METHOD FOR TRANSFERRING A FLUID FROM A FLUID SOURCE TO A FLUID RECEIVER; METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING A

专利摘要:
medical connectors with corresponding fluid-proof interfaces. it is a medical fluid connector system including a male connector and a female connector having a closed configuration when separated from each other. the first end of the male connector is configured to mate with a first end of the female connector. when the male connector is mated to the female connector, complementary structures engage to move seals away from ports on the male connector and female connector, opening a path for fluid through the connectors. the mating ends of the connectors are not exposed to medical fluid when the connectors are mated so that when the connectors are disconnected, the mating ends are substantially free of residual medical fluid.
公开号:BR112014005204B1
申请号:R112014005204-2
申请日:2012-09-07
公开日:2021-06-22
发明作者:Thomas F. Fangrow
申请人:Icu Medical, Inc.；
IPC主号:

专利说明:

RELATED ORDERS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of US Provisional Application No. 61/533,138, filed September 9, 2011, entitled MEDICAL CONNECTORS WITH INCREASE FLUID CONTAINMENT, US Provisional Application No. 61/557,793, filed November 9 of 2011, entitled MEDICAL CONNECTORS WITH FLUID-RESISTANT MATING SURFACES, US Provisional Application No. 61/579,582, filed December 22, 2011, entitled MEDICAL CONNECTORS WITH FLUID-RESISTANT MATING SURFACES, US Provisional Application No. 61/607,429, filed on March 6, 2012, entitled MEDICAL CONNECTORS WITH FLUIDRESISTANT MATING SURFACES, and US Provisional Application No. 61/692,516, filed August 23, 2012, entitled MEDICAL CONNECTORS WITH FLUID-RESISTANT MATING SURFACES. The contents of each of the patent applications identified above are incorporated in their entirety by reference in this document and made a part of this report for all that they describe. FUNDAMENTALS FIELD OF TECHNIQUE
[0002] This invention relates generally to medical connectors through which fluids flow and, in particular, to medical connectors with increased fluid containment. DESCRIPTION OF RELATED TECHNIQUE
[0003] Connector systems, valves and piping are routinely used in hospitals and other medical settings to facilitate the transfer of fluids to and from patients. It is often a challenge to keep these systems sterile and to avoid leakage or residue of external fluids (eg, liquids and/or vapors) when the various components are engaged and disengaged.
[0004] In some medicinal applications, such as certain chemotherapy treatments, fluids in tubing and connectors can be harmful if released, even in relatively small amounts, especially after repeated exposures. In order to maintain a barrier against many types of fluid leakage, and to prevent the entry or exit of microbes or debris, connectors have been provided with closures, such as septa, flexible seals, or other obstacles, at their corresponding ends. When a first connector is engaged with a second connector, the closure of one or both connectors is temporarily opened, pierced, or moved to allow fluid to flow between the two connectors. But these connectors can allow for unwanted fluid release, such as by transfer or vaporization of fluid remaining at the mating ends of the connectors after disconnection. These connectors have other drawbacks and disadvantages. SUMMARY
[0005] In some embodiments, medical connectors with increased fluid containment, fluid isolation, and/or reduction or elimination of fluid residue are described in the corresponding ends of the connectors, corresponding fluid-proof interfaces, dry disconnects, and/or systems or improved connection mechanisms to secure connectors together. In some embodiments, a dry disconnect medical connector has no fluid residue or leakage on the outside of the connector as a result of disconnection. In some embodiments, a dry disconnect medical connector has no appreciable fluid residue or leakage on the outside of the connector as a result of disconnection, so that any small amount of fluid residue or leakage does not present any significant functional disadvantages or significant danger to health care for patients or health professionals. It is contemplated that any devices, components, or steps of the various embodiments described herein, and/or incorporated by reference herein, are combinable and/or replaceable to form additional embodiments. These combinations and/or substitutions are contemplated and are within the scope of this description.
[0006] In some embodiments, a coupling system for transferring fluid comprises a first connector. The first connector may have a first central axis, a first end, a second end, and a male portion. In some embodiments, the first connector includes a valve member located at least partially in an internal space of the male portion and configured to transition between an open position and a closed position. The valve member may have a first end and a second end. In some embodiments, the valve member may include a valve passage that extends within the valve member between the first end and the second end of the valve member. The valve member may include at least one port proximate the first end of the valve member. In some embodiments, the valve member may have a corresponding first surface at the first end of the valve member. The first end of the valve member may be configured to prevent the passage of fluid from the valve passage past the first end of the valve member when the valve member is in the closed position. In some embodiments, the first connector includes a biasing member configured to bias the valve member into the closed position. The coupling system may include a second connector configured to transition between an open configuration and a closed configuration.
[0007] In some embodiments, the second connector includes a second housing having a second central axis, a first end configured to receive the male portion of the first housing, and a second end. The second connector may include a fluid conduit located at least partially within an inner space of the second housing and having a first end, a second end, a conduit passage extending within the fluid conduit between the first end and the second end. end of the fluid conduit, at least one port proximate the first end of the fluid conduit extending through the fluid conduit and into the conduit passage, and a second mating surface configured to releasably mate with the first mating surface of the valve member. In some embodiments, the second connector includes a sealing member located at least partially within an inner space of the second housing and having a first end, a second end, a biasing portion between the first end and the second end of the sealing member. , and a diaphragm at the first end of the sealing member sized and molded to match the size and shape of the first end of the fluid conduit. The sealing element may be configured to prevent fluid from flowing out of the conduit passage through the at least one fluid conduit port when the second connector is in the closed configuration. The first connector and second connector can be configured to connect to each other such that the valve member is switched to the open position and the second connector is switched to the open configuration when the first connector is connected to the second connector. In some embodiments, the first mating surface and the second mating surface are configured to be coupled in a manner that prevents fluid penetration between the first mating surface and the second mating surface when fluid flows through the first and second connectors.
[0008] In some embodiments, as described above, the driving member is a spring or a flexible tube. The fluid conduit can be constructed of a rigid or semi-rigid material. In some embodiments, the male portion of the first connector is an ANSI-compliant male luer tip and/or the first end of the second connector is an ANSI-compliant female luer tip. The fluid conduit may be configured so that at least a portion of the fluid conduit is configured to enter the male part of the first connector when the first connector is connected to the second connector. In some embodiments, at least one of the first mating surface and the second mating surface is constructed of a flexible material. The first connector may include a guard portion having at least one engagement device, the at least one engagement device configured to engage with a coupling device of the second connector.
[0009] In some embodiments, the shielding portion has an inner cross-sectional area that is greater than the outer cross-sectional area of a portion of the second connector near the first end of the second connector. The at least one engaging device may be a loop with a hook, the hook configured to engage with the coupling device of the second connector. In some embodiments, the loop may include a release structure configured to facilitate release of the at least one engagement device from the second connector coupling device. In some embodiments, the release structure is a dome-shaped protrusion and/or at least one ridge that protrudes from the at least one loop. The mating device may be an annular channel on an outer surface of the second connector. In some embodiments, the loop includes a longitudinal ridge. The second connector may include an abutment device configured to limit passage of the guard portion past the first end of the second connector. The abutment device may have an outer cross-sectional area that is greater than the inner cross-sectional area of the guard part, the abutment device comprising one or more flanges located on an outer surface of the second connector. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the fluid conduit is configured to enter the male portion of the first connector when the first connector is connected to the second connector. The male part can be configured so that at least a part of the male part of the first connector enters the inner space of the second housing when the first connector is connected to the second connector. The various devices, components, and features described above may be combined with, or substituted for, one another in order to realize varied modes of the described inventions.
[00010] A method for transferring a fluid from a fluid source to a fluid receiver may include connecting the fluid source to a first connector. The first connector may comprise a first housing having a first central axis, a first end, a second end, and a male portion, the second end configured to seally engage the fluid source. In some embodiments, the first connector includes a valve member located at least partially in an internal space of the male portion and configured to transition between an open position and a closed position, wherein the valve member comprises a first end and a second end. , a valve passage extending within the valve member between the first end and the second end of the valve member, at least one port proximate the first end of the valve member, and a corresponding first surface at the first end of the valve member. valve. The first end of the valve member may be configured to prevent the passage of fluid from the valve passage past the first end of the valve member when the valve member is in the closed position. In some embodiments, the first connector includes a biasing member configured to bias the valve member into the closed position. The method for transferring fluid from a fluid source to a fluid receiver may include connecting the fluid receiver to a second connector configured to transition between an open configuration and a closed configuration. The second connector may comprise a second housing having a second central axis, a first end configured to receive the male portion of the first housing, and a second end configured to connect to the fluid receiver.
[00011] In some embodiments, the second connector includes a fluid conduit located at least partially within an inner space of the second housing and having a first end, a second end, a conduit passage extending into the fluid conduit between the first end and the second end of the fluid conduit, at least one port proximate the first end of the fluid conduit extending through the fluid conduit and into the conduit passage, and a second corresponding surface configured to form-couple removable to the first corresponding surface of the valve member. In some embodiments, the second connector includes a sealing member located at least partially within an inner space of the second housing and having a first end, a second end, a biasing portion between the first end and the second end of the sealing member. , and a diaphragm at the first end of the sealing element sized and molded to match the size and shape of the first end of the fluid conduit, the sealing element configured to prevent fluid from flowing out of the conduit passage through the at least one fluid conduit port when the second connector is in the closed configuration. The method for transferring fluid may include connecting the first connector to the second connector, wherein the valve member changes from the closed position to the open position and the second connector changes to the open configuration as a result of the connection between the first connector and the second connector . In some embodiments, the method includes transferring fluid from the fluid source, through the first connector, through the second connector, and into the fluid receiver and disconnecting the first connector from the second connector, wherein the corresponding first surface and second surface corresponding remain free of fluid after disconnection from each other.
[00012] The method for transferring fluid may include connecting a male luer connection of the fluid source to the second end of the first connector. In some embodiments, connecting the fluid receiver to the second end of the second connector further includes connecting a female luer connection of the fluid receiver to the second end of the second connector. The method may further include connecting a first connector engagement device to a second connector engagement device. In some embodiments, the method includes inserting at least a portion of the fluid conduit into the male portion when the first connector is connected to the second connector. In some embodiments, the method may include inserting at least a portion of the male portion into the first end of the second connector when the first connector is connected to the second connector. The various steps, devices, components, and features described above may be combined with, or substituted for, others in order to carry out varied modes of the described inventions and methods.
[00013] A method for fabricating a coupling system for transferring fluid may comprise providing a first connector including a first housing having a first central axis, a first end, a second end, and a male part. The valve member can be located at least partially in an internal space of the male part and can be configured to transition between an open position and a closed position. In some embodiments, the valve member comprises a first end and a second end, a valve passage extending within the valve member between the first end and the second end of the valve member, at least one port near the first end. of the valve member, and a corresponding first surface at the first end of the valve member. The first end of the valve member may be configured to prevent the passage of fluid from the valve passage past the first end of the valve member when the valve member is in the closed position. In some embodiments, the first connector includes a biasing member configured to bias the valve member into the closed position. The method of manufacturing may include providing a second connector configured to transition between an open configuration and a closed configuration including a second housing having a second central axis, a first end configured to receive the male portion of the first housing, and a second end. In some embodiments, the second connector includes a fluid conduit located at least partially within an inner space of the second housing and having a first end, a second end, a conduit passage extending into the fluid conduit between the first end. and the second end of the fluid conduit, at least one port proximate the first end of the fluid conduit extending through the fluid conduit and into the conduit passage, and a second corresponding surface configured to releasably engage the first corresponding surface of the valve member. A sealing element may be located at least partially within an inner space of the second housing and may have a first end, a second end, a biasing portion between the first end and the second end of the sealing element, and a diaphragm at the first end of the sealing element sized and shaped to match the size and shape of the first end of the fluid conduit, the sealing element configured to prevent fluid from flowing out of the conduit passage through the at least one fluid conduit port when the second connector is in the closed configuration. The method for manufacturing may include connecting the first end of the first connector to the first end of the second connector so that the second connector is changed to the open configuration and the valve member is changed to the open position when the first connector is connected to the second connector. In some embodiments, the first mating surface and the second mating surface are configured to be coupled in a manner that prevents fluid penetration therebetween as fluid flows through the first and second connectors.
[00014] A lockable male connector configured to connect to a female connector may include a housing having a first central axis, a first end, a second end, and a male portion. In some embodiments, the male connector includes a valve member located at least partially in an internal space of the male portion and configured to transition between an open position and a closed position, wherein the valve member comprises a first end and a second end. , a valve passage extending within the valve member between the first end and the second end of the valve member, at least one port proximate the first end of the valve member, and a corresponding first surface at the first end of the valve member. valve, wherein the first end of the valve member is configured to prevent the passage of fluid from the valve passage past the first end of the valve member when the valve member is in the closed position. In some embodiments, the male connector includes a biasing member configured to bias the valve member into the closed position. The first mating surface may be sized and molded to releasably mate with a second mating surface on a female connector so that the valve member is moved to the open position when the male connector is connected to the second connector. In some embodiments, the first mating surface is configured to be coupled to the second mating surface in a manner that prevents fluid penetration between the first mating surface and the second mating surface when fluid flows through the male and female connectors.
[00015] A lockable female connector configured to connect to a male connector may be configured to transition between an open configuration and a closed configuration and may comprise a housing having a second central axis, a first end configured to receive the male portion of the first housing, and a second end. In some embodiments, the female connector comprises a fluid conduit located at least partially within an internal space of the housing and having a first end, a second end, a conduit passage extending into the fluid conduit between the first end and the second end of the fluid conduit, at least one port proximate the first end of the fluid conduit extending through the fluid conduit and into the conduit passage, and a corresponding surface. The female connector may include a sealing element located at least partially within an inner space of the housing and having a first end, a second end, a drive portion between the first end and the second end of the sealing element, and a diaphragm. at the first end of the sealing element sized and molded to match the size and shape of the first end of the fluid conduit, the sealing element configured to prevent fluid from flowing out of the conduit passage through the at least one fluid conduit port. fluid when the female connector is in the closed configuration. The mating female surface may be configured to releasably mate with a mating male surface of a male connector, and may be configured to mate with the mating male surface in a manner that prevents fluid penetration between the mating female surface and the surface. corresponding male when fluid flows through the male and female connectors.
[00016] A coupling system for transferring medical fluid having an open stage and a closed stage may comprise a first connector. The first connector may comprise a first housing with a first central axis, the first housing comprising a first end with a male part and a second end. A valve member may be disposed at least partially in an inner space of the male part, wherein the valve member comprises a closed end, a first passage extending through the valve member, at least one port close to the closed end of the valve member extending through the valve member and into the first passage, and a corresponding first surface at the closed end. In some embodiments, the first connector includes a push member operatively coupled to the valve member. The coupling system may include a second connector having a second housing with a second central axis, the second housing comprising a first end configured to accept the male portion, and a second end. In some embodiments, the second connector includes a fluid conduit disposed at least partially in an inner space of the second housing, wherein the fluid conduit comprises a closed end, a second passage extending through the fluid conduit, at least one port near the closed end of the fluid conduit extending through the fluid conduit and into the second passage, and a second mating surface at the closed end configured to mate with the first mating surface. The second connector may include a sealing member disposed within the second housing, wherein the sealing member comprises a first end, a second end, and a biasing portion between the first end and the second end, wherein the first end comprises a diaphragm open in both the open and closed stages, and the size and shape of the first end generally corresponding with the size and shape of the closed end of the fluid conduit, the sealing member configured to stop fluid flow through the at least one fluid conduit port. In some embodiments, the first mating surface and the second mating surface are configured to be coupled in a manner that deters fluid penetration therebetween as fluid flows through the connectors.
[00017] According to some variants, a coupling system for transferring medical fluid may have an open stage and a closed stage and may comprise a first connector. In some embodiments, the first connector includes a first housing with a first central axis, the first housing comprising a first end with a male portion and a second end, wherein the male portion has an internal cross-sectional area. The first connector may include a valve member disposed at least partially in an inner space of the male portion, wherein the valve member comprises a closed end having a cross-sectional area, a first passage extending through the valve member. , at least one port near the closed end of the valve member extending through the valve member and into the first passage, and a corresponding first surface at the closed end. In some embodiments, the first connector includes a push member operatively coupled to the valve member. The coupling system may include a second connector having a second housing with a second central axis, the second housing comprising a first end configured to accept the male portion, and a second end. The second connector may include a fluid conduit disposed at least partially in an inner space of the second housing, wherein the fluid conduit comprises an open end, a closed end, a second passageway extending between the open end and the closed end. , at least one port proximate the closed end of the fluid conduit extending through the fluid conduit and into the second passage, and a second mating surface at the closed end configured to mate with the first mating surface. In accordance with some embodiments, the second connector includes a sealing member disposed within the second housing, wherein the sealing member comprises a first end, a second end, a biasing portion between the first end and the second end, and a opening at the first end of the sealing member having a cross-sectional area in the open stage that is greater than or equal to the inner cross-sectional area of the male part. The first mating surface and the second mating surface may be configured to be coupled in a manner that deters fluid penetration therebetween when fluid flows through the connectors.
[00018] A coupling system for transferring medical fluid may have an open stage and a closed stage and may comprise a first connector having a first housing with a first central geometric axis, wherein the first housing comprises a first end with a male part and a second end. In some embodiments, the first connector includes a valve member disposed at least partially in an internal space of the male portion, wherein the valve member comprises a closed end having a cross-sectional area, a first passage extending between the member. of valve member and the second end of the first housing, at least one port near the closed end of the valve member extending through the valve member and into the first passage, and a corresponding first surface at the closed end. The first connector may include a push member operatively coupled to the valve member. In some embodiments, the coupling system includes a second connector having a second housing with a second central axis, the second housing comprising a first end configured to accept the male portion, and a second end. In some embodiments, the second connector includes a fluid conduit disposed at least partially in an inner space of the second housing, wherein the fluid conduit comprises an open end, a closed end, a second passageway extending between the open end and the closed end, at least one port proximate the closed end of the fluid conduit extending through the fluid conduit and into the second passage, and a second mating surface at the closed end configured to mate with the first mating surface. A sealing member may be disposed within the second housing, wherein the sealing member comprises a first end, a second end, a biasing portion between the first end and the second end, and an opening in the first end of the sealing member. having a cross-sectional area in the open stage that is greater than or equal to the cross-sectional area of the valve member. In some embodiments, the first mating surface and the second mating surface are configured to be coupled in a manner that deters fluid penetration therebetween as fluid flows through the connectors.
