Abstract:
The invention discloses disposable polymeric vessels or tip products (26), having a thin area upon at least a portion of the vessel or tip, for use in medical and scientific laboratories. The thin area (38) has a thickness of less than 100 microns. Examples of such products are test-tubes, microtubes and multiwell plates. The thin area is transparent, and is advantageous for: performance of optical assays, and in performance of attraction and transfer of magnetic particles. Methods for manufacturing the polymeric vessel and tip products are disclosed.
Abstract:
A magnetic spring actuator comprising a ring, a piston movably disposed inside of the ring, and a non-magnetic holding cylinder. At least one of the ring and the piston is magnetic. Due to a magnetic force caused by at least one of the ring and the piston, the piston is initially located in a first position with respect to the ring. Application of an outside force results in movement of the piston to a second position with respect to the ring. The magnetic force produces a return force for causing the piston to return to the first position with respect to the ring. Alternatively, the piston can be fixed and the ring can be adapted for moving with respect to the piston in similar manner. A bi-metal coil spring may be wound around the piston.
Abstract:
An umbilical cord clamp and cutter assembly (10) with an integral cutting blade (22). A housing (22) is provided which incorporates a blade (22), and the housing (12) has removably inserted therein a double clamp (14) in which two clamps are connected by at least one connecting strip (20). Upon closure of the housing (12), the double claim (14) is closed and then the blade (22) becomes engaged and servers the connection (20) between the two clamps. Thus, in one simple one-handed motion, two clamps are closed, and only then the umbilical cord is severed and the clamps are separated in a safe, simple and quick fashion. The motion of closure is similar to other traditional clamps on the market, such that it is easily learned by the user. The two-piece construction simplifies the manufacturing, requiring only the insertion of the double clamp (14) into the housing (12) in a simple motion. The blade (22) is positioned so as to leave minimal tissue after the clamp so as to minimize the opportunity for infection. The housing (12) is constructed so as to remain attached to one clamp, while freeing the other and leaving it attached to the umbilical cord on the infant's side. The housing (12) and its clamp remain attached to the placental side of the umbilical cord, leaving the blade safely separated from the infant. The entire construction may be disposable for ease of use and sterility.
Abstract:
A chemical dispenser for use with a flush toilet includes a chemical storage chamber for a chemical which is to be added to the flushing water of the toilet, a mounting apparatus that allows the chemical dispenser to be easily mounted on an existing opening in the water storage tank of the toilet, and a dispensing mechanism that dispenses a predetermined quantity of the chemical into the flushing water of the toilet each time the toilet is flushed.