CLOSABLE LUER CONNECTOR

专利摘要:
medical connector with lockable luer connector. some embodiments refer to a luer connector comprising a housing having a hollow hole through it, a first end and a second end, a male luer tip supported by the housing to rotate with respect to the housing, the luer tip having a first open end and a passage through the luer tip in fluid communication with the first open end, and a substantially rigid internal member extending in the passage of the luer tip towards the first open end of the luer tip. in some embodiments, at least one between the luer tip and the inner element can be axially movable between a first closed position and a second open position in relation to the other between the luer tip and the inner element. in addition, the luer tip and the inner element can cooperate such that the rotation of the luer tip towards a first direction with respect to the housing increases an axial displacement between the first open end of the luer tip and an end part of the inner element.
公开号:BR112012028401B1
申请号:R112012028401-0
申请日:2011-05-02
公开日:2020-10-06
发明作者:Bruce Hubrecht；Thomas F. Fangrow Jr
申请人:Icu Medical, Inc；
IPC主号:

专利说明:

Fundamentals of the Invention Information Regarding Priority and Incorporation as a Reference
[001] This application claims priority of provisional application US 61 / 332,103 (entitled "Medical Connector with Closeable Luer Connector"), filed on May 6, 2010, an application which is incorporated in this document as a reference in its entirety, as if be fully described in this document. Priority benefit is claimed on an appropriate legal basis including, without limitation, under 35 U.S.C. § 119 (e). Technical Field
[002] Modalities of this description refer in general to medical connectors through which fluids flow and, in particular, to medical connectors with male luer. Description of the State of the Art
[003] Connector, valve, and pipe systems are routinely used in hospitals and other medical facilities to facilitate the transfer of fluids to and from patients. It is often a challenge to keep such systems sterile and prevent leakage of fluids when the various components are engaged and disengaged. In order to maintain a barrier against bacteria, debris, and fluid leakage, female connectors have been fitted with closures, such as septa, flexible seals, or other impediments, at their fitting ends. When a male luer connector is engaged with the female connector, the female connector closure is temporarily opened, perforated, or moved to allow fluid flow between the two connectors. Male connectors typically employ needles or luers to open, pierce, or move the closure on the female connectors.
[004] In many systems, only the female connectors are automatically blocked against the external environment when disengaged. Male luer connectors are generally not equipped with automatic closing mechanisms. Male luer connectors sometimes employ other components, such as caps, to stop fluid flow and prevent bacteria and debris from entering. Because such closing mechanisms are not automatic (or not used at all), luer connectors are sometimes left unsealed, allowing the fluid to drain out. This can increase the risk of unsanitary conditions inside and outside the fluid transfer system. In addition, in some medical applications such as some chemotherapy treatments, fluids in the tube and connectors can be harmful if released.
[005] In addition, in the busy environment of hospitals and other medical facilities, healthcare providers often need to quickly manipulate multiple medical implements with one hand, making it difficult to remove luer caps and fasten them after detaching male connectors . In addition, male luer connectors are often employed at the downstream end of gravity-fed fluid sources, such as IV pockets. When connectors and tubes are initially connected to such sources, they are usually empty, (for example, filled with air) and must be prepared with fluid before they can be connected to a patient. During the preparation procedure, the fluid is allowed to flow from the upstream end of the tube to the male luer connector at the downstream end.
[006] As the fluid flows through the tube, the air in the tube escapes through the male connector at the downstream end into the environment. Once the fluid itself reaches the male connector, it can also escape and spill. Because male luer connectors do not normally close automatically after preparation, the male luer often spills a small amount of fluid as the male connector is quickly moved to fit with a female connector. For this reason, the male luer is usually held over a sink or trash can at the end of the preparation procedure to receive the dripping fluid. Summary of Some Exemplary Modalities
[007] Various modalities of medical connectors with lockable male luers are described. It is considered that one or more characteristics of the various modalities described in this document can be combined with one or more characteristics of other modalities to form additional modalities. These combinations are within the scope of this description. In some embodiments, lockable male luer connectors open automatically when attached to a female connector and automatically close when disengaged from such a connector or can be easily opened or closed mechanically to minimize or eliminate slipping during preparation and other procedures and perfect the system barrier transfer fluid against bacteria and other debris. In some embodiments, a lockable male luer can be mechanically opened by a user without breaking the mechanical connection between the connectors (for example, as well as unscrewing connections between housings) in order to minimize or eliminate runoff during preparation and other procedures and perfecting the fluid system's barrier against bacteria and other debris, as well as allowing the user to more carefully control the timing of the opening of the lockable male luer.
[008] In some embodiments, a male luer connector has a main housing with first and second ends. The first end of the housing may comprise a male luer and a jacket surrounding at least part of the male luer. The jacket may include screw threads arranged on an inner wall thereof. A tubular valve element with a fluid path can be arranged in the housing. The valve element may have a tip at its first end. In the region close to the tip, one or more fluid holes can be positioned in the valve element in order to provide a fluid path between them. The tip can be configured to rest securely against an inner wall of the male luer in a region at or near the first end of the male luer. In some embodiments, the valve element may also have one or more struts which can be directed towards the first end. The struts can extend axially through a part of the housing, and the ends of the struts towards the first end can be positioned within a space between the male luer and the jacket at the first end of the housing. A length of medical tube can be connected to the connector. One end of the tube can be attached to the second end of the connector by adhesives, solder, thread, or some other means. A resilient element formed from either a metal or an elastomeric material can be positioned with at least one part inside the housing and can propel the valve element towards the closed position.
[009] In the closed or closed position, the tip of the valve element can be pressed into close contact with a part of the inner wall at the first end of the male luer, and the flow of fluid from the medical tube through the tubular valve can generally be prevented. Fluid generally does not escape through the opening at the first end of the male luer because that opening can be blocked by the tip of the valve element.
[0010] When a force is applied to move or displace the valve element from the housing, the resilient element can be tensioned against its twist and the tip of the valve element can be displaced towards the open position. This displacement force can be applied automatically through the action of connecting the male luer to a female end of another medical implement. As the forward end of the female connector proceeds through the first end of the male luer connector housing, the female connector makes contact with and exerts a force directed towards the second end against the struts of the valve element or against another part of the control element. valve, like the luer tip. This force can move a part of the valve element towards the second end towards the torsional force that can be directed towards the first end exerted by a resilient element. In this open state, flow can be allowed to flow through the opposing holes, around the tip of the valve element, and out of the connector through the gap between the tip of the valve element and the inner wall at the first end of the male luer. . In some embodiments, the valve element can be automatically advanced towards the second end when the valve element contacts a fluid conduit (for example, a conduit positioned within a female connector) as the male and female connectors are approached.
[0011] In some embodiments, when the separating force is removed, for example, by releasing the hand grip on the housing and the tube, or separating the female connector from the first end of the housing, the resilient element can once again push the valve element to the closed position. This can cause the tip at the first end of the valve element to rest closely against a portion of the inner wall in a region close to the first end of the male luer, and can prevent fluid from flowing out of the valve.
[0012] Other features and configurations for the mentioned mode are also described in this document, as well as additional modalities for other connectors with lockable male luers. Such modalities generally include means for allowing or preventing the flow of fluid through a male luer into a connector, which can be automatically manipulated by connecting to a corresponding female connector. Such embodiments also include features and configurations that allow the female part of the male luer connector to be coupled to a corresponding male luer part of a male luer connector or other component such as a syringe.
[0013] Some embodiments described in this document refer to a first arrangement of a luer connector having a housing with a hollow hole, a first end, and a second end. A male luer tip can be supported by the housing, the male luer tip being configured to rotate with respect to the housing. The male luer tip may have a first open end and a passage through the male luer tip in fluid communication with the first open end. The luer connector may have a substantially rigid internal element that extends in the passage of the male luer tip towards the first open end of the male luer tip. In some embodiments, at least one of the male luer tip and the inner element can be axially movable between a first position and a second position relative to the other between the male luer tip and the other inner element. The male luer tip and the inner element can be configured to cooperate such that the rotation of the male luer tip in a first direction relative to the housing increases an axial displacement between the first open end of the male luer tip and an end part of the inner element.
[0014] In the first position, the end part of the inner element can provide a substantially impermeable seal in relation to the first open end of the male luer tip in order to substantially prevent a flow of fluid through the male luer tip, and in the second position, the end portion of the inner member can be spaced from the first open end so that fluid is allowed to flow through the first open end of the male luer tip. In any of the previously described arrangements, the male luer tip can be configured to rotate relative to the housing as a female connector is screwed into the luer connector.
[0015] In some embodiments, the male luer tip and the inner element can cooperate so that the rotation of the male luer tip in a second direction relative to the housing decreases the axial displacement between the first open end of the male luer tip and the part of end of the inner element. In some embodiments, the inner member may be axially movable with respect to the male luer tip, and may have a solid cross-section along at least a substantial part of the length thereof such that at least a substantial amount of fluid flows through the connector luer is necessary to flow around an outer side surface of the inner element. Some arrangements of the inner element may have an axial opening through at least part of the inner element, the axial opening being in fluid communication with the hollow orifice of the housing and being configured to allow fluid to flow through the inner element.
[0016] Some modalities of the luer connector described in this document may have a chamber inside the housing, the chamber being configured to produce a change in volume, as at least one of the male luer tip and the inner element moves axially between the first position and the second position in relation to the other between the male luer tip and the internal element. The volume of the chamber can be greater when the male luer tip and the inner element are in the first position. Some arrangements of the inner element may have a helical or angled surface configured to cooperate with the male luer tip and cause the change in axial displacement between the male luer tip and the inner element as the male luer tip is rotated. The luer connector can have a resilient element configured to urge the male luer tip and the inner element towards the first position.
[0017] In some embodiments, an opening in the first end of the male luer tip and the end part of the inner element may have an ovular cross-sectional shape or other non-circular shape. The opening in the first open end of the male luer tip may have a tapered inner wall part and the end portion of the inner element may have a tapered outer wall part that cooperates with the inner wall part of the male luer tip. The male luer tip and the inner element can be configured so that the relative rotation between the male luer tip and the inner element causes axial displacement between the male luer tip and the inner element.
[0018] Some modalities described in this document refer to a luer connector having a housing with a hollow hole, a first end, and a second end, a male luer tip supported by the housing configured to move axially in relation to the housing, male luer tip having a first open end and a passage through the male luer tip in fluid communication with the first open end, and a substantially rigid internal member extending through the passage of the male luer tip towards the first open end of the male luer tip . In some embodiments, the male luer tip can be axially movable between a first position and a second position in relation to the internal element. In the first position, an end portion of the inner element can provide a substantially impermeable seal with respect to the first open end of the male luer tip, so as to substantially prevent a flow of fluid through the male luer tip, and, in the second position, the end portion of the inner member can be moved away from the first open end so that fluid is allowed to enter through the first open end of the male luer tip.
[0019] In some modalities of the luer connector, the male luer tip can be configured to move axially from the first position to the second position as a female connector is screwed into the luer connector. Some embodiments of the inner element may have a solid cross section along at least a substantial part of the length of the same so that at least a substantial amount of fluid flowing through the luer connector is required to flow around an outer surface of the element internal. In some embodiments, the inner element may have an axial opening through at least a part of the inner element, the axial opening being in fluid communication with the hollow orifice of the housing and being configured to allow fluid to flow through the inner element. The luer connector may additionally have a resilient element configured to urge the male luer tip towards the first position.
[0020] Some modalities described in this document refer to a luer connector having a housing with a hollow hole, a first end, and a second end, a male luer tip supported by the housing configured to rotate in relation to the housing, the luer tip male having an opening at the first end thereof and a passage through the male luer tip in fluid communication with the opening at the first end thereof. The luer connector may have an inner element extending through the passage of the male luer tip towards the opening at the first end thereof, the inner element having an opening at a first end and a passage through the inner element in fluid communication with the opening at the first end of it. The male luer tip can be configured to be rotatable between a first position and a second position in relation to the internal element. In the first position, the opening at the first end of the male luer tip can be substantially displaced from the opening at the first end of the inner member in order to substantially prevent a flow of fluid through the male luer tip, and, in the second position, the opening at the first end of the male luer tip it can be substantially aligned with respect to the opening at the first end of the inner element such that fluid is allowed to flow through the male luer tip.
[0021] In some embodiments, the male luer tip can be configured to rotate in a first direction in relation to the housing from the first position to the second position, as a female connector is screwed into the luer connector, and / or to rotate in a second direction in relation to the housing from the second position to the first position as a female connector is threaded disconnected from the luer connector. In some embodiments, the inner element can be pivotally fixed relative to the housing in some embodiments. The male luer tip can be twisted towards the first position. The luer connector can be configured so that the male luer tip is prevented from rotating beyond the first or second position. Brief Description of Drawings
[0022] Certain modalities of this description will now be discussed in detail with reference to the figures below. These figures are provided for illustrative purposes only, and the modalities are not limited to the material illustrated in the figures.
[0023] Figure IA is a perspective view of a modality of a male luer connector attached to the tube configured to receive fluid from a pendant IV bag fed by gravity. In this and other figures, the relative size of the connector and the fixed tube is larger compared to other objects to facilitate the view of certain details.
[0024] Figure 1B illustrates a perspective view of a modality of the male luer connector of Figure IA being connected to a female connector fixed to a tube inserted in a patient.
[0025] Figure 2A is a side view of the exterior of the luer connector modality illustrated in Figure IA.
[0026] Figure 2B is a cross-sectional view of the connector taken along line 2B-2B in Figure 2A in a closed position.
[0027] Figure 2C is a cross-sectional view of the connector taken along line 2B-2B in Figure 2A in an open position.
[0028] Figure 3A is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a luer connector in a closed position.
[0029] Figure 3B is a cross-sectional view of the connector in Figure 3A in an open position.
[0030] Figure 4A is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a luer connector in a closed position.
[0031] Figure 4B is a cross-sectional view of the connector in Figure 4A in an open position.
[0032] Figure 4C is a perspective view of a luer tip modality of the luer connector modality illustrated in Figure 4A.
[0033] Figure 4D is a side view of the luer tip modality illustrated in Figure 4C.
[0034] Figure 4E is a perspective view of one embodiment of a valve tube of the luer connector embodiment illustrated in Figure 4A.
[0035] Figure 4F is a side view of the valve tube modality illustrated in Figure 4E.
[0036] Figure 5A is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a luer connector in a closed position.
[0037] Figure 5B is an end view of the luer connector mode illustrated in Figure 5A in a closed position.
[0038] Figure 5C is an end view of the luer connector mode illustrated in Figure 5A, illustrating the luer connector mode in an open position.
[0039] Figure 5D is a cross-sectional view of the luer connector mode illustrated in Figure 5A taken along line 5D-5D in Figure 5C.
[0040] Figure 5E is a cross-sectional view of the luer connector mode illustrated in Figure 5A taken along line 5E-5E in Figure 5C.
[0041] Figure 5F is a perspective view of a part of a valve tube embodiment of the luer connector embodiment illustrated in Figure 5A.
[0042] Figure 6A is a cross-sectional view of another modality of a luer connector in a closed position.
[0043] Figure 6B is a cross-sectional view of the luer connector mode illustrated in Figure 6A taken in an open position.
[0044] Figure 6C is an end view of the luer connector modality shown in Figure 6A in a closed position.
[0045] Figure 6D is an end view of the luer connector mode illustrated in Figure 6B in an open position.
[0046] Figure 6E is a perspective view of a luer tip modality of the luer connector modality illustrated in Figure 6A.
[0047] Figure 6F is a cross-sectional view of the luer connector mode illustrated in Figure 6A taken along line 6F-6F and in Figure 6A.
[0048] Figure 6G is a cross-sectional view of the luer connector mode illustrated in Figure 6A taken along line 6G-6G and in Figure 6B.
[0049] Figure 7A is a cross-sectional view of another modality of a luer connector in closed position.
[0050] Figure 7B is a cross-sectional view of the luer connector mode illustrated in Figure 7A in an open position.
[0051] Figure 8A is a cross-sectional view of another modality of a luer connector in a closed position.
[0052] Figure 8B is a cross-sectional view of the luer connector mode illustrated in Figure 8A in an open position.
[0053] Figure 9A is a cross-sectional view of another modality of a luer connector in a closed position.
[0054] Figure 9B is a cross-sectional view of the luer connector mode illustrated in Figure 9A in an open position.
[0055] Figure 10A is a cross-sectional view of another modality of a luer connector in a closed position.
[0056] Figure 10B is a cross-sectional view of the luer connector mode illustrated in Figure 10A in an open position.
[0057] Figure 11A is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a luer connector in a closed position.
[0058] Figure 11B is a cross-sectional view of the luer connector mode illustrated in Figure 11A in an open position. Detailed Description of Some Exemplary Modalities
[0059] In some embodiments, closing mechanisms work substantially to prevent and / or prevent fluid from escaping or entering the male luer end of a connector, while allowing fluid flow when the male luer is manually opened or engaged with a corresponding female luer. As used herein, terms such as "closed", "sealed", "avoid", or "prevent" should be interpreted as obstacles or barriers to fluid flow. These terms are not to be construed as requiring that a particular structure or configuration achieve complete fluid closure in all circumstances.
[0060] Some medications, including those used during chemotherapy, can be harmful to a patient in certain applications. For example, exposure to the skin can sometimes lead to a chemical burn. Inhalation of aerosolized forms of some medications can also be harmful. Thus, it is highly desirable to have a control over the medication packaging.
