Abstract: A method of friction welding a first component to a second component, the method having the steps of: rotating the first component relative to the second component about a rotation axis; and bringing the first component into contact with the second component; wherein, while the first component and the second component are in contact, a first average force is applied during a first stage of the friction welding process and a second average force is applied during a second stage of the friction welding process; and the second average force is different from the first average force.

Abstract: A disposable lancet for piercing a person's finger skin sufficiently to let a small quantity of blood. The lancet includes a long, slender, rigid shank having a hypodermic needle-style piercing tip at one end and slidably mounted within a generally coextensive support tube over substantially its entire length. A cap is connected to the other end of the shank which, when in contact with one end of the support tube, is structured to allow the piercing tip to extend beyond the other end of the support tube a predetermined distance sufficient for piercing the skin. The shank has a stored position wherein the piercing tip is retracted fully within the support tube. Single-use features are also disclosed.

Abstract: 1. A hypodermic needle support structure comprising in combination .[.;.]. .Iadd.: .Iaddend.a plastic main support member having .Iadd.an inner end, and an outer end portion terminating in an outer end; .Iaddend.a passage extending longitudinally .[.therethrough which provides.]. .Iadd.through said support member to provide .Iaddend.access to the interior of said support member from either end thereof.Iadd.; said longitudinally extending passage including a smaller diameter portion adjacent said outer end and a larger diameter portion adjacent to said smaller diameter portion; means defining a shoulder between said smaller diameter portion and said larger diameter portion; .[.with said support member having at the outer end.]. .Iadd.; said outer end portion of said support member including .Iaddend. a rigid support section.[.,.].; a generally tubular metal eyelet member .Iadd.; a hypodermic needle cannula; said eyelet member being .Iaddend.