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.

Abstract: A multiple rotary control valve of the pinch type for use in conjunction with a steam sterilizing apparatus. The valve comprises at least two side by side cams, each having cylindrical and flat portions for respectively pressing and releasing, in the proper sequence, flexible tubes conducting the fluids intervening in the sterilizing process. In a preferred embodiment, the cams rotate about an axis transverse to the tubes and are disposed between opposite pairs of tubes, and the tubes are trained and held in transversely aligned openings provided in detachable covers. A wear member is provided between the cams and the respective tubes.

Abstract: A clinical suction tube holder assembly (10), and a method of its use, involve the use of a receiver (12), having a wall (13), for defining a tube-receiving passage (18) attached to a mounting block (14) having pressure sensitive adhesive (16) thereon for selectively mounting the clinical suction tube holder assembly to a fixed structure at a support surface (36) on which a subject (40) to be treated is resting. After treating the subject with a fluid-flow tube (26) a portion thereof is selectively folded on itself and inserted into the tube receiving passage for being held therein at a fixed location with a blocked lumen (30) and for being selectively removed therefrom and unfolded, to thereby unblock its lumen, for further treatment.

Abstract: The present invention is concerned with method and apparatus for opening and closing a multi-way valve. The present invention discloses method and apparatus for controlling the flow of fluid into a plurality of fluid distributing pipes, wherein an elastic wall which constitutes a fluid passage is opened and closed in plural positions by the application of an external pressure to provide communication between only predetermined fluid distributing pipes out of plural fluid distributing pipes connected to the fluid passage.

Abstract: A unitarily constructed clamp for selectively occluding a resilient tube includes a curved platen formed with a pair of holes through which the tube is threaded to position and hold the tube against the concave surface of the platen. The platen has a first end and a second end. Additionally, an articulated pressure member having a hinged juncture is pivotally connected to both the first end and the second end of the platen to locate the juncture between the ends of the platen. With this configuration, the articulated pressure member is positioned for movement between an open configuration and a closed configuration. In the open configuration, the pressure member is distanced from the platen to leave the tube patent. In the closed configuration, the tube is squeezed between the platen and the pressure member to occlude the tube.

Abstract: A "cracking valve" for use in a volumetric pump. A volumetric pump (30) includes a plunger (48) for compressing a pumping portion (34b) of a flexible tubing that extends through the pump. An inlet cracking valve (46) and an outlet cracking valve (52) are disposed so that they compress the flexible tubing to control fluid flow therethrough. The inlet cracking valve operates in three modes, including a fully open mode, a closed mode that stops fluid flow through the flexible tubing, and a cracking mode. The outlet cracking valve only operates in the closed mode and the cracking mode. As the plunger compresses the flexible tubing, fluid pressure within the pumping portion of the flexible tubing initially builds until it exceeds a predefined cracking pressure, forcing open the inlet cracking valve, which is in its cracking mode, so that excess fluid is forced back to a container (32).

Abstract: A solenoid operated pinch valve has a flexible conductor with extensions on each side of the fluid passage for connecting to the valve frame and to a solenoid plunger. In a preferred mode the valve is normally closed by a spring and actuated open. In a preferred embodiment, the flexible fluid conductor is held in the frame at the ends to prevent transferral of stress from connectors and tubings to the pinch area of the valve. A portion of the fluid passage at the pinch area is especially shaped to reduce stress and fatigue on the flexible material. In other embodiments, valves may be normally open or actuated in both directions.

Abstract: A pipe crimping tool which may be used to temporarily interrupt the flow of gas or liquid material through resilient pipe is characterized by jaws having a curved surface at the point of contact with a pipe, and a means, such as handles, for actuating the jaws to apply pressure to a pipe so as to restrict the flow of liquid or gas material through the pipe.

Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus for occluding resilient tubing which effectively and conveniently occludes tubing without damage to the tubing, even after repeated clamping. Included in embodiments of the invention are a clamping structure and a protective sleeve formed from a resilient material which is interposed between the tubing to be occluded and the clamp. Also included are structures to prevent the application of the clamp immediately adjacent to the ends of the tubing. Moreover, the clamp can be applied at any one of a plurality of positions along the tube so that no one location along the length of the tube is subject to excessive fatigue. The protective sleeve and the clamp are joined together such that the clamp cannot be applied to the tube without the protective sleeve interposed therebetween. The embodiments of the present invention prevent damage to tubing, such as fragile silicone rubber tubing used in medical applications, even when subjected to repeated clampings.

