Abstract: A plunger assembly for obstructing the flow of fluid through a flexible tube is provided. The assembly comprises a plunger sleeve member having a first open end and a compression mechanism for selectively contacting and compressing the flexible tube. The compression mechanism has a contacting portion for contacting the flexible tube and an extending portion with the extending portion being slidably receivable within the plunger sleeve member through the first open end of the plunger sleeve member. A spring mechanism is mounted about the extending portion of the compression mechanism and between the contacting portion of the compression mechanism and the first open end of the plunger sleeve member for providing selective movement to the compression mechanism relative to the plunger sleeve member.

Abstract: An electromagnetic flow control apparatus includes a fluid flow conduit, a magnetic membrane, and a plurality of discrete sources of selectably variable magnetic fields, such as electromagnets, arranged in an ordered array, to drive the membrane in a desired manner to control the flow of fluid in the conduit. The membrane can preferably be driven between two extreme positions wherein the flow of fluid in the conduit is totally unrestricted in the rest position of the membrane and wherein the flow is highly restricted or stopped completely in the maximum deformation of the membrane radially inward.

Abstract: A pinch type control valve uses an elastic sleeve having main flanges at each end of a center pinch section with flange gasket extensions on each end. The flanges of the flange gasket extensions project through metal backing flanges and each cooperates with a machined countersunk annular face groove on such metal backing flanges to pull the flange of the gasket extension radially outwardly as it is compressed. Offset annular beads on the opposite faces of the flange of the gasket extension help in achieving the required radial tensioning regardless of the type of flanging of the system. The annular face groove in the metal flange readily accommodates either flat or raised face pipe flanging. The metal backing flange fits between the main flange and the gasket flange and doesn't require the presence of the valve housing. This enables the sleeve to be tested without complete assembly.

Abstract: A flexible tube occluder has a body portion and a slider portion which act to occlude a tube to prevent unwanted flow of fluid to a patient. The body portion and slider portion are engaged such that slider portion can move relative to body portion. The body portion extends the full range of slider portion's motion and thus the occluder allows for stable occluding and open positions. The slider portion has a slot of varying size which is used to occlude the tube by pressing the tube within the surface of the slot and to allow free flow of fluid through the tube.

Abstract: The invention concerns a sealing valve which comprises a valve body (1) on which a sealing cylinder (8) is mounted. The sealing cylinder (8) contains a sealing stopper against which a pressure piston (18) abuts. A lever arm (23), which is loaded in terms of force by a spring component (31), presses on the pressure piston (18). The valve can be used within the scope of the interventional catheter technique for sealing a guide catheter. Advantageously it can be sensitively and topically actuated with one hand in an ergonomic manner.

Abstract: A self-extinguishing conduit for conveying a gas capable of supporting combustion of the conduit interior from an upstream to a downstream location includes a combustible tubing and a flow occluder operatively associated with the combustible tubing. The flow occluder is actuated by the heat of combustion within the combustible tubing to substantially halt the flow of gas through the combustible tubing. A combustion resistant material defines a select length of the conduit interior and is provided in series with the combustible tubing. The flow occluder is located downstream and proximate the combustion resistant material. A method for extinguishing combustion within a combustible conduit carrying a combustion supporting gas includes halting migration of combustion within the conduit at a select location and occluding the conduit at the select location.

Abstract: A flow adjusting tube clamp is used with a chamber in a solution administration device. The tube clamp is pivotally mounted to the cap at a second pivot element. The tube clamp includes first and second elongated tube passages that overly the cap inlet ports as the clamp is pivoted. The tube passages define varying cross-sectional open areas therethrough. The passages are arcuate so that they continuously overly the inlet ports as the clamp is pivoted. The inlet ports are configured to receive flexible tube portions that traverse through the tube passages in the clamp. Each tube passage includes at least one open area and at least one occluding portion to establish and terminate flow therethrough. The clamp is pivotable from a prime position to an intermittent flow position and from an intermittent flow position to a continuous flow position, to effect varying flow conditions.

