Abstract: A syringe disposal apparatus has a portable collection unit (1) and a processing unit (2'). The collection unit (1) has an in-feed mechanism (11) to allow syringes to be introduced into the collection unit (1); and an interlock mechanism (12) suitable for removably securing the collection unit (1) to the processing unit (2') and emptying the syringes from the collection unit (1) into the processing unit (2').

Abstract: A syringe disposal apparatus has a portable collection unit and a process unit. The collection unit has an in-feed mechanism to allow syringes to be introduced into the collection unit; and an interlock mechanism suitable for removably securing the collection unit to the processing unit and emptying the syringes from the collection unit into the processing unit. The processing unit contains an interlock mechanism suitable to activating the collection unit interlock mechanism; a grinder suitable for grinding the syringes into particles of metal and plastic; and a crucible assembly suitable for heating these particles above the melting point of plastic, and then cooling to produce a solid puck of plastic in which the metal particles are suspended and encapsulated.

Abstract: An ultrasound sector scan imaging system employing a hand held scan unit is provided with an adapter mounting which is affixed over the scan section, and a sterile glove or boot which encloses the scanner and the mount. A disposable needle guide mechanism is fitted, saddle style, to the mounting over the boot. The disposable guide has a channel for locating the biopsy needle in the sector scan plane, and a depression therein for hand-maintenance of the needle in the guide, during the needle location process, and for free removal of the scanner once the desired position is achieved.

Abstract: A curved faced, disc shaped transducer and an oppositely facing, circular angularly disposed mirror form the transmission and reception path of a mechanical sector scan imaging system. The transducer and mirror are mounted on a common axis, and a shaft upon which the mirror is affixed oscillates about that axis. Through a belt drive mechanism, a motor provides the oscillating motion, in turn scanning the ultrasound beams through the subject by virtue of the mirror motion. An optical encoder records positional information from the motor, for coordination of the mirror oscillation with transducer signals, and thereby for the assembly of a composite image.

Abstract: Apparatus and method are disclosed for detecting and indicating the occurrence of strain in a main cable interconnecting a movable tower and counterweight assembly in a tiltable X-ray table.The strain indication constitutes an audible signal produced by an audible signal generator in response to the strain indication.The X-ray table has a top pivotable through the horizontal, and circuitry and apparatus for preventing further pivoting of the table top when the top has been moved to its horizontal position following the production of a strain indication.The audio signal is generated constantly following the strain indication, and ceases when the table top is moved to the horizontal.

Abstract: Apparatus and method are disclosed for detecting excess strain or failure in a main cable interconnecting a movable tower and counterweight assembly in a tiltable X-ray table. A secondary cable, substantially parallel to the main cable, is provided for supplementing the force exerted by the main cable structure between the tower and counterweight to a degree which is a function of the amount of strain occurring in the main cable. Changes in the amount of supplemental force provided by the secondary cable are sensed and used to produce an indication of the main cable strain. A supplemental force indication is accomplished by structure for holding a portion of the secondary cable in a transversely deflected position and by a spring actuated limit switch coupled to the deflected portion. The limit switch produces an indication in response to forces transverse to the length of the secondary cable exerted in the deflected portion, which forces result from increased tension on the secondary cable.