[0061] Figure IA is a perspective view of a modality of a male luer connector attached to the tube configured to receive fluid from a pendant IV bag fed by gravity. In some embodiments, the female end of the connector can alternatively be configured to engage a standard male luer end. In Figure 1A, some modalities of a lockable male luer connector 10 are illustrated in a closed position. The luer connector 10 can be attached to a gravity-fed IV bag filled with fluid, pendent from a vertical support 11. At the bottom of the bag 9, a section of tube 13 can be attached. The opposite end of the tube 13 can be connected to the second end of the luer connector 10. A closing mechanism inside the first end 12 of the luer connector 10 can prevent the fluid contained in the bag 9 from flowing through the tube 13 and leaking out of the connector luer 10, as long as the luer 10 connector remains in a closed configuration.
[0062] The IV delivery system illustrated in Figure IA can be easily prepared for fluid communication to a patient. Most of the time, tube 13 can be filled with air when it is initially connected to IV bag 9. If the other end of tube 13 can be connected to a closed connector, as shown in Figure IA, air cannot escape and fluid cannot enter tube 13 from bag IV 9. In some embodiments, the luer connector 10 can be changed to be in an open position until all air has been purged through luer 10 and the fluid in the bag IV 9 fill the tube 13 and the connector 10. This procedure is known as "preparation". Once the fluid line and the connector are properly prepared, the healthcare provider can then simply change the luer connector to the closed position to stop the flow of fluid through the luer connector 10.
[0063] Figure 1B illustrates a perspective view of a modality of the male luer connector of Figure IA being connected to an exemplary female connector fixed to a tube inserted in a patient. Referring now to Figure 1B, a catheter 17 has been inserted into a patient arm 15. The catheter 17 penetrates the skin of the arm 15 and may have a fluid connection to the patient's bloodstream. Catheter 17 can also be connected to a length of medical tube 19 attached to a female medical connector 21. The example of a female medical connector 21 illustrated in Figure 1B is a version of the Clave® connector manufactured by ICU Medicai, Inc, San Clemente , California. Various embodiments of such a connector are illustrated and described in US patent 5,685,866, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. It is noted that many of the male luer modalities described herein can be used with other types of female connectors. Tube 19, catheter 17, and female connector 21 were previously prepared with fluid using standard procedures. The luer connector 10 can be prepared as described above and made to engage the female connector 21. As described in more detail below, when the male connector 10 and the female connector 21 are engaged, the fluid may be allowed to flow from the bag IV 9 for the patient. When the male connector 10 and the female connector 21 are disengaged, the fluid can again be prevented from flowing out of the first end 12 of the male connector 10. Generally, fluid can also be prevented from flowing out of the opening in the female connector. 21.
[0064] The modality illustrated in Figures 1A-1B is described in further details below. Each of the modalities described in this document can be used in the illustrated fluid system, and in various modifications and alternatives thereof. In addition, it is noted that the various connector modalities can be used in a wide variety of other systems for medical fluids. For example, the connectors described can also be used to transfer body fluids such as blood, urine, or insulin, and / or therapeutic fluids such as fluids used in chemotherapy treatments. The connectors described can also be used to interconnect various other components of fluid transfer systems.
[0065] Referring now to Figures 2A-2C, the lockable male luer mode 10 of Figures 1A-1B is illustrated in greater detail. Figure 2A is a side view of the exterior of the luer 10 connector mode. Figures 2B and 2C are a cross-sectional view of the luer 10 connector in a closed (or first) and an open (or second) position, respectively. When the luer connector 10 is in the closed position, valve element 20 can prevent a significant part of the fluid from flowing through the luer connector 10. In the open position, the valve element 20 can be moved to the open position of so as not to significantly impede the flow of fluid through the luer connector 10.
[0066] As shown in Figure 2A, some embodiments of the mounted luer connector 10 may comprise a housing 22, a door element 24 positioned close to the second end 14 of the luer connector 10, a male luer or luer tip 26 positioned close to the first end 12 of the luer connector 10, a jacket 28 surrounding at least a part of the luer tip 26, and the valve element 20 mentioned above supported by the housing 22. The housing 22 can define a dividing line 25, where the two or more separately formed parts housing can be joined. With reference to the illustrated embodiment, the door element 24 can be joined to the housing 22 on the dividing line 25 using ultrasonic welding, epoxy, or other adhesive, pressure fittings, mechanical connections, unitary constructions and / or any other method or methods fitting coupling (s).
[0067] In some embodiments, the door element 24 and the housing 22 can be formed in an integrated manner, which may require that the valve element 20 and the housing 22 be configured differently to allow the assembly of these and other components. For example, in some embodiments, where the door element 24 and the housing 22 are formed in an integrated manner, the luer tip 26, the valve tube 32, and the sealing element 44 can be mounted inside the housing 22 through the jacket 28 at the first end 12 of the luer connector. A retaining element (not shown), which can be configured to retain the luer tip 26 and the sealing element 44 in the desired position within the housing 22 can be mounted with the housing 22 after the other components have been mounted in the housing 22. In some embodiments, the retaining element (not shown) can be a flat disk having openings formed therein and configured to allow the luer tip 26 and the struts 36 to change position axially with respect to the retaining element. The retaining element could be attached to the housing 22 using ultrasonic welding, epoxy, or other adhesive, pressure fittings, mechanical connections, uniform constructions and / or any other suitable method or methods (s) of coupling.
[0068] In addition, valve base 34 can be configured to be held in a fixed axial position adjacent to port element 24 after valve base 34 has been inserted into housing 22. In some embodiments, the base of valve valve 34 can be configured to form a pressure fit with the door member 24 when it is mounted with it. In some embodiments, the valve base 34 can be attached to the port element 24 using ultrasonic probes, adhesive, mechanical connections such as handles, channels, or protrusions, and / or by any other method or methods of coupling. Axial openings (not shown) can be formed in the valve base 34 or any similar components described in this document to allow fluid or medication to flow through them. Thus, in some embodiments, the valve base 34 can be formed to rest close to one or more of the internal surfaces of the port element 24. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the valve base 34 and the valve tube 32 can be formed. formed integrated in the door element 24, with the end part 32a of the valve tube 32 being configured to be attached to the valve tube 32 after the luer tip 26 has been assembled.
[0069] Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, housing 22 can be configured so that the luer tip 26 projects through an opening 40 formed in an inner wall 42 formed in housing 22. As will be described in more detail below, luer connector 10 can be configured so that the luer tip 22 moves axially with respect to the opening 40 formed in the inner wall 42.
[0070] In the illustrated embodiment, the valve element 20 can comprise a tube 32 projecting from a valve base 34 towards the first end 12 of the connector 10, and a pair of valve arms or struts 36 also preferably if projecting from and supported by the second region 26c of the male luer 26. In the illustrated embodiment, in a mounted configuration, the valve struts 36 can be positioned so as to be adjacent to the tip 26 along the sides of the tip 26. When the luer connector 10 is in the closed position, a part of the inner surface of the distal part 32a of the valve tube 32 can be sealed against the inner surface of a part of the distal part 26a of the luer tip 26 such that the fluid is generally prevented from flowing through the opening 38 formed at the distal end 26a of the luer tip 26.
[0071] Here are some samples of cross-sectional diameters of aperture 38 preferably formed at the distal end part 26a of the luer tip 26, or any opening at any luer tip described in this document: approximately 2 mm or less and approximately 0.5 mm up to 2.0 mm. Other diameters, both inside and outside the mentioned ranges can also be used. In some embodiments, aperture 38 can be of any desired geometry or otherwise suitable. Despite the configuration of the opening 38, the distal part 32a of the valve tube 32 can be sized appropriately to occupy the space in the opening 38 so that when the luer connector 10 is in a closed position, a generally impermeable seal is provided.
[0072] In the illustrated embodiment, the luer connector 10 can be configured such that the tube 32 is supported in an axially fixed position in relation to the housing 22. In particular, in some embodiments, the rear part 34a of the valve base 34 can be supported indirectly or directly by the surface 24a of the door element 24. In the illustrated embodiment, one or more substantially rigid handles 50 can be formed so as to project from the rear part 34a of the valve base 34. The handles 50 can be configured to rest against the inner surface 24a of port element 24. Valve base 34 and handles 50 are preferably configured to allow fluid or medication to flow freely around valve base 34. In addition, as mentioned above, the tip luer can be slidably supported in order to change its position axially in relation to the tube valve 32.
[0073] The valve struts 36 that can be supported in a cantilever arrangement by the second end region 26c of the male luer 26 can be configured to slide into the openings 48 formed through the inner wall 42 of the housing 22. The number of openings 48 through the inner wall 42 can be equal to the number of the valve struts 36 that are supported by the valve base 34.
[0074] An annular sealing element 44 can be positioned between the outer surface of the luer tip 26 and the inner surface of the housing 22 in order to generally prevent any fluid from flowing through any of the openings 40, 48. The sealing element 44 can be formed from a resilient material and configured to provide an axial torsional force at the luer tip towards the first end 12 of the luer connector 10, in order to urge the luer connector 10 into the closed position.
[0075] With reference to Figures 2B and 2C, the luer connector 10 can be configured so that the sealing element 44 rests on a rear surface 36b of the valve struts 36 at a first end of the sealing element 44 (for example , at the end of the sealing element 44 which is closest to the first end 12 of the luer connector 10). Similarly, the luer connector 10 can be configured so that the sealing element 44 rests on a lower surface 24b of the door element 24 on a second end of the sealing element 44 (for example, the end of the sealing element 44 that is closest to the second end 14 of the luer connector 10).
[0076] In some embodiments, as in the embodiment illustrated in Figures 2B-2C, valve tube 32 or any other valve tube or valve element described with reference to any other embodiments in this document may be solid, such that a portion substantial amount of fluid flowing through the luer connector flows around the outside of the valve element. In addition, any type of luer connector described in this document can be configured so that the valve tube is solid or such that the valve tube comprises an opening axially through at least a part of it.
[0077] In some embodiments, valve 20, valve base 34, valve struts 36, and protrusion 52 can be formed integrally. In some embodiments, any of the characteristics of valve element 20, including valve tube 32, valve base 34, valve struts 36, and protrusion 52 can be formed separately and glued or joined in some other way in subsequent manufacturing steps.
[0078] In some embodiments, the housing 22 can generally be a tube-like structure with a passageway 54 that can extend from the second end 14 of the connector 10 through an axial center of the luer connector 10. Thus, in some embodiments, when the luer connector 10 is in the open or open position, as shown in Figure 2C, the fluid may be allowed to flow from the second end 14 through the port element 24, around the valve base 34 and the tube 32, and exit through opening 38 at the luer tip 26 positioned at the first end of the luer connector 10. With reference to Figures 2B and 2C, near the second end 14 of the luer connector 10, the door element 24 and the corresponding section of the passage fluid tubes 54 can be sized and configured to accommodate a standard diameter medical tube section inserted into it, or to be able to be joined with any suitable standard size medical connector or component , particularly medical implements corresponding to ISO and / or ANSI standards.
[0079] In some embodiments, the length of the housing 22 (or any housing described in this document) from the second end 14 to the distal end of the luer tip 26 can be approximately 0.75 inch. However, the size of housing 22 is not limited to this. In some embodiments, the length of the housing 22 (or any housing described herein) from the second end 14 to the distal end of the luer tip may be approximately 0.5 inch to approximately 0.75 inch, or approximately 0.75 inch to approximately 1.0 inch, or approximately 1.0 inch to approximately 1.5 inches or more, or from or to any value within those ranges. Thus, the housing 22 can be, but is not necessarily less than or equal to, approximately 1.5 inches from the second end 14 to the distal end of the luer tip 26 such that the weight and volume of the connector can be minimized. However, housing 22 can be of any length suitable for a specific application.
[0080] The shirt 28 can have internal threads 56 in an interior wall to securely fix the connector 10 in a removable way in another medical implement. In other embodiments, the jacket 28 may include other structures or materials to provide a releasable connection, including quick release mechanisms and other means. As illustrated, the housing 22 and the jacket 28 can define a plurality of protrusions 58 or other suitable features on an external surface to assist the user to firmly grasp and urge the jacket 28 and the housing 22 with the user's fingers in order to prevent the luer connector 10 from slipping from the user's grip when the luer connector is twisted. In other modalities (not shown) the housing 22 or the jacket 28 can alternatively or additionally define depressions that have upwardly tapering side walls that prevent the fingers from slipping from the connector 10, or any other characteristics or materials that prevent the fingers from slipping with respect to connector 10. Protrusions 58 can extend substantially around the entire outer surface of housing 22 or jacket 28 so that the user's fingers, when positioned on opposite sides of connector 10, are likely to encounter a depression, regardless of the orientation of connector 10, during use.
[0081] With reference to Figures 2A-2C, the tip 26 can have a tapered outer wall. The diameter of the luer tip 26 can gradually become smaller from the valve base 34 to the distal end portion 26a of the tip 26. As described above, the tip 26 can define an aperture 38 positioned at the distal end portion 26a of the tip luer 26. Near the base of the luer 26 tip, which may be the inner wall 42, an inner space 60 (illustrated more clearly in Figure 2B) can communicate with the fluid passage 54 of the luer connector 10 and the opening 38 of in order to provide a fluid flow path through the entire luer connector 10. In some embodiments, the term fluid flow refers to the entire fluid path through the luer connector. In relation to any of the luer connectors described in this document, the dimensions of the housing, jacket, luer tip, or door element (for example, the male and female ends) or other interfaces can be made to comply with the standards and / or applicable regulations, such as ANSI standards and or ISO standards.
[0082] As more clearly illustrated in Figure 2C, in some embodiments the distal end part 32a of the tube 32 can be configured to complement the size and shape of the distal end part 26a of the luer tip 26 in order to define a sealable closing mechanism. In particular, in some embodiments, in the closed position the inner surface 26b of the luer tip 26 can be positioned against the outer surface 32b of the valve tube 32 so as to provide a generally impermeable seal that prevents fluid or other medication from passing through the valve. opening 38 that can be formed at the distal end 26a of the luer tip 26. Thus, in this configuration, the closing mechanism can be adapted to close the fluid passage that extends through the lockable male luer 10 so that there is no fluid communication with the external environment, preferably whenever the male luer 10 is not engaged with a female connector.
[0083] Thus, while the distal end part 32a of the tube 32 rests on the inner surface of the luer tip 26, the closure can be formed at or near the first end 12 of the male luer 10. In addition, the distal end part 32a of tube 32 can be made of, or covered by, a material other than that used to form tube 32. For example, in some embodiments, the distal end part 32a can be covered with a softer, more malleable or deformable material that can have better sealing properties compared to the material used to form the tube 32 in order to provide a better seal between the distal end part 32a of the tube 32 and the luer tip 26.
[0084] Any of the luer connectors described in this document can be configured to understand the characteristics of any of the luer 10 connector modes described above. In addition, in some embodiments the valve element 20 can be constructed without a fluid path and function as a blocking plunger for the fluid flowing around the valve element 20 instead of being a means of transporting fluid between the first and the second. second ends of the luer connector 10.
[0085] The housing 22 of the illustrated embodiment, or the housing of any embodiment described in this document, the door element 24, and any other components described in this document can be constructed from any one of a variety of different materials or combination of materials. In some embodiments, housing 22 or any housing described herein can be constructed from a relatively rigid material, such as polycarbonate or other polymeric material. Housing 22, port element 24, and / or the valve element of any embodiment described herein, or any of the components of that or any other embodiment, may also be constructed of a hydrophobic material, such as Bayer Makrolon, or any other suitable material.
[0086] The length of the valve element 20 may be shorter than the length of the housing 22, but the length of the valve element 20 is not limited thereto. Any of the valve assemblies described in this document, including, but not limited to, valve element 20, can be manufactured by injection molding. Finally, although valve element 20 of the illustrated embodiment is configured as shown in Figures 2B-2C, many other configurations are possible.
[0087] In some embodiments, as in the embodiments illustrated in Figures 2A-2C, one or more raised protrusions or handles 66 (as well as threads, but not limited to this) may be formed on the outer surface 24a of the door element 24 to facilitate the removable attachment of a medical implement (not shown) to the second end 14 of the valve element 20. Thus, in some embodiments the outer surface 24a may be cylindrical, except for protrusions, raised handles, or other features formed in the same . In some embodiments, the inner surface of the door element 24 can be formed conically, such that the diameter of the inner surface can be larger on the part of the inner surface adjacent to the second end 14 of the luer connector 10. The inner taper of the inner surface can complement and fit tightly into the taper of a typical male luer. This internal taper can conform to ANSI and / or ISO standards and / or standards, such as the standard for medical syringes.
[0088] Similarly, the outer surface 26c of the luer tip 26 can be straight or tapered to conform to ANSI and / or ISO standards and / or standards, such as the standard for medical syringes. In some embodiments, the inner surface of the luer tip 26 and the outer surface of the tube 32 can be straight or can also be tapered. The tapering of the inner surface of the luer tip 26 and the outer surface of the tube 32 can help to minimize the amount of fluid flowing into the inner space 60 and gets stuck in it, between the tube 32 and the luer tip 26, since as the tube moves to the closed position, the distance between the tapered inner surface of the luer tip 26 and the outer surface of the tube 32 is reduced.
[0089] As shown in Figures 2A-2C, the lockable luer connector 10 can have a female end fitting at the second end 14 of the luer connector 10 and a male luer fitting end at the first end 12 of the luer connector 10. The female connector The lockable part of Figure 1B (mentioned above), as well as other standard female connectors with similar external structure, can have both female and male ends. In many embodiments, such female connectors may use seals or other fluid barriers to prevent fluid flow at the female end, but it is not typical for them to do the same at the male end. In many of the modalities of the lockable male luer connectors illustrated and described in this document, there may be no seal or other fluid barrier illustrated at the female end. However, the female end of any of the lockable male luer connectors described in this document can be configured to include a lockable female end. For example, the structure for selective fluid impedance with the female connector 21, or any of the standard female connectors, could be included inside the female end of any of the lockable male luer connectors described in this document to provide a connector that selectively seals or prevents the flow of fluid at both ends. In some embodiments of this type with lockable female and male ends, it may be advantageous for a resilient sealing element to be positioned in the opening or close to the female opening, as illustrated in US patent 5,685,866, entitled "Medical Valve and Method of Use", filed on November 4, 1994, the description of which is incorporated in this document as a reference as if it were fully described in this document. By positioning the sealing element in this way, it is possible to clean the female opening before using it with antiseptic, using a rubbing motion to prevent a harmful buildup of debris, bacteria, antiseptics, or other unwanted substances, or other unwanted substances to the sealing element and / or to the region between the sealing element and the connector housing adjacent to the sealing element.
