Abstract: The invention relates to a respiratory secretion sample collection device that includes a collection reservoir for directly receiving a sample of a respiratory secretion, a displacement member for insertion into the collection reservoir and displacing the sample within the collection reservoir, a container of a diluent for fluid communication with the sample for mixing the diluent with the sample, and an outlet for discharging the mixture of the diluent and the sample to an assay device. In embodiments, the precise volumes of the sample and the diluent are effectively mixed to enable the conduct of assays for which the relative concentration of diluent and sample is critical.

Abstract: A propeller shaft assembly (10) comprising a constant velocity universal joint (12) including a hollow shaft (20) and a connecting shaft (18) is provided. The hollow shaft (20) includes an outer joint part (23) having an outer race surface (31) that includes an outer forward portion (32) and an outer rearward portion (34). The connecting shaft (18) includes an inner joint part (25) having an inner race surface (33) that includes an inner forward portion (35) and an inner rearward portion (36). The connecting shaft (18) further includes a recessed surface portion (38). A ball cage (26) that has a plurality of torque transmitting balls (28) is included. During a collision, the torque transmitting balls (28) translate off said inner race surface (33) and drop into the recessed surface portion (38) allowing the connecting shaft (18) to collapse into the hollow shaft (20).

Abstract: A propeller shaft assembly (10) comprising a constant velocity universal joint (12) including a hollow shaft (20) and a connecting shaft (18) is provided. The hollow shaft (20) includes an outer joint part (23) having an outer race surface (31) that includes an outer forward portion (32) and an outer rearward portion (34). The connecting shaft (18) includes an inner joint part (25) having an inner race surface (33) that includes an inner forward portion (35) and an inner rearward portion (36). The connecting shaft (18) further includes a recessed surface portion (38). A ball cage (26) that has a plurality of torque transmitting balls (28) is included. During a collision, the torque transmitting balls (28) translate off said inner race surface (33) and drop into the recessed surface portion (38) allowing the connecting shaft (18) to collapse into the hollow shaft (20).