[00019] According to some variants, a medical system for transferring medical fluid may include a first connector having a first housing with a first central geometric axis, wherein the first housing comprises a first end with a male part and a second end. In some embodiments, the first connector includes a valve member disposed at least partially in an internal space of the male portion, wherein the valve member comprises a closed end, a first passage extending through the valve member, at least one port near the closed end of the valve member extending through the valve member and into the first passage, and a corresponding first surface at the closed end. The first connector may include a push member operatively coupled to the valve member. In some embodiments, the medical system includes a second connector having a second housing with a second central axis, the second housing comprising a first end configured to accept the male portion, and a second end. The second connector may include a fluid conduit disposed at least partially in an inner space of the second housing, wherein the fluid conduit comprises a closed end, a second passage extending through the fluid conduit, at least one port proximate to the closed end of the fluid conduit extending through the fluid conduit and into the second passage, and a second mating surface at the closed end configured to mate with the first mating surface. In some embodiments, the second connector has a sealing member disposed within the second housing and configured to stop fluid flow through the at least one port of the fluid conduit, wherein the sealing member comprises a biasing portion. According to some configurations the first mating surface and the second mating surface are configured to be coupled in a manner that deters fluid penetration therebetween when fluid flows through the connectors. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[00020] Certain embodiments of this invention will now be discussed in detail with reference to the following figures. These figures are provided for illustrative purposes only, and the invention is not limited to the object illustrated in the figures. FIGURE 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a male connector adjacent to an embodiment of a female connector. FIGURE 2A shows a side view of one embodiment of a male connector attached to tubing configured to receive fluid from a hanging pouch powered by gravity. FIGURE 2B shows a side view of the male connector of FIGURE 1A in an open configuration. FIGURE 2C shows a side view of one embodiment of the connector of FIGURE 1A connected to a female connector attached to tubing inserted into a patient. FIGURE 3 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a male connector in a closed position. FIGURE 4 is a side view of the male connector embodiment shown in FIGURE 3 again in a closed position, showing certain internal devices of the male connector in dashed lines. FIGURE 5 is an exploded perspective view of components of the male connector embodiment shown in FIGURE 3. FIGURE 6 is a rear view of the female end of the male connector embodiment shown in FIGURE 3. FIGURE 7 is a cross-sectional view of the male connector embodiment shown in FIGURE 3, taken along line 7-7 in FIGURE 6. FIGURE 8 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the male connector embodiment shown in FIGURE 3, taken along curve 8-8 in FIGURE 7. FIGURE 9 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the male connector embodiment shown in FIGURE 3, taken along line 9-9 in FIGURE 6. FIGURE 10 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the male connector embodiment. shown in FIGURE 3, taken along curve 10-10 in FIGURE 9. FIGURE 11 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a valve member of the male connector shown in FIGURE 3. FIGURE 12 is a perspective view of a one-member modality and male connector elastic shown in FIGURE 3. FIGURE 13 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a sealing member of the male connector shown in FIGURE 3. FIGURE 14 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a tip-type seal. luer of the male connector shown in FIGURE 3. FIGURE 15 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a first cap component of the male connector shown in FIGURE 3. FIGURE 16 is a side view of the first cap component shown in FIGURE 15 FIGURE 17 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a second cap component of the male connector shown in FIGURE 3. FIGURE 18 is a front view of the second cap component shown in FIGURE 17. FIGURE 19 is a view of side cross-section of the second cap component shown in FIGURE 17, taken along line 1919 in FIGURE 18. FIGURE 20A is a side view of a mating component screwed into the male connector embodiment shown in FIGURE 3. FIGURE 20B is a side view of a coupled component substantially fully screwed to the male connector embodiment shown in FIGURE 3. FIGURE 20C is a side view of a coupled component substantially fully screwed to another embodiment of a male connector. FIGURE 21 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a female connector in a closed position. FIGURE 22 is a side view of the embodiment of the female connector shown in FIGURE 21 again in a closed position. FIGURE 23 is an exploded perspective view of the components of the female connector embodiment shown in FIGURE 21. FIGURE 24 is a front view of the female connector embodiment shown in FIGURE 21. FIGURE 25 is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of the female connector shown in FIGURE 21, taken along line 2525 in FIGURE 24. FIGURE 26 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a housing of the female connector shown in FIGURE 21. FIGURE 27 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a fluid conduit of the female connector shown in FIGURE 21. FIGURE 28 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a compressible sealing member of the female connector shown in FIGURE 21. FIGURE 29 is a side view of the embodiment of a connector male adjacent to the embodiment of a female connector shown in FIGURE 1. FIGURE 30 shows a cross-sectional view of the connector system of FIGURE 29, taken at line 30-30 in FIGURE 29. FIGURE 30A shows is a cross-sectional view of the connector system of FIGURE 29. FIGURE 31 is a side view of the embodiment of a male connector coupled to the embodiment of a female connector shown in FIGURE 1. FIGURE 32 shows a cross-sectional view of the connector system. the connector of FIGURE 31 taken at line 32-32 in FIGURE 31. FIGURE 33 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a male connector adjacent to the other embodiment of a female connector. FIGURE 34 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the male connector shown in FIGURE 33 in a closed position. FIGURE 35 is a side view of the male connector embodiment shown in FIGURE 34 again in a closed position. FIGURE 36 is an exploded perspective view of components of the male connector embodiment shown in FIGURE 34. FIGURE 37 is a side cross-sectional view of the male connector embodiment shown in FIGURE 35. FIGURE 38 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a male connector housing shown in FIGURE 34. FIGURE 39 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a valve member of the male connector shown in FIGURE 34. FIGURE 40 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a luer tip seal of the male connector shown in FIGURE 34. FIGURE 41 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the female connector shown in FIGURE 33 in a closed position. FIGURE 42 is a side view of the embodiment of the female connector shown in FIGURE 41 again in a closed position. FIGURE 43 is an exploded perspective view of the components of the female connector embodiment shown in FIGURE 41. FIGURE 44 is a side cross-sectional view of the female connector embodiment shown in FIGURE 42. FIGURE 45 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a housing of the female connector shown in FIGURE 41. FIGURE 46 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a fluid conduit of the female connector shown in FIGURE 21. FIGURE 47 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a first female connector cap component shown in FIGURE 41. FIGURE 48 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a compressible sealing member of the female connector shown in FIGURE 41. FIGURE 49 is a side view of the embodiment male connector shown in FIGURE 33 adjacent to the female connector embodiment shown in FIGURE 41. FIGURE 50 shows a side cross-sectional view of the connector system of FIGURE 49. FIGURE 50A shows is a side cross-sectional view of the connector system of FIG. 49. FIG. 51 is a side view of the male connector embodiment shown in FIG. 33 coupled to the female connector embodiment shown in FIG. 41. FIG. 52 shows a cross-sectional view side of the connector system of FIGURE 51. FIGURE 53 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a male connector adjacent to the other embodiment of a female connector. FIGURE 54 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the male connector shown in FIGURE 53 in a closed position. FIGURE 55 is a side view of the embodiment of the male connector shown in FIGURE 54 again in a closed position. FIGURE 56 is an exploded perspective view of the components of the male connector embodiment shown in FIGURE 54. FIGURE 57 is a side cross-sectional view of the male connector embodiment shown in FIGURE 55. FIGURE 58 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a male housing of the male connector shown in FIGURE 54. FIGURE 58A is a perspective view of one embodiment of a male housing. FIGURE 59 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a valve member of the male connector shown in FIGURE 54. FIGURE 60 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a luer tip seal of the male connector shown in FIGURE 54. FIGURE 61 is an exploded perspective view of the components of the female connector embodiment shown in FIGURE 53. FIGURE 62 is a side view of the male connector embodiment shown in FIGURE 53 adjacent to the female connector embodiment shown in FIGURE 61. FIGURE 63 shows a side cross-sectional view of the connector system of FIGURE 62. FIGURE 63A shows a side cross-sectional view of the connector system of FIGURE 62. FIGURE 63B shows a side cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a system connector housing including the male housing of FIGURE 58A. FIGURE 64 is a side view of the male connector embodiment shown in FIGURE 53 coupled to the female connector embodiment shown in FIG 61. FIGURE 65 shows a side cross-sectional view of the connector system of FIGURE 64. FIGURE 66 shows a cross-sectional view of the male connector of FIGURE 3 adjacent to a female portion of another medical implement. FIGURE 67 shows a cross-sectional view of the male connector of FIGURE 3 engaged with the medical implement of FIGURE 66. FIGURE 68 shows a perspective view of the male connector of FIGURE 3 adjacent to a syringe with a male luer tip. FIGURE 69 shows a perspective view of the components of FIGURE 68 after engagement. FIGURE 70 shows a cross-sectional view of the male connector and male luer tip of the syringe of FIGURE 69. FIGURE 71 shows a perspective view of the male connector of FIGURE 3 located with its first end adjacent a needle assembly with a female luer attachment portion and with its second end adjacent to a syringe with a male luer tip. FIGURE 72 shows a perspective view of the components of FIGURE 71 in engagement. FIGURE 73 is a cross-sectional view of the male connector, male luer tip of the syringe, and needle assembly of FIGURE 72. FIGURE 74 shows a side cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a male connector. FIGURE 75 shows a side cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a female connector. FIGURE 76 shows a side cross-sectional view of the male connector of FIG. 74 adjacent to the female connector of FIG. 75. FIG. 77 shows a side cross-sectional view of the connector system of FIG. 76. FIG. 78 shows a cross-sectional view lateral cross-section of another embodiment of a female connector. FIGURE 79 shows a side cross-sectional view of the male connector of FIGURE 74 adjacent to the female connector of FIGURE 78. FIGURE 80 shows a side cross-sectional view of the connector system of FIGURE 79. FIGURE 81 shows a cross-sectional view lateral cross-section of another embodiment of a male connector. FIGURE 82 shows a side cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a female connector. FIG. 83 shows a side cross-sectional view of the male connector of FIG. 81 adjacent to the female connector of FIG. 82. FIG. 84 shows a side cross-sectional view of the connector system of FIG. 83. FIG. 85 shows a cross-sectional view lateral cross-section of another embodiment of a male connector. FIGURE 86 shows a side cross-sectional view of the male connector of FIGURE 85 adjacent to the female connector of FIGURE 82. FIGURE 87 shows a side cross-sectional view of the connector system of FIGURE 86. FIGURE 88 shows a cross-sectional view lateral cross-section of a connector system. FIGURE 89 shows a side cross-sectional view of the connector system of FIG. 88. FIGURE 90 shows a side cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a male connector. FIGURE 91 shows a side cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a female connector. FIGURE 92 shows a side cross-sectional view of the male connector of FIGURE 90 adjacent to the female connector of FIGURE 91. FIGURE 93 shows a side cross-sectional view of the connector system of FIGURE 93. FIGURE 94 shows a cross-sectional view lateral cross-section of another embodiment of a male connector. FIGURE 95 shows a side cross-sectional view of the male connector of FIGURE 94 adjacent to the female connector of FIGURE 91. FIGURE 96 shows a side cross-sectional view of the connector system of FIGURE 95. DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[00021] In some embodiments, the present application describes a variety of means to increase fluid containment such as producing dry disconnects, isolating mating ends of waste fluid connectors, and/or arresting fluid ingress between mating ends of connectors. In some embodiments, closure mechanisms function to prevent and/or prevent fluid from contacting, remaining on, and/or contaminating mating ends of a connector, while allowing fluid flow when the connectors are mated with one another. the other. As used in this document, terms such as “closed” or “sealed” are intended to have their ordinary meaning in this field and are to be understood to include obstructions or barriers to fluid flow. These terms are not to be understood as requiring that a particular structure or configuration achieve complete fluid closure under all circumstances; rather, the terms refer to a closure of fluid to the degree required in the particular circumstances in which the devices are intended to be used.
[00022] FIGURE 1 illustrates a connector system 20 according to an embodiment of the present application, having a male connector 100 and a female connector 400. A first end 112 of the male connector 100 can detachably couple to a first end 402 of the female connector 400. The first ends 112, 402 are configured so that a fluid passage 156 of the male connector 100 can be fluidly connected to the fluid passage 418 of the female connector 400 when the first ends 112, 402 are coupled. When male connector 100 and female connector 400 are disconnected, the fluid path 156, 418 is closed to transfer fluid therethrough. The coupling between male connector 100 and female connector 400 is configured so that either or both of the first ends 112, 402 are dry, leak-proof, and/or substantially or entirely free of residual fluid after the connectors are disconnected. In this context, "substantially free" is used according to its ordinary meaning in this field and applies when any insignificant amount of residual fluid remaining on an external surface after disconnection or after closure is small enough to present no functional disadvantage significant or health hazard in the particular application in which the connector system is employed. In this context, "dry" is used according to its ordinary meaning in this field and applies when there is no easily visible fluid residue on an external surface after disconnection or after closure or when there is virtually no easily visible fluid residue. noticeable using standard instruments or testing protocols (eg, blotting tests, microscopy, or other tests) on an external surface after disconnection or after closure. In some embodiments, the corresponding interface of connectors 100, 400 is fluid-tight when connectors 100, 400 are connected, and both or at least one of male 100 or female 400 connectors are substantially or entirely free of residual fluid after the connectors. be disconnected.
[00023] In FIGURE 2A an embodiment of a lockable male connector 100 in a closed position is shown. In some embodiments, the male connector 100 can be secured to tubing connected to an IV gravity fed bag 9 filled with fluid hanging from a support 11. At the bottom of the bag 9, a section of tubing 13 is secured. The opposite end of the tubing 13 can be connected to first end 112 of male connector 100. A closure mechanism within second end 114 of male connector 100 can prevent fluid contained within pouch 9 from flowing through tubing 13 and leaking from male connector 100, provided the male connector 100 remains in a closed configuration.
[00024] In FIGURE 2B, the male connector 100 is illustrated in an open position. Fluid can flow outwardly into the first end 112 of the male connector 100 and out the second end 114 of the male connector 100. In this example of a male connector 100, a healthcare provider can move the male connector 100 into it. configuration by holding the second end of the lockable male connector 100 with two fingers, holding the tubings 13 with two other fingers, and gently moving the fingers in opposite directions.
[00025] The IV delivery system illustrated in FIGURES 2A and 2B can be easily set up for fluid communication with a patient. Under most circumstances, the lines 13 are filled with air when they are initially connected to the IV bag 9. If the other end of the lines 13 is connected to a closed connector, as illustrated in FIGURE 2A, air cannot escape and fluid cannot enter the lines 13 of the IV bag 9. Therefore the male connector 100 is manually moved to the open position until all the air has been purged through the male connector 100 and the fluid from the IV bag 9 fills the lines 13 and the male connector 100. This procedure is known as “initiating”. Once the fluid to the line and connector are properly initiated, the healthcare provider can quickly release the opposing forces applied to the second end 114 of the male connector 100 and tubing 13, and the closing mechanism of the male connector 100 can quickly stop. fluid flow through male connector 100.
[00026] Now referring to FIGURE 2C, a catheter 17 has been inserted into a patient's arm 15. Catheter 17 penetrates the skin of arm 15 and is preferably fluidly connected to the patient's blood flow. Catheter 17 is also connected to a length of medical tubing 19 that can be attached to a female connector 400. The example of a female connector 400 illustrated in FIGURE 2C is a version of the Clave® connector manufactured by ICU Medical, Inc., San. Clement, California. Various embodiments of a connector of this type are illustrated and described in U.S. Patent No. 5,685,866, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. It is contemplated that many of the male connector modalities described in this document can be used with other types of female connectors. Tubing 19, catheter 17, and female connector 400 can be prepared with fluid using standard procedures. Male connector 100 can be prepared as previously described and engaged with female connector 400. As described in further detail below, when male connector 100 and female connector 400 are engaged, fluid is allowed to flow from the IV bag 9 into the patient. When male connector 100 and female connector 400 are disengaged, fluid is again prevented from flowing out of the second end 114 of male connector 100. In general, fluid is also prevented from flowing out of the opening in female connector 400.
[00027] Additional connector system modalities, some of which are described in this document, can be used in the illustrated fluid system, and in various modifications and alternatives thereto. Other embodiments of connector systems that can be used, in whole or in part, with the present inventions are described in U.S. Patent No. 7,815,614 and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2008/0287920, both all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Additionally, it is contemplated that the various connector modalities in accordance with the inventions can be used in a wide variety of additional medical fluid systems. For example, the connectors described can also be used to transfer bodily fluids such as blood, urine, or insulin, food fluids, 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.
[00028] FIGURE 3 illustrates an embodiment of a lockable male connector 100. Any of the components comprising the male connector 100 may comprise any of the configurations, devices, components, and/or materials of any of the other male connectors described in this document and/or modifications thereof. Additionally, any of the other connectors described herein may comprise any of the configurations, devices, and components of male connector 100. For example, devices related to preventing or preventing disconnection may be used with any suitable medical or other fluid connector.
[00029] FIGURES 3 and 4 are perspective view and side view, respectively, of the lockable male connector 100 in a first position or closed position. In FIGURE 4 some of the internal devices of one embodiment of the lockable male connector 100 are shown in dashed lines. FIGURE 5 is an exploded perspective view of the components of the embodiment of the lockable male connector 100 shown in FIGURE 3. Referring to FIGURES 3 and 4, the lockable male connector 100 may have a first end 112 and a second end 114. end 112 may be configured to mate with female connector 400. In some embodiments, first end 112 may include a protrusion 144 (see FIGURE 7) that is configured to be inserted into female connector 400. In some embodiments, first end 112 may comprise a male luer tip 122 and a valve member 116 (see FIGURES 5 and 11). The luer tip 122 and valve member 116 may be supported by a male housing 123. The valve member 116 may be coupled to, and/or urged into a particular position against, the male housing 123 by an elastic member 118.
[00030] An end cap portion 130 (also referred to as an end cap or a female member) may be coupled to the male housing 123 near the second end 114 of the lockable male connector 100. One or more of the components of the cap portion end 130 may be integrated or unitary with the housing. Referring to FIGURES 5 and 6, in some embodiments, the end cap 130 may comprise a first cap component 132 (also referred to as a first member) and a second cap component 134 (also referred to as a second member) which may be coupled. Referring to FIGURE 18, in some embodiments, the second cap component 134 may comprise an outer surface 134a that is generally tapered, generally tapered, or substantially frusto-conical in shape. However, in some embodiments, the outer surface 134a may be substantially cylindrical or may have any other desired shape. The first cap component 132 may have external threads 136. As mentioned, the lockable male connector embodiment 100 shown in FIGURES 3 and 4 is in a closed position. In the closed position, valve member 116 can cooperate with male luer tip 122 to substantially impede, or close off the flow of fluid through male connector 100.
[00031] As illustrated in FIGURE 3, the male housing 123 may have a housing 124 that surrounds the luer tip 122. The housing 124 may have a structure for clamping or securing, such as internal threads 126. The internal threads 126 and tip luer type 122 can form a male luer coupling that conforms to ANSI specifications for male connectors. In some embodiments, the clamping or securing structure 126, and/or the shape of the tip 122, forms a male engagement that is non-standard (e.g., not conforming to ANSI specifications for male luer connectors). End cap 130 may have a housing shape conforming to ANSI standards for female connectors and may receive a male connector component from another connector, syringe, or other medical implement. In some embodiments, end cap 130 is configured to be non-standard (for example, not compliant with ANSI standards). In some configurations, the end cap 130 or any other connecting components of any connectors described in this document may be configured to engage only with specially designed non-standard components (eg, tip 122) of other connectors, syringes, or other medical implements. , as a safety precaution, to ensure that highly sensitive medicinal fluids, such as chemotherapy drugs, are not mistakenly infused through standard IV lines into the wrong patient or into the wrong patient tubing. External threads 136 may be arranged for threaded engagement with corresponding internal threads of a male connector portion of the mating component. The luer tip 122 near the first end 112 of the male connector 100 may have a mating surface 128 at the end that is configured to form a substantially leak-free seal with at least a portion of the mating surface 466 of the compressible sealing member 460, such as further explained below. In the illustrated embodiment, mating surface 128 is a thin ring at the end of luer tip 122.
[00032] The valve member 116 may be at least partially enclosed by the male housing 123. As shown, the male housing 123 may have at least one side opening 125, exposing at least a portion of the valve member 116 and/or allowing it to at least a portion of elastic member 118 passes the inner side of male housing 123. In some embodiments, male housing 123 may comprise two side openings 125 that may be disposed opposite one another on the sides of male connector 100. In some embodiments, side opening 125 may extend part of the way along male housing 123 (such as in a central region of male housing 123 as shown) to provide increased strength in housing near second end 114. In the illustrated embodiment, the elastic member 118 may be coupled to valve member 116 near side openings of male housing 123. Outer surface 127 of housing may be contoured. For example, the outer surface of the housing may include a narrower portion closer to the central region of the male housing 123, or a generally hourglass-shaped outer surface, or a cross-sectional portion(s) larger(s) near the ends. These shapes can provide tactile confirmation of the correct placement of the user's fingers on the male connector 100 during use and/or provide a more comfortable gripping surface. In some embodiments, an outward projection or projections (not shown) may be incorporated into elastic member 118 to provide additional or more effective gripping surfaces on male connector 100.
[00033] As illustrated in FIGURES 7, 9 and 11, the valve member 116 may have a closure end 144 that blocks fluid flow through the male connector 100 in the closed configuration. Valve member 116 may have a mating surface 146 which may include a first alignment structure, such as a cavity 147, which may be coupled to a second alignment structure, such as a complementary or mating protrusion 490, at a first end. 482 of fluid conduit 480. In the illustrated embodiment, cavity 147 is a generally circular chamfer. In some embodiments, the cavity can have a plurality of types of different shapes, such as rectangular, square or polygonal shape. In some embodiments, the cavity may be at first end 482 of fluid conduit 480 and the protrusion may be disposed on mating surface 146 of valve member 116. Cavity 147 and protrusion 490 may help to align and hermetically connect mating surface. of the male connector 100 with the mating surface of the female connector 400. In some embodiments, as illustrated, each of the first and second alignment structures is molded to closely match in mating relationship with each other so that there is virtually no space between the same when they are in contact with each other. In some embodiments, as illustrated, the first and second alignment structures contact each other in a fluid-tight manner so that no appreciable amount of fluid can seep between them during fluid transfer through the connectors.
