Abstract: The specification discloses a new method and apparatus for treating extruded teflon (fluoropolymer) tubing to significantly improve its dimensional and optical characteristics. Diameter tolerance is .+-.0.0002, concentricity rises to 95%, and optical clarity rises to the theoretical transmittance of the material. The tubing is first cleaned, and then heated to a transition temperature above 150.degree.C. to soften and further homogenize the tubing. The tubing is then drawn through a polished diamond die and then rapidly cooled. The cooled tubing may be further stabilized by an annealing step. Both a batch mode and a continuous mode of operation are disclosed.

Abstract: The specification discloses a new method and apparatus for treating extruded TEFLON (fluoropolymer) tubing to significantly improve its dimensional and optical characteristics. Diameter tolerance is .+-.0.0002, concentricity rises to 95%, and optical clarity rises to the theoretical transmittance of the material. The tubing is first cleaned, and then heated to a transition temperature above 150.degree. C. to soften and further homogenize the tubing. The tubing is then drawn through a polished diamond die and then rapidly cooled. The cooled tubing may be further stabilized by an annealing step. Both a batch mode and a continuous mode of operation are disclosed.

Abstract: A wound clip rack has a base and a plurality of groups of flexible support fingers projecting upwardly from the base. Each group of flexible support fingers is adapted to support one wound clip. Each group includes at least one and preferably two pairs of flexible support fingers, the fingers of each pair being spaced apart from one another and having facing support surfaces.

Abstract: A disposable valve, including a body having a plurality of ports and a core which is telescoped in the body and is rotated therein to provide connections between various ports, is provided with an improved arrangement for rotatably securing the core in the body and for halting its rotation at predetermined positions. The core is provided at one end with a splined bore, and is rotatably secured within the body by means of a fastener having a threaded shaft portion designed to be press-fitted into the splined bore. The body includes a boss which protrudes from it at one end, and the core includes a protruding member positioned to engage the corners of the boss so that the rotation of the core is halted. Both the boss and protruding member are encircled by a skirt formed on either the body or core to protect them from physical damage.

Abstract: A sphygmomanometer cuff which is adapted to be put on by a patient without assistance. One end of the cuff is formed into a loop by means of elastic bands extending around the loop. When the loop is slipped over a limb, the elastic bands stretch and hold the cuff in place while the remaining cuff portion is wrapped and secured.

Abstract: A sphygmomanometer in which individual valve mechanisms under control of a series of push buttons are provided to permit release of air from the sphygmomanometer cuff at approximate predetermined rates for proper diagnosis. The valve arrangement includes a safety release feature which prevents the buildup of excess pressure in the manometer.