Abstract: A liquid concentrate generation system may comprise a manifold having an inlet receptacle including a first piercing member, an outlet receptacle including a second piercing member, and a flow channel connecting the inlet receptacle and outlet receptacle. The system may further comprise a cartridge having an inlet port and an outlet port sealed by a respective first and second cover. The inlet and outlet port may be respectively configured to displace within the inlet receptacle and outlet receptacle from an unspiked position to a spiked position. First and second piercing members may be in communication with the flow channel and spaced apart respectively from the first and second cover in the unspiked position. The first and second piercing members may be isolated from the flow channel and may respectively puncture the first and second cover in the spiked position.

Abstract: A system for producing and packaging fluid may comprise a water distillation device. The system may further comprise a mixing circuit coupled to an output of the water distillation device and including a source of concentrate. The mixing circuit may include a plurality of flow controllers configured to adjust the flow of fluid through the mixing circuit so as to generate a preset fluid. The system may further comprise an enclosure including an antechamber and a packaging compartment. The system may further comprise a reservoir dispenser in the packaging compartment having a feed plate and a housing block. The reservoir dispenser may include a bias member which urges the feed plate toward the housing block. The system may further comprise a filling station in the packaging compartment including a filling nozzle coupled to the mixing circuit. The system may further comprise a sealing station in the packaging compartment having a ram and a sealing member dispenser.

Abstract: In accordance with the present invention there is provided an obturator for penetrating body tissue which contains a handle and a shaft. The shaft has a proximal end attached to the handle and a distal end extending from it. The handle and shaft are formed from a single piece of molded polymer. A substantially rigid reinforcing member which is formed from a material having a greater rigidity than the molded polymer is disposed along the shaft.

Abstract: In accordance with the present invention there is provided an obturator for penetrating body tissue which contains a handle and a shaft. The shaft has a proximal end attached to the handle and a distal end extending from it. The handle and shaft are formed from a single piece of molded polymer. A substantially rigid reinforcing member which is formed from a material having a greater rigidity than the molded polymer is disposed along the shaft.