Abstract: A sewage treatment system includes a pair of substantially identical unitary fluid treatment modules, each module having a central sedimentation tank surrounded by a peripheral wetland. The sedimentation tanks are coupled through a dosing device to an input source of sewage and, as an outlet, to a leaching field. The dosing device includes a switching mechanism isolated from the fluids, which mechanism provides in one cycle for one treatment module to be filled with the incoming sewage while maintaining its outlet closed. When the liquid level in the sedimentation tank in the first treatment module reaches a predetermined level the dosing device switches the sewage input to the other treatment module, while opening the outlet from the first treatment module to the leaching field. The dosing device switching mechanism employs pinch valves arranged so that when the inlet on one treatment module is closed, the inlet on the other treatment module is substantially simultaneously opened.

Abstract: An improved pinch mechanism for a fluid flow control assembly. It comprises a trumpet-type actuator moveable along its principal axis to control flow through an associated resilient tubular member. Interconnected with the actuator is a caming assembly having a roller guide with a principal surface sloping at an acute angle with respect to the actuator principal axis. Engaging with that principal surface is a dog-leg shaped cam follower that is pivoted at one end for partial rotational movement about the pivot. It is spring loaded to normally retain it in a position in which a proximal end of the follower is pressed on a resilient surface of the tubular member to squeeze it closed. Partial rotation of the cam follower occurs when the actuator moves along its principal axis and the cam forces the cam follower to move through an arc that permits the squeezed tubular member to assume its normally unsqueezed and open shape.

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 combination toy and beverage dispensing device, primarily adapted for use with children and particularly minor children who are still consuming liquids from a bottle and similar dispensing device. The dispensing device has an outer housing which adopts the form of a ball and with which a toddler can play and use in a playpen or like confined area. The housing of the ball includes an interior chamber capable of retaining a beverage or other liquid, such as milk, to be dispensed through a valve arrangement. The valve arrangement has an actuating mechanism with an outer surface generally conforming to the surface of the ball housing. When the actuating member is pushed against, as, for example, by the lips of the child user, it will cause an extension or outward extending movement of a stem. The stem contains a liquid delivery tube and an air supply tube which both extend into the beverage in the interior chamber.

Abstract: A catheter device of the type having a plastic sleeve with a central bore and a flexible catheter tube projecting from one end of the sleeve is equipped with a crimping apparatus, to allow a person administering the catheter to selectively crimp the tube to inhibit the flow of blood therethrough. The crimping apparatus includes member mounted for rotational movement with respect to the sleeve and a torsion spring, which normally biases the eccentric member to a "non-crimping" position. The member includes a bottom slot for receiving the catheter tube. When it is desired to crimp the tube, the member is rotated in a predetermined direction, such that the member compresses the catheter tube to inhibit the flow of blood therethrough. By crimping the catheter tube to inhibit the flow of blood therethrough, the likelihood of direct contact between the person administering the catheter and the catheter recipient's blood is substantially diminished.

Abstract: A water dispenser which dispenses liquid from an inverted bottle includes a housing 31 provided with a mounting arrangement for the bottle. A feed tube incorporated in a removably mounted manifold body is positioned to project into the neck of the bottle to conduct water to a reservoir from which water is discharged through a valve 80. The valve includes a pinch bar 106 acting on a flexible plastics or rubber tube 96 which can easily be replaced. The outlet end of the tube is recessed behind the housing 31 to prevent accidental hand contact. Liquid discharged from the bottle is replaced by air which passes through a one-way float valve mounted on the manifold body for removal therewith, and the float valve incorporates an air filter.

Abstract: A free flow prevention system for preventing undesired free flow of fluid through IV tubing of the type used in an infusion pump. The system comprises a spring clip having a base and a spring arm defining a channel adapted to receive the IV tubing. The spring arm is resiliently biased to a closed position in which the IV tubing is squeezed by the spring clip to close the lumen to prevent fluid flow, and the spring arm is movable against the bias to an open position wherein the lumen of the IV tubing is allowed to open to allow flow. The system also includes a clip-opening pin in the infusion pump for moving the spring arm of the clip from its closed position to the open position.

Abstract: A clamp for occluding a flexible tube comprising a permanent magnet rotary actuator coupled to a rotatable cam. A spring-biasing mechanism is provided to counteract the rotation of the rotary actuator and to return the rotatable cam to a pre-determined position when power is withheld from the rotary actuator.