[0090] With reference again to Figures 2B and 2C, the sealing element 44 will now be described in more detail in this document. In some embodiments, the sealing element 44 may define a generally cylindrical cross section, as shown in Figures 2B and 2C. In some embodiments, the sealing element 44 can define a generally circular cross-section. In some embodiments, the sealing member may be substantially cylindrical and may have a hole that extends axially through its center. In some embodiments, the sealing member may further comprise a pair of generally rectangular protrusions extending from the side walls of the cylindrical part in diametrically opposite positions. In other embodiments, protrusions can have different shapes and / or positions, and can help to position and / or align the sealing element in the desired position. In some embodiments, the sealing member 44 may also have an average part of generally smaller diameter surrounded by two rings at each end with larger diameters. The sealing element can be constructed from a variety of different materials. In some embodiments, the sealing element can be made of a deformable material based on silicone. Deformable silicone-based materials are among those that can form waterproof closures with plastics and other rigid polymeric materials.
[0091] As mentioned, Figure 2C is a cross-sectional view of the luer connector 10 in an open position, so that fluid can generally be allowed to flow through the luer connector 10. The flow of fluid or medication through the luer connector 10 is represented by arrows in Figure 2C. Referring to Figure 2C, housing 22, valve element 20, and sealing element 44 are in an assembled configuration. As shown, the valve element 20 has preferably been moved to the open position by inserting the female connector 76. Thus, Figure 2C illustrates a cross section of a luer connector 10 embodiment in which the valve element 20 preferably had its opening caused by the insertion of an exemplary female connector 76.
[0092] With reference to the modality illustrated in Figure 2C, the structure of an example female connector 76 will now be discussed in more detail. The female connector 76 may comprise an elongated body 78 having a fluid passageway 80 within it, and the female connector 76 may have a tip 82 near its proximal end. In some embodiments, the tip 82 of the female connector 76 may have a radially extending surface 84 disposed on its outer surface. The female connector 76 may have a fluid conduit (not shown) inside the female connector 76. The fluid conduit is not included or required in all female connectors compatible with the connectors 10 described in this document. Along a proximal inner surface 86 of the female connector 76, the fluid passage 80 can be tapered so that the diameter of the fluid passage 80 decreases in the distal direction.
[0093] As shown in Figure 2B and discussed above, the struts 36 of the valve element 20 can extend through openings 48 in the inner wall 42 of the housing 22 such that, in the closed position, the ends of the struts 36 extend beyond the inner wall 42 towards the first end 12 of the connector 10. The struts 36 can be configured to engage the proximal end 84 of the female connector 76 as the female connector 76 advances to engage with the lockable male luer 10. To engage the luer male 10 and the female connector 76, as shown in Figure 2C, the radially extended surface (s) 84 of the female connector 76 can be threaded on the internal threads 56 of the male luer 10. As shown in 2C, the two luers 10, 76 can be threaded together until the taper of the inner surface 86 of the female luer connector 76 is adjacent to the correspondingly tapered outer surface 26c of the tip 26.
[0094] As the male luer connector 10 and the female connector 76 move towards each other for a threaded engagement, the proximal end 84 of the tip of the female connector 76 can contact the struts 36 of the valve element 20. When As the luer connector 10 and the female connector 76 move further in the threaded engagement, the struts 36, and thus the luer tip 26, can be moved towards the second end 14 of the male connector 10 by the female connector 76. As the male luer connector 10 and female connector 76 move in threaded engagement, the distal end portion 26a of the luer tip 26 can move in the opposite direction from the inner distal end portion 32a of the valve tube 32 towards the second end 14 of male connector 10. As luer tip 26 and valve tube 32 move in opposite directions, a gap or gap may form between luer tip 26 and valve tube 32, allowing passage of fluid through the opening to 38 for fluid passage 80 of female connector 76, or vice versa.
[0095] In some embodiments, as mentioned above, as valve struts 36 and luer tip 26 recede to housing 22, seal 44 can compress, causing seal 44 to exert a torsional force on the luer tip 26 towards the closed position or causing the seal 44 to increase the torsional force that this seal exerts on the luer tip 26. There can be a resistance to the torsional force exerted by the seal 44 through a contact of the surface 84 that extends radially from of the female connector with the internal threads 56 of the housing 22. However, when the female connector 76 is removed from the male luer 10, the seal 44 can return the sealing part of the luer tip 26 to the closed position around the valve tube 32.
[0096] Despite the relative movement between the housing 22 and the luer tip 26, the sealing element 44 can be configured to maintain a fluid barrier between the outer surface of the tube 32 and the inner surface of the luer tip 26. In some embodiments , where the sealing element 44 comprises protrusions generally rectangular, the position of the sealing element 44 can be maintained by the protrusions. In some embodiments, the sealing element 44 can be positioned by adhering the outer surface of the protrusions to an internal surface of the luer tip 26. In some embodiments, the sealing element 44 can be positioned by gluing the outer surface of the seal 44 to an inner surface of the luer tip 26 or an outer surface of the valve tube 32. Other suitable means of securing the position of the sealing element 44 can also be used.
[0097] As shown in Figure 2C, in the open configuration, fluid passage 80 of female conductor 76 can communicate with passage 54 of valve element 20 so as to allow fluid to flow through passage 54 and the passage of fluid 80 from female connector 76 in any direction. The fluid can thus flow from the tube (not shown) or from another connector or conduit that can be attached at the second end 14 of the luer connector 10, to the passage 54 of the housing 22, around the valve 34, through the interior space 60 inside the luer tip 26, and through the opening 38 in the distal end part 26a of the luer tip 26, and for the fluid passage 80 of the female connector 76, and vice versa.
[0098] With reference now to Figures 3A-3B, some modalities of the lockable luer connector 10 'will be described in greater detail. In some embodiments, the 10 'luer connector may comprise any of the components, features, materials, sizes, geometries, details or configurations of any of the luer connectors described in this document. Figure 3A is a cross-sectional view of the luer connector 10 'in a first position or closed position. As described above, when the valve element 20 'of the luer connector 10' is in the closed position, fluid is generally prevented from flowing through the luer connector 10 '. Figure 3B is a cross-sectional view of the luer connector 10 'in a second position or open position due to the engagement of a female connector 76 with the luer connector. The flow of fluid or medication through the luer connector 10 'is represented by arrows in Figure 3B. As described above, when the valve element 20 'of the luer connector 10' is in its open position, fluid is generally allowed to flow through the luer connector 10 '. As with any embodiment of the luer connector described in this document, a perfect seal by the valve element is not required, although such a seal may be preferred in some embodiments.
[0099] In some embodiments, the luer connector 10 'may be the same or similar to the connector 10 described above, except for or in addition to the features and components illustrated and / or described below. First, in some embodiments, such as in the illustrated embodiment, the luer tip 36 'can be moved from the first position, closed position (as shown in Figure 3A) to the second position, open position (as shown in Figure 3B) without the use of actuators or struts 36 as described above in relation to the luer connector 10. Referring to Figure 3B, the luer connector 10 'can be screwed into the female connector 76. The lockable female connector tip 82 on the female connector 76 can have a radially extending surface 84 arranged on its outer surface that can engage with the internal threads formed on the inner surface of the jacket 28 'of the luer connector 10' to engage the connectors 10 ', 76 as shown.
[00100] In some embodiments, as illustrated, the surface 26c 'of the luer tip 26 can be tapered such that the distal end portion 26a' of the luer tip defines a smaller cross-sectional size or diameter than the part of the luer tip 26 ' adjacent to the inner wall 42 'of housing 22'. In addition, the inner surface 86 of the female connector 76 can be tapered, as shown, or it can be cylindrical in shape, defining a uniform size or transverse diameter. The female connector 76 may be engaged with the luer connector 10 'by any suitable method, including, but not limited to being threaded into the luer connector 10' as described above. The luer tip 26 'can be configured so that, while the female connector 76 is engaged with the luer connector 10', at least part of the inner surface 86 of the female connector 76 will join with and rest on a part of the outer surface 26c 'of the luer tip 26. As soon as a part of the inner surface 86 of the female connector 76 touches a part of the outer surface 26c' of the luer tip 26, an additional engagement of the female connector 76 with respect to the luer connector 10 'can lead to luer tip 26 'to retract axially towards the second end 14' of the luer connector 10 ', for example, towards the open position (also called the second position) as illustrated in Figure 3B. In some embodiments, the luer tip 26 'can be made to rotate around the axial centerline of the luer connector 10' as the female connector 76 is increasingly threadedly engaged in the luer connector 10 '. Conversely, as the connector is disengaged from the luer connector 10 ', the axial torsional force of the sealing element 44' will preferably cause the luer tip 26 'to return to the closed position (also called the first position) in valve tube 32 '.
[00101] With reference now to Figures 4A-4F, some modalities of the lockable luer connector 110 will be described. In some embodiments, the luer connector 110 can have any of the components, characteristics, materials, sizes, geometries, details or configurations of any of the other luer connectors described in this document. Figure 4A is a cross-sectional view of the luer connector 110 in closed position. As described above, when the valve element 120 of the luer connector 110 is in the closed position, the fluid is generally prevented from flowing through the luer connector 110. Figure 4B is a cross-sectional view of the luer connector connector 110 in open position due to the engagement of a female connector 76 with the luer connector. The flow of fluid or medication through the luer connector 110 is represented by arrows in Figure 4B. As described above, when valve tube 132 (also called an inner element) of luer connector 110 is in the open position, fluid can generally be allowed to flow through luer connector 110. When valve tube 132 is in an open position closed, the fluid can generally be prevented from flowing through the luer connector 110. As with any embodiment of the luer connector described herein, a perfect seal by the valve element is not required, although such a seal may be preferred in some embodiments.
[00102] As shown in Figure 4A, some embodiments of the luer connector 110 may comprise a housing 122, a port element 124 positioned near the second end 114 of the luer connector 110, a luer tip 126 positioned near the first end 112 of the luer connector 110, a jacket 128 surrounding at least part of the luer tip 126, a seal 118, and a valve element 120. As shown, seal 118 and valve element 120 can be held within housing 122. In the illustrated embodiment, the valve element 120 can comprise a luer tip 126 and a valve tube 132. In some embodiments, the valve tube 132 can be positioned at least partially within the opening 138 that can be formed at the luer tip 126.
[00103] In some embodiments, as in the illustrated embodiment, the housing 122 can define an opening 140 through which the luer tip 126 can project. Referring to Figure 4A, the luer connector 110 can be configured so that the luer tip 126 projects towards the first end 112 of the luer connector 110. The luer tip 126 is preferably coaxially aligned with the center line of the housing 122, the door element 124, and jacket 128. Opening 140 can be dimensioned and configured to provide radial support for luer tip 126 so that luer tip 126 remains generally aligned coaxially with the center line of housing 122. The luer connector 110 can also be configured such that the luer tip 126 is axially supported within housing 122. In addition, for reasons that will be described in more detail below, housing 122 and opening 140 can be sized and configured such that luer tip 126 can rotate freely at least within a predetermined angular range with respect to housing 122 and jacket 128.
[00104] Figures 4C and 4D are a perspective view and a side view, respectively, of a luer tip 126 modality of the luer 110 connector modality. As illustrated more clearly in Figures 4C-4D, in some embodiments the luer tip 126 can be formed to define a tapered outer surface, generally conical, 126a projecting from a flat base part 126b towards the first end 112 of the luer connector 110. In addition, in some embodiments, the luer tip 126 it can be formed so as to define a helical or angled part 126c projecting from the base part 126b towards the second end 114 of the luer connector 110. The angled part 126c can define a generally flat angled surface 126d. As discussed below, angled part 126c can project from base part 126b at any suitable length to cause valve tube 132 to move axially in the opposite direction from luer tip 126 when luer tip 126 is rotated relative to to valve tube 132, causing luer connector 110 to change from closed to open position when luer tip 126 is rotated relative to valve tube 132.
[00105] The luer tip 126 can also be configured to define an opening or passage 160 generally cylindrical through at least part of the luer tip 126, with the opening 160 being generally axially aligned with the axial center line of the luer tip 126. A end part 126e of luer tip 126 preferably defines an angled or tapered surface 126f, where the inner surface of luer tip 126 can generally be tapered in shape, so that the size of opening 138 at the distal tip of luer tip 126 is reduced with respect to the part of aperture 160 adjacent to aperture 138.
[00106] Figures 4E and 4F are a perspective view and a side view, respectively, of one embodiment of a valve tube 132 of the luer connector 110 embodiment. As illustrated more clearly in Figures 4E-4F, in some embodiments the valve tube 132 can be formed to define a generally cylindrical outer surface 132a that is sized and configured to be received within a generally cylindrically shaped opening 160 that can be formed at the luer tip 126.
[00107] As shown in Figures 4E and 4F, the outer surface 132a of the valve tube 132 can project from the base part 132b of the valve tube 132 towards the first end 112 of the luer connector 110. In addition, the valve tube 132 can define a helical or angled part 132c projecting toward the first end 112 of the luer connector 110 from the base part 132b of valve tube 132. angled part 132c can surround the outer surface 132a of the tube valve 132. The angled portion 132c can define a generally flat surface 132d which, in some embodiments, can be dimensioned, angled, and configured to complement the angled portion 126c of the luer tip 126.
[00108] Alternatively, in some embodiments, both the luer tip 126 and the valve tube 132 can be formed so that each component defines a tab, pin, or other projection (not shown) instead of the angled part 126c, 132c that substantially performs the same function as any angled part. For example, in some embodiments, a flap, pin, or other projection (not shown) may project from the base part 126b of the luer tip 126 towards the second end 114 of the luer connector 110 (instead of the angled part 126c) which can interact with the angled surface 132c of the valve tube 132 in order to cause the valve tube 132 to move away from the luer tip 126 and thus cause the opening 138 in the luer tip to open as the luer tip 12 6 is rotated with respect to valve tube 132.
[00109] In some embodiments, the luer tip 126 can be supported axially and radially by the housing 122 in a way that allows the luer tip 126 to rotate substantially free from the housing 122, preferably within a defined angular range, but within a defined range. in a manner that substantially prevents axial movement of the luer tip 126 in relation to the housing 122 and with sufficient rational strength to inhibit accidental opening of the connector 110. For example, seals may be formed on the luer connector 110 to inhibit accidental rotation of the male luer tip 126 with respect to housing 122. In some embodiments, luer tip 126 can be configured to move axially with respect to housing 122. With reference to Figures 4A and 4B, luer tip 12 6 can be axially supported by an inner wall 142 which can be formed inside the housing 122 in order to prevent the luer tip 126 from moving axially towards the first end 1 12 of the luer connector 110 in relation to the housing 122. Likewise, the luer tip 126 can be axially supported by an inner wall 143 that can be formed inside the door element 124 in order to prevent the luer tip 126 from moving axially towards the second end 114 of the luer connector 110 in relation to the housing 122. In addition, in some embodiments, the door element 124 can be adhered, cast, welded or otherwise fixed to the housing 122 along the surface of dividing line 125 after the luer tip has been mounted inside the housing 122.
[00110] Valve tube 132 can be supported within housing 122 as shown in Figures 4A-4B. As illustrated in this document, valve tube 132 can be axially supported by an inner wall 143 which can be formed in housing 122 in order to prevent valve tube 132 from moving axially towards the first end 112 of luer connector 110 with respect to housing 122. In addition, luer connector 110 can be configured to prevent the valve tube from rotating with respect to housing 122 or port element 124. In particular, in some embodiments, port element 124 and the base part 132b of valve tube 132 can define splines, channels, protrusions, flaps, pins, or other fixtures configured to prevent valve tube 132 from rotating in relation to housing 122 or port element 124. As will be discussed in more detail below, in some embodiments the valve tube 132 is preferably prevented from rotating in relation to the door element 124 or housing 122 so that the luer tip 126 pos sa rotate with respect to valve tube 132 and cause valve tube 132 to open and close in response to the rotation of luer tip 126.
[00111] In addition, with reference to Figures 4A and 4B, a seal 118 can be attached to the inner surface 124a of port element 124 and to the base part 132b of valve tube 132. In some embodiments, seal 118 can define an annular or cylindrical shape so that generally all the fluid or medication flowing through the port element 124 is caused to flow through the axial opening 164a in the valve tube 132 (for example, so as to generally prevent the fluid or medication from flowing around of the base part 132b of the valve tube 132) and at least one opening 164b in communication with the axial opening 164a. The opening 164b can be positioned approximately transversely to the axial opening 164a and / or to the valve tube 132. In addition, in some embodiments, the seal 118 can be formed of a resilient material that exerts a torsional force on the valve tube 132 that twists the valve tube 132 towards the first end 112 of the luer connector 110 (for example, it twists the valve tube 132 towards the closed position in relation to the luer tip 126).
[00112] With reference to Figure 4D, the angled part 126c of the luer tip 126 can define a flat surface 126d. In some embodiments, surface 126d or surface 132d can be curved or define other suitable shapes. As shown in Figure 4D, the flat surface 126d can define an angle Al relative to a horizontal reference plane. Similarly, with reference to Figure 4F, the angled portion 132c of valve tube 132 can define a flat surface 132d. As shown in Figure 4F, the flat surface 132d can define an angle A2 relative to a horizontal reference plane. In some embodiments, the value of angle Al may be different from the value of angle A2.
[00113] In some modalities, the value of the angle Al and / or A2 can be approximately 30 degrees. In some embodiments, the angle value Al and / or A2 can be from approximately 15 degrees to approximately 75 degrees. In some embodiments, the value of angle Al may be different compared to the value of angle A2.
[00114] As will be described in greater detail below, in the assembled configuration, as shown in Figures 4A and 4B, the rotation of the luer tip 126 in relation to the valve tube 132 can cause the valve element 120 of the luer connector 110 to move between the open position and the closed position. As mentioned above, in some embodiments, seal 118 can exert a torsional force on valve tube 132 which can cause valve tube 132 to move or remain in contact with luer tip 126. In particular, seal 118 it can cause the flat surface 132d of the valve tube 132 to rest close to the flat surface 126d, as shown in Figures 4A and 4B. With reference to Figures 4A, 4D, and 4F, when the highest point 126d2 on the flat surface 126d (for example, the point on surface 126d which is furthest from the base part 126b) is more or less radially aligned with the most down 132dl on the flat surface 132d (for example, the point on the surface 132d that is closest to the base part 132b), as shown in Figure 4A, the back part 132f of valve tube 132 can generally be in sealing contact with the inner surface of the rear part of the luer tip 126, in order to generally seal opening 138. Conversely, when the highest point 126d2 on the flat surface 126d is approximately radially aligned with the highest point 132d2 on the flat surface 132d (for example, the point on the surface 132d which is furthest from the base part 132b) as shown in Figure 4B, the rear part 132f of the valve tube 132 will preferably be separated from the inner surface inside the rear part of the luer tip 16, so that the opening 138 has its seal removed by the valve tube 132.
[00115] Consequently, the relative rotation of the luer tip 126 relative to the valve tube can cause the valve tube 132 to move between the open and the closed position. In some embodiments, the luer tip 126 can be configured to define speed limits or prepared stops to ensure that, while a female connector 76 is screwed into the luer connector 110 as described in more detail below, the luer tip 126 stop rotating in a desired radial position where valve tube 132 has opened wide enough to allow fluid or medication to flow through luer connector 110. Similarly, rotational limits or stops can be prepared to ensure that, depending on the connector female 76 is threadedly disengaged from the luer connector 110, the luer tip 126 stops rotating in a desired radial position that allows valve tube 132 to seal tightly against the inner surface of the luer tip 126 by the torsional force provided by the resilient seal 118. In particular, in some embodiments, the luer tip 126 and the housing 122 can define grooves, channels, protrusions, flaps, p inos, or other fixtures configured to control the rotation range of the luer tip 126 in relation to the housing 122. When the luer connector 110 is in the closed position, the outer surface of the distal part 132a of the valve tube 132 can be sealed against the inner surface of the distal part of the luer tip 12 6 so that fluid can generally be prevented from flowing through the opening 138 formed in the distal end part of the luer tip 126.
