Abstract: In some embodiments, a support structures can be formed from a support structure matrix comprising a plurality of layers and a plurality of spring structures embedded within the plurality of layers of the support structure matrix. The plurality of spring structures have a plurality of different durometers. The plurality of spring structures can be configured to deform and return to its original shape after deformation. The orientation and structure of the spring structures can vary depending on a desired durometer and/or function within the support structure.

Abstract: In some embodiments, a support structures can be formed from a support structure matrix comprising a plurality of spring structures embedded within the support structure matrix. The plurality of spring structures can be formed from the same material or a different material, and can have the same or different durometers. The plurality of spring structures can be configured to deform and return to its original shape after deformation. The orientation and structure of the spring structures can vary depending on a desired durometer and/or function within the support structure.

Abstract: A light can or enclosure for a can light fixture that simplifies installation, by incorporating to the can the functions of drilling a hole, and mounting the can.

Abstract: A needle holder for a tissue sampling device, such as a biopsy gun, may include a receptacle, a cradle within the receptacle, and a cover that interacts with a lock on a biopsy needle set when the cover is closed. The biopsy needle set may include a needle hub that carries a proximal end of a needle, a cannula hub that carries a proximal end of a cannula positioned over a portion of the needle, and a lock. The lock may have a locked arrangement that holds the needle hub and the cannula hub longitudinally in place relative to one another, as well as an unlocked arrangement in which the needle hub and the cannula hub may be moved toward and/or away from one another, enabling the needle to move through the cannula. Methods for obtaining samples from a body of a subject are also disclosed.

Abstract: A luer hub connector comprises a hub having a cylindrical bore extending there through. The hub is adapted to have a luer device connected at one end. A cap having a hollow nozzle extending therefrom is formed at the other end of the hub. A cylindrical spring-like member is positioned within the bore in the hub, and a septum membrane closes the end of the spring-like member. A sliding, hollow sleeve member is received in the bore of the hub member, with a hollow nozzle extending from the sleeve member into the bore of the spring-like member. When a luer device is threaded onto the end of the hub, it contacts and drives the sleeve member towards the septum. The end of the hollow nozzle is pushed through the septum, and the spring-like member is also compressed. When the luer device is removed, the spring-like member pushes the sleeve member back, and the hollow nozzle withdraws out of contact with the septum. The septum then closes and seals.

Abstract: Pipe fittings, used in joining abutting ends of two pipe sections, comprise a pair of semi-cylindrical members that are adapted to fit around and engage the periphery of opposed ends of the two abutting ends of the pipe sections. Longitudinal edges of the two semi-cylindrical members are formed so as to mate with one another to form a mechanical means of locking the semi-cylindrical members together in tight engagement with the ends of the pipes. Each of the semicylindrical members has a seal mechanism formed of a resilient, elastomeric material which forms a mechanical, water-tight seal between the mutually respective pair of semi-cylindrical members as well as the opposite ends of the pipes to which the pair of semi-cylindrical members have been attached.

Abstract: A luer hub connector comprises a hub having a cylindrical bore extending there through. The hub is adapted to have a luer device connected at one end. A cap having a hollow nozzle extending therefrom is formed at the other end of the hub. A cylindrical spring-like member is positioned within the bore in the hub, and a septum membrane closes the end of the spring-like member. A sliding, hollow sleeve member is received in the bore of the hub member, with a hollow nozzle extending from the sleeve member into the bore of the spring-like member. When a luer device is threaded onto the end of the hub, it contacts and drives the sleeve member towards the septum. The end of the hollow nozzle is pushed through the septum, and the spring-like member is also compressed. When the luer device is removed, the spring-like member pushes the sleeve member back, and the hollow nozzle withdraws out of contact with the septum. The septum then closes and seals.

Abstract: Pipe fittings are provided which can be used in repairing a damaged pipe section or in adding additional pipe outlets to an existing pipe, wherein the pipe is either located under the ground or in an otherwise close fitting environment where only limited space is available for making such repairs or additions. The fitting comprises a pair of semi-cylindrical members that are adapted to fit around and engage the periphery of opposed ends of a pipe line that has been breached for the purpose of repairing a leak in the pipe line or to have an additional pipe connected in fluid flow relationship to the original pipe line. Longitudinal edges of the two semi-cylindrical members are formed so as to mate with one another to form a mechanical means of locking the semi-cylindrical members together in tight engagement with the ends of the pipes.