Abstract: A bed is divided into a large number of individual polygonal lying surfaces, each of which is spatially adjustable in height and angle of inclination in relation to the others. The patients's weight pushes the lying surfaces downward against a spring and the patient's body sets the inclination angle of the lying surfaces. A rack and gear locking device locks the height through an external rod and a rack and gear locking device locks the inclination through an internal rod connected to the lying surfaces through a socket-expandable ball arrangement on its upper end. The lying surfaces in the head area of the bed have holes and perforations.

Abstract: A vacuum housing connected to a vacuum generator has one open end covered by a fine sieve to provide a serum collection space. A test strip of blotting paper is flush against an intermediate air permeable membrane which is in turn flush against a support sieve.