[00116] As mentioned, in the illustrated embodiment, the tube 132 can be slidably supported in order to move axially on the luer tip. In addition, an annular sealing member 144 can be positioned between the outer surface of valve tube 132 and the inner surface of luer tip 126 to prevent fluid from flowing into chamber 146. Sealing member 144 can comprise any of the materials , geometries, sizes or other details or configurations of any other seal or seal element in this document described. In some embodiments, the sealing element 144 can be formed from the same material as the valve tube 132 and can be integrally formed with the valve tube 132. In some embodiments, the sealing element 144 can be formed from a different material compared to valve tube 132. In some embodiments, sealing member 144 can be formed separately from valve tube 132 and positioned at the desired axial point of both valve tube 132 and the inner surface of luer tip 126. In some embodiments, the inner surface of the luer tip 126 and / or the outer surface of the valve tube 132 may comprise features such as channels or depressions to secure the sealing member 144 at the desired point.
[00117] In some embodiments, the seal 118 can be resilient and twisted in the direction of an expanded position, as shown in Figure 4A, in order to exert a torsional force on the valve tube 132 towards the closed position. In particular, in the illustrated embodiment, seal 118 can urge valve tube 132 to seal against the inner surface of tip 126. Additionally, seal 118 can be configured so that the volume generally contained within the inner part of the seal 118 when valve element 120 is in the closed position (which is represented by VI in Figure 4A) can be greater than the volume contained within the inner part of the seal 118 when valve element 120 is in the open position (which is shown by V2 in Figure 4B). Thus, the volume of fluid contained within the seal 118 may decrease when the valve element 120 moves from the closed position to the open position and can increase when the valve element 120 moves from the open position to the open position. closed position. By increasing the volume of space within the seal 118 as the valve element 120 moves to the closed position, the seal 118 can create reduced pressure or a suction force that is capable of reducing the amount of fluid or medication that can flow through opening 138 or drip through it while valve element 120 is in the process of closing, pulling that fluid back into the volume of space within the seal 118.
[00118] In some embodiments, the seal 118, the tube 132 and the sealing element can all be formed from the same material. In some embodiments, however, any of these features can be formed separately and supported in the desired position as described above or in any other suitable manner. The housing 122 can generally be a tube-like structure with a passage 154 that can extend from the second end 114 of the connector 110 through the axial center of the luer connector 110. Thus, in some embodiments, when the luer connector 110 is in the open configuration as shown in Figure 4B, passage 154 can allow fluid to flow from the second end 114 through port element 124, seal 118, opening 164a in tube 132, and out through opening 138 at the luer end 126 positioned at the first end 112 of the luer connector 110.
[00119] In relation to Figures 4A and 4B, close to the second end 114 of the luer connector 110, and port element 124 and the corresponding section of the fluid passage 154 can be sufficiently large to accommodate a section of medical tube with a diameter pattern inserted in them. The length, diameter, or other characteristics of the housing 122 (or any housing described in this document) may be the same as that of any other housing described in this document.
[00120] In addition, the shirt 128 can be dimensioned and configured as described above or as desired to attach, with or without the possibility of removal, the luer connector 110 to another medical implement. In addition, housing 122, tip 126, seal 118, or any other components or features of the luer 110 connector may have or be made from any of the materials, shapes, features, sizes, or other configurations or details described with any other cutting edge element described in this document. As with other luer tips, the luer 126 can be made to comply with applicable standards and / or regulations, such as ANSI and / or ISO standards.
[00121] With reference to Figure 4B, as the male luer connector 110 and the female connector 7 6 move towards each other for a threaded engagement, the inner surface 86 of the female connector 76 may contact the outer surface of the tip luer 126. This can lead to an impermeable seal between the inner surface 86 of the female connector 76 and the outer surface of the luer 126 tip. As the male luer connector 110 and the female connector 7 6 move further into the threaded coupling , the contact force between the inner surface 86 of the female connector 76 and the outer surface of the luer tip 126 can cause the luer tip 126 to rotate substantially in uniformity with the female connector 76. This can cause the luer tip 126 to rotate with respect to valve tube 132, causing the distal end part 132a of valve tube 132 to move in the opposite direction from the inner distal end part 126a of luer tip 126, as described above. As tube 132 and luer tip 126 move in the opposite direction, a gap can form between tube 132 and luer tip 126, allowing fluid to pass through opening 138 for fluid passage 80 of the female connector 76, or vice versa.
[00122] As discussed above, as valve tube 132 opens and causes seal 118 to be compressed, the volume of fluid that can be contained within seal 118 consequently decreases. In some embodiments, when a constant source of positive pressure is transmitted to passage 54 at the second end 114 of the luer connector 110, while seal 118 is being pressed (which decreases the fluid volume in seal 118), the fluid within the seal 118 can be subjected to increased pressure due to compression of seal 118. In some embodiments, this increased pressure can cause the fluid within seal 118 to flow through passage 154 towards the first end 112 of luer connector 110 at a rate increased until seal 118 is no longer being compressed.
[00123] Conversely, in some embodiments, when the female connector 76 is removed from the luer connector 110, the interaction between the inner surface 86 of the connector and the outer surface of the luer tip 126 can cause the luer tip 126 to rotate relative to the tube valve 132, causing valve tube 132 to move to the closed position with respect to luer tip 12 6. As valve tube 132 moves toward the closed position, the volume within seal 118 may increase and return to volume VI. Expansion of the inner volume of the seal 118 can lead to the generation of reduced pressure or suction within the seal 118, drawing at least part of the fluid that is inside the opening 164a back into the volume of space within the seal 118. In some embodiments, the luer connector 110 can be used to control the flow of fluids or medications that are harmful or corrosive, so preventing even a few drops from dripping out of the opening 138 while the female connector 76 is being removed can be beneficial.
[00124] With reference to Figures 5A-5F, another embodiment of a lockable luer 210 connector will be described. Figure 5A is a cross-sectional view of the luer connector 210, showing the luer connector 210 in a closed position. Figure 5B is an end view of the luer connector 210, showing the luer connector 210 in the closed position. Figure 5C is an end view of the luer connector 210, illustrating the mode of the luer connector in an open position. Figure 5D is a cross-sectional view of the luer 210 connector taken along line 5D-5D in Figure 5C, illustrating the luer 210 connector in an open position. Figure 5E is a cross-sectional view of the luer 210 connector taken along line 5E-5E in Figure 5C illustrating the luer 210 connector in an open position. Figure 5F is a perspective view of a part of an embodiment of a valve tube 232 (also called an internal element) of the luer connector 210.
[00125] In some embodiments, the luer connector 210 can have or can be made from any of the components, characteristics, materials, sizes, geometries, details or configurations of any of the other luer connectors described in this document. As mentioned, Figure 5A is a cross-sectional view of the luer connector 210 in a closed position so that fluid is generally prevented from flowing through the luer connector 210. Figure 5D is a cross-sectional view of the luer connector 210 in an open position due to the engagement of a female connector 76 with the luer connector. The flow or fluid of medication through the luer connector 210 is represented by arrows in Figure 5D. As described above with reference to other luer connectors, when valve tube 232 of luer connector 210 is in the open position, fluid can generally be allowed to flow through luer connector 210. Similarly, when valve tube 232 is in a In a closed position, fluid can generally be prevented from flowing through the luer connector 210. As with any type of luer connector described in this document, a perfect seal by the valve element is not necessary, although such a seal may be preferred in some embodiments .
[00126] In some embodiments, the luer connector 210 may be the same or similar to the luer connector described above, except for or in addition to the features and components illustrated and / or described below. Thus, in some respects, the luer connector 210 may operate in the same or similar manner as compared to the luer connector 110 described above. As shown in Figure 5A, some embodiments of the mounted luer connector 210 may comprise a housing 222, a door element 224 positioned near the second end 214 of the luer connector 210, a luer tip 210, positioned near the first end 212 of the luer connector 210 , a jacket 228 surrounding at least part of the luer tip 226, a seal 218, and a valve element 220. As shown, seal 218 and valve element 220 can be supported within housing 222. In the illustrated embodiment, the Valve element 220 may comprise a luer tip 226 and a valve tube 232. In some embodiments, the valve tube 232 can be positioned at least partially within the opening 260 that can be formed at the luer tip 226.
[00127] In some modalities, as well as in the illustrated modality, the housing 222 can define an opening 240 through which the luer tip 226 can project. Referring to Figure 5A, the luer connector 210 can be configured so that the luer tip protrudes towards the first end 212 of the luer connector 210. The luer tip 226 is preferably coaxially aligned with the center line of housing 222, the door element 224, and jacket 228. Opening 240 can be dimensioned and configured to provide radial support for the luer tip 22 6 so that the luer tip 226 remains generally aligned coaxially with the center line of the housing 222. In some embodiments (not shown), a seal can be positioned between the outer surface of the luer tip 226 and the opening 240. The luer connector 210 can also be configured so that the luer tip 22 6 is axially supported in housing 222. In addition , for reasons that will be described in more detail below, housing 222 and opening 240 can be sized and configured so that luer tip 226 can freely rotate completely around the hollow flange 222, jacket 228, and valve tube 232, or within a predetermined angular range with respect to them.
[00128] In some embodiments, the luer tip 22 6 can be formed in order to define a generally tapered surface 226a, tapered on the outside, projecting from a flat base part 226b towards the first end 212 of the luer connector 210. In addition, in some embodiments, the luer tip 226 can be formed to define an angled surface 226c within the end portion of the luer tip 226. As will be discussed below, the angled surface 226c can be configured to carry the valve tube 232 to move axially in the opposite direction of the luer tip 226 when the luer tip 226 is rotated relative to the valve tube 232, causing the luer connector 210 to shift from the closed position to the open position when the tip luer 226 is rotated relative to valve tube 232. luer tip 226 can also be configured to define a generally cylindrical opening 260 through at least part of the luer tip 226 with opening 2 60 being generally aligned with the axial centerline of the luer tip 226.
[00129] In some embodiments, valve tube 232 can be formed to define a generally cylindrical outer surface 232a that is sized and configured to be received in an opening in generally cylindrical shape 260 that can be formed at the luer end 22 6 As shown in Figures 5 A and 5D, the outer surface 232a of valve tube 232 can project from the base portion 232b of valve tube 232 towards the first end 212 of the luer connector 210. In addition, as illustrated , the end portion of the valve tube 232 can define an angled, ovular, or other non-circular shape such that the distal end surface 232d of the valve tube 232 defines an ovular perimeter or other non-circular perimeter. Similarly, in some embodiments, the opening 238 formed at the end of the luer tip 226 may define an ovular or a non-circular shape.
[00130] In some embodiments, the luer tip 226 can be supported axially and radially by the housing 222 in order to allow the luer tip 226 to rotate freely in relation to the housing 222 preferably within a defined angular range, but in a way that prevents substantially the axial movement of luer tip 226 with respect to housing 222. In some embodiments, luer tip 226 can be configured to move axially with respect to housing 222. With reference to Figures 5A and 5D, luer tip 22 6 can be axially supported by an inner wall 242 that can be formed inside the housing 222 in order to prevent the luer tip 226 from moving axially towards the first end 212 of the luer connector 210 in relation to the housing 222. Likewise, the tip luer 226 can be axially supported by an inner wall 243 that can be formed inside the door element 224 in order to prevent the luer tip 226 from moving axially towards the second end 214 of the luer connector 210 in relation to the housing 222. In some embodiments, the door element 224 can be glued, cast, welded or otherwise fixed to the housing 222 along the surface of the dividing line 225 after luer tip 226 has been mounted inside housing 222. In some embodiments, housing 222 can define additional or different dividing lines, so that all internal components such as valve tube 232, seal 218, and luer tip 226 can be mounted inside it.
[00131] Valve tube 232 can be supported within housing 222 as shown in Figures 5A, 5B and 5E. As illustrated therein, valve tube 232 can be axially supported with an opening 241 that can be formed in the inner wall 243 of housing 222 to laterally restrict valve tube 232. As shown, a seal can be supported by inner wall 243 to seal opening 241. In the illustrated embodiment, the inner wall 243 can prevent valve tube 232 from moving axially towards the first end 212 of luer connector 210 in relation to housing 222. In addition, luer connector 210 can be configured to prevent valve tube 232 from rotating with respect to housing 222 or port element 224. In particular, in some embodiments, port element 224 and base part 232b of valve tube 232 can define grooves , channels, protrusions, handles, pins or other fixing accessories configured to prevent valve tube 232 from rotating in relation to housing 222 or port element 224. discussed in greater detail below, in some embodiments, valve tube 232 can be prevented from rotating in relation to port element 224 or housing 222 so that luer tip 226 can rotate in relation to valve tube 232 and make the tube valve 232 opening and closing in response to rotation of the luer tip 226.
[00132] In addition, with reference to Figures 5A and 5E, a seal 218 can be attached to the inner surface 224a of port element 224 and to the base part 232b of valve tube 232. In some embodiments, seal 218 can define an annular or cylindrical shape, so that generally all the fluid or medicine flowing through the port element 224 is caused to flow through the axial opening 264 and through the transverse opening in the valve tube 232 (for example, so as to generally prevent the fluid or medicine flows around the base part 232b of the valve tube 232). Additionally, in some embodiments, the seal 218 may be formed of a resilient material that exerts a torsional force on the valve tube 232 that twists the valve tube 232 towards the first end 212 of the luer connector 210 (for example, twist the valve tube 232 towards the closed position relative to luer tip 226). In some embodiments, the seal 218 may be a spring or other twisting device that stretches the valve tube 232 towards the first end 212 of the luer connector 210, but does not contain any fluid flowing through the connector 210. Instead, the fluid it would be prevented from flowing around valve tube 232 towards first end 212 through seal 241.
[00133] As will be described in greater detail below, in the assembled configuration, as illustrated in Figures 5A, 5D and 5E, the rotation of the luer tip 226 in relation to the valve tube 232 can lead the valve element 220 of the luer connector 210 to move between the open position and the closed position. As mentioned above, in some embodiments, seal 218 can exert a torsional force on valve tube 232 which can cause valve tube 232 to remain in contact with luer tip 226. In particular, seal 218 can lead to the surface plane 232c of valve tube 232 to rest against flat surface 226c, as shown in Figures 5A, 5D, and 5E. In some embodiments, the luer connector 210 can be configured such that when the luer tip 226 is rotated, valve tube 232 moves from an open position to a closed position, or from a closed position to an open position, depending on the direction where the luer tip 22 6 is rotated. In particular, in some embodiments, the luer tip 226 can define an angled surface 226c which can have an ovular section and valve tube 232 can define an angled surface 232c which can also have an ovular section. As in the other embodiments described in this document, in some embodiments, the luer tip 226 and valve tube 232 can be manufactured at least in part from a rigid, medically neutral material such as plastic or metal. Preferably, rotation of the luer tip will cause the luer tip 226 and valve tube 232 to move relative to each other instead of deforming and maintaining their sealing relationship. As the luer tip rotates in a first direction with respect to valve tube 232, the respective angled ovular surfaces can cause valve tube 232 to move towards the second end 214 of luer connector 210. Similarly, when the valve tube 232 is in an open position, luer tip 226 rotates in a second direction relative to valve tube 232 which is opposite the first direction, as the ovulated angled surface 232c of valve tube 232 aligns with the ovularly angled surface 226c of the luer tip 226, the resilient seal 218 can cause the end portion of the valve tube 232 to engage with the opening 238 formed at the end part of the luer tip 226 and thus substantially seal it.
[00134] Thus, the relative rotation of the luer tip 226 in relation to the valve tube 232 can cause the valve tube 232 to move between the open and the closed position. In some embodiments, the luer 226 tip can be configured to define speed limits or positioned stops to ensure that, while a female connector is screwed into the luer 210 connector as described in greater detail below, the luer 226 tip rotates to a desired radial position that causes valve tube 232 to open wide enough to allow fluid or medication to flow through the luer connector 210. Similarly, speed limits or stops can be prepared to ensure that, while the female connector 76 is threadedly disengaged from the luer connector 210, the luer tip 226 rotates to a desired radial position that allows valve tube 232 to seal tightly against the inner surface of the luer tip 226 by the torsional force provided by the resilient seal 218. In particular , in some modalities, the luer tip 226 and the housing 222 can define grooves, channels, protrusions, handles, pins, or other accessories for clamps configured to control the rotation range of the luer tip 226 in relation to the housing 222. When the luer connector 210 is in the closed position, the outer surface of the distal part of the valve tube 232 can be sealed tightly against the inner surface of the distal part 226a of the luer tip 22 6 so that fluid can generally be prevented from flowing through the opening 238 formed at the distal end part of the luer tip 226.
[00135] As mentioned, in the illustrated embodiment, the tube 232 can be slidably supported in order to move axially inside the luer tip 226. In addition, an annular sealing element 244 can be positioned between the outer surface of the tube valve 232 and the inner surface of the luer tip 226 to prevent fluid flow into the chamber 246. The sealing element 244 can comprise any of the materials, geometries, sizes or other configuration details of any other sealing or sealing element in the this document described. In some embodiments, the sealing element 244 can be formed from the same material as the valve tube 232 and can be integrally formed with the valve tube 232. In some embodiments, the sealing element 244 can be formed from a material different compared to valve tube 232 and can be sealingly attached to it. In some embodiments, the sealing element 244 can be formed separately from the valve tube 232 and positioned at the desired axial point of the valve tube 232 or the inner surface of the luer tip 226. In some embodiments, the inner surface of the luer tip 226 or the outer surface of the valve tube 232 may comprise features such as channels or depressions to secure the sealing member 244 at the desired point.
[00136] In some embodiments, as mentioned, the seal 218 can be resilient and tensioned in the direction of an expanded position, as shown in Figure 5A, so as to exert a force on the valve tube 232 that twist the valve tube 232 in towards the closed position. In particular, in the illustrated embodiment, the seal 218 can urge the valve tube 232 to seal tightly against the inner surface of the luer tip 226. In addition, the seal 218 can be configured so that the volume generally contained within the inner part of the seal 218 when the valve element 220 is in the closed position (which is represented by VI in Figure 5A) can be greater than the volume contained within the inner part of the seal 218 when the valve element 220 is in the open position (which is represented by V2 in Figure 5D). Thus, the volume of fluid contained within the seal 218 may decrease when valve element 220 moves from closed to open position and may increase when valve element 220 moves from open to closed position. By increasing the volume of space within seal 218 as valve element 220 moves to the closed position, seal 218 can create a suction force that is capable of reducing the amount of fluid or medication that can flow through the opening 238 or dripping through it as the valve element 220 is in the closing process by pulling such fluid back into the volume of space within the seal 218.