[00034] In some embodiments, as illustrated in FIGURE 7, the closing end 144 of the valve member 116 may comprise an outer region, such as a ring portion, having a smaller surface area than an inner region, such as the cavity 147. The outer region may be substantially flat, as shown, followed by a first change of abrupt or sharp shape, such as a first corner portion, and side down, followed by another change of abrupt or sharp shape, such as second corner part, and then a generally flat bottom part. At least one of the corner parts can usually be curved or round, which can help with cleaning in some arrangements. As illustrated, multiple changes in shape can be formed by one or more crossings of generally perpendicular surfaces. In some embodiments, one or more shape changes can additionally deter, slow down, or prevent fluid ingress between the mating ends of the connector. In addition, as illustrated, mating non-planar complementary surfaces, including those with multiple shape changes, may deter or prevent lateral movement (e.g., rocking or shifting) between mating ends during connection, to thereby deter or prevent infiltration of fluid between these ends.
[00035] In some embodiments, either or both of the respective contact ends of the male connector and female luer connector may comprise an elastic material that is compressible. When the ends come together, either or both can be compressed, to thereby further tighten the contact and decrease any gap between the ends to further deter or prevent fluid ingress between these corresponding structures. The elastic material can be applied or positioned at the ends in many ways, including by a coating or overmolding process, an elastic constriction or retraction force, adhesive, bonding solution, etc.
[00036] A luer tip seal 119 can be disposed within the luer tip 122, as shown in FIGURES 5, 7 and 9. In the illustrated embodiment, the luer tip seal 119 is disposed between the male housing 123 and the valve member 116 to form a seal between the valve member 116 and the luer tip seal 119 in the closed position. In some embodiments, a tight fit between the valve member 116 and the luer tip seal 119 prevents fluid from flowing out of the luer tip 122. The luer tip seal 119 may be made of an assisting elastic material to form the seal, as discussed below. In some embodiments, the inner surface of the luer tip seal 119 may be tapered, decreasing in diameter toward the mating surface 176 of the luer tip seal 119. The end of the valve member 116 may also be tapered, decreasing in diameter toward mating surface 146 of valve member 116. The substantially mating tapered surfaces of luer tip seal 119 and valve member 116 can assist in providing a leak-proof or leak-free closure of male connector 100. in some embodiments, the natural outside diameter or cross section of the mating surface 146 of the valve member 116 may be slightly larger than the natural inside diameter or cross section of the luer tip seal 119 to further decrease or eliminate any clearance therebetween and increase the sealing effect between them.
[00037] As shown in the embodiment of the male connector 100 illustrated in FIGURE 3, the mating surface 146 of the valve member 116 is disposed generally flush through the luer tip 122 when the male connector 100 is in the closed position. In some embodiments, as illustrated, the mating surface 146 of valve member 116 is cleanable (e.g., cleanable with a sweeping, rotating, and/or rubbing motion of an antiseptic application instrument) between or before the connections . The mating surface, as illustrated, may be free of gaps, bevels, openings, substantial protrusions that would prevent or unduly interfere with effective moving contact with an antiseptic application instrument in order to effectively kill or remove microbes and debris to the degree that it is clinically necessary. In some embodiments, mating surface 146 of valve member 116 may be configured to further extend beyond mating surface 128 of luer tip 122 when male connector 100 is in the closed position. In some embodiments, mating surface 146 of valve member 116 may be recessed into luer tip 122.
[00038] Male connector 100 can be manipulated to a second position or open position. In the open position, valve member 116 can be retracted from luer tip 122 to thereby allow fluid in valve member 116 to exit ports 162 and surround closure end 144. As will be described in greater detail below, fluid may pass from the luer housing at second end 114 through the interior of male connector 100 and exit valve member 116 when male connector 100 is in the open configuration. Fluid can then enter fluid conduit 480 of female connector 400, as discussed below. When closed, fluid is prevented or blocked from passing through the male connector 100 under normal operating conditions.
[00039] A pushing member can be provided in the form of an elastic member 118. The elastic member 118 can be constructed of a material that elastically deforms. Consequently, in some embodiments, male housing 123 may remain coupled to valve member 116 by elastic member 118 when male connector 100 is moved to the open position. In the illustrated embodiment, changing the relative positions of the male housing 123 and valve member 116 can cause at least a portion of the resilient member 118 to extend. Consequently, elastic member 118 exerts a closing force on male housing 123 and valve member 116, urged toward returning male connector 100 to a closed state. The amount of tension exerted by elastic member 118 can be adjusted by varying the distance by which male housing 123 and valve member 116 are separated, increasing the thickness of elastic member 118, and/or constructing elastic member 118 from a variety of materials. having different elastic properties. In some embodiments, the force required to open male connector 100 is configured to be high enough to produce an adequate secure seal to prevent accidental or unintended opening. In some embodiments, the difficulty of opening the connector is controlled at least in part by the tension exerted by the elastic member 118. In some embodiments, the biasing member 118 may be configured as a spring or other elastic or elastic and compressible or expandable member, positioned on the inner side of the male housing 123 to drive the valve member 116 into the closed position. Movement of male connector 100 to the open position can compress this biasing member, and movement of male connector 100 to the closed position can allow the biasing member to expand.
[00040] FIGURES 6 to 11 show the male connector 100 in the first position or closed position. As can be seen in these figures, valve member 116 may comprise at least one actuator member, such as support 150. In the illustrated embodiment, valve member 116 comprises two supports 150. In some embodiments, valve member 116 may comprise more than two brackets 150. In some embodiments, each bracket 150 may extend from approximately the center of the valve member 116 toward the first end 112 of the male connector 100. The brackets 150 may be located around the luer tip 122, but inside the male housing 123, as shown. Brackets 150 may be located within the inside diameter of internal threads 126. In some embodiments, brackets 150 may be positioned to contact at least a portion of a female luer housing when it engages with luer tip 122.
[00041] Referring to FIGURE 3, the elastic member 118 may comprise at least a first ring 174 and at least one securing ring 172. In some embodiments, the elastic member 118 may comprise more than one ring 174 or more than a locking ring 172. The first ring 174 may be disposed in a recessed groove 148 in the outer surface of the male housing 123 towards the first end 112. The elastic member 118 may be tight enough around the male housing 123 to hold the first ring 174 in place when a force is exerted on elastic member 118 by a change in the relative positions of the male housing 123 and valve member 116. In some connector embodiments, the locking ring or rings 172 may be disposed around the valve member 116 in various patterns, as described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2008/0287920, which is incorporated in its entirety by reference herein.
[00042] As illustrated in FIGURE 7, a passage 156 may extend through a portion of the valve member 116 near the first end 112. The passage 156 may be circular in cross section as shown in the illustrated embodiment, or the passage 156 may have other cross-sectional geometric shapes. The passage 156 may have at least one port 162 proximate to the first end 112. In the illustrated embodiment, two ports 162 are located on opposite sides of the valve member 116 and are circular, although other locations and shapes could be used.
[00043] In the embodiment illustrated in FIGURE 7, the male connector 100 is in a closed position, and the relative positions of the valve member 116 and male housing 123 can create a chamber disposed between the passage 156 and the luer receiver 158. 154 may be in fluid communication with passage 156. Chamber 154 may be larger than passage 156 as illustrated. In some embodiments, chamber 154 may have generally the same diameter as passage 156. In some embodiments, chamber 154 may have a smaller diameter as compared to passage 156. Chamber 154 may also be configured with a non-circular cross section at any other appropriate form. Chamber 154 is end-connectable toward second end 114 of male housing 123 by firing pin 170.
The firing pin 170 may be a part of the end cap 130 which extends towards the valve member 116. The firing pin 170 may have a conduit 194 therethrough. Conduit 194 may place chamber 154 in fluid communication with luer receiver 158. Punch 170 may have an external dimension sufficient to substantially enclose one end of chamber 154, as shown. In the illustrated embodiment, firing pin 170 may be circular to thus match the geometry of chamber 154, but other geometric shapes may be used where appropriate.
The firing pin 170 may have an outside dimension that is comparable to the inside dimension of the wall of the valve member 116 that creates the chamber 154, but that does not contact this wall to allow relative movement between the components. To prevent fluid from escaping past firing pin 170, a seal such as seal ring 160 may be disposed in a groove 169 behind firing pin 170. Seal ring 160 may contact the wall of valve member 116, as shown, preventing fluid from flowing out of chamber 154. In some embodiments, firing pin 170 is a part of end cap 130. End cap 130 can be secured to male housing 123 by sonic welding, an adhesive, or otherwise. suitable method for coupling. In the illustrated embodiment, end cap 130 is coupled to male housing 123 with sonic welds 131. A weld 131 such as this has a substantially triangular shape as shown, although other shapes are also possible. Consequently, the firing pin 170 can be considered to be in a static position relative to the male housing 123. In some embodiments, the firing pin 170 is formed as a unit or integral with the male housing 123 and the end cap 130 is a separate piece properly secured to the 123 male housing such as by sonic welding. In some embodiments, the second cap component 134 may be integrally or unitarily formed with the male housing 123. However, as will be described in more detail below, the first cap component 132 may also be formed separately as compared to the second cap component. 134 or the male housing 123.
[00046] As shown in FIGURE 7, fluid may flow into luer receiver 158 and pass to conduit 194. From conduit 194, fluid may pass to chamber 154 and from chamber 154 into passageway 156. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, when the male connector 100 is in the closed position, the closing end of the valve 144 of the valve member 116 can seal the hole in the luer tip 122, preventing fluid from passing out of the end of the luer tip 122 Fluid generally may, however, exit passage 156 through ports 162 in valve member 116. Fluid may reside within luer tip 122, but may be prevented from flowing out of luer tip 122 by the seal of luer tip 119 is prevented from flowing back towards the second end 114 on the outer side of valve member 116 by a sealing member 120. Consequently, when the male connector 100 is in the closed position, as illustrated, it generates There can also be fluid communication between the luer receiver 158 and the interior of the luer tip 122 without allowing fluid to exit the first end 112 of the male connector 100.
[00047] The male connector 100 can be changed to the open configuration when mated with a female connector 400. When the first end 402 of the female connector 400 is engaged with the first end 112 of the male connector 100, a mating part 446 of the connector female 400 can engage housing 124 of male connector 100. Luer tip 122 is advanced at least partially into female connector 400 and fluid conduit 480 on female connector 400 engages valve member 116 to push valve member 116 towards the second end 114 of male connector 100. The connection of male connector 100 and female connector 400 is described in further detail below.
[00048] In some embodiments, when the valve member 116 is moved towards the second end 114, the closing end of the valve 144 (see FIGURES 7 and 9) separates from the luer tip 122, moving the ports 162 away from the seal. luer tip 119. Accordingly, fluid can flow around closure end 144 and into mated female connector 400. Seal member 120 can prevent fluid from exiting the interior of luer tip 122 toward the second end 114 of male connector 100. Accordingly, in the open position, fluid may pass from luer receiver 158 through conduit 194, chamber 154, passage 156, port or ports 162 in valve member 116, into the interior of the tip-type luer 122, and into a port on female connector 400.
[00049] As can be seen in the illustrated embodiment, the valve member 116 can be moved towards the second end 114 of the male connector 100, closer to the end cap 130. Consequently, the wall portion of the valve member 116 that containing the end of passageway 156 is positioned closest to the firing pin portion 170 of the end cap 130. The volume of the chamber 154 can be reduced when the male connector 100 is in the open position.
[00050] Correspondingly, when the male connector 100 is changing from an open position to a closed position, the volume of the chamber 154 may increase when the valve member 116 moves towards the first end 112 of the male connector 100. When the volume of chamber 154 increases, valve closing end 144 of valve member 116 advances toward first end 112 to seal the hole in luer tip 122. If no additional fluid is introduced into male connector 100 through luer receiver 158, fluid in luer tip 122 can be drawn back through ports 162, through passage 156 towards chamber 154 by the vacuum effect created as the volume of chamber 154 increases. In some embodiments, fluid may be prevented from exiting the orifice in luer tip 122 when the closing end of valve 144 moves into place in the orifice because fluid may instead be drawn back into chamber 154. In some embodiments, fluid near mating surface 146 of valve member 116 is encouraged to move into male connector 100 rather than remaining near mating surface 146 when valve member 116 moves toward first end 112 of the male housing 123, to thereby reduce the possibility of exposing the corresponding surface 146 to the fluid.
[00051] If, however, additional fluid is still being introduced into the male connector 100 through the luer receiver 158, the additional fluid may advance to the chamber 154 and accumulate at that location when the valve member 116 moves towards the first end 112 to close the luer tip 122. In this case, the pressure of the newly introduced fluid can be prevented from forcing the fluid to flow out of the luer tip 122 since the luer tip seal 119 seals the luer tip 122 Consequently, fluid flow may be allowed through the male connector 100 while a female connector 400 is coupled to the first end 112 of the male connector 100, but impeded while the female connector 400 is being disengaged and after the female connector 400 has been uncoupled. .
[00052] In some modalities, it is desirable to prevent certain medications from contacting the skin or being inhaled. Therefore, male connector 100 advantageously helps retain fluid within male connector 100 while substantially eliminating fluid remaining in luer tip 122 when it is being uncoupled from female connector 400 or other connection. Reducing the likelihood of remaining fluid remaining in the luer tip 122 after uncoupling results in a corresponding reduction in the chance of toxic drug exposure to a user or a patient.
[00053] FIGURES 11 to 15 are perspective views of the valve member 116, the elastic member 118, the sealing member 120, the luer tip seal 119, and the first cap component 132, respectively, in the form of lockable male connector 100 shown in FIGURE 3. As previously discussed, elastic member 118 may have a first ring 174 that is disposed in groove 148 of male housing 123. The elastic member may extend toward second end 114. valve 116 may have a plurality of outwardly extending protrusions to support elastic member 118. In particular, referring to FIGURE 10, valve member 116 may comprise a plurality (e.g., four) mating flanges 168. locking ring 172 (shown in FIGURE 12) can be secured around valve member 116 and held in place by mating flanges 168. Meanwhile, valve member 116 can comprise any number of additional flanges. al or alternatively to mating flanges 168 for securing elastic member 118 or securing ring 172 of elastic member 118 to valve member 116. In the illustrated embodiment, inner surfaces 168a of mating flanges 168 may provide lateral support for the bands 1296 of elastic member 118 to thereby prevent bands 1296 from sliding laterally relative to valve member 116. Additionally, rear surfaces 168b of mating flanges 168 may prevent securing ring 172 of elastic member 118 from sliding axially toward the surface corresponding 146 of valve member 116. In other embodiments, resilient member 118 may comprise two or more, or essentially any number of rings or bands.
[00054] Additionally, with reference to FIGURE 11, one or more of the ports 162 may be located close to the mating surface 146, or as far back as practical from the mating surface 146, before the sealing member 120. The ports 162 may be circular, as illustrated, or may have other shapes. Male connector 100 may be adapted to be opened when placed in mating engagement with female connector 400. For example, female connector 400 may include an engagement member such as, but not limited to, a complementary surface, a tang, or the like. a protrusion that can engage the valve closure face 144 to open the male connector 100. In some embodiments, a manually actuated slider or knob can be appropriately configured to open the male connector 100. Brackets 150 extending toward the first end 112 of valve member 116. There may be one, two, or more brackets 150. In some embodiments, male connector 100 does not include brackets 150.
[00055] Turning now to FIGURE 13, the sealing member 120 is described in greater detail. In some embodiments, the sealing member 120 is substantially cylindrical and has a bore 180 extending therethrough. In some embodiments, the sealing member 120 further comprises a pair of generally rectangular protrusions 182 that extend from the side walls of the cylindrical portion at diametrically opposite positions. The protrusions 182 may have different shapes and/or positions. The sealing member 120 may also have a generally smaller diameter center portion 184 surrounded by two rings 186 at both ends with larger diameters.
[00056] The sealing member 120 can be constructed from a number of different materials. In some embodiments, the sealing member 120 is made of a deformable silicon-based material. Silicon-based deformable materials are among those that form generally fluid-tight closures with plastics and other rigid polymeric materials. In some embodiments, sealing member 120 may be made of substantially the same material as elastic member 118.
[00057] Referring to FIGURE 14, the luer tip seal 119 may be substantially cylindrical with an opening 178 extending along the longitudinal axis of the luer tip seal 119. In the illustrated embodiment, the inner edge opposite the mating surface 176 of luer tip seal 119 has a beveled or tapered edge 179. For example, as illustrated, edge 179 may have a larger diameter or cross-section closer to the proximal end of seal 119 than in a position that is spaced apart distally from the proximal end of the seal 119 such that the wall of the seal 199 is thicker at a distal region than at a proximal region. In some embodiments, as illustrated, the outside diameter or cross-section of the seal 119 is generally similar in size to the length (eg, the distance from the distal to the proximal face) of the seal 119. The luer tip seal 119 can be constructed of a number of different materials. In some embodiments, the luer tip seal 119 may be made of a deformable silicon-based material. Silicon-based deformable materials are among those that form substantially fluid-tight closures with plastics and other rigid polymeric materials. In some embodiments, luer tip seal 119 may be made of substantially the same material as elastic member 118.
[00058] Referring to FIGURES 15 and 16, the first cap component 132 may have a cover portion 192 molded and configured to substantially cover and, in some embodiments, seal a portion of the second end 114 of the male housing 123. luer 158 may extend away from cover portion 192. Luer receiver 158 may be appropriately sized to mate with a male luer portion (see, for example, FIGURE 20A) in accordance with ANSI standards for luer devices. The luer receiver 158 may have external threads 136 to engage the male luer portion, as shown. In some embodiments, raised tabs or other protrusions can be used to engage the male luer portion.
[00059] In some embodiments, the firing pin 170 is generally in the opposite region of a portion of the first cap component 132 from the cap portion 192. The firing pin 170 may be sized and configured to substantially seal the chamber 154 within the valve member 116 A bevel or slit 169 between the cover portion 192 and the firing pin 170 may be sized and molded to accommodate a seal such as a seal ring 160. Additionally, in some embodiments such as that illustrated in FIGURES 15 and 16, the former lid member 132 may comprise a pair of protrusions or tabs 198 (also referred to herein as locking elements or engagement surfaces) that project radially outwardly from outer surface 200. In some embodiments, first lid member 132 may comprise a pair of cleats 198 arranged so as to be diametrically opposed to each other. In some embodiments, first cap component 132 may comprise only one tab 198 projecting from surface 200. In some embodiments, first cap component 132 may comprise more than two tabs 198 projecting from surface 200. described in greater detail below, the tabs 198 may engage or interlock with complementary tabs or protrusions on the second cap component 134 to prevent, at least temporarily, the first cap component 132 from rotating relative to the second cap component 134 when the two components are mounted together as shown in FIGURES 4 or 9.
[00060] Additionally, the first lid component 132 may comprise an annular groove 202 which, as will be described in more detail below, may interact with complementary devices on the second lid component 134 to axially restrict the movement of the first lid component 132 with with respect to the second cap component 134. Additionally, as illustrated in FIGURE 16, the first cap component 132 may also comprise an angled or tapered surface 204 and a rounded surface 206 both positioned between the annular groove 202 and the firing pin 170. described in greater detail below, the angled or tapered surface 204 and the rounded surface 206 can facilitate coupling or assembly of the first cap component 132 to the second cap component 134. In some embodiments, the first cap component 132 may comprise only one angled or tapered surface 204 or a rounded surface 206. In other embodiments, the first cap component 132 may be configured not to comprise either of those two devices. In some embodiments, the first cap component 132 and/or the second cap component 134 may comprise any suitable devices, lubricants, or materials to facilitate the coupling of the first cap component 132 and the second cap component 134, or, as will be discussed to facilitate rotation of the first cap component 132 relative to the second cap component 134.
