Abstract: A flexible tubing coupling employs ferrules at the tubing ends, each ferrule being connected to an annular end fitting by way of a bellows. The end fittings are statically secured together by retainer halves encircling the end fittings and captured there by a rigid ring. Engagement between ferrule rims and inner spherical surfaces on the retainer halves prevent undue extension and deflection of the bellows while maintaining a uniform stress distribution on the coupling components. Various end fitting static seal configurations are also disclosed.

Abstract: An infusion apparatus and method employs an infusate reservoir connected by way of a first flow path having a first flow restrictor to a mixing chamber. The reservoir is also connected by a second flow path having a second flow restrictor to the same mixing chamber so that infusate may be conveyed to the chamber at different rates. A normally closed valve is provided in the second flow path so that infusate flows from the two paths supplement one another in the mixing chamber only when the valve is open. The reservoir and chamber volumes, infusate concentration and chamber outlet flow rate are selected to provide an integrated dosage profile suited to the patient.

Abstract: This invention relates to apparatus for accurately locating the septum through which the fluid reservoir of an implanted prosthetic device may be refilled subcutaneously.

Abstract: Implantable infusion apparatus has a main infusate reservoir and a smaller volume auxiliary infusate reservoir interconnected by a passage. Fail-safe electrical valve means controls infusate flow from the main reservoir to the auxiliary reservoir and from the auxiliary reservoir exteriorly of the apparatus so as to prevent infusate overdose in the event of valve failure.

Abstract: An infusion apparatus and method employs an infusate reservoir connected by way of a first flow restrictor to a mixing chamber and a second infusate reservoir connected via a second flow path having a selected restriction characteristic to the same mixing chamber so that infusate may be conveyed to the mixing chamber in different concentrations or in different types. A normally closed valve is provided in the second flow path so that the two infusates supplement one another in the mixing chamber only when the valve is opened. The reservoir and chamber volumes, infusate concentrations and chamber outlet flow rates are dimensioned to provide an integrated dosage profile suited to the patient. The apparatus can also include an accumulator with a restricted inlet in the second flow path situated between the second reservoir and the valve so that when the valve is opened, infusate flows to the mixing chamber from the second flow path only if the accumulator has been replenished from the second reservoir.

Abstract: Apparatus for injecting infusate into a reservoir implanted in the human body comprises a housing from which projects a hollow needle. The needle is slidably mounted in the housing and spring biased to its extended position in which the inner end of the needle is closed by a valve. The needle is extended and locked during injection through the skin and septum of an implanted reservoir, after which the needle lock is released to permit automatic function of the apparatus when the needle hits a stop behind the septum. The resultant needle setback opens the valve permitting fluid to flow through the needle into the reservoir.