Abstract: An improved pin housing sub-assembly configured for reliable assembly and stability as an intermediate sub-assembly. The length of the plunger return spring is greater than the diameter of the spring well in the pin housing, such that the spring cannot be accidentally installed sideways in the well. During assembly, the non-compressed longer spring places the pushrod seat flush with the end of the pin housing. A shallow annular groove is provided in the inner wall of the pin housing near the outer end thereof, and an expansion ring may be installed therein when the plunger return spring is slightly compressed. The expansion ring holds the sub-assembly together as an intermediate but is displaced by the spring tower in a subsequent assembly step to become the locking ring between the pin housing and the spring tower, as in the prior art.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for attaching fitments to filled flexible containers. A series of interconnected filled flexible containers are conveyed between a pair of belt conveyors which limit lateral movement of the containers. A third conveyor urges fitments against the bottoms of the containers and the fitments are sealed to the containers.

Abstract: A fitment for attachment to a container having an integral body constructed from a thermoplastic foam and having an integral skin outer surface and a cellular core. The body has a top and bottom surface and includes at least one resealable port.

Abstract: An in-line set filter for parenteral solution sets and the like which comprises a tubular housing having first and second ends. A bundle of filter tubes is positioned within the housing, the filter tubes preferably being folded so that all ends of the filter tubes occupy a single zone in communication with the first housing end. The zone is filled with potting compound with the filter tube ends communicating through the potting compound and open to the exterior. A flow access port is laterally positioned in a side wall between the second end and the potting compound but closer to the potting compound. The second end defines an open aperture occluded by a porous hydrophobic filter to permit venting while preventing loss of aqueous liquid.

Abstract: A unique container is disclosed which has at least three chambers for the separate storage and selective mixing of at least two components. The container includes two outer flexible sheets and an inner, diaphragm sheet, all sealed about their peripheries in the preferred embodiment. Multiple breakable lines of securement are formed between one of the outer sheets and the inner, diaphragm sheet. Multiple permanent lines of securement are formed between the inner diaphragm sheet and the other outer sheet, extending substantially parallel to and substantially the length of the respective breakable lines of securement. Such a container structure defines two chambers which have no common boundary and an intermediate chamber. In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the intermediate chamber does not store any substance; rather, it serves as a buffer or barrier chamber and also acts as a test for seal integrity. In another embodiment of the invention, the intermediate chamber holds a third component for mixing.

Abstract: In a fluid administration set of otherwise conventional design, an in-line chamber is provided having an inlet and outlet port communicating with the chamber and defining part of the path of flow through the set. A sealing piston is slidably movable by fluid pressure within the chamber and capable of occupying first positions in which the sealing piston isolates fluid in the chamber adjacent the inlet port from fluid in the chamber adjacent the outlet port. The sealing piston also can occupy at least one second position in which unlimited fluid flow is permitted between the inlet port and outlet port. A third port is provided for intermittently inserting a critical fluid into the chamber on the side of the sealing piston facing the outlet port.

Abstract: A two chamber container for the separate storage and selective mixing of two components is disclosed. The container includes two outer flexible thermoplastic sheets and an inner, diaphragm sheet. A unique seal line structure is formed between one of the outer sheets and the inner, diaphragm sheet. A peelable barrier structure such as a sheet of aluminum foil with an inner layer of adhesive is secured to the exterior surface of the exterior wall of the container at that portion of the other of the outer sheets which defines one of the chambers of the container. The peelable barrier sheet permits the use of lower cost materials for the remainder of the container structure while both (1) permitting visual inspection of the chamber contents and (2) providing high moisture, gas and light barrier properties.