Abstract: A healthy pleasurable inhalation device for humans comprises a tubular portion containing a flavored powder easily dissolvable in saliva and a mouthpiece configured to distribute the powder in the user's mouth. The tubular portion contains apparatus to meter the mixing of powder with air as the user inhales through the device. A variety of configurations for the device tubular portion and mouthpiece are presented.

Abstract: A modified scalpel and blade exchanging apparatus and method whereby insertion of the scalpel blade (106) end into the apparatus and turning of the scalpel handle (111) causes the dull or spent blade to be exchanged with a new blade (130) on the scalpel (101) in a few seconds. The quick exchange is accomplished by a cam system (183, 184) that opens and closes the jaws or fingers (104, 105) that retain the blade on the scalpel and a dispenser (119) that positions the new blade in the open jaws or fingers just prior to closure. The new invention solves the problem of detaching and attaching scalpel blades in a matter of seconds without danger to the user. With a mere twist of the wrist, the user detaches the dull blade and attaches the new blade, the dull blade dropping into a sharps container (107) upon detachment.

Abstract: A pass-through duodenal enteroscopic device utilizes the natural contraction wave of the small intestine to propel the device through the small intestine at about the same speed as any other object therein. The exterior of the device is streamlined over the greater portion thereof with a video camera and illumination source at the forward end of the device. Covering the camera lens and illumination source is a transparent inflatable balloon adapted to gently expand the small intestine immediately forward the camera for better viewing. A small diameter communication and power cable is wound within the device and unwinds through an aperture in the rear of the device as the device moves through the small intestine. Upon completion of movement through the small intestine the cable is automatically separated from the device permitting the cable to be withdrawn through the stomach and intestine. The device continues through the large intestine and passes from the patient through the rectum.

Abstract: A sensor device and system projects a three-dimensional image of the position of the colonoscope within the gut onto a video screen next to the optical image from the end of the colonoscope. The sensor device comprises a plurality of strain gages mounted on a bendable rod at the head of the rod. As the head is pushed through the biopsy channel of the colonoscope, the head bends with the curvature of the colonoscope causing the deformation of the head to be captured by the strain gages. An encoder at the inlet to the biopsy channel records the velocity and distance of the head as the head is pushed in and through the channel. The combined electrical output from the strain gages and encoder enables an instantaneous generation of a three-dimensional image of the colonoscope on a view screen. The sensor device avoids the need for any equipment that is above or surrounds the abdomen of the patient.

Abstract: A sensor device and system projects a three-dimensional image of the position of the colonoscope within the gut onto a video screen next to the optical image from the end of the colonoscope. The sensor device comprises a plurality of strain gages mounted on a bendable rod at the head of the rod. As the head is pushed through the biopsy channel of the colonoscope, the head bends with the curvature of the colonoscope causing the deformation of the head to be captured by the strain gages. An encoder at the inlet to the biopsy channel records the velocity and distance of the head as the head is pushed in and through the channel. The combined electrical output from the strain gages and encoder enables an instantaneous generation of a three-dimensional image of the colonoscope on a view screen. The sensor device avoids the need for any equipment that is above or surrounds the abdomen of the patient.

Abstract: A system for delivering oxygen to a gas permeable membrane oxygenator is disclosed. The system may include an integral source of gas under pressure and a source of vacuum. A first mass flow controller is connected to the source of gas upstream in the gas flow from the gas exchange device. A pressure valve is positioned in the gas flow between the first mass flow controller and the membrane oxygenator. An atmospheric vent is positioned between the pressure valve and the first mass flow controller. A second mass flow controller is positioned downstream from the gas exchange device and is connected to the source of vacuum. A central controller commands the pressure valve to maintain the pressure at the inlet of the gas exchange device at a subatmospheric pressure. The second mass flow controller is commanded to maintain a rate of flow which is desired through the gas exchange device.