[00061] In the illustrated embodiment, the loops 198 are substantially rectangular in cross section. However, the geometry of the cleats 198 is not as limited. Loops 198 can comprise any suitable or desired cross-sectional geometry, such as, but not limited to, a square, circular, or oval geometry. In some embodiments, for example, a plurality of tabs 198 each defining a circular cross section may be disposed linearly along one side of the first cap component 132.
[00062] With reference to FIGURES 16 and 17, the second cap component 134 may comprise a set of protrusions or tabs 208 (also referred to herein as locking elements or engagement surfaces) that project, in some embodiments, into a radially inward direction of the inner surface 210 of the second cap component 134, to thereby create a radial array of depressions or channels 209. Referring to FIGURE 16, the first cap component 132 may be assembled with the second cap component 134 of so that each of the one or more tabs 198 formed on the first cap component 132 is positioned in one or more of the depressions or channels 209 between each of the plurality of tabs 208 formed on the second cap component 134. Accordingly, each of the ones. or more loops 198 can be sized and configured so that the approximate length (represented by "W1" in FIGURE 16) of each of the one or more loops 1 98 formed on the surface 200 of the first cap component 132 is less than the approximate length (represented as "W2" in FIGURE 18) of the depressions or channels 209 between each of the tabs 208 formed on the second cap component 134.
[00063] In the illustrated embodiment, the loops 208 are substantially rectangular in cross section. However, the geometry of the cleats 208 is not so limited. Loops 208 may comprise any suitable or desired cross-sectional geometry, such as, but not limited to, square, circular, or oval geometry.
[00064] Additionally, each of the one or more tabs 198 on the first cap component 132 may be configured to cut or break before any of the plurality of tabs 208 on the second cap component 134 cut or break. Consequently, in some embodiments, each of the one or more tabs 198 on the first cap component 132 can be configured so that the approximate minimum amount of force or torque required to cut or break each tab 198 from the surface 200 on the first cap component 132 is less than the approximate minimum amount of force required to cut or break any tab 208 from the inner surface 210 of the second cap component 134. In some embodiments, the minimum amount of force required to cut or break each tab 198 from the surface 200 on the first cap component 132 may be significantly less than the minimum amount of force required to cut or break any of the tabs 208 of the inner surface 210 of the second cap component 134.
[00065] In some embodiments, tabs or protrusions that are configured to cut or break may be formed on the second cap component 134 instead of being formed on the first cap component 132 as described above. In other words, in some embodiments, one or more tabs formed on the second cap component 134 may be sized and/or configured in the same way as any of the tabs 198 described above, and one or more tabs formed on the first cap component 132 may be sized and/or configured in the same way as any of the tabs 208 described herein so that the tabs formed on the second cap component 134 cut or break before any of the tabs formed on the first cap component 132. In some embodiments, the configurations of the loops 198 in the loops 208 described above may generally be reversed. In general, other complementary engagement surfaces can be used. In the illustrated embodiments, each component includes radially projecting tabs. In some embodiments, one or other of the components may include appropriately sized slots to accommodate a radially projecting tab.
[00066] In some embodiments, the approximate minimum amount of force required to cut or break each tab 198 of the surface 200 in the first cap component 132 may be less than or equal to approximately one-third of the approximate minimum force required to cut or break each of tabs 208 of the inner surface 210 of the second cap component 134. In some embodiments, the approximate minimum amount of force required to cut or break each tab 198 of the surface 200 on the first cap component 132 may be between approximately one-third and half the approximate minimum amount of force required to cut or break any of the tabs 208 of the inner surface 210 of the second cap component 134.
[00067] In the illustrated embodiment, where two tabs 198 are formed on surface 200, the amount of torque required to cut or break both tabs 198 from surface 200 on the first cap component 132 may be approximately 0.45 Nm (4 in. .lbs), or more. In some embodiments, the amount of torque required to cut or break both tabs 198 from surface 200 on first cap component 132 may be approximately 0.34 NM (3 in.lbs), or more. In some embodiments, the amount of torque required to cut or break both tabs 198 from surface 200 on first cap component 132 may be approximately 0.56 Nm (5 in.lbs), or more.
[00068] With reference to FIGURE 16, the cross-sectional area of each of the loops 198 can be based on the approximate length (represented by "L1" in FIGURE 16) and the approximate length (represented by "W1" in FIGURE 16) of each of the one or more tabs 198 on the surface 200 of the first cap component 132. The tab 198 can be used to provide a band around the surface 200 calculated by multiplying the length L1 of the tab 198 by the circumference of the surface 200. embodiments, where each of the one or more tabs 198 is configured to rupture the surface 200 of the first cap component 132 when the desired torque level is reached, the aggregate cross-sectional area of the tab(s) 198 may be substantially smaller than the band around the surface 200.
[00069] In some embodiments, the ratio of the aggregate cross-sectional area of all one or more tabs 198 to the outside diameter value (represented by "D1" in FIGURE 16) of the surface 200 of the first cap component 132 in consequence that each of the one or more loops 198 may be formed or attached may be approximately 1 to 46 or greater. The cross-sectional area of each of the clips 198 can be any suitable value that results in each of the one or more clips 198 breaking off the surface 200 when the desired torque level is reached. For example, in some modalities, the ratio can be between approximately 1 to 60 and approximately 1 to 30. In some modalities, the ratio may be between approximately 1 to 50 and approximately 1 to 40.
[00070] In some embodiments, as in the illustrated embodiment, where each of the one or more tabs 198 is configured to break from the surface 200 of the first cap component 132 when the desired torque level is reached, the width W1 of each of the the one or more tabs 198 may be substantially smaller than the outer diameter D1 of the surface 200 of the first cap component 132 as a result of which each of the one or more tabs 198 may be formed or secured. The width W1 of each of the cleats 198 can be any suitable value that results in each of the cleats 198 198 breaking off the surface 200 when the desired torque level is reached. For example, the one or more loops 198 may be comparable in size to or smaller than the diameter of the fluid opening in firing pin 170 and/or luer receiver 158. In some embodiments, the ratio of the aggregate width of the loops 198 to the diameter external D1 can be from approximately 1 to 15 or greater. In some modalities, the ratio can be between approximately 1 to 25 and approximately 1 to 10. In some modalities, the ratio can be between approximately 1 to 16 and approximately 1 to 13. In some modalities, multiple clips 198 may be used in that the W1 widths of each cleat are different, but the aggregated widths are calculated to achieve the desired torque level for cutting the cleats.
[00071] Similarly, in some embodiments, as in the illustrated embodiment, where each of the one or more tabs 198 is configured to break off the surface 200 of the first cap component 132 when the desired torque level is reached, length L1 of each of the one or more tabs 198 may be substantially smaller than the outer diameter D1 of the surface 200 of the first cap component 132 as a result of which each of the one or more tabs 198 may be formed or secured. The length L1 of each of the cleats 198 can be any suitable value that results in each of the cleats 198 198 breaking off the surface 200 when the desired torque level is reached. In some embodiments, the ratio of the aggregate length of the tabs 198 to the outside diameter D1 can be approximately 1 to 4 or greater. In some embodiments, the ratio may be from approximately 1 to 10 to approximately 1 to 2. In some embodiments, the ratio may be from approximately 1 to 5 to approximately 1 to 3. In some embodiments, multiple clips may be used 198 where the W1 widths of each cleat are different, but the aggregated widths are calculated to achieve the desired torque level for cutting the cleats.
[00072] In some embodiments, one or more cleats 198 may be configured so that the approximate length W1 of each of the one or more cleats 198 may be significantly less than the approximate length (represented by "W3" in FIGURE 18) of one or more of the plurality of tabs 208 formed on the inner surface 210 of the second cap component 134 to ensure that the one or more tabs 198 cut or break before any of the tabs 208. Consequently, in some embodiments, the approximate length W1 of each of the one or more cleats 198 may be between approximately one-third or less and approximately one-half or less of the approximate length W3 of each of the plurality of cleats 208. Also, in some embodiments, there are many more cleats 208 in the second component of cap 134 than tabs 198 on the first cap component 132, to thereby require greater torque to cut the greatest amount of tab. s 208 in the second cap component 134.
[00073] In some embodiments, the material selected to form each of the one or more tabs 198 may be the same or different when compared to the material selected to form each of the one or more tabs 208. The strength of the material chosen to form the tabs 208. cleats 198, 208 can affect the amount of torque required to cut the cleats 198, 208. Consequently, in some embodiments, the cleat 198, 208 you wish to cut may be formed of a weaker, softer, or less hard material. when compared to the material used to form the loop 198, 208 which is desired to remain intact. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, it is desired that the tab 198 be snapped from the surface 200 on the first cap component 132 when the desired level of torque between the first cap component 132 and the second cap component 134 is reached. Therefore, in the illustrated embodiment, the clip 198 can be formed from the weaker material as compared to the material used to form each of the clips 208. However, due to the cross-sectional area of the clips 198, 208 it can also affect the amount of torque required to cut tabs 198, 208, the material selected to form each of tabs 198, 208 may be the same.
[00074] In some embodiments, as in the illustrated embodiment, as mentioned, ensuring that the one or more loops 198 cut or break before any of the loops 208 can also be accomplished by configuring each of the one or more loops 198 so that the area The approximate cross-sectional area of each of the one or more loops 198 is less than the cross-sectional area of each of the loops 208 that is adjacent thereto and will therefore contact each of the one or more loops 198. With reference to FIGURE 16, the cross-sectional area of each of the cleats 198 is based on the length (represented by "L1" in FIGURE 16) and width (represented by "W1" in FIGURE 16) of each of the one or more cleats 198. Similarly, the reference width for in FIGURES 18 and 19, the cross-sectional area of each of the loops 208 is based on length (represented by "L2" in FIGURE 19) and width (represented by "W3" in FIGURE 18) of each one of the one or more tabs 208.
[00075] In some embodiments, without considering material differences, where the one or more tabs 198 are designed to cut before any of the tabs 208, the cross-sectional area of each of the one or more tabs 198 may be substantially less than than the cross-section of each of the one or more tabs 208. The ratio of the cross-sectional area of each of the one or more tabs 198 to the cross-sectional area of each of the one or more tabs 208 may be significantly less than that a. For example, in some modes, such as the illustrated mode, the ratio can be approximately 1 to 14 or greater. In some sports, the ratio can be between approximately 1 to 25 and approximately 1 to 10. In some sports, the ratio can be between approximately 1 to 16 and 1 to 12.
[00076] Additionally, in some embodiments, as in the illustrated embodiment, the approximate length (represented by "L1" in FIGURE 16) of each of the one or more loops 198 is significantly less than the approximate length (represented by "L2" in FIGURE 19) of each of the plurality of tabs 208 formed on the inner surface 210 of the second cap component 134. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the approximate length L1 of each of the one or more tabs 198 may be between approximately one-third or less and approximately two-thirds of the approximate length L2 of each of the plurality of loops 208.
[00077] In some embodiments, the second cap component 134 may comprise depressions or channels into which each of the one or more tabs 198 formed on the first cap component 132 can be inserted when the first cap component 132 is coupled to the second lid component 134. In some embodiments, the amount of depressions or channels formed in the second lid component 134 can be equal to the amount of tabs 198 formed in the first lid component 132. In some embodiments, the amount of depressions or channels formed on the second cap component 134 may be greater than the amount of tabs 198 formed on the first cap component 132.
[00078] FIGURE 20A is a side view of an example of a mating component 212, showing the male connector component of mating component 212 partially screwed to the first cap component 132 of the lockable male connector 100. FIGURE 20A illustrates the cap of end 130 before the one or more tabs 198 projecting radially outward from surface 200 have been broken. In FIGURE 20A, the exemplary coupled component 212 is a syringe. However, coupled component 212 may be any suitable medical instrument or connector that has a male connector component. As illustrated there, the coupled component 212 is only partially screwed to the first cap component 132 so that the torque that is exerted on the first cap component 132 of screwing the coupled component 212 onto the first cap component 132 is less than minimum torque limit that is required to cut or break each of the tabs 198 of the first cover component 132. Therefore, until the minimum torque limit required to cut or break each of the tabs 198 is reached, the first cover component 132 is rotatably affixed to the second cap component 134 by contacting each of the one or more tabs 198 formed on the first cap component 132 against one or more of the plurality of tabs 208 formed on the second cap component 134.
[00079] When coupled component 212 is substantially fully screwed to first cap component 132, additionally twisting coupled component 212 will ultimately exert a torque on first cap component 132 that will exceed the minimum torque limit required to break the tabs 198 of the first cap component 132. In some embodiments, the minimum torque limit required to break tabs 198 is at least approximately 0.45 Nm (4 in.lbs) of torque. Once the tabs 198 have broken off from the first cap component 132, the first cap component 132 is then able to rotate substantially free within the second cap component 134. However, the first cap component 132 may still be retained in the housing by contacting the side surface 202b against the side surface 214b of the annular protrusion 214. Also, the sealing ring 160 can prevent fluid exchange notwithstanding the ability of the first cap component 132 to rotate. In this way, the male connector 100 is prevented or prevented from easily disconnecting from the coupled component 212 due to the torque required that this disconnect may merely rotate the first cap component 132 relative to the male housing 123 and/or the second cap component 134 without unscrewing or otherwise disconnect these lid components 132, 134 from one another. Furthermore, in some embodiments, there is little or virtually no externally exposed surface area on the first cap component 132 for contact by a user's fingers after the coupled component 212 is secured, thereby making it difficult to apply torque opposite the first cap component 132 and coupled component 212 to allow for disconnection. This can effectively “merge” these two components.
[00080] The use of cleats configured to be cut is not required, nor is the use of other structures and configurations required to allow threaded connection between the housing end and the coupled component 212 in a first stage and then allow rotation without unscrewing in a second stage to prevent or prevent disconnection. The illustrated and described structures for preventing disconnection between connectors 100, 400 are merely examples, and many other structures and methods can also be used to prevent disconnection. Also, in some modalities, there are no structures or steps to prevent disconnection. In some arrangements, a first and/or second end of the housing is allowed to rotate with respect to the other part of the housing without unscrewing or otherwise disconnecting during all stages of use.
[00081] FIGURE 20B is a side view of mating component 212, showing the male connector component of mating component 212 substantially fully screwed to the first cap component 132 of male connector 100. FIGURE 20B illustrates the first cap component 132 after one or more tabs 198' have been broken by the force exerted on each of the one or more tabs 198 by one or more of the plurality of tabs 208 formed on the inner surface 210 of the second cap component 134 in reaction to the transferred torsional force to the first cap component 132 of the substantially fully screwed-on component 212. At this point, with each tab 198' broken off from the outer surface 200 of the first cap component 132, the first cap component 132 will be able to rotate substantially free within. of the second cap component 134 without unscrewing. Any torsional movement applied to coupled member 212 in any rotational direction relative to male housing 123 in this arrangement will cause first cap member 132 to rotate in unison with coupled member 212. In this way, coupled member 212 is prevented from unscrewing or from otherwise be disengaged from the first cap member 132. Therefore, in this way, the male connector 100 is configured so that it cannot be removed or disengaged from the mating member 212 after the male connector 100 and mating member 212 have been removed. substantially fully coupled.
[00082] After the one or more tabs 198' have been cut or broken from the first cap component 132, the covering portion 192 of the first cap component 132 can prevent each of the broken tabs 198' from falling out of the male connector 100, as shown in FIGURE 20B. Additionally, as illustrated in FIGURE 7, the second cap component 134 may be configured to prevent the broken tab 198' from moving into the internal space of the male housing 123. In particular, the second cap component 134 may be configured to comprise an annular protrusion 214 that can prevent the broken tab or tabs 198' from moving into the internal space of the male housing 123.
[00083] FIGURE 20C is a side view of an example of a coupled component 212 substantially fully screwed to another embodiment of a lockable male connector 100'. In some embodiments, the lockable male connector 100' may be similar or identical to the lockable male connector 100 described herein. In some embodiments, the second cap component 134' may be configured to comprise an annular space 138' adjacent tabs 208'. The annular space 138' may be sized and configured so that when the one or more tabs 198' have been broken from the first cap component 132', the one or more tabs 198' can fall and be contained within the annular space 138 '.
[00084] In some embodiments, the first cap component 132 may be coupled to the second cap component 134 and, consequently, coupled to the male connector 100, as described below. After the second cap component 134 has been secured to the male housing 123 following any of the methods described herein or any other suitable methods, the first cap component 132 may then be coaxially aligned with the second cap component 134 and also rotationally aligned so that each of the one or more tabs 198 on the first cap component 132 be approximately aligned with the one or more spaces between the tabs 208 formed on the second cap component 134. Once the first cap component 132 is approximately aligned axially and rotationally, the first cap component 132 can be inserted into the second cap component 134 by pushing the first cap component 132 against the second cap component 134, while maintaining the approximate axial and rotational alignment described above. Referring to FIGURES 7, 13, and 16, the first cap component 132 may be pushed into the inner end until the first cap component 132 is positioned relative to the second cap component 134 so that the annular protrusion 214 is formed. in the second cap component 134 is radially adjacent to (i.e. axially aligned with) the annular groove 202 formed in the first cap component 132. In particular, in this position, the opposing side surfaces 214a and 214b of the annular protrusion 214 formed in the second lid member 134 may be positioned between the optionally opposite side surfaces 202a and 202b of the annular groove 202 formed in the second lid member 134.
[00085] As shown in FIGURE 7, in some embodiments, the first cap component 132 and the second cap component 134 can be formed so that there is a small gap between the surfaces of the annular protrusion 214 and the surfaces of the annular groove 202 This configuration can facilitate the rotation of the first cap component 132 within the second cap component 134, i.e. without friction between the surfaces 202 and 214, when the one or more tabs 198 have been cut or broken.
[00086] Additionally, referring to FIGURE 7, the first cap component 132 and the second cap component 134 can be sized and configured so that the side surface 202b of the annular groove 202 can overlap the side surface 214b of the annular protrusion 214 by an amount that is sufficient to prevent the first cap component 132 from being inadvertently torn off from the second cap component 134. Additionally, the first cap component 132 and the second cap component 134 may be sized and configured such that, as described above, the first cap component 132 can be inserted into the second cap component 134 by axially aligning and pushing the first cap component 132 into the second cap component 134. Consequently, if the side surface 202b of the annular groove 202 overlaps with the side surface 214b of the annular protrusion 214 for a very large distance, so in some configurations p It may be difficult to couple the first cap component 132 to the second cap component 134 as described above.
[00087] To facilitate insertion of the first cap component 132 into the second cap component 134, the first cap component 132 can be configured to have an angled or tapered annular surface 204 and/or a rounded annular surface 206 in front of the groove annular 202, as shown in FIGURE 16. Similarly, the second cap component 134 may be configured to have an angled or tapered annular surface 216 to help align and essentially squeeze the first cap component 132 into the second component. of cap 134 as shown in FIGURE 19.
[00088] Additionally, as shown in the illustrated embodiments, the one or more tabs 198 and the plurality of tabs 208 may comprise devices and/or be configured to facilitate insertion of the first cap component 132 into the second cap component 134. For example In some embodiments, as illustrated in FIGURE 16, each of the tabs 198 may comprise angled or tapered front surfaces 198a to help guide each of the tabs 198 into the space between tabs 208 formed in the second cap component 134. Similarly, in some embodiments, as illustrated in FIGURES 17 and 19, the tabs 208 on the second cap component 134 may comprise angled or tapered side surfaces 208a to help guide each of the tabs 198 into the space between each of the tabs. 208. Additionally, in some embodiments, each of the tabs 208 may comprise an angled or tapered leading edge 208b to at least aid in axial alignment of the first cap component 132 with the second cap component 134.
[00089] Any of the substantially rigid or semi-rigid components comprising the luer-type connector 100, including, but not limited to, the first cap component 132 and the second cap component 134, may comprise polycarbonate plastic, glass-filled polycarbonates, any other materials water-impermeable materials, or any combinations thereof. The components comprising luer-type connector 100 may also comprise a hydrophobic plastic. Other examples of materials suitable for constructing any of the substantially rigid or semi-rigid components comprising the luer connector 100 are filled with GE Valox 420 glass or polypropylene. Depending on the application, many other materials can also be used.