[00137] Modalities in which the seal 218 does not cover an entire volume, for example, when the seal 218 is a spring, they work in a similar way. Chamber 246 is configured so that its volume when valve element 220 is in the closed position is greater than its volume when valve element 220 is in the open position. The change in volumes can draw fluid from the first end 212 of the luer connector 210 into the connector 210 as the connector 210 moves from the open to the closed position.
[00138] In some embodiments, the seal 218, the tube 232, and the sealing element 244 can all be formed integrally from the same material. In some embodiments, however, any of these features can be formed separately and supported in the desired position as described above or in any other suitable manner. The housing 222 can generally be a tube-like structure with a passage 254 that can extend in the opposite direction from the second end 214 of the connector 210 through the axial center of the luer connector 210. Thus, in some embodiments, when the luer connector 210 is in the open configuration, as shown in Figure 5B, passage 254 can allow fluid to flow from the second end 214 through port element 224, seal 218, opening 264 in tube 232, and through opening 238 in luer tip 226 positioned at the first end 212 of the luer connector 210.
[00139] Referring to Figures 5A and 5D, near the second end 214 of the luer connector 210, the port element 224 and the corresponding section of the fluid passage 254 can be wide enough to accommodate a standard diameter medical tube section or a male luer inserted in it. The length, diameter, or other characteristics and the housing 222 (or any housing described in this document) may be the same as any other housing described in this document.
[00140] In addition, the jacket 228 can be dimensioned and configured as described above or as desired to securely and securely attach the luer connector 210 to another medical implement. In addition, housing 222, tip 226, seal 218, or any other components or features of the luer connector 210 may have or be made from any of the materials, shapes, features, sizes, or other configurations or details described in any other cutting edge element described in this document. As with other luer tips, the luer 226 tip can be made to comply with applicable standards and / or regulations, such as ANSI and / or ISO standards.
[00141] Referring to Figure 5D, as the male luer connector 210 and female connector 76 move towards each other for threaded engagement, the inner surface 86 of the female connector 76 may contact the outer surface of the luer tip 226 This can cause an impermeable seal between the inner surface 86 of the female connector 76 and the outer surface of the luer tip 226. As the male luer connector 210 and the female connector move further in threaded engagement, the contact force between the inner surface 86 of female connector 76 and outer surface of luer tip 226 can cause luer tip 226 to rotate substantially in uniformity with female connector 76. This can cause luer tip 226 to rotate relative to valve tube 232 as described above, causing the distal end part 232a of valve tube 232 to move away from the inner distal end part 226a of luer tip 226, as described above. As valve tube 232 and luer tip 226 are spaced apart, a gap may form between the outer surface of the end portion of valve tube 232 and the inner surface of the end part of luer tip 226, allowing the fluid passes through opening 238 into the fluid passage 80 of the female connector, or vice versa.
[00142] As discussed above, as valve tube 232 opens and causes seal 218 to be pressed, the volume of fluid that can be contained within seal 218 may decrease. In some embodiments, when a constant source of positive pressure is transmitted to passage 254 at the second end 214 of the luer connector 210, while seal 218 is being compressed (which decreases the fluid volume in seal 218), the fluid within the seal 218 will be subject to increased pressure due to compression of seal 218. In some embodiments, this increased pressure can cause the fluid within seal 218 to flow through passage 254 towards the first end 212 of luer connector 210 at a rate increased until seal 218 is no longer being pressed.
[00143] Conversely, in some embodiments, when the female connector 76 is removed from the luer connector 210, the interaction of the inner surface 86 of the female connector 76 with the outer surface of the luer tip 226 can cause the luer tip 226 to rotate relative to the valve tube 232, causing valve tube 232 to move to the closed position relative to luer tip 226. As valve tube 232 moves toward the closed position, the volume within seal 218 may increase and return to volume VI. Expansion of the inner volume of the seal 218 can cause the generation of reduced pressure or suction inside the seal 218. As mentioned, this reduced pressure or suction can cause the luer connector 210 to pull at least part of the fluid that is inside the opening 264 back to the volume of space inside the seal 218. In some embodiments, the luer connector 210 can be used to control the flow of fluids or drugs that are harmful or corrosive, so that even a few drops do not drip from the opening 238 when the female connector 76 is being removed can be beneficial.
[00144] Referring now to Figures 6A-6C, another embodiment of a luer connector 310 will be described. Figure 6A is a cross-sectional view of the luer 310 connector, showing the luer 310 connector in a first position or closed position. Figure 6B is a cross-sectional view of the luer 310 connector in a second or open position. Figure 6C is an end view of the luer 310 connector modality, showing the luer 310 connector in a closed position. Figure 6D is an end view of the luer connector 310, showing the luer connector 310 in an open position. Figure 6E is a perspective view of a luer 326 tip embodiment. Figure 6F is a cross-sectional view of the luer 310 connector taken along line 6F-6F and in Figure 6A, illustrating the luer 310 connector in position closed. Figure 6G is a cross-sectional view of the luer 310 connector taken along the 6G-6G line and in Figure 6B, showing the luer 310 connector in an open position.
[00145] In some embodiments, the luer connector 310 may have or be made of any of the components, characteristics, materials, sizes, geometries, details or configurations of any of the other luer connectors described in this document. Figure 6A is a cross-sectional view of the luer 310 connector in a closed position, so that fluid is generally prevented from flowing through the luer 310 connector. Figure 6B is a cross-sectional view of the luer 310 connector in position open due to the engagement of a female connector 76 with the luer connector. The flow of fluid or medication through the luer connector 310 is represented by the arrows in Figure 6B. As described above, when valve tube 332 (also called the inner element) of the luer 310 connector is in the open position, fluid can generally be allowed to flow through the luer connector 310. Similarly, using valve tube 332 is in a closed position, the fluid can generally be prevented from flowing through the luer connector 310. As with any type of luer connector described herein, a perfect seal by the valve element is not required, although such a seal may be preferred in some embodiments .
[00146] In some embodiments, the luer connector 310 may be the same or similar to the luer connector 210 described above, except for or in addition to the features and components illustrated and / or described below. Consequently, in some respects, the luer connector can operate in the same or similar manner as compared to the luer 210 connector described above. As shown in Figure 6A, some embodiments of the mounted luer connector 310 may comprise a housing 322, a door element 324 positioned near the second end 314 of the luer connector 310, a luer tip 326 positioned near the first end 312 of the luer connector 310, a jacket 328 surrounding at least a part of the luer tip 326, and a valve element 320. As illustrated, the valve tube 332 can be integrally formed with housing 322, or it can be separately formed and fixed in housing 322 by any of the bonding and fusion techniques described in that report or known in the prior art. The luer tip 326 can comprise a luer tip 326 and a valve tube 332. In some embodiments, the valve tube 332 can be positioned at least partially within the opening 360 that can be formed at the luer tip 326.
[00147] In some embodiments, as in the illustrated embodiment, housing 322 can define an opening 340 through which the luer tip 32 6 can project. Referring to Figure 6A, the luer connector 310 can be configured so that the luer tip 326 protrudes towards the first end 312 of the luer connector 310. The luer tip 326 is preferably coaxially aligned with the center line of housing 322, element door 324, and jacket 328. Opening 340 can be dimensioned and configured to provide radial support for the luer tip 326 so that the luer tip 326 remains generally coaxially aligned with the center line of housing 322. A opening 340 can be dimensioned and configured so as not to restrict the rotation of the luer tip 326 in relation to the housing 322. The luer connector 310 can also be configured so that the luer tip 32 6 is axially supported within the housing 322. In addition , for reasons that will be described in more detail below, housing 322 and aperture 340 can be dimensioned and configured so that the luer tip 326 can rotate freely within a range the predetermined angular relative to housing 322, jacket 328, and valve tube 332.
[00148] With reference to Figure 6E, in some embodiments, the luer tip 326 can be formed so as to define a generally tapered, tapered outer surface 326a projecting from a flat base part 326b towards the first end 312 of the luer connector 310. Referring to Figure 6F, in some embodiments, the flat base part 326b can be formed so as to define a first contact surface 326c and a second contact surface 326d. In addition, in some embodiments, housing 322 may define a protrusion or loop 323 which can generally be longitudinally aligned with the first and second contact surfaces 326c, 326d. As will be described in more detail below, the handle 323 and the first and second contact surfaces 326c, 326d can be configured to define or limit the angular range of rotation between the luer tip 326 and the housing 322. The luer tip 326 can also be configured to define a generally cylindrical aperture 360 through which a part of the luer tip 326, with the aperture 360 being generally aligned with the axial center line of the luer tip 326.
[00149] In some embodiments, valve tube 332 can be formed so as to define a generally cylindrical outer surface 332a that is sized and configured to be received within a generally cylindrical shaped opening 360 that can be formed at the luer tip 326 The outer surface 332a of valve tube 332 can protrude from housing 322 towards the first end 312 of luer connector 310.
[00150] As mentioned, luer tip 326 can be supported axially and radially by housing 322 in a way that allows luer tip 326 to rotate substantially free from housing 322 in response to coupling to another connector or other manipulation, preferably within of a defined angular band, but in a way that substantially prevents axial movement of the luer tip 326 with respect to housing 322. As illustrated in other embodiments, aperture 340 may include a resilient seal, for example, a " O ", which engages with the rotating luer tip 326. In some embodiments, the door element 324 can be glued, cast, welded or otherwise fixed to housing 322 along the dividing line surface 325 after the luer tip 326 has housing 322. In some embodiments, housing 322 may define additional or different dividing lines, so that all internal components such as such as valve tube 332, seal 318, and valve tube 326 can be mounted within it.
[00151] As will now be described in greater detail below, in the assembled configuration, as shown in Figures 6A and 6B, the rotation of the luer tip 326 in relation to the valve tube 332 can cause the valve element 320 of the luer connector 310 to become move between a second position, open, and a first position, closed. In the open position, as shown in Figures 6B and 6D, the opening 338 at the luer tip 326 is generally aligned with the opening 364 in the valve tube 332. In the closed position, as shown in Figures 6A and 6C, the opening 338 at the luer tip 326 is generally not aligned with opening 364 in valve tube 332. In some embodiments, the luer connector 310 can be configured so that when the luer tip 326 is rotated, the valve tube 332 moves from a open position to a closed position, or from a closed position to an open position, depending on the direction in which the luer tip 326 is rotated. The first and second contact surfaces 326c, 326d can be configured to stop the rotation of the luer tip 326 in a first or second direction so that the luer tip 326 is either aligned in an open position or in a closed position with respect to valve tube 332 in the stop positions.
[00152] Consequently, the relative rotation of the luer tip 326 relative to the valve tube 332 can cause the valve element 320 to move between the open position and the closed position. As mentioned, in some embodiments, the luer tip 326 can be configured to define speed limits or stops prepared to ensure that, while a female connector 76 is threadedly engaged in the luer connector 310 as described in greater detail below, luer 326 tip rotates to a desired angular orientation that causes valve tube 332 to open wide enough to allow fluid or medication to flow through the luer 310 connector. Similarly, speed limits or stops can be prepared to ensure that, while the female connector 76 is threadedly disengaged from the luer connector 310, the luer tip 326 rotates to a desired radial position that allows valve tube 332 to seal tightly against the inner surface of the luer tip 326.
[00153] An annular sealing element 344 can be positioned between the outer surface of the valve tube 332 and the inner surface of the luer tip 326 to prevent fluid from flowing through the opening 360 towards the base part 326b of the luer tip 326 and exit through opening 340. The sealing element 144 can comprise any of the materials, geometries, sizes or other details or configurations of any other sealing or sealing element in this document described. In some embodiments, the sealing element 344 may be formed of the same material as the valve tube 332 or the luer tip 326 and can be formed integrated with the valve tube 132 or the luer tip 326. In some embodiments, the sealing element seal 344 can be formed independently of valve tube 332 and positioned at the desired axial point of valve tube 332 or the inner surface of the luer tip 326. In some embodiments, both the inner surface of the luer tip 326 and the outer surface of the luer tip valve 332 may comprise features such as channels or depressions to secure sealing member 344 at the desired point.
[00154] Housing 322 can generally be a tube-like structure with a passage 354 that can extend from the second end 314 of connector 310 through the axial center of the luer connector 310. Thus, in some embodiments, when the connector luer 310 is in the open state, as shown in Figure 6B, fluid may be allowed to flow from the second end 314 through port element 324, seal 318, through opening 364a of tube 332, and out through opening 338 at the end luer 326 positioned at the first end 312 of the luer connector 310. The length, diameter, or other characteristics of the housing 32 may be the same as that of any other housing described herein.
[00155] In addition, the shirt 328 can be dimensioned and configured as described above or as desired to permanently or removably attach the luer connector 210 to another medical implement. In addition, housing 322, tip 326, seal 318, or any other components or features of the luer connector 310 may have or be made from any of the materials, shapes, features, sizes, or other configurations or details described in any other cutting edge element described in this document. As in other modalities of the luer tip, the luer 326 tip can be made in order to comply with applicable standards and / or regulations, such as ANSI and / or ISO standards.
[00156] Referring to Figure 6B, while the male luer connector 310 and female connector 76 move against each other for a threaded engagement, the inner surface 86 of the female connector 76 can contact the outer surface of the luer tip 326. This can cause an impermeable seal between the inner surface 86 of the female connector 76 and the outer surface of the luer tip 326. As the male luer connector 310 and the female connector 76 move further into the threaded engagement, the contact force between the inner surface 86 of the female connector 76 and the outer surface of the luer tip 326 can cause the luer tip 326 to rotate substantially in uniformity with the female connector 76. This can cause the luer tip 326 to rotate relative to the valve tube 332, as described above, causing opening 338 at luer tip 326 to move relative to opening 364 in valve tube 332, as described above.
[00157] In some embodiments, the luer 310 connector can be configured to substantially prevent accidental spinning of connector 310 and, consequently, accidental discharge of fluid into the luer 310 connector. For example, in some embodiments of the luer 310 connector there may be holders, notches, handles, resilient elements, or other characteristics that inhibit the rotating movement of the luer 326 tip in relation to the valve tube 332.
[00158] Referring now to Figures 7A-7B, another embodiment of a lockable luer connector 410 will be described. In some embodiments, the luer connector 410 may have or be made by any of the components, characteristics, materials, sizes, geometries, details or configurations of any other of the luer connectors described in this document. Figure 7A is a cross-sectional view of the luer 410 connector, illustrating the luer 410 connector in a closed position, so that fluid is prevented from flowing through the luer connector 410. Figure 7B is a cross-sectional view of the connector luer 410, illustrating the luer 410 connector in an open position, so that fluid is generally allowed to flow through the luer 410 connector. As will be described, in some embodiments the luer 410 connector can be configured so that the luer 410 connector can be manually switched between an open position and a closed position, and is not automatically switched to an open position when the luer connector 410 is engaged with a female connector. The flow of fluid or medication through the luer connector 410 is represented by arrows in Figure 7B. As in any embodiment for the luer connector described in this document, a perfect seal by the valve element is not required, although such a seal may be preferred in some embodiments.
[00159] In some embodiments, the luer connector 410 may be the same or similar to the luer connector 10 described above, except for the features or joining the features and components illustrated in Figures 7A and 7B, and / or described below. Consequently, in some respects, the luer connector 410 may operate in the same or similar manner as compared to the luer connector 10 described above. As shown in Figure 7A, some embodiments of the mounted luer connector 410 may comprise a housing 422, a door element 424 positioned near the second end 414 of the luer connector 410, a luer tip 426 positioned near the first end 412 of the luer connector 410, a jacket 428 surrounding at least part of the luer tip 426, and a valve element 420. As shown, the luer tip 426 can be integrated with housing 422, or, in some embodiments, the luer tip 426 can be formed separately and fixed in housing 422 by any of the bonding or fusion techniques described in that report or known in the state of the art.
[00160] In the illustrated embodiment, valve element 420 may comprise luer tip 426, valve tube 432 (also called an inner element) supported within luer tip 426, and a handling element 433. In some embodiments, the valve tube and handling element 433 can be formed integrally. In some embodiments, the handling element 433 can be formed separately compared to valve tube 432 and attached to valve tube 432 by any of the fusion and connection techniques described herein or known in the art. In some embodiments, valve tube 432 can be positioned at least partially within opening 460 that can be formed at luer tip 426.
[00161] As with other luer connectors described in this document, the end portion of valve tube 432 can be configured to create a substantially impermeable seal with respect to luer tip 426 when valve element 420 is in the closed position. In addition, when valve element 420 is in the open position, fluid may be allowed to flow through opening 464 formed in valve tube 432 and through opening 438 formed at luer tip 426. In some embodiments, the valve 420 can be moved between the open and closed positions by manually exerting a force on the handling element 433 which can project through an opening or openings 423 in housing 422. In particular, the valve element 420 can be opened by moving the handling element 433 towards the second end 414 of the luer connector 410. Similarly, the valve element 420 can be closed by moving the handling element 433 towards the first end 412 of the luer connector 410.
[00162] In some embodiments, the resilient sealing element 418 can be supported by housing 422 and configured to create an impermeable seal around the outer surface of part of valve tube 432. In addition, resilient sealing element 418 can be configured to exert a torsional force on valve tube 432 that tends valve element 420 to the closed position. In some embodiments, the resilient sealing element 418 can define a substantially flat, annular shape, having a circular opening in it that can tighten around the outer surface of part of valve tube 432. An additional seal 444 can be positioned around a portion of the valve tube 432 near the second end 414 of the luer connector to substantially prevent fluid leakage through the opening or openings 423 and the housing 422.
[00163] In some embodiments, valve tube 432 and / or housing 422 can be configured to define holders, stops or other characteristics to cause valve element 420 to remain in the open or partially open position against the torsional force of the sealing element 418, after the user has moved the valve element 420 to the open position. This can allow the valve element 420 to remain in the open position without requiring the user to hold the handling element 433 in the open position. In some embodiments, exerting a force on the handling element towards the first end 412 of the luer connector can cause the valve element 420 to close. In some embodiments, the valve tube 432 and housing 422 can be configured so that the user can hold the handling element 433 in the open position to keep the valve element open.
[00164] Referring now to Figures 8A-8B, another embodiment of a lockable luer connector 510 will be described. In some embodiments, the luer 510 connector can have or be made from any of the components, characteristics, materials, sizes, geometries, details or configurations of any of the other luer connectors described in this document. Figure 8A is a cross-sectional view of the luer 510 connector, illustrating the luer 510 connector in a closed position, so that fluid is generally prevented from flowing through the luer 510 connector. Figure 8B is a cross-sectional view of the luer 510 connector, illustrating the luer 510 connector in an open position, so that fluid is generally allowed to flow through the luer 510 connector. As will be described, in some embodiments the luer 510 connector can be configured so that the luer 510 connector can be manually switched between an open position and a closed position, and not be automatically switched to an open position when the luer 510 connector is engaged with a female connector. The flow of fluid or medication through the luer connector 410 is represented by arrows in Figure 8B. As with any type of luer connector described in this document, a perfect seal by the valve element is not required, although such a seal may be preferred in some embodiments.
