liquid container and a cap attachable thereto. The cap includes a outlet port for delivery of a nebulized liquid/gas mixture to a patient, a gas inlet, a venturi in communication with the gas inlet, a conduit through which liquid may be circulated in the cap and heated by an external heater, a liquid outlet adjacent the end of the venturi, so that the gas flowing through the venturi draws out the liquid, and a dial rotatable on the cap. The dial has windows which may be positioned over openings in the cap to allow air from the environment to enter the cap and dilute the gas to a desired concentration. The dial engages the cap securely once its position is set on the cap, so the gas concentration is not inadvertently changed during use of the nebulizer.

Abstract: A method for the production of antimicrobial catheters includes the steps of comminuting an antimicrobial metal compound to a particle size of up to about 30 microns in diameter. The comminuted antimicrobial metal compound is suspended in a suspending agent which can be cured to form a catheter or which can be formed to provide a coating on a previously formed catheter. The suspending agent is coated to either form the catheter or to form a coating on a catheter. Upon curing of the suspending agent, an outer surface is formed on the catheter, which outer surface includes the antimicrobial metal compound, thereby imparting antimicrobial activity to the catheter.

Abstract: A cannula assembly especially for medical use is disclosed which virtually eliminates coring during the piercing of a barrier. The cannula assembly includes a hollow cylindrical shank and a piercing tip removably mounted in and closing one end of the shank. Pressurized introduction of fluid through the shank forces the piercing tip out of engagement with the shank, placing opposite sides of the barrier in fluid communication.