Abstract: A clamp for blocking flow through a flexible hose is formed of a one-piece L-shaped body of rigid material having a short leg formed with a generally circular throughgoing hole through which the hose can pass loosely enough for flow through the tube and a long leg formed with a throughgoing slot narrow enough that when the tube passes through it flow through the tube is blocked. The hole and slot communicate with and open into each other at a corner where the two legs join. The clamp is formed with a generally cylindrical passage forming the circular hole. This passage extends along an axis generally parallel to the long leg of the clamp. The cylindrical passage is formed by a pair of like part-cylindrical surfaces having a common centerline and each in turn formed on a wing-like side part of the clamp.

Abstract: A tube clamp for dependably occluding the flow of fluid through a deformable tube includes a pair of pin members mounted on a supporting surface adjacent to a pivotal body that includes an edge portion adapted to be pivoted into the space between the pin members to pinch the tube against the pin members, thereby occluding the flow of fluid through the tube.

Abstract: A drinking fountain attachment for a faucet, such as a kitchen or bathroom faucet, the attachment having a tubular body portion threaded at the upper end for attachment to a downwardly extending faucet and having an orifice opening in the tubular side wall, a spigot element fixed to the exterior of the tubular body communicating with the orifice, providing means for discharging water therefrom in an upward direction to provide a fountain drinking stream. A tubular control member is rotatably supported to the tubular body lower end. A tubular elastomeric member is received within the body and control member and secured at each end in tension whereby the control member is retained in rotatable axial alignment with the body member, the elastomeric member serving to restrict flow of water through the tubular body and control member when the control member is rotated to thereby direct water out the orifice and the spigot to produce a drinking fountain.

Abstract: A mold fill coupling combined with a pinch fill valve and an overflow valve permits filling of a mold at one station and disconnecting the fill valve without rotating the mold.

Abstract: A flow control device, such as a valve, has a body with two portions which define two valve chambers, an inlet, which is coupled to a source of pressurized fluid and which opens into one of the valve chambers, and an outlet coupled to downstream devices, such as sprinkler heads, and which opens into the other valve chamber. A piece of collapsible tubing couples the two valve chambers. A shaft extends into the valve and is provided with a mechanism for pinching the collapsible tubing shut which causes the collapsible tubing to collapse due to the pressure exerted on its exterior by the pressurized fluid surrounding it. A coil spring is attached to the shaft and the valve body. When the valve is closed, i.e., the collapsible tubing collapsed, the coil spring is biased to cause the shaft to rotate if released. The shaft is prevented from rotating by a fusible link. When the temperature to which the valve is exposed reaches or exceeds a predetermined temperature, the fusible link melts.

Abstract: A disposable manifold and valve for fluid processing are claimed in which a manifold provides a plurality of sterile paths for directing the flow of fluids. A rotatable valve employs a cam to control the flow of fluids through the manifold. The valve and manifold system are suited for the processing of blood and particularly for the washing of shed blood retrieved during surgery.

Abstract: A clamping device for controlling liquid flow in a length of flexible tubing; the device includes a generally planar support having a keyhole, an annular flexible sleeve seated in the keyhole for receiving the tubing in an orientation generally perpendicular to the planar support, and a mechanism for moving the flexible sleeve between the larger side of the keyhole and the smaller side of the keyhole to cause pinching of the tubing to control liquid flow.

Abstract: A control valve has a plurality of internal flow channels operative for reducing the pressure and attenuating the noise of pressurized fluids being conveyed along a pipe line. An entrance well within the valve minimizes excess turbulence.

Abstract: A solenoid operated pinch valve including a housing and a hollow molded body coupled to said housing by a snap-on connection, a solenoid coil assembly seated within the housing, a plunger accommodated within said solenoid coil assembly for axial movement relative thereto controlled by energization of said solenoid coil assembly and between a pair of positions, said plunger having an end portion extending from the housing into said body and an opposite end portion received within said solenoid coil assembly, the body having a circumferential flange capable of being seated on one end of the housing and a pair of inflexible arms extending from the body in a coaxial direction relative thereto, said arms defining a passage for receiving a conduit across the path of movement of said plunger, a first orthogonal slot and a pair of resilient arms extending to the opposite end of the housing and engagable therewith in a snap-on coupling. One end of the plunger carries a second orthogonal slot.