Abstract: A method for controlling a valve including a direct current motor acting upon an aperture adjusting part (3) against the force of elastic means (11) biasing the aperture adjusting part towards a zero flow rest position, comprising the steps of: selecting a desired valve aperture; determining a time interval (T.sub.a) as a function of the desired valve aperture; supplying the motor with a first constant current of a sufficient value for rotating the motor, during the mentioned time interval; supplying the motor with a second constant low value current thereafter until a next valve aperture is selected, this low value current being sufficient to hold the motor in its position against the force of the elastic means.

Abstract: A pinch valve includes a generally tubular housing including coupling members respectively defining coaxial passages therethrough and adapted for coupling to associated conduits. The passages have tapered seating surfaces which respectively receive the opposite ends of a flexible, resilient, tubular valve member. A two-part housing body is ultrasonically welded together for clamping the coupling members in position and defining a cavity receiving the valve member and an opening into the cavity, the body pivotally supporting a valve lever which projects out of the opening and is movable between an open position leaving the valve member unconstricted and a closed position pinching the valve member closed. In a dual-valve embodiment, two of the valves are supported in parallel relationship at opposite ends of a bridge member.

Abstract: A maintenance station for an ink jet printer having a printhead with nozzles in a nozzle face and an ink supply cartridge is mounted on a translatable carriage for concurrent movement therewith. When the printer is in a non-printing mode, the carriage is translated to the maintenance station located outside and to one side of a printing zone, where various maintenance functions are provided depending upon the location of the carriage mounted printhead within the maintenance station. The printhead nozzle face is cleaned by at least one wiper blade as the printhead enters and leaves the maintenance station. Adjacent the wiper blade is a location for collecting nozzle-clearing ink droplets, followed by a capping location where a carriage actuatable cap moves into sealing engagement with the printhead nozzle face and surrounds the nozzle to provide a controllable environment therefor. A vacuum pump is interconnected to the cap by flexible hose with an ink separator therebetween.

Abstract: A bi-directional cracking valve that can be selectively opened. Bi-directional cracking valve (10, 70) is formed using an elastomeric membrane (34). Centered within the elastomeric membrane is a slit (36) that remains closed, blocking fluid flow through the device until a differential pressure across the elastomeric membrane exceeds a predefined cracking pressure, sufficient to force fluid through the slit. The elastomeric membrane is an integral part of an elastomeric cylinder (28), which is mounted in a valve carrier (12). The valve carrier includes ports disposed at opposite ends and the ports are adapted to couple to tubing. An operator can selectively enable fluid flow through the device by squeezing side tabs (40, 42) disposed on opposite sides of the elastomeric membrane together, forcing the slit open. A latch (46) is provided to keep the bi-directional cracking valve in an open state.

Abstract: This invention relates to dispensing devices attached to such liquid containers as plastic gallon jugs. More particularly the apparatus is used to dispense the contents of such containers without lifting the container. A simple device is disclosed for attachment to disposable bottles and jugs which allows small children, elderly and the handicapped to dispense liquids from such containers. One embodiment provides a controllable tilt-and pour arrangement while a second embodiment provides a head for supporting the container in the inverted position and further provides a flexibly attached dispensing valve for directing the container's contents into a receptacle while the container is positioned on the edge of a counter or refrigerator shelf.

Abstract: Valve assembly for sealed reception of an elongated object, which includes a valve body defining at least one opening configured and dimensioned to permit entry of the elongated object, a valve member formed of a resilient material and defining an aperture in general alignment with the opening of the valve body, the aperture being configured and dimensioned such that insertion of the object into the aperture causes the resilient material defining the aperture to resiliently engage the outer surface of the object in a substantially fluid fight manner and a manually rotatable control mechanism associated with the valve member to selectively open and close the aperture to permit entry of the object therethrough.

Abstract: A fluid control apparatus for use in separation and filtration having a removable sterilizable and disposable element which is engagable with a fixed element in the apparatus. When the two elements are engaged, the flow of fluid around a fluid circuit is controlled to optimize separation. The elements contain various conduits and inlet and outlet ports that function to deliver fluid to and from separation and filtration systems such as life support systems.

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 tubing clamp controlling flow within compressible tubing passing through the clamp which is adapted for inserting the tubing sidewise into the clamp upon opening of a hinged side wall. An adjustable flow controller overlies the tubing and is adapted to rotate, bear upon and squeeze the tubing for precise flow control. A lever arm to actuate the flow controller is in ratcheting engagement with an arcuate bar to hold the lever arm and cylindrical surface of the flow controller in the desired rotative position. The selected position of the lever arm can then be recorded. The tubing clamp can be constructed as a one-piece structure by use of a single mold and prepared as a kit to facilitate use for medical purposes. The assembly of the clamp is thus simplified and the method for controlling flow is accomplished by a series of simple steps.