Abstract: A mixing device for mixing first and second materials, including a container (2) for receiving the first material and having an inlet port (10) and an outlet port (12), a flexible tube (14) having one end connected to the inlet port (10), a cap (16) secured to the opposite end of the flexible tube (14) for attachment to a second container (4) receiving the second material, and a clamp carried by the flexible tube (14) and normally pinching the flexible tube closed, but being manually openable to permit, when the cap (16) has been attached to the second container (4), the addition of the second material in the first container to the first material in the second container and mixing of the two materials together in the first container (2).

Abstract: A pinch clip occluder for infusion sets is disclosed including a housing and a clamp movably disposed within the housing to selectively occlude an infusion set. In one embodiment the clamp has at least one arm which moves between first and second positions to pinch closed a silicone tube of the infusion set unless the pinch clip occluder is held in an open position by the user, or placed in a receptacle which will hold the pinch clip occluder in an open position. In another embodiment a plunger is disposed so as to intersect a passage passing through the housing. As the plunger is selectively moved between first and second positions, the flow through a tube in the passage is selectively controlled. Such an arrangement prevents a free-flow condition from occurring through the infusion set.

Abstract: A device (20) for providing a uniformly-variable orifice includes an object (21) having an outer surface, a wall (24) surrounding the object in spaced relation to the outer surface and defining an annular orifice therebetween; and deforming means (F.sub.1) for causing at least one of the surface and wall to move perpendicularly and uniformly toward the other of the surface and wall without substantially altering the geometric shape of the annular orifice, whereby the movable member may be moved relative to the other to vary the area of the orifice. In the preferred embodiment, the area of the orifice varies substantially linearly with application of the deforming displacement.

Abstract: An apparatus for selectively controlling a flow of fluid includes a valve body, preferable comprised of a flexible tube having an inlet and an outlet. An actuable element, such as a shape memory alloy, is associated with the valve body. The shape memory alloy is responsive to actuation signals, heat or electrical signals, for changing its shape. When its shape changes, it causes a corresponding change in shape of the valve body thereby change a flow of fluid through the valve body.

Abstract: A flow regulator has a pair of side walls extending generally parallel to one another, a bottom wall connecting the side walls to one another and defining an elongate channel for receiving a compressible tube, a roller rotatably and shiftably mounted to the side walls for rolling along the tube in the channel and compressing the tube against the bottom wall. The bottom wall is provided with a formation which varies from a first end of the channel towards an opposite, second end thereof, whereby compressive force applied to the tube via the roller is different at different longitudinal positions of the roller along the channel. A bracket is disposed about the side walls at one end of the channel. The bracket is in contact with outer surfaces of the side walls only in regions of the side walls spaced from the bottom wall.

Abstract: A two-way flexible valve to control or interrupt the flow of a pressurized medium. The valve is a polymeric semi-rigid tubing hyperflexed until its material has yielded in an irreversible manner and created a kink. Ulterior flexions of the tubing tend to occur about the preferred axis set by the kink. An acute angle closes the valve by crimping the lumen shut, whereas an obtuse angle opens it in some proportion of the angle. One end of the kinked valve tubing is held on a support and the other end is fastened to a lever hinged on pivot pins. The distance between holding points and the valve kink is several times the diameter of the valve tubing, and the axis of the kink is collinear with that of the hinge, both factors reducing sideload stress in the valve material, increasing its lifespan. An elastic member holds the valve closed and a flexible actuating line acting against the elastic member opens the valve in some proportion of its pull.

Abstract: A pressure equalized flow control apparatus and method controls the flow of fluid through a resilient tube. The resilient tube is surrounded by an enclosed chamber having inlet and outlet ports in fluid communication with the interior of the resilient tube. A vent connecting the interior of the resilient tube with the interior of the enclosed chamber equalizes the fluid pressure inside the resilient tube with the fluid pressure outside the resilient tube within the enclosed chamber. By equalizing the pressures inside and outside of the resilient tube, the vent prevents the resilient tube from collapsing when the resilient tube is under suction. Similarly, the pressure equalization prevents a positive fluid pressure from exerting an outward force on the wall of the tube which must be overcome to pinch the tube. Thus, by using pressure equalization, the vent enables the resilient tube to have a relatively thin wall that is easily pinched to close the resilient tube.

