Abstract: A retractable needle-type syringe having a maximum amount of safety features, including maintaining the needle of the syringe in a retracted and totally shielded position prior to use. After an injection has been given, the plunger rod of the syringe can be operated by one hand of the user in such a manner as to completely and totally disable the syringe and thereby render secondary use of the syringe practically impossible. This feature leaves the other hand of the user out of danger and proximity to the syringe and available to perform other patent-assisting functions. The above multifunctional nature and operation of this invention is accomplished through the use of a minimum number individual components which are uniquely adapted for packaging and cooperative interaction within an elongated cylindrical housing of the syringe.

Abstract: A trash compactor or other materials loading assembly wherein a flexible memory containing ramrod and associated platen may be flexibly driven against a trash load in such a manner as to assume its general contour and provide good trash compacting efficiency. In a preferred embodiment, the ramrod is made of relatively low cost polyvinylchloride (PVC), thereby avoiding the high costs associated with metal components. In addition, the ramrod is flexibly driven by slidable engagement with a PVC piston driver in a seal tight arrangement so as to maintain good liquid tight hydraulic fluid sealing at the side walls of the piston driver. This assembly may be used either in a trash compacting operation or in the high density compacting of new and recyclable materials. The present invention is also directed to a new and improved method of compacting materials in a high density, low cost and efficient mode of operation.