[00090] FIGURES 21 and 22 are a perspective view and a side view, respectively, of the female connector 400 in a first position or closed position. In some embodiments, female connector 400 may comprise any of the configurations, devices, or components of other female connectors described herein, and any of the other connectors described herein may comprise any of the configurations, devices, and components of female connector 400. For example, devices related to preventing or preventing disconnection may be used with any suitable medical or other fluid connector on either or both of the female or male ends thereof.
[00091] FIGURE 23 is an exploded perspective view of the components of the female connector 400 mode shown in FIGURE 21. A fluid conduit 480 with one or more ports 488 may be coupled to the female housing 440 near the second end 404 of the connector female 400. One or more of the components of fluid conduit 480 may be integral or unitary with female housing 440. Fluid conduit 480 may have a second end 484 with a male luer coupling 485. A sealing member 460 may enclose at least a portion of fluid conduit 480. Seal element 460 may occlude ports 488 in fluid conduit 480 when female connector 400 is in a closed configuration. The compressible sealing member 460 and fluid conduit 480 may be contained at least partially within the female housing 440.
[00092] Referring to FIGURE 25, female connector 400 may include a female housing 440 that contains a sealing member 460 and a fluid conduit 480. A fluid passageway 418 extends through the center of the fluid conduit 480. void 412 is present between the sealing member 460 and the female housing 440.
[00093] As illustrated in FIGURES 21, 22 and 26, the female connector 400 may have a first end 402 and a second end 404. The first end 402 may be configured to mate with the male connector 100. In some embodiments, the female connector 400 may have a female housing 440 with a coupling portion 446 that is configured to be coupled to the male connector 100, as discussed further below. Coupling portion 446 may include a coupling structure that is complementary to the coupling structure on housing 124 of male connector 100. In the illustrated embodiment, coupling portion 446 comprises external threads 411 that can mate with internal threads 126 on housing 124 of the male connector. 100 male connector. The 411 external threads can form a female luer coupling that conforms to ANSI specifications for female connectors.
[00094] The female housing 440 of the female connector 400 may extend between the first end 402 and the second end 404. In the illustrated embodiment, the female housing 440 has a generally cylindrical body 442. In other embodiments, the body 442 may have a square cross section, polygonal cross section, or any other shape. In some embodiments, coupling portion 446 may be integrally molded or otherwise formed with female housing 440. In other embodiments, coupling portion 446 may be a separate component that is connected to female housing 440, such as by welding , adhesives, or fasteners. An elastic compressible sealing member 460 and a fluid conduit 480 are contained at least partially within the female housing 440. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the female connector and/or the male connector may be translucent, such as at least one part of the housings and/or the sealing element 460, to allow external visual inspection of the fluid flow therein. The housing may comprise an external gripping surface, such as ridges 403, to facilitate gripping and/or twisting the female connector 400.
[00095] Referring to FIGURE 27, fluid conduit 480 may have a first end 482 and a second end 484. First end 482 may have a mating surface 486 that is configured to mate in close non-planar correspondence to mating surface 146 of valve member 116 to facilitate contact between mating surfaces 146, 486 which is slip-proof (e.g., against lateral movement or rocking), and fluid ingress between mating ends 146, 486, especially during the transition between open and closed positions. In the first end region 482 there may be at least one port 488 that is fluidly connected to a fluid passageway 418 (see FIGURE 25) that extends through the interior of the fluid conduit 480. In the illustrated embodiment, the fluid conduit 480 has a plurality of ports (eg two ports). In some embodiments, fluid conduit 480 may have more than two ports 488. Second end 484 of fluid conduit 480 may be configured to mate with other medical devices such as connectors or devices. In the illustrated embodiment, the second end 484 has a male luer-type coupling 485 including a housing with internal threads that generally surround a male luer-type tip. In some embodiments, the 485 male luer coupling conforms to ANSI specifications for male medical connectors. The male luer-type coupling 485 may receive a female connector component of another medical device such as a connector or syringe.
[00096] The second end 484 may also have devices to couple to the female housing 440. In the illustrated embodiment, the second end 484 has a coupler 492, such as a tapered eccentric surface 492, which projects radially outward and generally extends in around the circumference of fluid conduit 480. Coupler 492 may couple to a complementary coupler in female housing 440, such as a channel in the inner surface of female housing 440. Coupler 492 may facilitate connection of fluid conduit 480 and housing female 440, and can help prevent fluid conduit 480 from separating from female housing 440 in the axial direction. Fluid conduit 480 may have spin-proof members, such as cleats 494, which can engage with corresponding gyration-proof members, such as cleats, on the inner surface of female housing 440. clips 494, can help prevent the fluid conduit 480 from rotating relative to the housing. In some embodiments, rotation-proof couplers and/or members can facilitate the manufacturing process by eliminating at this stage the need for more expensive processes and materials in other means of attachment, such as welding, bonding, or adhesion of components, which can also or alternatively be used. In some embodiments, fluid conduit 480 may be secured to female housing 440 in other ways, such as through welding, bonding, adhesives, or fasteners.
[00097] There may be a generally rigid tube 484 that extends generally from the first end 482 to the second end 487 with a fluid passage 418 that extends through the center of the tube 487. In the illustrated embodiment, the tube 487 may comprise a portion protruding 491 that extends near a base 495 of fluid conduit 480 that is generally cylindrical in a first portion 489 and generally frustoconical in a second portion 487. In some embodiments, the tube may have other cross-sectional shapes, such as such as square, polygonal or oval. In some embodiments, the projecting portion 491 can provide support and assist in the lateral positioning of the sealing element 460, and the projecting portion 491 can cooperate with the sealing element 460 to selectively open and close the fluid passageway 418. As illustrated, the first part may comprise a generally constant outer diameter or cross-sectional width to facilitate opening (e.g. by facilitating sliding of the sealing element) and the second part may taper or flare outwards towards a region. distal larger to facilitate an increasing sealing effect between the outer surface of tube 487 and the inner surface of bore 470 of sealing member 460 when sealing member 460 moves from closed to open position.
[00098] In some embodiments, the protruding part 491 may be substantially shorter (e.g. similar in shape to a protrusion or grommet) which can help position the sealing member 460 without piercing or penetrating through the proximal part. of the sealing element. In some embodiments, the projecting part 491 may be omitted. In some embodiments, including some in which there is no protruding piercing or penetrating portion 491, fluid transferred through connector 402 in the open state may flow around the outer surface of the sealing member and exit distally from the inner cavity 412 through one or more openings in base 495 or a distal portion of sealing member 460 and into fluid path 418.
[00099] In some embodiments, connector 400 may comprise a pressure-regulating member (for example, a flexible region of variable volume) and/or a fluid inhibiting member (for example, a second flexible valve) positioned within the base or elsewhere within or in fluid communication with connector 400. Some examples of pressure regulating members and fluid inhibiting members are illustrated and/or described in US Patent Application Publication No. 2010-0249723 A1, published in September 30, 2010, which is incorporated in this document in its entirety by reference.
[000100] As illustrated in FIGURE 25, the fluid passage 418 may extend through at least a portion of the fluid conduit 480. The fluid passage 418 may be circular in cross section, as shown in the illustrated embodiment, or the passageway of fluid 418 may have other cross-sectional geometric shapes. Fluid passage 418 may have at least one port 488 near first end 482. In the illustrated embodiment, two ports 488 are located on opposite sides of fluid conduit 480 and are circular in shape, although other locations and shapes may be used. Ports 488 may be located close to and distally from mating surface 486 of fluid conduit 480, or as far back as is practical from mating surface 486 while still allowing fluid to enter ports 488 when female connector 400 it is mated to the male connector 100. In some embodiments, the size of the 488 ports can be approximately one millimeter in diameter, although irregular other shapes and sizes may be used. Ports of at least approximately 1 mm or approximately 1 mm to 3 mm, or less than approximately 1 mm, can also be used.
[000101] The fluid conduit 480 may be composed of a rigid material, such as polycarbonate plastic, which is capable of arresting deformation when sufficient force to compress the sealing element 460 is exerted on the female connector 400. The ports 488 in the fluid conduit 480 may be in contact and covered by the proximal end of the sealing member 460 to deter or prevent the fluid passage 418 from being in fluid communication with the cavity 412 between the sealing member 460 and the inner wall of the female housing 440.
[000102] Referring to FIGURE 28, an embodiment of the sealing element 460 is described in more detail. In some embodiments, the sealing element 460 is generally cylindrical and has a bore 470 extending therethrough. In some embodiments, the sealing member 460 may have a sealing portion 462 and a compressible portion 464. The sealing portion 462 may have an inside diameter that is configured to occlude the first end 482 of the fluid conduit 480 to prevent flow of fluids out of ports 488.
[000103] In the illustrated embodiment, the packable part 464 has larger diameter parts separated by smaller diameter parts so that the packable part 464 decreases in longitudinal length (e.g., bending, compacting, compressing, or otherwise moving ) when a force is applied in the distal longitudinal direction. In some embodiments, the packable portion 464 may be made of an elastic material so that a restorative force pushes the packable portion 464 back to its initial length when the compaction force is removed. In some embodiments, the packable portion 464 can have a plurality of different types of configurations to provide a seal. In some embodiments, the sealing member may comprise a first end 466 with a generally round portion and a second portion 463 distal to the first end 466. The second portion 463 may comprise an outer diameter smaller than the diameter of the first end 466. or more compressible elements 465 may be positioned distally from the second portion 463. In some embodiments, the outer diameter of the compressible elements 465 may be greater than the outer diameter of either the first end 466 or the second portion 463. A distal portion may comprise an outside diameter that is generally the same size as the outside diameter of the compressible element(s).
[000104] A shoulder 468 may be disposed between the sealing portion 462 and the compressible portion 464. In the illustrated embodiment, the shoulder 468 is a portion having an increased diameter. As illustrated in FIGURE 25, shoulder 468 may engage with a surface of female housing 440 to prevent sealing member 460 from extrapolating or exiting the housing. The positioning of shoulder 468 on sealing member 460 is configured so that when shoulder 468 engages with female housing 440, sealing portion 462 is positioned over ports 488 in fluid conduit 480.
[000105] The sealing element 460 can be constructed of a material that deforms elastically or resiliently. The sealing element 460 can be urged towards returning the female connector 400 to a closed configuration. The amount of compressive strength of the sealing element 460 can be adjusted in many ways, such as varying the length of the compression portion 464 or the length of the chamber in the female housing 440 where the sealing element 460 resides. The amount of compressive strength can also be adjusted by increasing the thickness of the sealing element 460 and/or constructing the sealing element 460 from a variety of materials having different elastic properties. In some embodiments, female connector 400 is configured to be sufficiently break-proof to prevent accidental or unintended opening in general. The opening resistance of the connector may be controlled at least in part by the compressive strength exerted by the sealing member 460. In some embodiments, the compressible portion 464 may be configured as a spring positioned on the inner side of the female housing 440 to propel the member. seal 460 for the closed configuration. Movement of female connector 400 to the open configuration can compress the spring and movement of female connector 400 to the closed configuration can allow the spring to expand to release some or all of the compression.
[000106] As illustrated in FIGURES 21 and 24, the coupling part 446 at the first end 402 of the female connector 400 may have a corresponding side 408 that is generally transverse to the longitudinal axis of the female connector 400. In the illustrated embodiment, the corresponding side 408 has a generally annular shape. The mating side 408 may have an opening in the center for the sealing member 460, wherein a mating surface 466 of the sealing member 460 is exposed. The mating surface 466 of the sealing member 460 is configured to form a leakproof and/or lateral movement proof seal with the mating surface 128 of the male luer tip 122 and the mating surface 176 of the luer tip seal 119 Near the center of the sealing member 460 there may be an opening for the fluid conduit of the female connector 480. A first end 482 of the fluid conduit 480 may have a mating surface 486 configured to form a substantially leak-free seal with the surface. corresponding 146 of valve member 116.
[000107] As shown in the embodiment of the female connector 400 illustrated in FIGURES 21 and 24, the mating surface 466 of the sealing element 460 can be substantially flush with the mating side 408 of the female connector 400, and the end 466 of the sealing element 410 can completely fill the inner diameter or cross-section of end 114 of female connector 100. In some embodiments, as illustrated in FIGURE 32, the outer diameter of the proximal seal end 466 is generally the same size as the outer diameter of a male medical connector. ANSI standard luer type. In some embodiments, mating surface 486 of fluid conduit 480 may be substantially flush with mating side 408 of female connector 400. In some embodiments, mating surface 466 of compressible sealing member 460 and/or mating surface 486 of conduit of fluid 480 can be configured to further extend beyond mating side 408 of female connector 400 in the closed position. In some embodiments, mating surface 466 of sealing member 460 and/or mating surface 486 of fluid conduit 480 may be recessed into mating portion 446. In some embodiments, a portion of mating surface 466 of compressible sealing member and/or the mating side 408 of female connector 400 is substantially recessed, extends beyond, and/or is recessed within coupling portion 446, depending on the purposes of the particular embodiment.
[000108] In some embodiments, the first end 482 of the fluid conduit 480 may have a protrusion 490 that couples to a complementary cavity 147 in the corresponding surface 146 of the valve member 116. In the illustrated embodiment, the protrusion 490 is a generally cylindrical protrusion with rounded edges. In some embodiments, the protrusion may have a plurality of different types of shapes, such as protrusions having a generally rectangular, generally square, or generally polygonal cross-sectional shape to generally match the shape of cavity 147 in mating surface 146 of the valve member. 116. In some embodiments, the protrusion may be disposed on the mating surface 146 of the valve member 116 and the cavity may be at the first end 482 of the fluid conduit 480. The protrusion 490 and cavity 147 may help to align and arrest movement (eg, lateral movement) between the mating surface of male connector 100 and mating surfaces of female connector 400.
[000109] Sealing member 460 may occlude first end 482 of fluid conduit 480 to block fluid flow out of ports 488 when female connector 400 is in the closed configuration. A sealing portion 462 of sealing member 460 may be disposed within coupling portion 446 of female housing 440, as illustrated in FIGURE 25. In the illustrated embodiment, sealing portion 462 of sealing member 460 is disposed between the housing. female 440 and fluid conduit 480. In some embodiments, a tight fit between sealing member 460 and fluid conduit 480 can prevent fluid from flowing out of first end 402 of female connector 400. Sealing member 460 it can be made of an elastic material that helps to form the seal.
[000110] Female connector 400 can be manipulated to a second configuration or open configuration. In the open configuration, the sealing portion 462 of the sealing member 460 may be pushed back towards the second end 404 of the female connector 400, to thereby allow fluid to flow through ports 488 in the fluid conduit 480. open, fluid may enter fluid conduit 480 through ports 488 and travel through fluid passage 418, exiting through male luer coupling 485 of fluid conduit 480. In some embodiments, which include some in which fluid flows around the outside of a sealing element 460 rather than through it, the corresponding surface of the sealing element 460 may include a surface shape with an alignment structure (e.g., any alignment structures of the type described and/or or illustrated in this document for the end of the projecting part 491) at its front end. In some embodiments, the sealing element 460 does not have an opening and is closed at its corresponding end 466. In some embodiments, the housing includes a diaphragm to permit the evacuation of air from the interior of a compressor sealing element 460.
[000111] In some modalities, it is desirable to prevent some human contact with some medications (eg, skin contact or inhalation of vapors), especially with drugs to treat cancer or autoimmune diseases. Female connector 400 can help retain fluid within female connector 400 while holding the remaining fluid at the first end 402 of female connector 400 when it is being uncoupled and after it is uncoupled from a male connector 100 or other connector. Reducing the likelihood of remaining fluid remaining in the 400 female connector after demating can result in a corresponding reduction in the chance of toxic drug exposure to the skin of a user or patient.
[000112] With reference to FIGURES 29, 30 and 30A, male connector 100 is shown adjacent to female connector 400. In the illustrated embodiment, both male connector 100 and female connector 400 are in a closed configuration. Female connector 400 is positioned with its first end 402 adjacent to first end 112 of male connector 100. Male connector 100 can be screwed onto female connector 400.
[000113] As illustrated in FIGURES 31 and 32, the male connector 100 can be changed to the open configuration when a female connector 400 is mated to the male connector 100. The first end 402 of the female connector 400 can engage with the first end 112 of the male connector 100. Coupling portion 446 of female connector 400 may engage with housing 124 of male connector 100 to engage connectors 100, 400. Coupling portion 446 of female connector 400 and housing 124 with luer tip 122 on 100 male connector can conform to standard sizing for connectors, such as those that meet ANSI standards. In some embodiments, engagement between mating portion 446 of female connector 400 and housing 124 may detain lateral movement between mating surface 146 of valve member 116 and mating surface 486 of fluid conduit 480. Engagement between coupling portion 446 of female connector 400 and housing 124 may detain slope between mating surface 146 of valve member 116 and mating surface 486 of fluid conduit 480. Resistance to lateral movement and/or tilt between the mating surfaces 146, 486 can help reduce the likelihood that any mating surface 146, 486 will be exposed to fluid from within the connectors 100, 400.
[000114] As illustrated in FIGURE 32, mating surface 486 of fluid conduit 480 may engage mating surface 146 of valve member 116. When male connector 100 and female connector 400 are brought together, fluid conduit 480 may push the valve member 116 toward the second end 114 of the male connector 100. When the valve member 116 is pushed toward the second end 114 of the male connector 100, the ports 162 on the valve member 116 are moved away from the seal. luer tip 119, allowing fluid to flow out through ports 162. Therefore, male connector 100 is in an open configuration when valve member 116 is pushed toward second end 114.
[000115] Continuing with reference to FIGURE 32, mating surface 176 of luer tip seal 119 and mating surface 128 of male luer tip 122 may engage mating surface 466 of sealing member 460. When male connector 100 e the female connector 400 are approximated, the male luer tip 122 with the luer tip seal 119 can push the sealing member 460 towards the second end 404 of the female connector 400, compressing the packable part 464, or otherwise deforming or by moving, sealing member 460. When sealing member 460 is pushed toward second end 404 of female connector 400, ports 488 on fluid conduit 480 are uncovered, allowing fluid to flow through ports 480. configuration, female connector 400 is in an open configuration. In some embodiments, as described in this document, fluid may flow around the outside of the seal rather than through it and into ports 482 in the projecting portion 491 (which may be omitted in some embodiments).
[000116] When the valve member 116 is pushed towards the second end 114 of the male connector 100, the elastic member 118 is stretched, producing tension forces that exert a return force on the valve member 116 towards the first end 112 of the male connector 100. Therefore, in the open configuration of the male connector 100, the valve member 116 can be urged towards the first end 112 into a closed configuration. Similarly, when sealing element 460 is pushed toward second end 404 of female connector 400, compressible portion 464 is compressed and a spring return force is exerted to drive sealing element 460 to its original length and towards a closed configuration.
[000117] In some embodiments, the elastic member 118 may exert a closing force on the valve member 116 towards the first end 112 of the male connector 100. The mating surface 146 of the valve member 116 may generally maintain contact with the mating surface 486 of fluid conduit 480 throughout engagement between male connector 100 and female connector 400. In some embodiments, mating surface 146 of valve member 116 may have a cross section that is substantially the same as a cross section of the surface mating 486 of fluid conduit 480. In some embodiments, the outer periphery of mating surface 486 of fluid conduit 480 may be in contact with, and/or generally complementary to, the outer periphery of mating surface 146 of valve member 116 when male connector 100 and/or female connector 400 are in an open configuration.