Abstract: An adjustable control valve for flow regulation of gas or liquid includes a controlled hose clamp device, preferably with two clamping members disposed on respective sides of a hose for adjustable compression of the hose and thereby setting of the flow cross-section of the hose at a compression site between the clamping members. The control valve comprises further a movable cam disk, e.g. a rotatable eccentric sheave actuated by a shifting mechanism, preferably a step motor, disposed for variable compression of the hose in accordance with the position of the cam disk or eccentric sheave. For automatically controlled setting of the flow cross-section of the hose, the shifting mechanism may be arranged to be controlled from a measuring device mounted for gauging the flow in the hose downstream of the compression site (As).

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 clamp comprising first and second pivotally connected jaws, each having an inner surface facing the other. According to the invention, in the closed position of the tool, the inner surfaces of the jaws, define between them, a crimping profile in the shape of an elongate "V"-shaped gap.

Abstract: A Fire Hose Clamp is disclosed, this clamp being comprised of a shaft with a first jaw rigidly projecting from a first of its ends; a second jaw opposing the first, slidably mounted on the shaft between the shaft's first and second ends; a lever arm pivotally affixed via its first end to the shaft's second end at a first joint; and, a pitman having a first end pivotally affixed at a second joint to the lever arm between the lever arm's first and second ends, the pitman having a second end pivotally affixed to the second jaw at a third joint. Movement of the lever arm toward the shaft's first end causes the jaws to occlude.

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: An IV safety module (2) is used with a peristaltic type IV pump (5) to prevent the unrestricted flow of IV fluid through an IV line (4) when the door (80) of the IV pump is open. A locking trigger (42) is pivotally mounted to the body. A spring (10) is mounted to the body and has a section (18) which compresses and collapses the IV tube closed, thus substantially halting and IV fluid flowing therethrough, as the spring biases the trigger to the tube clamped position. The safety module is mounted adjacent the pump and is configured so that closing the door of the pump depresses the trigger to open the IV tube.

Abstract: A device for infusion or transfusion can be connected to a flexible tube line (16). The regulating arrangement (8, 9, 10, 12) for regulating the flow rate of the fluid through the flexible tube line (16) is a rigid structural member of the intravenous drip chamber (1) containing the infusion or transfusion liquid. The flow rate is regulated by means of a regulating nut (12) which effectively connects the regulating knob (10) with a flexible tube line (16). The structural member has a tubular connection piece (2) provided with a closed end (3) and having lateral perforations (4). The tubular connection piece (2) is coaxially spaced by a surrounding tubular threaded pipe (6) divided into segments (8, 9) separated by dividing points (7). The lateral perforations (4) open into downwardly directed grooves (5) which establish a flow path.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an applicator for applying a liquid such as floor wax. When an operator adjusts a handle-mounted valve, drops of wax fall down from tube-shaped nozzles arranged in an equidistant relationship on the base of the applicator. The wax is supplied from a bag-shaped container mounted on an intermediate portion of the handle and flows down to the nozzles via filters, an adjusting valve, a distributing chamber and discharge passages. When the applicator is not in use, it is placed on a tray which keeps the base moist with a cloth tightly stretched on the base of the applicator. Steam fills the space between the cloth and the base to prevent solidification of the wax.

Abstract: A multiple state pinch valve selectively controls the flow rate of fluid flowing within a flexible, resilient pinch tube. The valve includes a housing, and two biased pivot arm pinchers pivotally mounted in the housing on opposite sides of the pinch tube. Two springs bias respective ones of the pivot arm pinchers toward one another to pinch the tube, and two electromagnetic force field generators are mounted in the housing to selectively attract respective pivot arms away from one another to thereby selectively release some of the pinching of the tube.

Abstract: A system for sensing fluid conduit occlusion that reacts to occlusion force applied by changing the state of a switch only if a predetermined minimum force has been applied through the conduit. The system includes a contact member arm that cooperates with a force sensitive plunger to engage or separate a pair of contact members in response to application of a minimum force to the plunger. The plunger is positioned within a sensor gap through which the conduit extends.

