Abstract: An integrated lancing device comprises a generally U-shaped spring member defining a pair of arms having free ends. A lance blade is carried in transverse position on one of the arms adjacent the free end, the one arm defining a trigger projection typically positioned substantially along the axis of the one arm. The other of the pair of arms carries a trigger member as an integral part thereof, with the trigger member extending toward the trigger projection. The arms may be flexed outwardly into a cocked position and held there by engagement of the trigger projection and trigger member. The integrated lacing device may be triggered to cause the arms to suddenly flex together, causing the lance to strike a part of a patient.

Abstract: Described is a lancet cartridge for drawing blood samples from the finger of a patient which includes a first housing for receiving a lancet disk having a plurality of radially extending lancets, each lancet having a tooth projecting from the end thereof, and a second housing engageable with the first housing, the housings being rotatable with respect to each other, the one housing includes a ramp for receiving the end of the lancets whereby the lancet is elevated when the cartridge housing is rotated. A platform is positioned in one of the housings to receive the lancet as it is elevated by the ramp to thereby place the lancet in a cocked position. The second housing member includes at least one opening through which the end of the lancets can project to pierce the patient's finger. A trigger is positioned to be activated when a finger is placed in the opening to release the cocked lancet from the platform and pierce the patient's finger.