Abstract: A hose clamp includes a clamping main body and a fixing member. The clamping main body is formed as a circled-strip having opposite free ends so as to be capable of exhibiting an urging force for reducing its diameter, and clamps a hose member having a concavity at an end thereof. The fixing member is engaged with the opposite free ends of the clamping main body so as to inhibit the diameter of the clamping main body from reducing, and includes a projection extending at least in one of axial directions of the hose member, and being capable of engaging with the concavity of the hose member so as to position the clamping main body in a direction around the axis of the hose member. Thus, in a direction around the axis of the hose member, the clamping main body is positioned by the projection of the fixing member which is disposed independently of the clamping main body. Accordingly, even when the diameter of the hose member is varied, the width, thickness, etc.

Abstract: A pinch valve (10) comprising a flexible sleeve (12) adapted for attachment to a conduit in communication with a source of fluid, pinching means (26) adapted to pinch the flexible sleeve (12) and thereby reduce the effective cross-sectional flow area thereof, actuation means (28) operable selectively on said pinching means (26) to regulate fluid flow through the sleeve (12) and mounting means (42) disposed to support the actuation means (28) independently of the sleeve (12) and thereby to permit removal of the sleeve (12) without removal of the actuation means (26).

Abstract: A method of assembling telescopically a flexible tubular segment with a length of tubing involves the use of an assembly apparatus which controllably stretches a tubular segment. The free end of a portion of an end of a length of tubing is inserted through the stretched tubular segment a preselected distance. The stretched tubular segment is allowed to relax around the inserted portion of an end of the length of tubing, thus assembling the tubular segment with the end portion of a length of tubing. The tubular segment and portion of an end of a length of tubing that have been assembled together are then ejected simultaneously from the assembly apparatus.

Abstract: A flow regulator device for intravenous tubing comprises a frame body, a notch on the frame body for attaching an intravenous tube to the frame body, and a first pressure applicator disposed on the frame body and engageable with the intravenous tube for alternately compressing and releasing the intravenous tube in a first direction of action in a first plane. A second pressure applicator is provided on the frame body for alternately compressing and releasing the intravenous tube in a second direction of action in a second plane. The second pressure applicator is disposed on the frame body in spaced relation to the first pressure applicator along a flow path of the intravenous tube and is engageable with the intravenous tube.

Abstract: A method and apparatus controls the flow rate of a fluid that flows through a fluid path including a resiliently deformable portion.A first roller has a cutout formed thereon on one side thereof, and a retainer is arranged in parallel with the first roller. The resiliently deformable portion of the fluid path is held between the first roller and the retainer. The first roller is rotatably supported by its rotary shaft. The first distance from the rotary shaft to the outer wall of the first roller on the side facing opposite the resiliently deformable portion may be varied in response to the variation in the angle that occurs when the first roller rotates about its rotary shaft.

Abstract: In a method of making a surgical valve, a sealing body is attached inside one end of a braided sleeve, the other end of which is threaded through the bore of a toroidal body. The braided sleeve, toroidal body, and sealing body are inserted into the bore of a substantially cylindrical valve body. The sealing body generally has an axial passage extending through it which is axially aligned with the toroidal body. The braided sleeve is also typically coaxial with the axial passage and extends from the sealing body, and a device that selectively changes the relative axial positions of the sealing body and the extended part of the braided sleeve elongates the braided sleeve. This causes the braided sleeve to contract radially, which compresses the axial passage of the sealing body radially.

Abstract: Pinch valves having a flexible, constrictable sleeve are used to control a dilution headbox for a paper making machine. A variety of pinch valves may be used in the present invention with the pinch valves being actuated by pneumatic or hydraulic pressure or by mechanically pinching the valves' sleeves by means of rams driven by stepper or linear drive motors. For pneumatic control, dynamic differential pressure drops are measured across the valves to determine flow rate through the valves. A pinch valve, referred to herein as a torsional pinch valve, is disclosed for dilution headbox control. In one form, a first end of a sleeve is fixedly mounted in a support frame and the second end of the sleeve is mounted for rotation in the frame. A driver rotates the second end of the sleeve such that a flow path through the sleeve is controlled. The flow path is a maximum when no torsion is placed on the sleeve and is reduced to substantially zero by sufficient rotation.

