Patent ID: 8162021
Filing Date: 2012-04-24
Classification: A61M,B23K,B29C,B29K,B29L,Y10T

Abstract:
1. An apparatus for connecting together two sections of tubing comprising: a pair of fixtures configured to hold the two tubing sections in opposed, end-to-end relation along an axis so that axially facing surfaces of the tube sections at the ends are free from exposure to a surrounding environment, wherein interior passages of the two tubing sections are free from exposure to the surrounding environment until and during welding; a photodiode laser configured to emit an electromagnetic beam; and a separate sheet of material stored in an aseptic condition prior to use and extending between a supply roll housed in a sterile cassette and a take-up roll which is positioned along a plane at least substantially perpendicular to the axis between the axial surfaces at the ends of the tubing sections, the sheet being formed of a material which absorbs energy of the electromagnetic beam, wherein the pair of fixtures move the two tubing sections to bring the respective axially facing surfaces of the two tubing sections into engagement with the sheet and after the axially facing surfaces of the two tubing sections are brought into engagement with the sheet, the electromagnetic beam is directed onto the sheet for welding the two sections of tubing together.