[00165] In some embodiments, the luer connector 510 may be the same or similar to the luer connector 410 described above, except for the features or joining the features and components illustrated in Figures 8A and 8B and / or described in this document. Thus, in some respects, the luer connector 510 can operate in the same or similar way compared to the luer connector 410 described above. As shown in Figure 8A, some embodiments of the mounted luer connector 510 may comprise a housing 522, a door element 524 positioned close to the second end 514 of the luer connector 510, a luer tip 526 positioned close to the first end 512 of the luer connector 510, a jacket 528 involving at least part of the luer tip 526, and a valve element 520. As shown, the luer tip 526 can be integrally formed with the housing 522 or, in some embodiments, the luer tip 526 can be formed separately and attached to housing 522 by any means of bonding or fusion techniques described herein or known in the art.
[00166] In the illustrated embodiment, valve element 520 may comprise luer tip 526, a valve tube 532 (also called an inner element) supported within luer tip 526, a protrusion or handle 533 and a disk element 534. In some embodiments, valve tube 532 and handle 533 can be integrally formed. In some embodiments, handle 533 may be formed separately compared to valve tube 532 and attached to valve tube 532 by any means of connection or fusion techniques described herein or known in the art. The valve tube 532 can be positioned at least partially within the opening 560 which can be formed at the luer tip 526. In some embodiments, the valve tube 532 and the housing 522 can be configured to allow the valve tube 532 to move axially within a predetermined range with respect to housing 522 so that valve tube 532 can move between open and closed positions. In addition, valve tube 532 and housing 522 may define channels, notches, protrusions, indexing characteristics, or be otherwise configured to substantially prevent valve tube 532 from rotating relative to housing 522.
[00167] Similar to other luer connectors described in this document, the end portion of the valve tube 532 can be configured to create a fluid impermeable seal in relation to the luer tip 526 when the valve element 520 is in the closed position. In addition, when valve element 520 is in the open position, fluid may be allowed to flow through opening 564 formed in valve tube 532 and out through opening 538 formed at luer tip 526. In some embodiments, the element valve 520 can be moved between the open and closed positions by manually exerting a force on handle 533 that can project through an opening or a series of openings 523 in housing 522. In particular, valve element 520 can be open by moving handle 533 towards the second end 514 of luer connector 510, as described below. Similarly, valve element 520 can be closed by moving handle 533 towards the first end 512 of luer connector 510.
[00168] In some embodiments, the resilient sealing element 518 can be supported by housing 522 and configured to create an impermeable seal around the outer surface of part of the valve tube 532. In addition, the resilient sealing element 518 can be configured to exert a torsional force on the valve tube 532 which tends the valve element 522 to the closed position. In some embodiments, the resilient sealing member 518 can define an annular, substantially flat shape, having a circular opening therein, which can tighten around the outer surface of part of the valve tube 532. An additional seal 544 it can be positioned around the part of the valve tube 532 near the second end 514 of the luer connector to substantially prevent the fluid from flowing through the opening or series of openings 523 and the housing 522.
[00169] In some embodiments, disk element 534 may be formed of two or more pieces assembled together or otherwise connected together around housing 522 and handle 533. Disk element 534 can be supported by housing 522 of in order to allow the disk to rotate freely with respect to housing 522 and valve tube 532, while being axially supported by housing 522 so that disk element 534 is substantially prevented from rotating in any axial direction with respect to housing 522. In addition, disk element 534 and / or housing 522 can be configured to define detectors, stops, or other characteristics for pressing or stopping disk element 534 at special predetermined locations corresponding to the desired positions of valve element 520, such as such as, but not limited to, open, closed, and preparedness positions.
[00170] In some embodiments, the disk element 534 may define a channel 535 in helical shape configured to receive the slide 533 in a sliding manner. In this configuration, in some embodiments, because the valve tube 532 and the handle 533 are substantially prevented from rotating in relation to the housing, as the disc 534 is rotated, the helical shape of the channel 535 can cause the handle 533 and, consequently, the valve tube 532, to move in any axial direction in relation to the housing , depending on the direction in which the disc 534 is rotated. In this way, the valve element 520 can be moved to move between the open and closed positions.
[00171] In some embodiments, as mentioned, disk element 534 and / or housing 532 can be configured to define detectors, stops, or other characteristics that cause valve element 520 to remain in the open or partially open position against the torsional force of the sealing element 518, after the user has moved the valve element 520 to the open position. This can allow the valve element 520 to remain in the open position without the need for the user to hold the disk element 534 in the desired position.
[00172] Referring now to Figures 9A-9B, another embodiment of a closed luer connector 610 will be described. In some embodiments, the luer 610 connector can have or be made from any of the components, characteristics, materials, sizes, geometries, details, or configurations of any of the other luer connectors described in this document. Figure 9A is a cross-sectional view of the luer 610 connector, illustrating the luer 610 connector in a closed position so that fluid is generally prevented from flowing through the luer connector 610. Figure 9B is a cross-sectional view of the luer connector 610, illustrating the luer 610 connector in an open position so that fluid is generally allowed to flow through the luer 610 connector. As will be described, in some embodiments, the luer 610 connector can be configured so that the luer 610 connector is manually switched between an open position and a closed position, and is not automatically switched to an open position when the luer 610 connector is engaged with a female connector. The flow of fluid or medication through the luer connector 610 is represented by the arrows in Figure 9B. As with any type of luer connector described in this document, a perfect seal by the valve element is not necessary, although such a seal may be preferred in some embodiments.
[00173] In some embodiments, the luer connector 610 may be the same or similar to the luer connector 510 described above, except for or in addition to the features and components illustrated in Figures 9A and 9B and / or described below. Consequently, in some respects, the luer connector 610 may operate in the same or similar manner as compared to the luer connector 510 described above. As shown in Figure 9A, some embodiments of the mounted luer connector 610 may comprise a housing 622, a door element 624 positioned near the second end 614 of the luer connector 610, a luer tip 626 positioned near the first end 612 of the luer connector 610, a jacket 628 evolving at least a part of the luer tip 626, and a valve element 620. As shown, the luer tip 626 can be integrally formed with the housing 622 or, in some embodiments, the luer tip 626 can be formed separately and attached to housing 622 by any of the bonding or melting techniques described herein or known in the art.
[00174] In the illustrated embodiment, valve element 620 may comprise luer tip 626, a valve tube 632 (also referred to as an inner element) supported by luer tip 626, and a regulator or handling element 633. The control tube valve 632 can be positioned at least partially within opening 660 that can be formed at luer tip 626. In some embodiments, luer connector 610 can be configured to allow valve tube 632 to move axially within a predetermined range with respect to to housing 622 and luer tip 626 so that valve tube 632 can move between open and closed positions.
[00175] A resilient sealing element 618 of generally cylindrical shape can be supported within housing 622 and / or luer tip 626. Sealing element 618 can be configured to seal the opening or openings 664a of passage 664 in the valve tube. 632 so that when valve tube 632 is in the closed position as shown in Figure 9A, sealing element 618 substantially prevents any fluid or medication from flowing out of the opening or openings 664a formed in valve tube 632. In addition , the sealing element 618 can be sized and configured to allow fluid or medicine to flow through the opening or openings 664a in the valve tube 632 and exit through the opening 638 in the luer tip 626 when the valve element 620 is in the open position .
[00176] In addition, the sealing element 618 can be supported within the housing 622 and configured to exert a torsional force on the valve tube 632 which tends the valve tube 632 to the closed position. In particular, the sealing element 618 can be supported by the luer tip 62 6 and / or housing 622 so that the sealing element 618 is at least in a slightly compressed state, so as to exert a torsional force on the valve tube 632 towards the second end 614 of the luer connector 610. When the handling element 633 is moved to the open position, as shown in Figure 9B, valve tube 632 can be moved towards the first end 612 of the luer connector 610 against the torsional force of the sealing element 618. As the handling element 633 is moved from the open position to the closed position (illustrated in Figure 9A), the torsional force of the sealing element 618 can restore the valve 632 to the closed position, preventing additional fluid from flowing through the valve element 620. In some embodiments, fluid can flow around the base of the handling element 633 in both the open and the closed position. An additional seal 644 can be positioned around a portion of the valve tube 632 near the second end 614 of the luer connector to substantially prevent fluid from leaking through the opening or series of openings 623 and the housing 622.
[00177] In some embodiments, the handling element 633 can be supported by housing 622 in order to allow the handling element to substantially rotate freely in relation to housing 622 and valve tube 632, while being supported by housing 622 in a manner that the handling element 633 is not accidentally separated from the housing 622. In addition, the handling element 633 and / or the housing 622 can be configured to define holders, stops, or other characteristics to drive or stop the handling element 633 in particular rotation positions corresponding to the desired positions of valve element 620, such as, but not limited to, open, closed and set-up positions.
[00178] The base part 633a of the handling element 633 can define an ovular shape, or other non-circular transverse shape, or be configured to axially move the valve tube 632 as the handling element 633 is rotated. Thus, the radial distance from the axial center line or center of rotation (represented by the geometric axis A in Figures 9A and 9B) to the surface of the base part 633a can vary from one point to another on the surface of the base part 633a. In particular, in some embodiments, the distance between the center of rotation A and the point on the surface of the base part 633a in contact with valve tube 632 when valve tube 632 is in the open position (as shown in Figure 9B) it can be greater than the distance between the center of rotation A and the point on the surface of the base part 633a in contact with valve tube 632 when valve tube 632 is in the closed position (as shown in Figure 9A). In this configuration, the valve element 620 can be moved between the open and closed position by turning the handle 633 relative to the housing 622, thereby causing the valve 620 to move between the open and closed position.
[00179] In some embodiments, as mentioned, the handling element 633 and the housing 622 can be configured to define detectors, stops, which cause the valve element 620 to remain in the open or partially open position against the torsional force of the element seal 618, after the user has moved valve element 620 to the open position. This can allow the valve element 620 to remain in the open position without the need for the user to hold the handling element 633 in the desired position.
[00180] Referring now to Figures 10A-10B, another embodiment of a closed luer connector 710 will be described. In some embodiments, the luer 710 connector can have or be made from any of the components, characteristics, materials, sizes, geometries, details or configurations of any of the other luer connectors described in this document. Figure 10A is a cross-sectional view of the luer 710 connector, illustrating the luer 710 connector in a closed position, so that fluid is generally prevented from flowing through the luer 710 connector. Figure 10B is a cross-sectional view of the luer 710 connector, illustrating the luer 710 connector in an open position, so that fluid is generally allowed to flow through the luer 710 connector. As will be described, in some embodiments the luer 710 connector can be configured so that the luer connector 710 can be switched manually between an open position and a closed position, and is not automatically switched to an open position when the luer 710 connector is engaged with a female connector. The flow of fluid or medication through the luer connector 710 is represented by arrows in Figure 10B. As with any modality for the luer connector described in this document, a perfect seal by the valve element is not required, although such a seal may be preferred in some embodiments.
[00181] In some embodiments, the luer connector 710 may be the same or similar to the luer connector 10 described above, except for or in addition to the features and components illustrated in Figures 10A and 10B and / or described below. Thus, in some respects, the luer connector 710 can operate in the same or similar manner as compared to the luer connector 10 described above. As shown in Figure 10A, some embodiments of the assembled luer connector 710 may comprise a housing 722, a port element 724 positioned near the second end 714 of the luer connector 710, a luer tip 726 positioned near the first end 712 of the luer connector 710, a jacket 728 involving at least part of the luer tip 726, and a valve element 720. As shown, the luer tip 726 can be integrally formed with the housing 722, or, in some embodiments, the luer tip 726 can be formed separately and fixed in housing 722 by any of the joining or fusing techniques described in that report or known in the state of the art.
[00182] In the illustrated embodiment, valve element 720 may comprise luer tip 726, a valve tube 732 (also called an inner element) supported within the luer tip 726, and a handling element 733. Valve tube 732 it can be positioned at least partially within the opening 760 which can be formed at the luer tip 726. In some embodiments, the valve tube 732 and the housing 722 can be configured to allow the valve tube 732 to change position axially within a predetermined range with respect to housing 722 and luer tip 726 so that valve tube 732 can move between open and closed positions. In some embodiments, valve tube 732 may define handles, protrusions, or other characteristics 735 to limit axial displacement of valve tube 732 away from housing 722, so that valve tube 732 is not inadvertently removed from housing 722 when valve tube 732 is being recessed. In this way, the valve tube 732 can be moved between the open and closed positions by manually pulling or pushing on the handling element 733, which can be formed integrally with or detached from the valve tube 732.
[00183] A waterproof sealing element 744 can be supported by housing 722 and can be configured to seal the opening in housing 722 through which valve tube 732 can pass. In some embodiments, the sealing element 744 can be configured to provide an inner radial force on the outer surface of the valve tube 732 to prevent axial movement of the valve tube 732 with respect to housing 722. In some embodiments, the sealing element 744 can be configured to exert a torsional force on valve tube 732 that tends valve element 732 to the closed position. The sealing element 744 can be designed so that the magnitude of the internal radial force is sufficient to prevent the valve element 720 from accidentally opening from the closed position. In addition, sealing member 744 can be configured to substantially prevent any fluid or medication from leaking from the opening formed in housing 722 through which valve tube 732 can pass. In some embodiments, valve tube 732, seal 744, and / or housing 722 can be configured to define detectors, stops, or other features that cause valve element 720 to remain in predetermined axial positions relative to housing 722 .
[00184] Referring now to Figures 11A-11B, another embodiment of a closed luer connector 810 will be described. In some embodiments, the luer 810 connector can have or be made from any of the components, characteristics, materials, sizes, geometries, details or configurations of any of the other luer connectors described in this document. Figure 11A is a cross-sectional view of the luer 810 connector, illustrating the luer 810 connector in a closed position, so that fluid is generally prevented from flowing through the luer 810 connector. Figure 11B is a cross-sectional view of the luer 810 connector, illustrating the luer 810 connector in an open position, so that fluid is generally allowed to flow through the luer 810 connector. As will be described, in some embodiments, the luer 810 connector can be configured so that the element valve 820 of the luer connector 810 can be changed manually between an open position and a closed position. The flow of fluid or medication through the luer 810 connector is represented by arrows in Figure 11B. When the valve tube 832 (also called the inner element) of the luer connector 810 is in the open position, generally fluid can generally be allowed to flow through the connector luer 810. Similarly, when the valve tube 832 is in the closed position, fluid it can generally be prevented from flowing through the luer connector 810. As in any embodiment for the luer connector described in this document, a perfect seal by the valve element is not required, although such a seal may be preferred in some embodiments.
[00185] In some embodiments, the luer connector 810 may be the same or similar to the luer connector 10 described above, except for or in addition to the features and components illustrated in Figures 11A and 11B, and / or described below. Consequently, in some respects, the luer connector 810 may operate in the same or similar manner as compared to the luer connector 10 described above. As shown in Figure 11A, some embodiments of the mounted luer connector 810 may comprise a housing 822, a door element 824 positioned near the second end 814 of the luer connector 810, a luer tip 826 positioned near the first end 812 of the luer connector 810, a jacket 828 surrounding at least part of the luer tip 826, and a valve element 820. As shown, valve tube 832 can be integrally formed with port element 824, or, in some embodiments, valve tube 832 it can be separately formed and fixed to the door element 824 by any of the joining or fusing techniques described in that report or known in the state of the art.
[00186] In the illustrated embodiment, valve element 820 can comprise luer tip 826 and valve tube 832 supported within luer tip 826. Valve tube 832 can be positioned at least partially within opening 860 that can be formed at the luer tip 826. In some embodiments, the luer tip 826 and the housing 822 can be configured to allow the luer tip 826 to change position axially within a predetermined range with respect to housing 822 and valve tube 832 so that the valve element 820 can move between the open and closed positions. In some embodiments, the luer tip 826 can define handles, protrusions, or other features 835 to engage the end portion of the female connector 7 6 so that the luer tip 826 can be retracted when the female connector 76 is threadedly engaged in the luer 810 connector as described below. As will be described, the luer tip 826 can be moved between the open and closed positions by screwing or unscrewing, respectively, a female connector 76 to the luer connector 810.
[00187] A generally impermeable sealing element 844 can be supported by valve tube 832 and can be configured to seal opening 860 between the outer surface of valve tube 832 and the inner surface of luer tip 826 so that the fluid is generally prevented from flowing into chamber 856 and housing 822. In some embodiments, the luer tip 826 can be configured to be twisted in the direction of a closed position, so that as the female connector 76 is removed from the luer connector 810, the luer tip 826 automatically returns to the closed position.
[00188] Referring to Figure 11B, as the male luer connector 810 and female luer connector 7 6 move towards each other in threaded engagement, the inner surface 86 of the female luer connector 76 may come into contact with the outer surface of the luer tip 826 or the end portion of the female connector 76 may contact the handles 835 formed on the outer surface of the luer tip 826. This can cause an impermeable seal between the inner surface 86 of the female luer connector 76 and the outer surface of the luer tip 826. As the male luer connector 810 and the female connector 76 move further in threaded engagement, the contact force between the female connector 76 and the luer tip 826 can force the luer tip 826 to retract so that the malleable end part 826a of the luer tip 826 is stretched around the valve tube 832 and the opening or cut 838 in the malleable end part 826a of the luer tip 826 opens, thereby exposing the openings 864a in the valve tube ula 832 and allowing fluid to flow into the female connector 76. As the female connector 76 is removed from the luer connector 810, the luer tip 826 preferably returns to its closed position.
[00189] Any characteristics of the modalities illustrated and / or described in the Figures that have not been expressly described in this text, such as distances, proportions of components etc. they are also intended to be part of this report. Furthermore, although this invention has been described in the context of various modalities, features, aspects and examples, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present invention goes beyond the modalities specifically described for other specifically described modalities or other alternative modalities and / or uses of the invention and obvious and equivalent modifications thereof. Thus, it should be understood that several characteristics and aspects of the described modalities can be combined with each other, or substituted for each other, for the execution of various modes of the described inventions. Thus, it is intended that the scope of the present invention described in the present document is not limited by the modalities described specifically in the present document.