Abstract: A large bore tubing roller clamp assembly for regulating the flow rate of a liquid through large bore tubing is disclosed. The roller clamp assembly comprises a substantially rigid elongated plastic frame, a generally cylindrical roller, and a length of a large bore tubing disposed within the frame. The flow rate through the tubing is controlled by moving the roller along an inclined roller track and over the tubing, thereby selectively compressing tubing to attain the desired flow rate.

Abstract: A container of corrugated paper board has a bag for holding liquid. The bag is supported by a plate which is adjacent the top of the container, the plate having slots through which are passed suspension loops attached to the top of the bag; keepers pass through the loops to hold them and the bag. A screw threaded filling fitting is provided in the bag. In an alternate embodiment, the top of the bag is rolled in a composite ring formed of metal and fiber board, the ring resting on the plate, and the bag extending into the container through a hole in the plate smaller than the ring; the suspension loops and keepers are also provided on this bag. A flexible discharge spout is held closed by a compression block and a strap, and is attached to a flap of a bottom plate by a severable band.

Abstract: A flow control device for regulating fluid flow through a length of flexible tubing comprising (a) a body assembly comprising a lower surface with a groove for supporting a length of flexible tubing, opposing side walls extending in the vertical plane along the longitudinal axis from the lower surface defining a passage for the tubing, a guide groove in one of the side walls, a rack gear positioned in the guide groove; (b) a rotatable cam assembly comprising a cam with an irregular radius which, at one position of rotation, extends into the passage, a pinion gear extending axially from and having the same center of rotation as the cam, wherein the pinion gear extends into the guide groove and operatively engages the rack gear; and (c) a cover connected to the top of the body assembly for retaining the pinion gear in operative engagement with the rack gear.

Abstract: The improved valve construction provides low force actuation and is therefore suitable in applications where children and handicapped persons may need to operate the valves. The pinch-type valve employs a lever arm pilot which supports a section of tubing in the fluid dispensing circuit. The lever arm is snap fit onto a valve plate and is adapted for rocking movement about a pivot point at one end of the lever arm. A valve cage supports a compression spring which applies a force upon the lever arm tending to depress the lever arm and its associated tube pinching valve seat into pinching contact with the tube. A force applied to the lever arm opposite the pivot point relieves the pinching force and the tube is thus opened for dispensing. An alternate flapper-type valve employs a valve pad encapsulated on the end of a lever arm which is in turn encapsulated in an O-ring seal so that the valve pad is situated at the center of the O-ring and the lever arm is disposed along a radial of the O-ring.

Abstract: An elastomeric sleeve is placed under axial compression in a pinch valve assembly. The axial compression of the sleeve eliminates any crevices with end members that engage opposed end walls of the valve body. Further, axial compression extends cycle life of the valve by maintaining the sleeve in a non-tensile relationship. Mechanical gripping of enlarged flanges defined at opposed ends of the sleeve is also enhanced through axial compression of the sleeve. A positive, visual indication of valve open and closed positions is provided by an indicator stem extending outwardly from an actuator body. In an alternate embodiment, the flanges are reinforced. Additionally, a casting member is interposed between the valve body and sleeve for ease of replacement and maintenance. In still another embodiment, a vent opening in the valve body eliminates pneumatic closure forces on the elastomeric sleeve that can arise when the pinch valve is heated.

Abstract: An elastomeric sleeve is placed under axial compression in a pinch valve assembly. The axial compression of the sleeve eliminates any crevices with end members that engage opposed end walls of the valve body. Further, axial compression extends cycle life of the valve by maintaining the sleeve in a non-tensile relationship. Mechanical gripping of enlarged flanges defined at opposed ends of the sleeve is also enhanced through axial compression of the sleeve. A positive, visual indication of valve open and closed positions is provided by an indicator stem extending outwardly from an actuator body. In an alternate embodiment, the flanges are reinforced. Additionally, a casing member is interposed between the valve body and sleeve for ease of replacement and maintenance. In still another embodiment, a vent opening in the valve body eliminates pneumatic closure forces on the elastomeric sleeve that can arise when the pinch valve is heated.