Abstract: The sleeve is inserted into the passage of the valve casing and fastened to the valve casing by means of a bayonet connection at one end and by means of a support arrangement at the other end. The fastening collar embedded in the sleeve body has projecting lugs. The latter can be moved through grooves on insertion with the sleeve into the valve casing. The holding collar has a flange which on the insertion of the sleeve comes to bear against the support surface of the valve casing. When the sleeve is then turned, the lugs engage behind the holding surface of the valve casing. This permits extremely simple installation and replaceability of the sleeve.

Abstract: A flow control valve is described comprised of first and second rigid members and a resilient single or multi stage valve element disposed between the rigid members. A fluid flow path is defined through the rigid members and through or around the valve element to provide a continuous flow path through the valve. The rigid members are movable relative to each other between a first position and a second position. The valve element is sufficiently compressed by the rigid members when they are in the first position so as to close the flow path through or around the valve element. The valve element is sufficiently relaxed when the rigid members are in the second position to allow fluid flow through the flow path through or around the valve element.

Abstract: An adjustable surgical valve has a sealing body with an axial passage extending through it, a toroidal body axially aligned with the sealing body, and a device that selectively changes the relative axial positions of the sealing body and the toroidal body. The sealing body and the toroidal body have mating surfaces which radially compresses the axial passage of the sealing body when the relative axial positions of the sealing body and the toroidal body are changed. This causes the axial passage to seal with an instrument inserted into it, or the seal with itself if no instrument is inserted. Alternatively, or additionally, the sealing body may include a braided sleeve coaxial with the axial passage and extending from the sealing body, and a device that selectively changes the relative axial positions of the sealing body and the extended part of the braided sleeve to elongate the braided sleeve.

Abstract: An injection site designed for use with a needleless syringe includes a housing placed in an infusion line and an inlet for engaging the syringe and conveying a fluid to be mixed with the infusate to the interior of the housing. A liner within the housing controls flow of fluid through the inlet by sealing the inlet when the pressure in the housing is equal to or exceeds the pressure in the syringe. The housing is made of two parts, each of which includes a flange. When assembled, the spaced flanges are on opposite ends of the liner, which is not directly attached to the housing, to limit movement of the liner to maintain its position in the housing.

Abstract: A pinch tube proportioning valve includes support structure defining an elongated valve cavity having a longitudinal axis and a pair of spaced resilient valve tubes disposed in the cavity and respectively providing communication between two fluid supply conduits and a fluid outlet. A control cam cartridge is receivable in the valve cavity between the valve tubes. The cartridge includes a cylindrical housing closed at one end and carrying at its closed end a guide pin extending axially up through the housing and receivable in an axial bore in an elongated tapered cam member, which is telescopically received in the open end of the housing. Diametrically opposed openings are formed in the side wall of the housing for receiving the valve tubes to permit engagement thereof by the cam member, which is axially and rotatably movable to control proportioning and flow rate through the valve tubes.

Abstract: In order to avoid dead volumes in a valve for control of a branch line departing from the main line in a valve chamber located in a valve housing, the valve chamber contains an elastomer part provided with a main channel and a branch channel departing from it, and the two ends of the main channel are sealingly connected with the main lines. The free end of the branch channel is sealingly connected with the branch line, and further that a valve lifter be provided in the valve housing, which acts on the branch channel in the branch-off area directly adjacent to the main channel of the elastomer part, thus reducing the cross-section of the branch channel, which is held in place by a counterpiece in the valve housing.

Abstract: A variable opening seal defining a passageway between a first environment and a second envoronment is provided. The seal includes an elastomeric member having a first end connected to the first environment, a second end connected to the second environment, and an internal passageway extending between its first and second ends. Selective rotation of the first end of the elastomeric member relative to the second end of the elastomeric member causes the elastomeric member to (a) wrap upon itself so as to selectively close the internal passageway, or (b) selectively unwrap an elastomeric member previously wrapped upon itself so as to selectively open the internal passageway.

