Abstract: This invention relates to a fluid conduit module for attaching a receptacle holding sterile water or detergent to air and water ports of an endoscope. A fluid conduit module comprises a first port for connection to an air line of an endoscope; a second port for connection to a water line of an endoscope; a connector configured to attach said receptacle to the fluid conduit module; a first fluid flow path between the first port and the connector; and a second fluid flow path between the second port and the connector.

Abstract: A unit for compacting waste prior to disposal provides a waste compaction unit for fitting into a housing comprising a lid and an interior for collecting waste. The compaction unit comprises a plunger comprising bellows housed in the lid; a pneumatic locking mechanism housed in the lid; and a pump connected to the plunger via the locking mechanism wherein the pump is arranged in operation to activate the locking mechanism prior to inflating the bellows to extend the plunger axially towards the interior of the housing such that any waste collected therein is compacted.

Abstract: A mascara applicator in the form of a tube (10) has an applicator brush (22, 24) captive in the cap (12). To enable the brush to be moved within the body of mascara (16) in the tube, a mechanism is provided which produces movement of the brush relative to the mascara-containing tube, before the cap is released from the tube. Various different mechanisms, which will produce this movement, are described. The invention is not limited to use for mascara application.

Abstract: Apparatus for controlling the flow of fluids through a sample channel comprises: a reservoir having a reservoir inlet, the reservoir inlet being for connection to a source of a first fluid; a sample channel having a sample channel inlet, the sample channel inlet being for connection to a source of a second fluid; a syphon connected between the reservoir and the sample channel; means for trapping fluid in at least part of the sample channel; wherein the apparatus is configured such that in use air can be allowed into the syphon to create an air gap in the syphon, the air gap preventing first fluid in the reservoir from contacting trapped fluid in the sample channel; the apparatus further comprising pump means for pumping fluid out of the sample channel and for pumping air out of the syphon such that fluid in the reservoir can flow through the syphon and into the sample channel.

Abstract: This invention relates to a unit for compacting waste prior to disposal. The invention provides a waste compaction unit for fitting into a housing comprising a lid and an interior for collecting waste, the compaction unit comprising a plunger comprising bellows housed in said lid; a pneumatic locking mechanism housed in said lid; and a pump connected to the plunger via said locking mechanism wherein the pump is arranged in operation to activate the locking mechanism prior to inflating the bellows to extend the plunger axially towards the bin interior such that any waste collected therein is compacted.