Abstract: A device for controlling the flow of a parenteral fluid, comprises a resilient tubular body of an infusion tube having a flattened portion with two parallel opposed walls. Each wall has a tapering groove, the grooves together defining a longitudinal region of non-contact between the walls of tapering cross-section. Regulating means is provided for flexing a short length of the body about a longitudinal axis of the body so as to urge the two walls together so that the rate of flow is determined by the cross-section of the region of non-contact at said length. Flexure about the longitudinal axis of the body avoids cold-flow of the region of non-contact. The regulating means comprises a support and an operating member longitudinally movable relative to the support, the body being flexed at said length by the co-operation of the support and the operating member. The support is preferably a channel having side walls which define grooves to guide a roller for longitudinal movement relative to the channel.

Abstract: A kidney-ureter catheter unit comprises a flexible catheter (2) provided with an introduction end (2a) of truncated conical form close to which radial drainage holes (3) are pierced. Within catheter (2) is slidably engageable a semi-rigid dilator mandrel (4) provided with an introduction end (4a) of truncated conical form and in turn slidably engaged by a semi-rigid guide element (12) having a rounded introduction end (12a). A spring (5) detachably fastens mandrel (4) to catheter (2) in an insertion condition with respect to each other in which the introduction ends (2a, 4a) of catheter (2) and mandrel (4) have the respective generators in alignment, so as to form a continuous frusto-conical surface.

Abstract: A multi-position rotary valve system is useable with a disposable fluid transfer set for carrying out a sequence of steps to implement a drain and fill procedure in connection with peritoneal dialysis. A method of carrying out peritoneal dialysis includes utilizing a rotary, multi-position, valve system in conjunction with a fluid flow transfer set having a plurality of flexible fluid flow conduits. The valve system provides for systematically opening and closing the respective fluid flow conduits in a predetermined sequence for the purpose of carrying out a drain and fill procedure of the type associated with peritoneal dialysis.

Abstract: A urine meter attached to a flexible urine collection bag. The urine meter comprises a rigid container which is dischargeable into the collection bag. A valve is disposed at the bottom of the rigid container to permit small samples to be taken in a sterile, multiple use, manner. The valve also permits large urine samples to be taken from the container, by the release of a bias device on the valve. The large samples are taken infrequently. The small samples are taken from a reusable sampling port which reseals itself when the sampling device, such as a hypodermic needle, is withdrawn.

Abstract: A control clamp for adjusting the flow rate of a liquid through a flexible hose, such as the hose of an infusion device is provided with a manually operable means for varying the flow cross section of the hose. The means comprises three clamping jaws (14,14',14") of circular sector shape, in section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the hose (10), the relative spacing between the clamping jaws being variable by moving them along radii (16,16',16") which intersect the longitudinal axis (20).

Abstract: An ileostomy valve comprising an attachment plate having a central opening passing therethrough which communicates with a support housing is shown. The support housing has an elongated central member which defines a passageway which communicates with the opening in the attachment plate and which terminates at the remote end of the elongated second member. A cover plate has a central drainage opening extending therethrough. The cover plate is positioned contiguous the attachment plate positioning the coacting member to engage and coact with the attachment plate. An elongated flexible tubing member extends through the central drainage opening in the covering plate, through the opening in the attachment plate, through the passageway in the elongated central member to the second opening in the elongated central member.

Abstract: An elastomeric sleeve is placed under axial compression in a pinch valve assembly. The axial compression of the sleeve eliminates any crevices with end members that engage opposed end walls of the valve body. Further, axial compression extends cycle life of the valve by maintaining the sleeve in a non-tensile relationship. Mechanical gripping between enlarged flanges defined at opposed ends of the sleeve is also enhanced through axial compression of the sleeve. A positive, visual indication of valve open and closed positions is provided by an indicator stem extending outwardly from an actuator body.

Abstract: An orifice assembly (6) used in a pulverized coal supply line (4) is formed of a plurality of ceramic bull nose inserts (20). Each insert is of truncated pie shape and of sufficient number around the periphery to radially lock the inserts.

Abstract: The flow regulator device comprises an internally threaded plug, a punch, a blade and a body. The body has a substantially parallelepipedal form defining a "C"-like cross section and a tower portion terminating in an externally threaded cylindrical tract, adapted for threadedly engaging the plug. The punch protrudes from the plug and is adapted for acting on the blade. The blade projects internally from the body and is adapted for exerting force on a pipe wherein the flow rate is to be controlled.