[000118] In some embodiments, the mating surface of the male connector 100 and/or the female connector 400 may be at least partially compressible to help form a substantially leak-free or leak-proof seal between the mating surfaces. For example, mating surface 146 of valve member 116 may be made of an elastomeric material that can seal with mating surface 486 of fluid conduit 480 (which may itself be either flexible or rigid) so that fluid does not contact. the mating surfaces of male connector 100 and female connector 400. In some embodiments, mating surface 486 of fluid conduit 480 may be made of an elastomeric material that can seal to mating surface 146 of valve member 116 (which can be). being either flexible or rigid). In some embodiments, fluid may flow around the seal formed by the two mating surfaces 146, 486. In some embodiments, it is prevented from passing within the periphery of mating surfaces 146, 148 between those of mating surfaces 146, 148. , as described in this document, fluid can flow between the male connector 100 and the female connector 400 without requiring the perforation or penetration of a normally closed septum. For example, the septum can comprise a constant opening through which a fluid conduit can pass, or fluid can flow around the outside of a septum or other barrier. By sealing the fluid mating surfaces, the mating surface 146 of the valve member 116 and the mating surface 486 of the fluid conduit 480 may remain dry after disconnecting the two connectors 100, 400, and contamination for the provider may be lessened or eliminated health services or the surrounding environment.
[000119] In some embodiments, the cross section of the mating surface 146 of the valve member 116 may be approximately equal to or less than the cross section of the bore 470 of the sealing element 460. luer tip 119 may be less than or approximately the same as the inner cross section of bore 470 of sealing member 460. In some embodiments, engagement between the periphery of bore 470 and first end 112 of male connector 100 may help preventing fluid leakage to the mating surface 466 of the sealing member 460. For example, in some embodiments, the periphery of the bore 470 may engage with the mating surface 176 of the luer tip seal 119 and form a substantially tight seal. between the fluid path within the two connectors and the mating surface 466 of the sealing member 460. By sealing the mating surface 466 of the fluid sealing member 460, the mating surface 466 can remain dry during and after fluid transfer and reduce the risk that a healthcare provider may be exposed to the fluid.
[000120] In some embodiments, the inner cross section of the luer tip seal 119 may be less than or approximately the same as the outer cross section of the rigid tube 487 near the first end 482 of the fluid conduit 480. In some embodiments, the luer tip seal 119 can "clean" the outer surface of rigid tube 487 as it passes through luer tip seal 119 during opening and/or closing of valve member 116. In some variants, scrub the surface The outer shell of the rigid tube 487 as it passes through the luer tip seal 119 can help prevent fluid leakage from building up in the region of the first end 402 of the female connector 400. As explained above, in some embodiments, the outer cross section The natural cross section of the mating surface 146 of the valve member 116 may be slightly larger than the natural inner cross section of the luer tip seal 119. Additionally, the luer tip seal 119 can clean the outer surface of the valve member 116 when the valve member 116 moves toward a closed configuration from an open configuration. In some implementations, rubbing the outer surface of valve member 116 can help reduce the likelihood of fluid accumulation or leakage in the first end 112 region of male connector 100 during and/or after disengagement between mating surface 486 of the fluid conduit. 480 and the mating surface 146 of the valve member 116. By preventing the accumulation or leakage of fluid in the first end region 112 of the male connector 100 and/or in the first end region 402 of the female connector 400, the tip seal luer 119 can help reduce the likelihood that healthcare providers will be exposed to the fluid.
[000121] As described above, the mating surface 146 of the valve member 116 may have a cavity 147 that can accept a complementary protrusion 490 on the mating surface 486 of the fluid conduit 480. In another embodiment the cavity may be in the fluid conduit 480 and the protrusion may be in valve member 116. Cavity 147 and protrusion 490 may help align male connector 100 and female connector 400 during mating so that the components align for proper spacing of the parts. In some embodiments, the cavity and protrusion may have a circular cross-section. In some embodiments, the cavity and protrusion can be any of a plurality of different types of shapes, such as square or polygonal.
[000122] Referring to FIGURE 32, in the open configuration, fluid can flow between (to or from) the pipes 13 at the second end 114 of the male connector 100, into the end cap portion 130, through the chamber 154, through passage 156, out of ports 162 in valve member 116, into luer-type tip 122, into ports 488 in fluid conduit 480, through passage 418, and out of male luer-type coupling 485 in second end 404 of female connector 400. In the open configuration, the second end of male connector 100 is placed in fluid communication with second end 404 of female connector 400. Additionally, sealing member 120 on male connector 100 can maintain a fluid barrier between the inner surface of luer tip 122 and the inner surface of housing 123, confining fluid flow within the fluid path of female connector 400. In the illustrated example, the corresponding interface centers al between the male and female connectors is positioned in the fully open configuration within a neck portion of the female connector, or within an outer region of the proximal opening of the female connector, and inner side of the male luer tip 122 or outer sleeve.
[000123] In some embodiments, connectors 100, 400 can be unscrewed. During engagement, force stored in stretching elastic member 118 can return male connector 100 to its pre-engaged state by biasing valve member 116 to engage the inner surface of luer tip 122. Likewise, the elastic material of the sealing element 460 allows sealing element 460 to return to its form in the closed configuration where sealing portion 462 can seal ports 488 in fluid conduit 480.
[000124] FIGURE 33 illustrates another example of a connector system 1000 comprising a male connector 1100 and a female connector 1400. In some embodiments, as illustrated, a first end 1112 of the male connector 1100 may detachably couple to a first end 1402 of female connector 1400 while allowing, but not requiring, rotation of male connector 1100 or female connector 1400. As illustrated, first and second connectors 1100, 1400 can be selectively joined in a substantially linear motion in the which at least a part (and in some cases a greater part) of the outer surface area of one fits over at least a part (and in some cases a greater part) of the outer surface area of the other. In some embodiments, an audible sound may be produced when connectors 1100, 1400 engage. In the illustrated embodiment, male connector 1100 has a coupler element, such as tabs 1125 with hooks 1127 that engage with a channel 1444 in female connector 1400 to secure the connectors together. Many other types of snap arrangement can be employed to secure connectors together. For example, female connector 1400 may include a housing or other attachment structure (e.g., a housing 112 of the type illustrated in male connector 1100) that fits over or outside a portion of male connector 1400. modalities, as illustrated, the connection is reversible or detachable.
[000125] As further explained below, the first ends 1112, 1402 are configured so that a fluid passage 1156 of the male connector 1100 can be fluidly connected to the fluid passage 1418 of the female connector 1400 when the first ends 1112, 1402 are coupled . When male connector 1100 and female connector 1400 are disconnected, fluid paths 1156, 1418 are obstructed. The coupling between the male connector 1100 and the female connector 1400 is configured so that the first ends 1112, 1402 contain substantially no residual fluid after the connectors are disconnected.
[000126] FIGURE 34 illustrates the modality of the lockable male connector 1100 in FIGURE 33. Any of the configurations, devices, components, and/or alternatives of the male connector 1100 may comprise, be interchangeable with, or be used with any of the configurations, devices , components, materials, and/or alternatives to any other male connector. For example, connecting structure (eg hook and channel devices) related to preventing or preventing disconnection can be used with any suitable medical or other fluid connector.
[000127] FIGURES 34 and 35 are a perspective view and a side view, respectively, of the lockable male connector 1100 in a first position or closed position. The lockable male connector 1100 may have a first end 1112 and a second end 1114. The first end 1112 may be configured to mate with the female connector 1400. In some embodiments, the first end 1112 may include a fixture and/or alignment structure ( for example, a protrusion) that is configured to be contacted with (e.g., inserted into) another female connector 1400 attachment and/or alignment structure. In the illustrated embodiment, the first end 1112 has a male luer tip 1122 and a valve member 1116 (shown in more detail in FIGURES 36 and 39). In the closed position, valve member 1116 may cooperate with a luer tip seal 1119 on male luer tip 1122 to prevent or stop fluid flow through male connector 1100.
[000128] FIGURE 36 is an exploded perspective view of components of the lockable male connector mode 1100 shown in FIGURE 34. Referring to FIGURE 36, an end cap portion 1130 may be coupled to the male housing 1123 near the second end 1114 of the lockable male connector 1100, as generally described herein in other embodiments.
[000129] As illustrated in FIGURE 34, the male housing 1123 may have a housing 1124 that generally or completely surrounds the luer tip 1122. In some embodiments, the end of housing 1124 is moved away from end 114 of the male connector to prevent non-contact intentional external with end 1114 of the male connector, to thereby deter contamination of end 1114 from other surfaces and/or contamination of other contact surfaces with end 1114. In some embodiments, the space between end of housing 1124 and the end 1114 of the male connector is at least as large as the cross section of the fluid path within the valve member 1116. In some embodiments, the housing 1124 may have an inside diameter or cross section that can be larger than an outside diameter. of the cross section of the male luer tip 1122. The housing 1124 may have an engagement device to secure the male connector 1100 to the connector. female connector 1400. In the illustrated embodiment, housing 1124 has integral clips 1125 and release buttons 1126 for securing male connector 1100 to female connector 1400. Clips 1125 may have hooks 1127 that engage with a channel 1444 on female connector 1400. Hook and channel engagement allows 1100, 1400 connectors to be mated without requiring rotation of the connectors, which can be accomplished faster, may require less manual precision during mating, and/or may reduce the risk of twisting the lines of fluid fixed. A release structure, such as release button 1126, can be actuated (e.g., depressed) to lift hooks 1127 from channel 1444 to disconnect connectors. In some embodiments, the engagement device may not be integrated with the male housing 1123. For example, the tabs and release buttons may be separate components that are attached to the male housing 1123. In some embodiments, other engagement devices may be used to secure connectors together, such as threads, pins, detents, channels, and/or protrusions (eg, a bayonet-type connection).
[000130] The luer tip 1122 near the first end 1112 of the male connector 1100 may comprise a mating surface 1128 at the end that is configured to form a leak-proof and/or leak-free seal with at least a portion of the mating surface 1466 of sealing member 1460, as explained in this document in other embodiments. In the illustrated embodiment, mating surface 1128 is a thin ring at the end of luer tip 1122.
[000131] Valve member 1116 may be at least partially enclosed by male housing 1123, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIGURES 36 and 37. As illustrated in FIGURES 37 and 39, valve member 1116 may have a closure end 1144 which blocks the flow of fluid through the 1100 male connector in the closed configuration. Valve member 1116 may have a mating surface 1146 which may include a protrusion 1147 which may be coupled to a generally complementary cavity 1490 at a first end 1482 of fluid conduit 1480. In the illustrated embodiment, protrusion 1147 is a generally cylindrical protrusion or usually a disk with rounded edges. In some embodiments, the protrusion may have a plurality of different shapes, such as protrusions having a rectangular, square, or polygonal cross-sectional shape, to generally match the shape of cavity 1490 at first end 1482 of fluid conduit 1480. , the protrusion may be at first end 1482 of fluid conduit 1480 and the cavity may be disposed on mating surface 1146 of valve member 1116. Protrusion 1147 and cavity 1490 may help align mating surfaces of male connector 1100 with surfaces connectors of the 1400 female connector.
[000132] The valve member 1116 may have a pipe section 1117 with a channel extending into (for example, through the center of) the pipe section 1117. Fluid may flow through the pipe section 1117 of the member valve 1116 and out through ports 1162 on valve member 1116. Tube section 1117 may be made of an elastic material that can elastically deform. When the male connector 1100 is in the open position, the valve member 1116 is pushed toward the second end 1114 of the male connector 1100, compressing the elastic tube section 1117. In some embodiments, the tube section 1117 deforms by a small amount. so that the channel is not obstructed by the compressed tube section 1117. In some embodiments, the tube section 1117 may deform outwardly so that the channel is not obstructed. Tube section 1117 may exert a spring-return force on closing end 1144 toward first end 1112 of male connector 1100. This closing force on valve member 1116 is urged toward returning male connector 1100 to a closed configuration.
[000133] The amount of spring force exerted by the tube section 1117 can be modified by varying several parameters, such as the length of the tube section 1117, the thickness of the tube section 1117, and/or by the construction of the tube section 1117 from a variety of materials having different elastic properties. In some embodiments, the male connector 1100 is configured to require sufficient opening force to prevent accidental or unintended opening. In some embodiments, the force required to open the connector is controlled at least in part by the compression force of the tube section 1117. In some embodiments, the tube section may have a coil spring positioned on the inner side of the male housing 1123 to urge the closing end 1144 of the valve member 1116 to the closed position. In some embodiments, the tube section may have other driving members, such as elastic bands or actuators.
[000134] In some embodiments, the valve member 1116 may have an end piece 1145 near the closure end 1144 of the male luer tip 1122. In some embodiments, the end piece 1145 may have a body end portion 1167 with an outside diameter or cross section. In some embodiments, end piece 1145 may have a flange 1149 that extends from body end portion 1167. In some embodiments, flange 1149 has at least one slot 1165. In some embodiments, end piece 1145 may have at least one port 1162. End piece 1145 may include an extension portion 1166 that extends from the body end portion 1167 toward the closing end 1144 of the luer tip 1122. In some embodiments, the extension portion 1166 may have an outside diameter or cross-section that is less than the outside diameter or cross-section of the end portion of the body 1167. In some embodiments, the extension portion 1166 can form a unitary piece with the protrusion 1147. In some embodiments, end piece 1145 may be constructed of a rigid or semi-rigid material.
[000135] In some embodiments, valve member 1116 may have a sleeve part 1163. In some embodiments, sleeve part 1163 has an inside diameter or cross section and an outside diameter or cross section. The glove portion 1163 may be constructed of an elastic material that can elastically deform. In some embodiments, the sleeve portion may have one or more bevels, protrusions, or grooves to facilitate compression and/or recoil. In some embodiments, sleeve portion 1163 may be configured to engage with extension portion 1166. In some embodiments, the inside diameter or cross section of the sleeve portion 1163 is smaller than the outside diameter or cross section of the extension portion 1166, which can assist valve member 1116 in stopping leakage between sleeve portion 1163 and extension portion 1166.
[000136] In some embodiments, the valve member 1116 may include an attachment portion 1164. The attachment portion 1164 may be constructed of an elastic material that can elastically deform. In some embodiments, the fastening portion 1164, the sleeve portion 1163, and/or the tube section 1117 may be constructed of the same material and/or form a unitary piece. In some embodiments, clamping portion 1164 may be configured to engage with the at least one slot 1165 in flange 1149, as illustrated in FIGURE 39. In some embodiments, clamping portion 1164 may be biased into a stretched configuration.
[000137] In some embodiments, the end piece 1145 can be secured to the tube section 1117 and/or sleeve part 1163 through an adhesive. In some embodiments, clamping portion 1164 may be configured to exert a biasing force on sleeve portion 1163 and tube section 1117 and urge sleeve portion 1163 toward tube section 1117. end piece 1145 between sleeve portion 1163 and tube section 1117. For example, in some embodiments flange 1149 may engage with tube section 1117 and body end portion 1167 may engage with sleeve portion 1163 This engagement can help end piece 1145 to stop the disengagement of sleeve portion 1167 and/or tube section 1117.
[000138] A luer tip seal 1119 may be disposed within the luer tip 1122, as illustrated in FIGURES 36 and 37, as generally described in other embodiments. Luer tip seal 1119 may be disposed between male housing 1123 and valve member 1116 to form a seal over ports 1162 of valve member 1116 in the closed position. In the illustrated embodiment, the luer tip seal 1119 has a pair of protrusions 1177 that can mate with notches 1129 in the male luer tip seal 1122 to hold the luer tip seal 1119 in place when the valve member 1116 slides longitudinally into the housing. 1123 male tip. In some embodiments, the 1119 luer tip seal may be secured to the 1122 luer male tip by adhesives, welding, forced fit, friction fit, or any other suitable methods.
[000139] As shown in the embodiment of the male connector 1100 illustrated in FIGURE 34, the mating surface 1146 of the valve member 1116 is disposed substantially flush through the luer tip 1122 when the male connector 1100 is in the closed position. In some embodiments, mating surface 1146 of valve member 116 may be configured to further extend beyond mating surface 1128 of luer tip 1122 when male connector 100 is in the closed position. In some embodiments, mating surface 1146 of valve member 116 may be recessed into luer tip 1122.
[000140] Male connector 1100 can be manipulated to a second position or open position. In the open position, valve member 1116 is retracted from luer tip 1122, to thereby allow fluid in valve member 1116 to exit ports 1162 and around closing end 1144. Fluid may pass from the luer housing at second end 1114 through the interior of male connector 1100 and exits valve member 1116 when male connector 1100 is in the open configuration.
[000141] As illustrated in FIGURE 37, a passage 1156 may extend through at least a portion of the valve member 1116. The passage 1156 may be circular in cross section as shown in the illustrated embodiment, or the passage 1156 may have other Cross-section geometric shapes. The passage 1156 may have at least one port 1162 near the closing end 1144 of the valve member 1116. In the illustrated embodiment, two ports 162 are located on generally opposite sides of the valve member 1116 and are rectangular, although other locations may be used. and shapes.
[000142] In the embodiment illustrated in FIGURE 37, the male connector 1100 is in a closed position. One end of the valve member 1116 can contact a firing pin 1170 of the first cap member 1132. In some embodiments, the end of the valve member 1116 can form a seal with the end of the firing pin 1170 to substantially deter liquids from infiltrating the joint. between valve member 1116 and firing pin 1170. In some embodiments, the end of valve member 1116 can be secured to firing pin 1170 by any suitable methods, such as adhesives, sonic welding, solvent bonding, etc.
[000143] The passage 1156 may be in fluid communication with a conduit 1194 of the first cap component 1132. The conduit 1194 may have a smaller cross-sectional area than the passage 1156 as illustrated. In some embodiments, conduit 1194 may have approximately the same cross-sectional area size as passage 1156. In some embodiments, conduit 1194 may be larger than passage 1156. Conduit 1194 may be tubular, as illustrated, or configured with a non-circular cross section of any other suitable shape.
[000144] The firing pin 1170 may have an outside dimension that is comparable to the inside dimension of the end of the male housing 1123, but that does not firmly contact this wall to allow relative movement (eg rotational movement) between the components. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGURE 37, firing pin 1170 is circular to thus match the tubular geometry of male housing 1123, but other geometric shapes may be used where appropriate. To prevent fluid from escaping past firing pin 1170, a seal (e.g. seal ring 1160) may be disposed in a groove 1169 behind firing pin 1170. Seal ring 1160 may contact the wall of male housing 1123, such as shown, preventing fluid from flowing around firing pin 1170. In some embodiments, firing pin 1170 is a part of end cap 1130. End cap 1130 can be coupled to male housing 1123 via sonic welding, adhesive, or any another suitable method for coupling as described above. The firing pin 1170 can be considered to be in a static position relative to the male housing 1123. In some embodiments, the firing pin 1170 is formed integrally with the male housing 1123 and the end cap 1130 is a separate piece properly secured to the male housing 1123 such as as by sonic welding. In some embodiments, second cap component 1134 can comprise a ridge 1135. Additionally, in some embodiments, second cap component 1134 can be formed integrally or unitarily with male housing 1123. First cap component 1132 can be formed separately as compared to second cap component 1134 or male housing 1123.
[000145] As shown in FIGURE 37, fluid may flow into luer receiver 1158 and pass into conduit 1194. From conduit 1194, fluid may pass into passageway 1156. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, when the male connector 1100 is in the closed position, the closing end 1144 of the valve member 1116 can seal the hole in the luer tip 1122, preventing fluid from passing out of the end of the luer tip 1122. However, fluid can generally exit the passage. 1156 through ports 1162 in valve member 1116. Fluid may reside within luer tip 1122, but may be prevented from flowing out of luer tip 1122 by luer tip seal 1119 and prevented from flowing back towards the second end 114 on the outer side of valve member 116 by pipe section 1117. Consequently, when the male connector 1100 is in the closed position, as illustrated, there can be fluid communication between re the luer receiver 1158 and the interior of the luer tip 1122, without allowing fluid to exit the first end 1112 of the male connector 1100.
[000146] The male connector 1100 can be changed to the open configuration when mated with a female connector 1400. The luer tip 1122 protrudes at least partially into the female connector 1400 and the fluid conduit 1480 in the female connector 1400 engages the member of valve 1116 to push closing end 1144 of valve member 1116 toward second end 1114 of male connector 1100. Also, hooks 1127 on housing 1124 of male connector 1100 may engage channel 1444 on female connector 1400 to hold the connectors together. The connection of male connector 1100 and female connector 1400 is described in additional detail below.