Abstract: A method and apparatus controls the flow rate of a fluid that flows through a fluid path including a resiliently deformable portion. A first roller has a cutout formed thereon on one side thereof, and a retainer is arranged in parallel with the first roller. The resiliently deformable portion of the fluid path is held between the first roller and the retainer. The first roller is rotatably supported by its rotary shaft. The first distance from the rotary shaft to the outer wall of the first roller on the side facing opposite the resiliently deformable portion may be varied in response to the variation in the angle that occurs when the first roller rotates about its rotary shaft.

Abstract: The invention relates to a valve of the iris diaphragm type.The valve comprises first and second annular body members having respective first and second recesses therein and an annular recess between such first and second body members. A flexible valve closure sleeve is provided with first and second annular mounting flanges at opposite ends and an intermediate flange. The first and second mounting flanges are engaged respectively in the first and second recesses, and the intermediate flange disposed in the annular recess defined between the first and second body members so as to be angularly moveable relative thereto and relative to the first and second annular mounting flanges. Operating means are connected with the intermediate flange for moving the flange between closed and open positions corresponding to closed and open positions of the valve closure sleeve.

Abstract: A large-diameter expandable sheath for use in introducing a catheter or other medical instrument into a vessel in the body of a patient. The expandable sheath comprises an elongate sheath tube formed of a flexible material which has proximal and distal extremities and a passage extending therethrough of a maximum predetermined diameter. The distal extremity of the elongate sheath tube is folded longitudinally to a smaller folded diameter. The sheath tube may be self-expanding or may be reinforced with a self-expanding wire or expandable stents. A backflow adapter is secured to the proximal extremity of the elongate sheath tube. The backflow adapter has a central opening therein in registration with the passage in the sheath tube. A normally closed primary valve is disposed in the central opening of the backflow adapter and is movable to an open position.

Abstract: A Y-adaptor manifold assembly includes a main tubular segment adapted to be coupled to an intravascular catheter. A first, tubular side port is joined to the main tubular segment so as to be in fluid communication with a through passage of the main tubular member. The first side port forms an infusion port for radiopaque dye. A second, tubular side port is joined to the main tubular segment so as to be in fluid communication with a through passage of the main tubular member. The second side port and main tubular segment are adapted to receive dilatation catheters. To prevent backbleeding, the second side port and main tubular segment include passive hemostatic valve mechanisms. Each valve mechanism includes a valve member and a disk valve. The valve member has a normally closed, sealed state, an open state and an in-use sealed state. The valve member has an inherent tendency to move to its normally closed, sealed state or its in-use state (wherein the valve member conforms about the dilatation catheter).

Abstract: The present invention pertains to an apparatus for restricting supercritical fluid. The apparatus comprises an elastic tube through which the supercritical fluid flows. The apparatus also comprises means for adjustably compressing the elastic tube. The comprising means is in contact with the tube. Preferably, there is also means for facilitating flow through the tube. The facilitating means is in communication with the tube in proximity to the compressing means. In a preferred embodiment, the adjustable compressing means includes a first member having a first opening through which the tube extends. The first opening has a threaded portion. There is also a second member having a second opening through which the tube extends. The second member has a threaded shaft for threadingly engaging with the threaded portion of the first opening.

Abstract: A method and apparatus controls the flow rate of a fluid that flows through a fluid path including a resiliently deformable portion. A first roller has a cutout formed thereon on one side thereof, and a retainer is arranged in parallel with the first roller. The resiliently deformable portion of the fluid path is held between the first roller and the retainer. The first roller is rotatably supported by its rotary shaft. The first distance from the rotary shaft to the outer wall of the first roller on the side facing opposite the resiliently deformable portion may be varied in response to the variation in the angle that occurs when the first roller rotates about its rotary shaft.

Abstract: A squeeze canteen for dispensing a potable liquid such as drinking water or fruit juice, the canteen including a container formed of resilient material for holding the liquid. The container is closed by a removable cap provided with a nozzle in the form of a normally upright, flexible tube mounted on a nipple and projecting from the cap, the inlet of the tube communicating with the container. When the canteen is in its drinking mode and the container is squeezed, the resultant internal pressure forces liquid from the container through the upright tube from which it is ejected. Associated with the cap is a crimping device constituted by a flexible lug one end of which is anchored on the cap. The lug being provided with an elongated slot through which the tube extends. The lug is manipulated by the user so that in the drinking mode it is folded over to permit the tube to assume its normal upright position.