Abstract: A clamp with a clamping body to accommodate a flexible hose extending through the bottom of a recess and bending over to lie along the bottom of the recess through a channel created by the recess with a slider movable thereover. The flexible tube can be used to provide access to a human stomach, being placed through the stomach wall by surgical methods with the clamp used to control flows therethrough.

Abstract: S-shaped opening and closing element for controlling the flow of a fluid or body (powder, granulate) and adaptable to any form of package or fitting containing fluids, characterized in that its shape in two S-bends permits both an instantaneous stoppage of the flow of the fluids and an instantaneous flow of said fluids; this, as a function of the given position, by manual or mechanical traction on the element. The S-shape ensures very effective fluid-tightness, without supplementary elements. The opening and closing element can be employed for controlling flow from a container having a supporting device for the element. The container can have more than one compartment.

Abstract: A hose clamp (8) to be positioned on an outlet hose member (7) from a liquid collection bag (1), e.g. a urine collection bag, is provided with two hingedly connected clamp parts (9, 10), one of which (10) has a U-shaped cross-section and lateral portions (13, 14), including longitudinal slots (15) to receive the bottom portion (4) of the bag (1). When mounted, the clamp (8) is pushed onto the bottom portion (4) of the bag (1) so that only a small part of the clamp (8) extends outside the bag. Thereby, the inconveniences to the user are diminished to the largest extent and an improved security against unintentional opening is obtained.

Abstract: A choke valve specially used for regulating the flow volume and with it the back pressure of liquids or gas while drilling through shallow gas bearing formations from an off-shore drilling platform. The valve comprises a flexible cylindrical valve element (8) positioned in the valve housing (1) flow passage and where the valve is so designed that the valve element's (8) flow area can be reduced by a radial reduction of the valve element. The flow area of the valve element (8) is equal to or larger than the remaining flow area of the valve. The valve has devices (10;22) for constricting the end of the valve element (8) being nearest to the outlet opening (3) of the valve. The valve element (8) is so long that it is possible to compensate for the wear to which the end is exposed by sliding the valve element against the constricting devices (10:22) or by moving the latter along the valve element as the wear proceeds.

Abstract: A low cost, mechanical method and apparatus for controlling the size of an internal orifice in a deformable tubing, particularly tubing of a viscoelastic material such as PVC used to administer intravenous fluids. A portion of the tubing is clamped to place a portion of the internal walls of the tubing into contact with one another at a plane of contact. The non-contacting portions of the tubing define at least one flow orifice. The contacting portions are then further compressed so that the wall thickness of the contacting tubes is reduced from its initial, unclamped thickness. The degree of this compression is such as to cause the adjacent tubing wall portions to curve away from the plane of contact, preferably with four point symmetry. This condition is also characterized by the stresses within the tube wall tending to expand or contract the orifice being generally in equilibrium within a brief period of time, typically less than five minutes, during which period the orifice usually expands slightly.

Abstract: A pinch valve employing first and second linear solenoids in series so that the first solenoid closes a flexible tube when powered, and the second solenoid is positioned to be pushed by a spring, to in-turn push the driving member of the first solenoid in a loss-of-power condition, and is positioned to be moved away from the first solenoid when powered so that the first solenoid is free to selectively close or open the tube.

Abstract: A pinch valve includes a housing with a quarter-turn closure mechanism disposed within the housing for adjustment of a spool-sleeve. The mechanism consists of two cam members rotatably supported in the housing on the opposite sides of the sleeve and connected to a hub via drive links. The hub is disposed proximate an opening in the housing and is rotated manually by a handle, or automatically by an actuator. Each cam member includes a first portion which is rotatable across the sleeve and a shank portion which is eccentrically disposed on the first portion and traverses the sleeve profile. As the cam members are rotated the shank portions move transversely of the sleeve longitudinal axis, toward and away from one another for pinching the sleeve and thereby selectively throttling or stopping the flow through the system.

Abstract: Apparatus for association with a container of the type having a flexible discharge spout, the apparatus including an elongated support, a spring loaded reel and a line wound on the reel and fixed to the support to form a loop which is placed about the spout. A pawl and ratchet assembly are associated with the reel such that when the pawl is engaged, the reel will wind in the line to reduce the size of the loop to constrict the discharge outlet of the container.

Abstract: A tube clamping device is provided which includes a pair of arms with tube clamping means thereon which are movable from an open position to a latched, closed clamping position in which the clamping means effects occlusion of a tube passing through the clamp. Each arm has a slot extending into the sidewall of the arm so that the tube can be laterally inserted and removed from the clamping device. A protective flexible sleeve provided with a slit for easy insertion onto the tube can be used to receive the clamping forces of the clamp to protect the tube.

