Abstract: A hypodermic needle assembly comprising a tubular barrel member, a cannula extending from the barrel member, an elastomeric tube connected between the cannula and a fitting at the distal end of the barrel member providing a fluid passage therebetween, the tube being stressed along its length between the cannula and the fitting, releasable means holding the elastomeric tube in a stressed state and means for releasing the cannula from the state in which the tube is stressed such that the elastomeric tube retracts the cannula with sufficient force to pull the cannula out of the patient and place it in a protected position within the barrel. Also disclosed is a structure in which the invention is embodied in a complete hypodermic syringe. Further disclosed is a hypodermic needle assembly in which the invention is adapted for the drawing of blood or other body fluids into an evacuated collection vessel.

Abstract: This disclosure relates to the manufacture of sponge rubber spheres, such as spheres (10) used for cleaning tubes internally, and the shapes made thereby. The sponge rubber is initially cut into cubes approximating the shape of the final product. Next the sponge rubber is frozen by means of liquid nitrogen. Then while in the frozen state it is machined to the final shape. This machining could be performed by a centerless grinding technique involving a grinding wheel (41), a regulating wheel (42), and a work rest (43). Additionally, a plurality of shapes may be formed at one time from a single block of sponge rubber (30) as shown in FIG. 2.

Abstract: A liquid-solid composite which may be biologically active is placed in a container and subjected to passage of relatively high velocity dry air over the surface of the composite to remove moisture therefrom, thereafter the container is subjected to vacuum to remove any residual moisture and then subjected to an inert atmosphere, and sealed therein.