Abstract: A control system is disclosed for use on flexible fluid carrying hoses, such as a fire hose, which now employ clamping means to temporarily interrupt fluid flow during hose operation. Frictional engagement means are provided for use with the hose clamp means to limit clamp movement when both opened and closed. A method of operating such hose clamp assembly is also disclosed.

Abstract: An adjustable surgical valve has a sealing body with an axial passage extending through it, a toroidal body axially aligned with the sealing body, and a device that selectively changes the relative axial positions of the sealing body and the toroidal body. The sealing body and the toroidal body have mating surfaces which radially compress the axial passage of the sealing body when the relative axial positions of the sealing body and the toroidal body are changed. This causes the axial passage to seal with an instrument inserted into it, or to seal with itself if no instrument is inserted. Alternatively, or additionally, the sealing body may include a braided sleeve coaxial with the axial passage and extending from the sealing body, and a device that selectively changes the relative axial positions of the sealing body and the extended part of the braided sleeve to elongate the braided sleeve. This causes the braided sleeve to contract radially, which compresses the axial passage of the sealing body radially.

Abstract: A plastic valve comprising a valve body, integral plastic valving duct means with rigid tubular plastic end portions for attachment to flow ducts carrying liquids to be valved, and a collapsible and distensible tubular plastic valving portion welded to the tubular end portions, the valving portion have sidewalls of plastic film laminae free of each other, but welded to each other at edges to form resilient side rib portions, squeezing linkages traversing flexible wall portions and applying squeezing pressure onto the flexible wall portions to close the flow passage therebetween, tiltable squeeze bars extending along the flexible wall adjacent the squeezing linkages and progressively deforming the flexible wall portions during application of squeezing pressure, camming impeller portions applying and relieving squeezing pressure against the squeezing linkages and squeeze bars and camming against the camming surfaces of the body portion as a driving head moves the impeller portions in the valve body portion.

Abstract: A closed ventilation and suction catheter system for aspirating or suctioning the bronchial tree or trachea of a patient including a dual lumen catheter, the proximal end of the catheter is connected to a dual valve assembly which is connected to separate irrigation fluid and suction pressure sources and the distal end of the catheter is adapted to be slidably positioned in communication with the bronchial tree of a patient. A transparent and flexible envelope surrounds the catheter to protect the catheter from direct exposure to the atmosphere. The catheter is slidable from the inside of the envelope through an adaptor and a tracheal tube to communicate with the bronchial tree or trachea of the patient. A ventilator is connected to the adaptor near the distal end of the catheter to provide for the artificial ventilation of the patient.

Abstract: A pinch valve for a flexible conduit is provided. The pinch valve has an arcuate rigid hook, an arcuate rigid pincher, and an actuator. The arcuate rigid hook has an inner surface of a diameter substantially equal to outer diameter of the flexible conduit, wherein the inner surface receives the conduit. The arcuate rigid pincher has an outer arcuate surface with a diameter at least as small as the inner diameter of the flexible conduit, and the flexible conduit is located between the arcuate hook and the arcuate rigid pincher. The actuator is coupled to either the hook or the pincher, and moves the hook relative to the pincher relative from a first position to collapse and pinch the flexible conduit therebetween to a second position where said flexible conduit is not collapsed and pinched. Preferably, the actuator is spring loaded so that the conduit is pinched.

Abstract: A tube clamp particularly for adjusting liquid flow through tubes such as I.V. tubes has a channel-shaped holder along which the tube is passed and a rotary eccentric mounted in fixed position between opposite side walls of the holder for applying adjustable pressure on the tube dependent on the rotary position of the eccentric. A ratchet wheel with a spring detent is attached to the eccentric for rotating the eccentric and positively retaining it in a selected position of rotation.

Abstract: Precision control of fluid flow by a body containing an inclined surface opposite an elongated opening, with a slider inserted into the opening to be movable along the opening in contact with discrete portions of the body which desirably includes a hinged detent for making contact with the body.