权利要求:
Claims (12)
[0001]
1. luer connector (110), comprising: a housing (122) having a hollow hole, a first end (112), and a second end (114); a male luer tip (126) supported by the housing, configured to rotate with respect to the housing, the male luer tip having a first open end (138) and a passage (160) through the male luer tip in fluid communication with the first end open; and a substantially rigid internal element (132) extending in the passage of the male luer tip (126) towards the first open end (138) of the male luer tip, wherein at least one of the male luer tip (126) and the element internal (132) is axially movable between a first position and a second position in relation to the other between the male luer tip (126) and the internal element (132); characterized by the fact that the male luer tip (126) and the inner element (132) cooperate such that the rotation of the male luer tip (126) in a first direction in relation to the housing (122) increases an axial displacement between the first end open (138) of the male luer tip (126) and an end portion of the inner element (132); in the first position, the end portion of the inner element (132) provides a substantially impermeable seal with respect to the first open end (138) of the male luer tip (126) so as to substantially prevent a flow of fluid through the male luer tip (126); and in the second position, the end portion of the inner element (132) is moved away from the first open end (138) so that fluid is allowed to flow through the first open end of the male luer tip (126).
[0002]
2. Luer connector (110), according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the male luer tip is configured to rotate in a first direction in relation to the housing (122) as a female connector is screwed on to the luer connector.
[0003]
Luer connector (110) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the male luer tip (126) and the inner element (132) cooperate such that the rotation of the male luer tip in a second direction in With respect to the housing (122), the axial displacement between the first open end (138) of the male luer tip and the end part of the inner element decreases.
[0004]
Luer connector (110) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the internal element (132) is axially movable in relation to the male luer tip (12 6).
[0005]
Luer connector (110) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the inner element (132) comprises an axial opening (164a, 164b) through at least part of the inner element, the axial opening being in fluid communication with the hollow orifice of the housing (122) and being configured to allow fluid to flow through the inner member.
[0006]
Luer connector (110) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the internal element (132) has a solid cross section along at least a substantial part of its length such that at at least a substantial amount of fluid flowing through the luer connector is required to flow around an outer surface of the inner element.
[0007]
Luer connector (110) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it additionally comprises a chamber in the housing (122), the chamber being configured to produce a change in volume as at least one of the male luer tip (126) and the inner element (132) moves axially between the first position and the second position in relation to the other between the male luer tip and the internal element, and where the volume of the chamber is greater when the male luer tip and the inner element is in the first position.
[0008]
Luer connector (110) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the internal element (132) comprises a helical or angled surface (132d), the helical or angled surface configured to cooperate with the luer tip male (126) and to cause the change in axial displacement between the male luer tip and the inner element as the male luer tip is rotated.
[0009]
Luer connector (110) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it further comprises a resilient element (118) configured to urge the male luer tip (126) and the inner element towards the first position.
[0010]
Luer connector according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the male luer tip (126) has a conically shaped outer surface.
[0011]
11. Luer connector (210) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that an opening in the first open end of the male luer tip (226) and the end part of the inner element (232) have a shape of ovular or other non-circular cross section.
[0012]
Luer connector (210) according to claim 11, characterized in that the opening in the first open end of the male luer tip (226) has a tapered inner wall part (226c), the end part of the element inner (232) having a tapered outer wall part that cooperates with the inner wall part of the male luer tip, the male luer tip and the inner element being configured such that the relative rotation between the male luer tip and the inner element causes displacement axial between the male luer tip and the inner element.

