Abstract: A multi-port thumb pump cylinder is disclosed. The cylinder includes a body with a body central bore with a body bore longitudinal axis running along a portion of the length of the body and defining a proximal and distal end. The body central bore receives a thumb pump piston assembly through the proximal end. The body has a vacuum manifold connected to the distal end of the body central bore. The manifold includes a suction cup vacuum port and at least one vacuum port with a molded nipple, or a connection structure to allow fittings to be attached thereto. Also disclosed is a thumb pump using the cylinder and a thumb pump system with multiple thumb pumps utilizing the cylinder.

Abstract: A suction cup apparatus is disclosed that includes a suction cup and a suction cup cover. The suction cup has an outer sealing edge and can be placed under vacuum. The cover has a solid suction cup cover surface and a suction cup cover wall extending away from this surface. The suction cup cover wall is constructed to circumscribe the outer sealing edge, and the suction cup cover wall and solid suction cup cover surface are constructed to elastically deform under a pulling force. The suction cup cover is further constructed to fit around the sealing edge when subjected to the pulling force and to form an airtight seal between the suction cup and suction cup cover when the pulling force is withdrawn.