Abstract: An apparatus for shipping articles under controlled temperature conditions, having a metallic article enclosure surrounded by a set of insulating panels, with a predetermined volume separation between the enclosure and the insulating panels, and the predetermined volume being filled with phase change material.

Abstract: A vial-based system and method for handling and processing specimens of particulate matter-containing liquid directly in the vial. A processing assembly (40), which includes a stirrer (45) and a particulate matter separation chamber (46), is releasably coupled to the inside of a vial cover (30). The processing assembly (40) remains with the cover (30) when the vial is opened to insert a specimen therein. Application of an external force to the cover (30) detaches the processing assembly from the cover so that it remains in the vial, for access by automated or manual laboratory equipment, when the cover (30) is discarded. Sealing and drainage features help prevent cross-contamination during specimen processing.

Abstract: An apparatus for shipping articles under controlled temperature conditions, having alternating enclosure walls for providing temperature insulation and for providing alternating reservoirs of phase change materials, wherein the respective phase change materials are different in each alternating reservoir. The innermost reservoirs comprise a thermal insert which modifies the control temperature inside the container.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for applying seals made of thin material to the open tops of containers, e.g., specimen containers for holding biological fluid that are processed automatically. A measured length of sealing material is advanced across and pressed against the top of the container to effect a seal. Depending on the type of sealing material used, sealing may be accomplished by application of pressure alone, by application of heat and pressure, or by application of ultrasonic energy and pressure. Excess sealing material optionally may be folded against the container sides by means of a folding member adapted to surround a container when the sealing head is lowered. Motor-driven rollers advance the sealing material, while a platen on a movably mounted sealing head presses the sealing material into engagement with the container.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for mixing a specimen (e.g., a biological fluid specimen) in an upstanding container having an internal mixer with a cavity defined by an upstanding annular wall. The annular wall of the mixer is engaged by a movable holder, which is elevated along with the engaged mixer sufficiently to prevent contact of the mixer with the container during mixing. The mixer is then moved to mix the specimen. The holder, which may include an expanding collet that fits within the cavity of the mixer, preferably rotates the mixer to stir the specimen. When mixing is complete, the holder is disengaged from the mixer. A controller coordinates all actions of the holder.

Abstract: A halogen bulb lamp assembly manufactured by mounting a previously aligned halogen bulb unit in a one-piece molded plastic rectangular reflector with a mirrorized paraboloidal inner surface. The halogen bulb unit has a pair of spaced connector pins that are coated with an epoxy adhesive and inserted into a pair of stepped through bores in the reflector. The pins are shaped to force epoxy uniformly into the larger portions of the reflector bores, and the ends of the pins project from the rear of the reflector and are spot welded to terminals that have barbed projections pressed into the rear of the reflector.

Abstract: A rectangular lamp unit and an integral bracket, replaceable as a unit upon bulb burn-out, including a one-piece plastic reflector closed by a rectangular lens with an integral peripheral mounting flange on the reflector adjacent the lens so that the unit can be mounted substantially flush on a mounting panel. The unit is manufactured by applying an epoxy adhesive to a lens recess in the reflector, joining the lens thereto, and then heating the assembly to cure the epoxy. During heating, evolved gases are released from the reflector through a vent hole that is sealed by a vent plug immediately after heating by inserting the plug coated with a silicone rubber sealant into the vent hole to form a thick seal ring and push sealant into irregularities in the hole. The sealant is cured by residual heat from the epoxy curing step.

Abstract: A self-housed rectangular lamp assembly with a replaceable halogen bulb lamp unit. A cup-shaped housing, having a pivotal mounting bracket, receives a lamp unit that has a pair of integral threaded bosses on its rear surface receiving fasteners extending through the rear of the housing to releasably attach the lamp unit within the housing.

Abstract: A dual halogen bulb rectangular lamp assembly with a one-piece plastic reflector having two adjacent paraboloidal mirrorized inner surfaces. A halogen bulb unit is mounted in each of the mirrorized surfaces and they are electrically connected in series for simultaneous bulb energization.