Abstract: A human body sensing mechanism for an automatic faucet apparatus which is so constructed that in the vicinity of a water outlet at an automatic faucet is provided a body of human body sensor for detecting a human body, a water discharge device for controlling opening and closing of a valve provided on the way of a water passage is provided at the position apart from the water outlet, at the body of human body sensor is provided a transmitting part for out-putting a human body detection signal by a radio system, and at the water discharge control device is provided a receiving part for receiving the human detection signal transmitted by the radio system.

Abstract: The present invention is for a clamp for flexible tubing for an infusion or administrative set. The clamp has openings in which the tubing is inserted in a serpentine fashion to form a loop. The friction between the tube and surfaces of the clamp caused by this serpentine configuration allows the clamp to be maintained at any point along the tubing even while it is in the full flow position.

Abstract: A solid state apparatus for regulating the flow of fluids in general, and natural gas, in particular, is provided. The solid state apparatus includes an actuator made of electrostrictive, magnetostrictive or piezoelectric material. The actuator displaces upon application of an electric field to vary the compression on an elastomer having an orifice, thereby varying the amount of elastomeric material extruded into the orifice. Fluid flow through the regulator is thereby controlled. A system for regulating the flow of gas integrates the regulator with a sensor to detect a gas characteristic, such as gas partial pressure, and send control signals to control the operation of the regulator. The solid-state gas regulator is capable of low cost production and operation and suitable for electronic feedback control.

Abstract: A Variable orifice sealing valve made from a thin, elastic cylinder. The cylinder is retained at both ends, and one end is twisted with respect to the other end thereby reducing the fluid flow path through the center of the cylinder. The device is particularly useful for medical procedures such as in conjunction with a catheter.

Abstract: An interchangeable pinch valve system (10) is provided with a valve body (20) having a longitudinal dimension which is substantially identical to standard longitudinal dimensions for ball, gate and the like type valves of similar flow path diameter. The reduced longitudinal dimension of pinch valve system (10), as compared to prior art systems, is achieved by a flexible-walled tubular sleeve (50) having a pair of transversely directed folds (60, 62) which provide sufficient sleeve material to enable the pinch closing of the flow passage (52) without substantially stretching the tubular sleeve wall (51). The valve body 20 is provided with a pair of recessed openings (22, 24) formed in the interior of valve body wall (21) in parallel spaced relation transverse to the fluid flow axis of the valve for receipt of the respective folds (62, 60), whereby the tubular sleeve (50) is in contiguous contact with the interior surface of valve body wall (21).

Abstract: A pinch valve is provided for controlling the flow in a flexible wall tube. The valve includes a slotted saddle with female threading to receive a male threaded stem which is actuated within the saddle by a knob integrally connected to the stem. The slotted saddle may be installed onto an existing tube run without requiring disconnection. The stem has a spherical tip which contacts the tube to collapse to decrease the area flow therethrough. The knob and saddle are closely fitted to prevent spreading of the saddle during high thread loads. Calibration is also provided so that a desired flow control can be repeated with accuracy.

Abstract: A shoe sole or insole incorporates an inflatable cell structure therein. The cells are sized and positioned to alter the angular orientation of a wearer's foot relative to a supporting surface upon inflation. A variable position valve causes the cells to inflate and deflate in a random or pseudo-random sequence. Such a sole when worn while standing on or traversing a flat, even, and unvarying terrain enhances the wearer's comfort, reduces fatigue and promotes control of veinous blood pressure in the legs.

Abstract: An apparatus clamps an intravenous (IV) tube used in an infusion device to control flow rate of IV fluid in the IV tube. A tube clip has first and second pinching members biased for exerting a pinching force on the IV tube. The first and second pinching members are positionable for insertion of the IV tube between them. A pair of clamping members are coupled to a clamp housing and are positionable for insertion of a portion of the tube clip between the pair of clamping members. The pair of clamping members operably engage the tube clip to variably offset the pinching force based on relative position of the pair of clamping members with respect to one another. A manual adjustment mechanism is coupled to at least one of the pair of clamping members and is used to manually adjust the relative position of the pair of clamping members relative to one another to set a desired flow rate in the IV tube.