Abstract: A transfusion pump 10 is that 1 when the door 13 is opened to set the tube, the clamping member 53 is retained in engagement with the first unclamp retaining portion 61 by manual operation so as to be set at the unclamp position, 2 when the door 13 is closed after the tube has been set, the clamping member 53 is released from its engagement with the first unclamp retaining portion 61 by the first unclamp releasing portion 63, and retained in engagement with the second unclamp retaining portion 64 so as to be set at the unclamp position, and 3 when the door 13 is opened after its closing, the clamping member 53 loses its engagement with the second unclamp retaining portion 64 so as to be set at the clamp position.

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: An adjustable squeeze-off clamp for controlling the flow of a material flowing in a relatively soft-walled conduit is provided. The clamp broadly includes a static jaw, a moveable jaw with an associated adjustment member, and an over-the-center operating linkage, including an operating lever, operably connecting the jaws. The gripping surfaces of the jaws are rounded to prevent damaging the workpiece. The adjustment member is for adjusting the compressive force exerted by the jaws on a conduit prior to gripping the conduit or even prior to moving the handles. The adjustment member is operably connected to the moveable jaw, is rotated to selectively vary the space remaining between the jaws when they are fully closed, and includes a detent lock for securing it in a selected position.

Abstract: A pumping device controlling an amount of liquid passing through a length of tubing accommodated in the pumping device. The pumping device includes inlet and outlet valves located adjacent opposed sides of a tube deforming device. The valves are controllable for restricting the flow of liquid through the tubing, and the deforming device is such that the tubing is first deformed in one direction and then in another direction which tends to restore the original cross-sectional shape of the tubing.

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 pinch valve assembly which includes a pinch lever rotatably mounted in a housing and a head at one end which serves controllably to pinch at least one pressurized fluid carrying tube against a corresponding pinch bar as the lever is turned between two angular positions. In one embodiment a toggle member is pivotally mounted in the housing and has a head positioned to operate the pinch lever between its angular positions, and to cause the pinch lever to snap by an over-center action between its angular position. In a second embodiment, a push-button member is used to operate the pinch lever.

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 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: A miniature compound lever fluid-operated pinch valve/regulator in which a swell tube is sandwiched between a rectilinearly movable planar member and a frame, and in which the swell tube responds to pressurized fluid to displace the planar member from the frame. A spring-biased lever engages the planar member to collapse the swell tube in the absence of the pressurized fluid. A pinch lever is also mounted in the frame and is engaged by the spring-biased lever. The result is a compound lever mechanism which responds to the swelling and collapse of the swell tube in response to a pressurized fluid introduced into the swell tube to cause the mechanism to perform a pinching function on a resilient fluid-carrying tube passing through the valve/regulator.

Abstract: A flow control device, such as a valve, has a valve body which has a fluid holding chamber therein. An inlet in the valve body couples the chamber to a source of pressurized fluid. An outlet in the valve body couples the chamber to downstream devices such as sprinkler heads. The outlet has an outlet opening which opens to the valve chamber. A collapsible tubing is sealingly attached at a first end to the outlet opening. The collapsible tubing has an opposite end which extends into the chamber. The opposite end of the collapsible tubing has an inlet which opens into the chamber. A mechanism is provided for blocking and unblocking the inlet of the opposite end of the collapsible tubing to cause the collapsible tubing to collapse and uncollapse to block and unblock fluid flow from the chamber through the outlet. The mechanism has a piston for insertion into and withdrawal from the inlet of the collapsible tubing to block and unblock the inlet.

Abstract: A plastics clip for performing sexual sterilization comprises two jaws each having a lining of silicone rubber, hinged to move from an open position to a closed position, in which a Fallopian tube is occluded. A catch mechanism biasses the jaws apart when the clip is open, by means of pressure from a resilient finger on a cam profile attached to the upper jaw. The finger and underside of the cam profile engage when the jaws reach their closed position, and lock the jaws closed. During closure, a resilient tongue formed on the upper jaw and a projection forming a hook on the lower jaw prevent the tube from escaping. Due to the biassing, the clip will spring back open during application if not sufficiently closed to engage the catch mechanism. In conjunction with the biassing, two moulded recesses and the shaping of the clip in a region adjacent the hinge end the clip to be located firmly in an applicator before closure.

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 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: The clamp for flexible tubing may be used in conjunction with an infusion pump instrument or separately. The clamp includes a pair of elongated clamping members pivotally hinged together and biased to clamp a segment of flexible tubing received between the clamping members. A latch is also preferably provided for allowing the clamping members to be releasably latched apart. The latch, and the elongated clamping members are arranged in a manner such that when the clamp has a segment of flexible tubing received between the clamping members and the clamp and tubing are set between the housing and door of an infusion pump, closing the door causes the clamp to release to an open position allowing fluid flow, and opening the door causes the clamp to automatically move to a closed position, clamping the tubing so as to prevent fluid flow.