Abstract: Disclosed is an adjustable valve for liquid including a flexible tubular body having a first and a second end. The tubular body is capable of elongation along the longitudinal axis. Provided within the flexible tubular body is a substantially cylindrical rigid body the rigid having a diameter smaller than the inside diameter of the flexible tubular body to form a radial clearance between the rigid body and the inside surface of the flexible tubular body. Means for elongating the flexible tubular body along the longitudinal axis about the rigid body are also included, whereby elongation of the flexible tubular body reduces the radial clearance.

Abstract: A novel roller clamp is described for controlling flow of fluids in flexible tubing used for intravenous fluid administration to a patient. The roller clamp includes a unique placement means to enhance placement of a roller within a clamp body or frame. The novel placement means includes angular portions disposed in an infeed section of the frame. The angular portions form an angle greater than 90 degrees with a side wall portion of the frame to encourage upward movement of the roller during insertion onto guide surfaces in the frame of the clamp.

Abstract: A flexible tube of uniform internal diameter extends through a peristaltic pump and has its inlet communicating with a supply of liquid to be sampled. The pump is cyclically operated first in a reverse direction to purge all liquid from the tube, and then in a forward direction to pump liquid from the supply to a collector. When the pumped liquid fills a first portion of the tube for a predetermined axial distance from its inlet, a device disposed externally of the tube senses the presence of the liquid and signals a processor, which then determines the rate of flow of the liquid, and the total time T.sub.t the pump must operate to fill the entire tube plus a desired sample volume. The cycle is completed by momentarily reversing the pump to purge the first portion of the tube, and then it is operated in its forward direction for the time T.sub.t.

Abstract: A molded flexible fluid conduit and a make/before break pinch valve including a slidably movable pressure member spring biased normally against said conduit in closed condition of the valve, said conduit including a pair of elongate longitudinal unitary purchase formations capable of cooperating with slots carried by the valve whereby the conduit forcibly is pulled or stretched in diametrically opposed directions upon actuation of the valve subsequent to periods of closure so as to force the conduit open to permit flow.

Abstract: Described is an implantable device for selectively opening and closing tubular organs of the body such as the urethra. The device comprises a sleeve of an elastomeric plastic material, being of a stiff or rigid shape. The sleeve has a slit-like opening for receiving the organ, while the width of the opening is such that the organ is at least partially closed off in the rest condition of the device. Pressure can be applied manually, possibly by way of a remote operating means, to cause the opening to be temporarily enlarged whereby the organ which extends through the opening is also opened. The device may also have a continuously open position which is produced by means of a ball which can be displaced into a retaining seat to hold the opening of the device in an open position.

Abstract: A device is disclosed for effecting shut-off of flow through a tube formed of flexible material. The device includes a block having a bore through which the tube extends and having a resilient sleeve surrounding the tube in the bore and further including a plunger adapted to project through an aperture in the bore wall to engage the resilient sleeve and pinch the tube within the sleeve.

Abstract: A device for regulating the flow rate in the tube, e.g. in infusion- and transfusion assemblies. The flow rate can be regulated by twisting a portion of the tube by means of a twisting device. The tube comprises at least along the portion of its length which is intended to be twisted a plurality of separate or communicating flow passages. Between said flow passages there are provided distance members arranged about or forming an inner core in the tube about which the tube is twisted and which reduces compression of the tube. When the tube is twisted the free space between said distance members is gradually reduced in the twisted cross-section of the tube and by that a reduction of the flow area is obtained.

Abstract: The invention includes a concentrator that pressurizes and provides an enriched liquid suspension to a separator. In the concentrator, the incoming liquid suspension is driven by a diaphragm pump into a funnel-shaped accumulator that is closed at its top. Some of the heavier particles go directly to the bottom of the accumulator, but the lighter particles and the remainder of the suspension are forced to flow through tubes that extend from the top of the accumulator upward on a helical path. Further particulate matter settles out in the helical passages and migrates to the bottom of the accumulator. From the accumulator, the concentrated suspension is fed under pressure to a separator that includes an inclined chamber that is completely filled with liquid. A stream of wash water is directed from the lower rear end of the separator towards the upper front end of the separator.