| 摘要 |
<p>An apparatus for preparing an elongate fluid-containing member (10) such as an umbilical cord comprises a housing (14) and support elements (30) in the housing (14) for maintaining the umbilical cord (12) in substantially linear configuration. The support elements (30) are generally horizontally oriented and are pivotally mounted to the housing. A clamping device (42) in the housing (14) applies at least four clamps or staples (50) to the umbilical cord (12) while a severing device (58) divides the umbilical cord (12) to form at least two separate sections (114). A transfer mechanism (80) in the housing (14) automatically transfers the severed umbilical cord sections (114) to respective receptacles (74), the transfer mechanism (80) including a device operatively connected to the support elements (30) for tilting those elements, the transfer mechanism (80) further including guide funnels (36) disposed in the housing (14) below the support elements (30) for guiding the severed sections of the umbilical cord (114) into the receptacles (74). A closure assembly (150) is provided for automatically closing the receptacles.</p> |