Abstract: An external incontinency device having first and second rigid, arcuate members hinged together at one end has a releaseable securing device at the other end. The inside of the first member is padded. A compression bar having a padded upper surface is hingedly mounted at one end to the second member. The compression bar is moveable between a position in which it will compress the uretha and a position in which the uretha is not compressed. An L-shaped lever is pivotally mounted in a slot in the second member at the juncture of its two legs. One leg extends outside the second member and serves as an operating handle. The other leg engages the compression bar to cause it to compress. Moving the handle will disengage the other leg to permit urination.In an alternate embodiment the second arcuate member serves to compress the uretha. In this embodiment the device must be loosened to urinate.

Abstract: A dispensing valve comprises a first body portion having a connecting assembly for joining to a fluid outlet. A second body portion comprises a relatively rigid, elongated member having a lateral side wall terminating in a free end. A discharge orifice is formed in the lateral side wall of the second body portion. Mounted on the second body portion in tightly encircling relationship to sealingly overlie the discharge orifice and prevent fluid flow therethrough is a resilient tubular member. An operating handle is joined to the tubular member for selectively and resiliently deflecting the tubular member away from the discharge orifice to permit flow therethrough.

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: A dual cartridge dispenser. Each cartridge has an exit orifice through which fluid is dispensed when a pump portion of the cartridge is compressed. A movable compression member in the dispenser can be located at a first position adjacent the pump portion of the first cartridge or at a second position adjacent the pump portion of the second cartridge. A knob extending outside the dispenser is connected to the compression member for moving the compression member to the first position or to the second position to thereby select the cartridge to be dispensed from. When a movable dispensing member of the dispenser is operated, it causes only the cartridge pump portion that is adjacent the compression member to be compressed between the compression member and an opposed pinch surface in the dispenser thereby dispensing fluid from the cartridge.

Abstract: A flow control device has a body with side walls which define a fluid holding chamber, an inlet for allowing fluid to enter the chamber, and at least one outlet for allowing fluid to exit the chamber. A length of collapsible tubing is sealingly attached to each outlet and extends into the fluid holding chamber. A mechanical device is provided for selecting collapsing the tubing at a point which is spaced apart from the side walls of the chamber. When the tubing is collapsed at this point, the downstream pressure in the outlet decreases and the pressure of the fluid in the chamber causes the tubing between the location of the mechanical device and the side walls to collapse. The tubing is formed from a material having a durometer hardness rating selected on the basis of a fluid characteristic or on the basis of a characteristic of particle carried in the fluid. In the latter case, the tubing is selected to the soft enough to encapsulate and seal around particles in the collapsed seal area of the tubing.

Abstract: A pinch valve mechanism for a parenteral infusion system is provided which includes a spring-loaded pinch valve. The pinch valve is manually latched to its open position. A bobbin and cam mechanism includes a length of wire which contracts when a current is applied to it. The cam has two positions, one which holds the pinch valve in its open position and one which enables to pinch valve to close. When it is desired to automatically close the pinch valve, a current is applied to the wire. The contraction of the wire moves the cam from its valve open position to its alternate position, permitting the pinch valve to spring closed.

Abstract: A system for eluting a daughter radioisotope from a parent radioisotope and containerizing the resultant eluate in an evacuated container having a rubber stopper, providing for delivery of eluant from a reservoir through a tube to a generator containing the parent radioisotope, for venting of the reservoir to atmosphere via a tube, and for delivery of eluate from the generator via a tube to a tubular needle pierced through the stopper, with a cam-controlled hinged pinch plate for pinching the tubes closed.

Abstract: A pneumatic system (10) is shown in its most preferred use in a spray gun (12) to remotely control a pressure washer. The system (10) generally includes an integrally formed, homogeneous squeeze box (40) including a location ear (52), a nose tube (46), a bellows (44) and a discharge tube (48). Bellows (44) is generally rectangular in cross section and includes a flat top (62) and bottom (63) and accordion sides (64) having generally longitudinal fold lines (72, 74, 76, 78, 80) which are generally parallel to the mold part line (93) and the tubes (46, 48) but include a 2.degree. draft for ease in mold removal. A valve and spring tube (42) is loosely received on the nose tube (46) for sealing a vent hole (60) provided therein when the bellows (44) is compressed by a trigger (30) of gun (12) and for biasing the trigger (30) to an uncompressed bellows condition.