[000147] When the valve member 1116 is moved towards the second end 1114, the closing end of the valve 1144 may separate from the luer tip 1122, moving the ports 1162 away from the luer tip seal 1119. Consequently, the fluid may flow around closure end 1144 and into a mated female connector 1400. In some embodiments, tube section 1117 can prevent fluid from passing between the interior of luer tip 1122 and valve member 1116 toward the second end 1114 of male connector 1100. Accordingly, in the open position, fluid may pass from luer receiver 1158 through conduit 1194, passage 1156, port or ports 1162 in valve member 1116, into the interior of luer tip 1122, and into a port on female connector 1400.
[000148] As can be seen in the embodiment illustrated in FIGURE 52, when the male connector 1100 is in the open position, the closing end 1144 of the valve member 1116 can be moved towards the second end 1114 of the male connector 1100, closer to the firing pin portion 1170 of the end cap 1130. Consequently, the tube section 1117 is compressed and the volume of the passage 1156 can be reduced in the open position.
[000149] Correspondingly, when the male connector 1100 is changing from an open position to a closed position, the volume of the passage 1156 increases when the closing end 1144 of the valve member 1116 moves towards the first end 1112 of the male connector 1100 When the closing end of valve 1144 of valve member 1116 advances toward first end 1112, closing end 1144 can seal the hole in luer tip 1122. If no additional fluid is introduced into male connector 1100 through the receiver luer 1158, fluid in luer tip 1122 can be drawn back through ports 1162 into passage 1156 by the vacuum effect created as the volume of passage 1156 increases. In this case, fluid may be prevented from exiting the orifice in luer tip 1122 when the closing end of valve 1144 moves into place in the orifice because the fluid may instead be drawn back to passage 1156. embodiments, fluid near mating surface 1146 of valve member 1116 is encouraged to move into male connector 100 rather than remaining near mating surface 1146 when closure end 1144 moves toward first end 1112 of male housing 1123, to thereby deter exposure of the corresponding surface 1146 to the fluid.
[000150] However, if additional fluid is still being introduced into male connector 1100 through luer receiver 1158, additional fluid may advance to passage 1156 and accumulate there when closing end 1144 moves towards first end 1112 to close the luer tip 1122. The pressure of the newly introduced fluid can be prevented from forcing the fluid to flow out of the luer tip 1122 when the luer tip seal 1119 seals the luer tip 1122. Consequently, the fluid flow is allowed through male connector 1100 while female connector 1400 is mated to first end 1112 of male connector 1100, but prevented while female connector 1400 is being disengaged and after female connector 1400 has been unmated.
[000151] As described above, in some modalities it may be desirable to prevent certain medications from contacting the skin or being inhaled. Male connector 1100 can help retain fluid within male connector 1100 while substantially eliminating fluid remaining in luer tip 1122 when it is being uncoupled from a female connector 1400 or other fitting. Consequently, reducing the likelihood of remaining fluid remaining in the 1122 luer tip after uncoupling, results in a corresponding reduction in the chance of toxic drug exposure to the skin of a user or a patient.
[000152] FIGURES 39 and 40 are perspective views of an example of a valve member 1116 and luer tip seal 119, respectively, of the lockable male connector embodiment 1100 shown in FIGURE 34. With specific reference to FIGURE 39 , one or more of ports 1162 may be located proximate to mating surface 1146. Ports 1162 may be rectangular, as illustrated, or may have other shapes. Male connector 1100 may be adapted to be opened when placed in mating engagement with female connector 1400. For example, female connector 1400 may include an engagement member such as, but not limited to, a surface generally complementary to protrusion 1147 with a cavity that can engage the closure face of valve 1144 to open male connector 1100. In some embodiments, a slider, knob, or other manually actuated actuator can be appropriately configured to open male connector 1100.
[000153] Referring to FIGURE 40, the luer tip seal 1119 may be substantially cylindrical with an opening 1178 extending along the longitudinal axis of the luer tip seal 1119. The side facing the first end 1112 of the male connector 1100 may have a mating surface 1176 that is configured to mate with a mating surface of female connector 1400. Luer tip seal 1119 may be constructed of a number of different materials. In some embodiments, the luer tip seal 1119 may be made of a deformable silicon-based material. Silicon-based deformable materials are among those that can form fluid-tight closures with plastics and other rigid polymeric materials.
[000154] The end cap portion 1130 (see FIGURE 37) may be similar to the end cap portion 130 described above in other embodiments. The end cap portion 1130 and corresponding components are referenced in the current mode with similar reference numerals, except the increase by an order of 1000.
[000155] FIGURES 41 and 42 are a perspective view and a side view, respectively, of the female connector 1400 in a first position or closed position. Any of the configurations, devices, components, and/or alternatives of female connector 1400 may comprise, be interchangeable with, or be used with any of the configurations, devices, components, materials, and/or alternatives of any other female connector. Additionally, any of the other connectors described in this document may comprise any of the configurations, devices, and components of the 1400 female connector. For example, devices related to preventing or preventing disconnection of the male and female connectors may be used with any suitable fluid connectors. medicinal or other.
[000156] FIGURE 43 is an exploded perspective view of components of the female connector mode 1400 shown in FIGURE 41. A fluid conduit 1480 with one or more side ports 1488 may be coupled to the female housing 1440 near the second end 1404 of the female connector 1400. One or more of the components of the fluid conduit 1480 may be integral or unitary with the female housing 1440. In some embodiments, the fluid conduit 1480 may have a second end 1484 that is configured to mate with a second component of the fluid. cap 1134. Fluid conduit 1480 and second cap component 1134 can be coupled by various methods, such as adhesives, sonic welding, solvent bonding, press fit, etc. A first cap component 1420 may also be coupled to second cap component 1134 and fluid conduit 1480. First cap component 1420 is rotatable relative to second cap component 1134 and fluid conduit 1480. A sealing element generally compressible or deformable 1460 may enclose at least a portion of fluid conduit 1480. Sealing element 1460 may occlude ports 1488 in fluid conduit 1480 when female connector 1400 is in a closed configuration. Sealing member 1460 and fluid conduit 1480 may be contained at least partially within female housing 1440.
[000157] As illustrated in FIGURES 41 and 42 the female connector 1400 may have a first end 1402 and a second end 1404. The first end 1402 may be configured to mate with the male connector 1100. In some embodiments, the female connector 1400 may have a female housing 1440 with a mating side 1408 that is configured to be mated to male connector 1100. First end 1402 may include a mating structure that is complementary to mating structure in housing 1124 of male connector 1100. In the illustrated embodiment, the female connector 1400 has a selectively connectable connecting surface, such as a groove, bevel, or channel 1444, that engages with a selectively connectable connecting surface, such as sockets, fasteners, clamping members, or hooks 1127, on the male connector 1100 to detachably secure the connectors. Many other types of snapping elements can be used to secure the connectors together.
[000158] The female housing 1440 of the female connector 1400 can extend between the first end 1402 and the second end 1404. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGURE 45, the female housing 1440 has a generally cylindrical body 1442. In some embodiments, the body 1442 it may have a generally circular, generally square, generally polygonal cross section, or any other suitable shape. A compressible or elastic sealing member 1460 and a fluid conduit 1480 are contained at least partially within the female housing 1440.
[000159] Near the first end 1402 there may be a channel 1444 which extends around the outer circumference of the female housing 1440. The channel 1444 may accept hooks 1127 in the tabs 1125 of the male housing 1123. In some embodiments, the corresponding side 1408 of the female housing 1440 may be chamfered or rounded to allow hooks 1127 to slide around first end 1402 of female connector 1400 when the two connectors are joined.
[000160] The female housing 1440 may have a mating stop, such as a mating flange 1448 that protrudes from the circumference of the female housing 1440, to provide a shoulder or stop to prevent the male connector 1100 from being inserted too deep into the female connector 1400. In some embodiments, mating flange 1448 extends continuously around the entire circumference of female housing 1440. In some embodiments, mating flange 1448 may be broken or segmented and extends around less than the entire circumference of the female housing 1440, for example as one or more protrusions or in a series of broken segments. In some embodiments, coupling portion 446 may be molded integrally or otherwise formed with female housing 440. In some embodiments, coupling portion 1446 may be a separate component that is connected to female housing 1440, such as by welding , adhesives, or fasteners. In some embodiments, the position of the coupling stop may be closer to the first end or proximal end than to the second end or distal end. The outermost radial extent of the mating stop may be greater than or approximately equal to the inner diameter of the housing 1124 of the closable luer male connector 1123. In some embodiments, the female housing may have an extended portion 1447 between the mating stop and the channel 1444.
[000161] With reference to FIGURE 46, fluid conduit 1480 may be similar to fluid conduit 480 (see, for example, FIGURE 27), and the description of each fluid conduit 480, 1480, and the uses and alternatives of same, apply to the other. Fluid conduit 1480 may have a first end 1482 and a second end 1484. First end 1482 may have a mating surface 1486 that is configured to mate with mating surface 1146 of valve member 1116. to first end 1482 which is fluidly connected to a fluid passage 1418 which extends through the center of fluid conduit 1480. In the illustrated embodiment, fluid conduit 1480 has two ports on approximately opposite sides. In some embodiments, fluid conduit 1480 may have more than two ports 1488. Second end 1484 of fluid conduit 480 may be configured to mate with a first cap component 1420 and a second cap component 1134.
[000162] There may be a tube 1487 extending from the first end 1482 to the second end 1484 with a fluid passage 1418 (see FIGURE 50) extending through the interior (e.g., center) of the tube 1487. In the illustrated embodiment in FIGURE 44, tube 1487 is generally cylindrical near first end 1482 and generally frustoconical near second end 1484. In some embodiments, the tube may have other cross-sectional shapes, such as generally square, generally polygonal, or generally oval.
[000163] As illustrated in FIGURE 44, fluid passage 1418 may be circular in cross section, or fluid passage 1418 may have other geometric shapes of cross section. In the illustrated embodiment, two ports 1488 are located on generally opposite sides of fluid conduit 1480 and are rectangular in shape, although other locations and shapes may be used. Side ports 1488 may be located near mating surface 1486 of fluid conduit 1480, or positioned on the side of fluid conduit 1480 as far back from mating surface 1486 as practical while still allowing fluid to enter the ports. 1488 when female connector 1400 is mated with male connector 1100. As illustrated, the proximal end or proximal region of fluid conduit 1480 may be blunt, untapered, generally planar, and closed to fluid flow. In some embodiments, the size of ports 1488 can be approximately one millimeter in length and/or width, although irregular shapes and other sizes can be used. Ports of at least approximately 1 mm or approximately 1 mm to approximately 3 mm, or smaller than or equal to approximately 1 mm, can also be used. The cross-sectional width (or outside diameter) of the proximal end of fluid conduit 1480 may be very large, as illustrated. For example, as shown, the cross-sectional width (or outer diameter) of the proximal end of fluid conduit 1480 may be approximately the same size as the outer diameter of fluid conduit 1480, or greater than or approximately the same size as the inside diameter of the male tip at the distal end of the female connector, or approximately the same size or greater than an inside diameter of the 1480 fluid conduit near the base of the fluid conduit, or generally approximately the same size as the wall thickness of the sealing element at the proximal end or neck region of the housing, or substantially greater than the thickness of the housing wall.
[000164] The fluid conduit 1480 may be composed of a rigid material, such as polycarbonate plastic, which is capable of arresting compression or deformation when sufficient force is exerted to compress or deform the sealing element 1460 on the female connector 1400 Ports 1488 in fluid conduit 480 may be sealed by sealing member 1460 to prevent fluid from escaping from fluid passage 1418 when female connector 1400 is in the closed configuration.
[000165] Female connector 1400 may include a first cap component 1420 and a second cap component 1134 near second end 1404, similar to male connector 1100. In some embodiments, second cap component 1134 may be the same as, or similar to, the second cap component described in the male connector 1100. As illustrated in FIGURES 44 and 47, the first cap component 1420 may be configured to have a protrusion for engaging fluid conduit 1480 at one end and to have a 1485 male luer coupling on the other end. A fluid path may extend longitudinally through the first cap member 1420 so that the fluid conduit 1480 can be in fluid communication with the male luer-type coupling 1485. The male luer-type coupling 1485 includes a housing with internal threads that wraps a male luer tip. The 1485 male luer coupling can comply with ANSI specifications for male connectors. The 1485 male luer coupling may receive a female connector component from another connector or syringe.
[000166] As illustrated in FIGURE 44, the second cap component 1134 can be coupled to the second end 1484 of the fluid conduit 1480 and/or the female housing 1440. In some embodiments, the second cap component 1134 can be fixedly secured to the 1480 fluid conduit or 1440 female housing by sonic welding, adhesives, or any other suitable method. In the illustrated embodiment, first cap component 1420 is rotatably coupled to second cap component 1134 as well as fluid conduit 1480. In some embodiments, first cap component 1420 and/or second cap component 1134 may be integral or unitary with the 1440 female housing.
[000167] In some embodiments, the portion of the first cap component 1420 that couples to the fluid conduit 1480 may have an outer dimension that is comparable to the inner dimension of the wall of the fluid conduit 1480, but does not contact this wall to allow relative movement between the components. To prevent fluid from escaping between the fluid conduit 1480 and the first cap component 1420, a flexible or elastic seal, such as a sealing ring 1160, may be disposed in a groove 1424 in the first cap component 1420. 1424 may extend around the outer circumference of the first cap member 1420 where it engages with fluid conduit 1480. O-ring 1160 may contact the wall of fluid conduit 1480, as shown, preventing fluid from escaping to outside fluid passage 1418. First cap component 1420 is capable of pivoting relative to fluid conduit 1480 so that male luer coupling 1485 can be connected to another connector without twisting female connector 1400 in its entirety.
[000168] Additionally, the first cap component 1420 may comprise an annular groove 1422 which may interact with complementary devices on the second cap component 1134 to axially restrict movement of the first cap component 1420 with respect to the second cap component 1134. Referring to FIGURE 44, the first cap component 1420 and the second cap component 1134 may be sized and configured to prevent the first cap component 1420 from inadvertently being ripped from the second cap component 1134.
[000169] Additionally, as illustrated in FIGURE 47, the first cap component 1420 may comprise an angled or rounded surface positioned between the annular groove 1422 and the channel seal ring 1424. The angled or rounded surface may facilitate coupling or assembly of the first cap component 1420 to second cap component 1134. In some embodiments, first cap component 1420 and/or second cap component 1134 may comprise any suitable devices, lubricants, or materials to facilitate coupling of the first cap component 1420 and second cap component 1134, or, to facilitate rotation of first cap component 1420 relative to second cap component 134.
[000170] In some embodiments, the cap components may comprise structures to stop the disconnection of the male end 1485 of the female connector 1400 and/or that can facilitate the rotation of the male end 1485 of the female connector 1400. For example, the first component of cap 1420 may have breakable tabs that prevent the first cap component 1420 from rotating relative to the second cap component 1134 during an initial stage, as described herein. Once the tabs have broken off from the first cap component 1420, the first cap component 1420 is then able to rotate substantially free within the second cap component 1134. However, the first cap component 1420 may still be retained in the female connector 1400 by coupling the annular groove 1422 and the annular protrusion in the second cap component 1134. Also, the seal ring 1160 can deter or prevent fluid leakage regardless of the ability of the first cap component 1420 to rotate. Female connector 1400 may arrest disconnection of mated components due to the torque required for this disconnection by merely rotating first cap component 1420 relative to female housing 1400 and/or second cap component 1134.
[000171] Referring to FIGURE 48, the sealing member 1460 is described in greater detail. In some embodiments, sealing member 1460 is generally cylindrical and has a bore 1470 extending therethrough. Sealing member 1460 may have a sealing portion 1462 and a compressible portion 1464. Sealing portion 1462 may have an inner diameter that is configured to occlude first end 1482 of fluid conduit 1480 to block outward fluid flow of ports 1488.
[000172] In the illustrated embodiment, at least the distal portion 1464 is generally cylindrical and may deform, compress, or otherwise decrease in length. The compressible portion 1464 is made of an elastic or deformable material such that a restoring force urges the distal portion 1464 back to its initial length when the distally directed force is removed. In some embodiments, compressible portion 1464 may have a plurality of different types of configurations to provide a compressible seal, as in other embodiments described herein.
[000173] A shoulder or stop 1468 may be disposed between the sealing portion 1462 and the compressible portion 1464. In the illustrated embodiment, the stop 1468 is a portion with an increased outer diameter. As illustrated in FIGURE 44, stop 1468 may engage with a surface of female housing 1440 to prevent compressible sealing member 1460 from extrapolating or protruding from female housing. The positioning of stop 1468 on sealing member 1460 is configured so that when stop 1468 engages female housing 1440, sealing portion 1462 is positioned over ports 1488 in fluid conduit 1480.
[000174] The sealing element 1460 can be constructed of a material that compresses or deforms elastically. The sealing element 1460 is urged towards returning the female connector 1400 to a closed configuration. The amount of compressive strength exerted by the sealing element 1460 can be adjusted by varying the length of the compression portion 1464 or the length of the chamber in the female housing 1440 where the sealing element 1460 resides. The amount of compressive strength can also be adjusted by increasing the thickness of the sealing element 1460 and/or using a variety of materials having different elastic properties. In some embodiments, compressible portion 1464 may be configured as a spring positioned on the inner side of female housing 1440 to urge sealing member 1460 into the closed configuration, as described in other embodiments.
[000175] As illustrated in FIGURES 41 and 44, the first end 1402 of female connector 1400 may have a mating side 1408 that is generally transverse to the longitudinal axis of female connector 1400. In the illustrated embodiment, mating side 1408 generally has a shape ring. The mating side 1408 may have an opening in the central region for the sealing member 1460, wherein a mating surface 1466 of the sealing member 1460 is exposed. The mating surface 1466 of the sealing member 1460 is configured to form a leak-tight seal with the mating surface 1128 of the male luer tip 1122 and the mating surface 1176 of the luer tip seal 1119. An opening for the fluid conduit of the female connector 1480 may be proximate to the center of the sealing member 1460. A first end 1482 of the fluid conduit 1480 may have a mating surface 1486 configured to form a leak-tight seal with the mating surface 1146 of the valve member 1116.
[000176] As shown in the female connector 1400 embodiment illustrated in FIGURES 41 and 44, the mating surface 1466 of the sealing member 1460 may be substantially flush with the mating side 1408 of the female connector 1400. In some embodiments, the mating surface 1486 of the fluid conduit 1480 may be substantially flush with mating side 1408 of female connector 1400. In some embodiments, mating surface 1466 of sealing member 1460 and/or mating surface 1486 of fluid conduit 1480 may be configured to further extend plus the 1408 mating side of the 1400 female connector in the closed position. In some embodiments, mating surface 1466 of sealing member 1460 and/or mating surface 1486 of fluid conduit 1480 may be recessed into coupling portion 1446.
[000177] In some embodiments, first end 1482 of fluid conduit 1480 may have a cavity 1490 that couples to a complementary protrusion 1147 on mating surface 1146 of valve member 1116. In the illustrated embodiment, cavity 1490 is a rounded bore. In some embodiments, the cavity can have a plurality of types of different shapes, such as rectangular, square or polygonal shape. In some embodiments, the cavity may be disposed on mating surface 1146 of valve member 1116 and the protrusion may be at first end 1482 of fluid conduit 1480. Cavity 1490 and protrusion 1147 may help to align mating surfaces, and to deter lateral movement and fluid leakage between male connector 1100 and female connector 1400.
[000178] Seal member 1460 can occlude first end 1482 of fluid conduit 1480 to block fluid flow out of ports 1488 when female connector 1400 is in the closed configuration. A sealing portion 1462 of sealing member 1460 may be disposed within coupling portion 1446 of female housing 1440, as illustrated in FIG. 44. In the illustrated embodiment, sealing portion 1462 of sealing member 1460 is disposed between the housing. female 1440 and fluid conduit 1480. In some embodiments, a tight fit between sealing member 1460 and fluid conduit 1480 can prevent fluid from flowing out of first end 1402 of female connector 1400. Seal member 1460 can be made of an elastic material that helps form the seal.
[000179] Female connector 1400 can be manipulated to a second configuration or open configuration. In the open configuration, the sealing portion 1462 of the sealing member 1460 can be pushed back towards the second end 1404 of the female connector 1400, to thereby allow fluid to flow through ports 1488 in the fluid conduit 1480. open, fluid may enter fluid conduit 1480 through ports 1488 and travel through fluid passageway 1418, exiting through male luer coupling 1485.