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同族专利:

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公开号 | 公开日

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US8647310B2|2014-02-11|

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TW201143833A|2011-12-16|

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ES2493515T3|2014-09-11|

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CN103124582B|2016-01-20|

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EP2550058A2|2013-01-30|

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WO2011139995A2|2011-11-10|

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AU2011248364B2|2014-05-22|

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JP6058530B2|2017-01-11|

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US20110276035A1|2011-11-10|

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CA2798470A1|2011-11-10|

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CA2798470C|2019-08-27|

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AU2011248364B8|2014-06-26|

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CN103124582A|2013-05-29|

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AR081762A1|2012-10-17|

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EP2550058B1|2014-03-26|

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WO2011139995A3|2012-05-31|

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DK2550058T3|2014-06-30|

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AU2011248364A8|2014-06-26|

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AU2011248364A1|2012-12-20|

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HK1182976A1|2013-12-13|

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JP2013525071A|2013-06-20|

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BR112012028401A2|2017-03-21|

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TWI565492B|2017-01-11|

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法律状态:
2018-12-26| B06F| Objections, documents and/or translations needed after an examination request according [chapter 6.6 patent gazette]|

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2019-08-13| B06U| Preliminary requirement: requests with searches performed by other patent offices: procedure suspended [chapter 6.21 patent gazette]|

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2020-05-12| B09A| Decision: intention to grant [chapter 9.1 patent gazette]|

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2020-10-06| B16A| Patent or certificate of addition of invention granted [chapter 16.1 patent gazette]|Free format text: PRAZO DE VALIDADE: 20 (VINTE) ANOS CONTADOS A PARTIR DE 02/05/2011, OBSERVADAS AS CONDICOES LEGAIS. |

优先权:

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申请号 | 申请日 | 专利标题

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US33210310P| true| 2010-05-06|2010-05-06|

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US61/332,103|2010-05-06|

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PCT/US2011/034854|WO2011139995A2|2010-05-06|2011-05-02|Medical connector with closeable luer connector|

---