[000180] Female connector 1400 can help retain fluid within female connector 1400 while substantially or entirely eliminating fluid remaining at first end 1402 of female connector 1400 when it is being uncoupled from male connector 1100 or from another connection. Stopping the remaining fluid that remains in the 1400 female connector after de-mating can result in a corresponding reduction in toxic drug exposure to a user or a patient.
[000181] Referring to FIGURES 49 and 50, male connector 1100 is shown adjacent to female connector 1400. In the illustrated embodiment, both male connector 1100 and female connector 1400 are in a closed configuration. Female connector 1400 is positioned with its first end 1402 adjacent to first end 1112 of male connector 1100. Male connector 1100 can be engaged with female connector 1400 by pushing the connectors together without requiring twisting or turning of any connector.
[000182] As illustrated in FIGURES 51 and 52, the male connector 1100 can be changed to the open configuration when a female connector 1400 is mated to the male connector 1100. The first end 1402 of the female connector 1400 can engage the first end 1112 of the connector male 1100. A first biased engagement portion, such as hooks 1127 on tabs 1125, of male connector 1100 may engage with a second engagement portion, such as channel 1444, on female connector 1400 to releasably secure the connectors. The hook and channel engagement allows the 1100, 1400 connectors to be mated without requiring rotation of the connectors, which reduces the risk of kinking the attached fluid lines and requires less precise manual handling by the healthcare professional. The locations of the first and second coupling parts on the respective connectors can be reversed. In some embodiments, hooks 1127 may slide over mating side 1408 of female connector 1400 and descend into channel 1444. In some embodiments, an audible sound may be produced when hooks 1127 positively engage with channel 1444 on female connector 1400. Release button 1126 can be pressed to lift hooks 1127 from channel 1444 to disconnect connectors.
[000183] In some embodiments, the engagement between the hooks 1127 of the male connector 1100 and the channel 1444 of the female connector 1400 can reduce the probability of lateral movement between the mating surface 1146 of the valve member 1116 and the mating surface 1486 of the conduit fluid 1480. In some embodiments, engagement between hooks 1127 of male connector 1100 and channel 1444 of female connector 1400 arrests the slope between mating surface 1146 of valve member 1116 and mating surface 1486 of fluid conduit 1480 during and /or after coupling. Reducing lateral movement and/or tilt between mating surfaces 1146, 1486 can help reduce the likelihood that any mating surface 1146, 1486 will be exposed to fluid from within connectors 1100, 1400.
[000184] The mating surface 1486 of the fluid conduit 1480 may engage the mating surface 1146 of the valve member 1116. These mating non-planar tight-fitting surfaces 1186, 1146 and/or the interaction between the tight-fitting outer casing 1124 and a outer surface of the adjoining connector (e.g., the outer surface of the extended portion 1447 of the female connector), may deter lateral movement between mating surfaces 1186, 1146 to deter penetration or ingress of fluid therebetween. When male connector 1100 and female connector 1400 are mated, fluid conduit 1480 can push closing end 1144 of valve member 1116 toward second end 1114 of male connector 1100. When closing end 1144 is pushed into toward the second end 1114 of male connector 1100, ports 1162 on valve member 1116 are displaced away from luer tip seal 1119, allowing fluid to flow out through ports 1162. Therefore, male connector 1100 is moved. to an open configuration when the closing end 1144 of the valve member 1116 is pushed towards the second end 1114.
[000185] As illustrated in FIGURE 52, the mating surface 1176 of the luer tip seal 1119 and the mating surface 1128 of the male luer tip 1122 can engage the mating surface 1466 of the sealing member 1460. When the male connector 1100 and the female connector 1400 are mated, the male luer tip 1122 with the luer tip seal 1119 can push the sealing member 1460 towards the second end 1404 of the female connector 1400, applying force to the compression portion 1464 of the sealing member 1460 When sealing member 1460 is pushed toward second end 1404 of female connector 1400, ports 1488 in fluid conduit 1480 are uncovered, allowing fluid to flow through ports 1480. In this example, female connector 1400 is at an open configuration. Since the sealing member 1460 includes an opening or hole 1470 at its proximal end, the tube 1487 in the female connector, the male luer tip 1122 in the male connector, and/or the valve member 116 of the connector is not required. for piercing, piercing, cutting, penetrating, passing through, separating, prying open, or otherwise substantially modifying the size, shape, or dimensions of the proximal end of sealing member 1460. Instead, in some embodiments, as illustrated , the proximal end of sealing element 1460 is moved by the male connector inlet, but the shape of the proximal end of sealing element 1460 remains intact and unchanged during both opening and closing. The size and shape of hole 1470, and the size and shape of the proximal end of sealing element 1460, and/or of a diaphragm, hole, or opening in the proximal end of sealing element 1460, may generally be the same in the closed stages and open, and during the change between these stages.
[000186] When the closing end 1144 of the valve member 1116 is pushed towards the second end 1114 of the male connector 1100, the pipe section 1117 of the valve member 1116 is compressed, producing a return force at the closing end 1144 towards the first end 1112 of the male connector 1100. Therefore, in the open configuration of the male connector 1100, the closing end 1144 of the valve member 1116 can be urged towards the first end 1112 into a closed configuration. Similarly, when the sealing element 1460 is pushed towards the second end 1404 of the female connector 1400, the compression portion 1464 exerts a spring return force to urge the sealing element 1460 to its original length and configuration. closed. As illustrated, valve member 1116, in some embodiments, remains on the inner side of the male connector housing, or inner side of the luer tip 1122, in both open and closed positions, and during the transition between these two stages, to thereby decrease the risk of exposing the 1117 valve member, and consequently the fluid path, to unwanted foreign objects (such as pathogens, toxins, or debris) in the environment, and decrease the risk that the fluid within the path of the fluid escapes to the environment.
[000187] In some embodiments, valve member 1116 and sealing member 1460 may exert closing forces to help mating surfaces 1146, 1486 maintain contact throughout engagement. In some embodiments, mating surface 1146 of valve member 1116 may have a cross section that is substantially the same as a cross section of mating surface 1486 of fluid conduit 1480. In some embodiments, the outer periphery of mating surface 1486 of conduit of fluid 1480 may contact, and/or generally complement in shape with, the outer periphery of mating surface 1146 of valve member 1116 when male connector 1100 and/or female connector 1400 are in an open configuration.
[000188] In some embodiments, mating surfaces of male connector 1100 and/or female connector 1400 may be at least partially compressible to help form a substantially leak-free or leak-proof seal between mating surfaces, as described above in other modalities. For example, mating surface 1146 of valve member 1116 may be made of an elastomeric material that can seal with mating surface 1486 of fluid conduit 1480 (which may itself be either flexible or rigid) so that fluid does not contact. the mating surfaces of male connector 1100 and female connector 1400. In some embodiments, mating surface 1486 of fluid conduit 1480 may be made of an elastomeric material that can seal with mating surface 1146 of valve member 1116 (which may itself) be either flexible or rigid). In some embodiments, fluid may flow around the seal formed by the two mating surfaces 1146, 1486. In some embodiments, fluid is prevented from passing within the periphery of mating surfaces 1146, 1148 between the two mating surfaces 1146, 1148. in some embodiments, as described herein, fluid can flow between the male connector 1100 and the female connector 1400 without requiring the perforation or penetration of a normally closed septum. For example, the septum can comprise a constant opening through which a fluid conduit can pass, or fluid can flow around the outside of a septum or other barrier. By isolating mating surfaces from fluid, mating surface 1146 of valve member 1116 and mating surface 1486 of fluid conduit 1480 may remain dry after disconnecting the two connectors, and unwanted contamination from the healthcare provider or surrounding environment may be detained.
[000189] In some embodiments, the cross section of the mating surface 1146 of the valve member 1116 may be approximately the same or smaller than the cross section of the hole 1470 of the sealing element 1460. In some embodiments, the inner cross section of the seal luer tip 1119 may be less than or approximately the same as the inner cross section of bore 1470 of sealing member 1460. In some embodiments, engagement between the periphery of bore 1470 and first end 1112 of male connector 1100 may aid prevent fluid leakage to mating surface 1466 of sealing member 1460. For example, in some embodiments, the periphery of bore 1470 may engage mating surface 1176 of luer tip seal 1119 and form a substantially fluid-tight seal between the fluid path within the two connectors and the mating surface 1466 of the sealing member 1460. When sealing the mating surface ndent 1466 of fluid sealing member 1460, mating surface 1466 can remain dry during and after fluid transfer and reduce the risk that a healthcare provider may be exposed to the fluid.
[000190] In some embodiments, the inner cross section of the luer tip seal 1119 may be less than or approximately the same as the outer cross section of tube 1487 near the first end 1482 of fluid conduit 1480. In some embodiments, the seal Luer Tip Seal 1119 can "clean" the outer surface of tube 1487 as it passes through the luer tip seal 1119 during opening and/or closing of valve member 1116. In some variants, scrub the outer surface of the tube 1487 as it passes through luer tip seal 1119 can help prevent fluid buildup or leakage in the region of first end 1402 of female connector 1400. As explained above, in some embodiments, the natural outer cross section of the surface corresponding 1146 of valve member 1116 may be slightly larger than the natural inner cross section of luer tip seal 1119. In some embodiments, luer tip seal 1119 can clean the outer surface of valve member 1116 when valve member 116 moves to a closed configuration from an open configuration. In some implementations, rubbing the outer surface of valve member 1116 can help reduce the likelihood of fluid accumulation or leakage in the first end 1112 region of male connector 1100 during and/or after disengagement between mating surface 1486 of fluid 1480 and the mating surface 1146 of valve member 1116. By preventing the accumulation or leakage of fluid in the first end region 1112 of the male connector 1100 and/or in the first end region 1402 of the female connector 1400, the tip seal luer 1119 can help reduce the likelihood that healthcare providers will be exposed to the fluid.
[000191] The mating surface 1146 of the valve member 1116 may have a protrusion 1147 that may accept a complementary cavity 1490 in the mating surface 1486 of the fluid conduit 1480. In some embodiments, as described herein, the protrusion may be in the fluid conduit fluid 1480 and cavity can be in valve member 1116. Protrusion 1147 and cavity 490 can help align male connector 1100 and female connector 1400 during mating so that the components line up for proper clearance of the parts. In some embodiments, the cavity and protrusion may have a circular cross-section. In other embodiments, the cavity and protrusion can be any of a plurality of different types of shapes, such as square or polygonal.
[000192] In some embodiments, the extended portion 1447 of the female housing 1440 may have an outside diameter or cross section that is substantially similar to the inside diameter or cross section of the housing 1124 of the male connector 1100. In some embodiments, the engagement between the diameter outer or cross section of the extended portion 1447 and the inner diameter or cross section of the housing 1124 can help the male connector 1100 and the female connector 1400 to hold off-axis tilt with respect to each other, especially during the initial stage of the coupling ( for example to help keep the longitudinal axis of male connector 1100 aligned with the longitudinal axis of female connector 1400). In some embodiments, engagement between the outer cross section of the extended portion 1447 and the inner cross section of the housing 1124 can help prevent lateral movement between connectors 1100, 1400 and between mating surfaces 1486, 1146. Maintaining general or substantial alignment between the longitudinal axis and/or preventing lateral movement of the female connector 1400 and the male connector 1100 can help maintain sealed contact between mating surface 1486 of fluid conduit 1480 and mating surface 1146 of valve member 1116. Maintaining sealed contact between the two mating surfaces 1146, 1486 can help reduce the likelihood that fluid will contact any mating surfaces 1146, 1486.
[000193] Referring to FIGURE 52, in the open configuration, fluid may flow from the second end 1114 of the male connector 1100, into the end cap portion 1130, through the passage 1156, out of the ports 1162 on the valve member 1116, into luer tip 1122, into ports 1488 in fluid conduit 1480, through passage 1418, through first cap component 1420 in female connector 1400, and out of male luer coupling 1485 at second end 1404 of female connector 1400. Therefore, in the open configuration, the second end of male connector 1100 can be in fluid communication with second end 1404 of female connector 1400.
[000194] Connectors 1100, 1400 can be disengaged by actuating release button 1126 on tabs 1125 of male connector 1100. In the illustrated embodiment, release button 1126 can be pressed to lift hooks 1127 out of channel 1444 of female connector 1400. The force stored in compressing the tube section 1117 of the valve member 1116 during engagement can return the male connector 1100 to its pre-engaged state by urging the closing end 1144 of the valve member 1116 to engage the inner surface of the tip. 1122 luer type. Likewise, the elastic material of sealing member 1460 allows sealing member 1460 to return to its shape in the closed configuration where sealing portion 1462 can seal ports 1488 in fluid conduit 1480. In some embodiments , during the closing process, the valve member of the male connector 1100 and the tube 1487 of the female connector 1400, and the respective fluid flow openings 1162, 1488 in these structures, are positioned within the respective housings of the male and female connectors 1100, 1400, in contact with, behind, and/or sealed by, elastic or flexible sealing components, before the corresponding ends of the devices are separated from each other as a result of disconnection, as illustrated.
[000195] FIGURES 53 to 65 illustrate another embodiment of a connector system 2000 comprising a 2100 male connector and a 2400 female connector. Some numerical references for components in FIGURES 53 to 65 are the same as or similar to those previously described for the system of connector 1000 and corresponding male connector 1100 and female connector 1400, (eg male connector 2100 v. male connector 1100). It should be understood that the components may be the same in function or similar in function to the components described previously. Connector system 2000 of FIGURES 53 through 65 shows certain variations for connector system 1000 of FIGURES 33 through 52.
[000196] In some embodiments, male connector 2100 comprises tactile release ridges 2126. In some embodiments, male connector 2100 and female connector 2400 each comprise a second cap portion 2134 (see FIGURE 55) having an annular crest 2135 (see FIGURE 56). The annular crest 2135 may comprise one or more notches (for example, as shown in FIGURE 43) or no notches at all (for example, as shown in FIGURE 56). In some embodiments, the male connector 2100 can comprise a valve member 2116 with a spring member 2117 and an end piece 2145. The end piece 2145 can comprise a mating surface 2146, a protrusion 2147, an annular flange 2149 and/ or one or more ports 2162. In some embodiments, end piece 2145 can be formed of a generally rigid material such as a hard plastic, or it can be formed of an elastic or flexible material.
[000197] In some configurations, the 2100 male connector may comprise a 2119 luer tip seal that can be disposed between the 2123 male housing and the 2116 valve member. In some configurations, the 2119 luer tip seal may prevent or seal fluid flow from ports 2162 of end piece 2145 when male connector 2100 is in a closed configuration, as illustrated in FIGURE 57. In some embodiments, luer tip seal 2119 may be substantially cylindrical and may comprise a flange ring 2177 and a central opening. The annular flange 2177 may be retained in the axial direction by one or more retaining structures, such as by being positioned between a plurality of internal retaining tabs 2171 and a plurality of external retaining tabs 2173 on the male luer tip 2122, as illustrated in FIGURE 57. In some embodiments, the 2119 luer tip seal may be secured to the 2122 male luer tip seal by adhesives, welding, forced fit, pressure adjustment, or any other suitable means.
[000198] FIGURES 57 and 65 illustrate an embodiment of the male connector 2100 in a closed and open configuration, respectively. Spring member 2117 can urge end piece 2145 of valve member 2116 toward first end 2112 of male connector 2100. When male connector 2100 is in a closed position, internal retaining tabs 2171 can contact the annular flange 2149 of the end piece 2145 and prevent movement of the end piece 2145 towards the first end 2112 of the male connector 2100. When the male connector 2100 is in the open position, the end piece 2145 of the valve member 2116 can be displaced in toward the second end 2114 of male connector 2100. The annular flange 2149 of end piece 2145 can be configured to have a shape that generally matches the shape of an inner wall 2152 of male connector 2100. In some configurations, the contact between the surface outer flange of annular flange 2149 and inner wall 2152 can maintain substantially consistent alignment between the central axis of passage 21 56 and the central axis of the end piece 2145 when the end piece 2145 moves between an open configuration and a closed configuration.
[000199] FIGURE 63B illustrates an embodiment of a 2000’ connector system including a 2100’ male connector and a 2400’ female connector configured to connect to each other. Numerical references for components are the same or similar to those previously described in connection with FIGURE 63, except that a symbol (') has been added to the references. Where these references occur, it is to be understood that the components are the same or substantially similar to the components described previously. As illustrated, male connector 2100’ may include a valve member 2116’ housed at least partially on the inner side of a male portion 2122’. Valve member 2116’ may be urged toward first end 2112’ of male connector 2100’ by a spring member 2117’ or other pusher member (e.g., a flexible tube). Valve member 2116’ can be retained within male portion 2122’ through retaining tabs 2171’. The 2171' retaining clips may include a sloping portion that can help facilitate high flow rates, and/or generally laminar, generally non-turbulent fluid flow through the 2116' valve member when the 2100' male connector is in a configuration. open. In some embodiment, retaining clips 2171' can help to arrest or prevent turbulent flow through valve member 2116' as fluid passes through valve member 2116' from male connector 2100' to female connector 2400'.
[000200] In some embodiments, a seal 1160' may be configured to engage with one end of a firing pin 1170' and for sealing contact with the walls of the male housing 2123' to prevent fluid from flowing around firing pin 1170'. In some embodiments, a portion of seal 1160' may be configured to engage with an annular channel on an outer surface of firing pin 1170'. Seal 1160' may extend around one end of firing pin 1170' so that spring member 2117' can be retained within male portion 2122' between valve member 2116' and a seal 1160'. In some embodiments, the seal 1160' is configured to contact the walls of the male housing 2123' along an axial extent (e.g., axial distance parallel to the center axial line of the male housing 2123') greater than the axial extent of the portion. of cover 1192' of the first cover component 1132'.
[000201] As illustrated in FIGURE 58A, a male connector 2100' may include tabs 2125' with tactile release ridges 2126' and hooks 2127' configured to engage a portion of the female connector 2400'. Loops 2125' may include one or more support structures, such as longitudinal ribs 2129, which extend between tactile release ridges 2126' and hooks 2127'. The ribbed tabs 2125' 2129 may be generally rigid and may detain bending between the ridges 2126' and the hooks 2127'. In some embodiments, tabs 2125' with ribs 2129 may deter accidental disconnection of hooks 2127' from female connector 2400'.
[000202] Tactile release ridges 2126’ of tabs 2125’ may extend radially outward from the center axial line of male connector 2100’. The male connector 2100’ may include a plurality of release ridges 2126’ or a single release ridge 2126’. In some embodiments, one or more of the release ridges 2126' has a different height (e.g., extending radially from the center axial line of the male portion 2122') than one or more of the other release ridges 2126'. For example, and without limitation, release ridges 2126' on cleats 2125' may be arranged in a staggered pattern, where the heights of ridges 2126' sequentially increase from a shorter release ridge 2126' closer to the first. 2100' male connector end to a 2126' taller release crest closer to the 2100' male connector second end. In some of these configurations, the sliding of a user's finger along the axial extension of the 2126’ release ridges can be stopped while the user disconnects the 2100’ male connector from the 2400’ female connector.
[000203] In some embodiments, the radial distance between the tallest tactile release crest 2126' and the center axial line of the male part 2122' (for example, the height of the tallest tactile release crest 2126') is greater than or equal to at approximately 120% and/or less than or equal to approximately 180% of the radial distance between the radially outermost point of the casing 2124' and the axial centerline of the male portion 2122'. In some modalities, the ratio mentioned above is approximately 165%. Many variations are possible. The radial thickness of each or at least one of the release ridges 2126', when measured from the radially outermost surface of the shell 2124, may, in some embodiments, be greater than the radial thickness of the rib 2129, when measured. from the radially outermost surface of housing 2124. In some embodiments, tall tactile release ridges 2126' (eg, ridges 2126' with large radial heights) can reduce the likelihood that a user's fingers of the male connector 2100' may touch parts of male housing 2123' near and around release tabs 2125' when releasing tabs 2125' from engagement with female housing 2400'.
[000204] The male housing 2123' may include an inclined portion 2175 at an end of the male housing 2123' opposite the corresponding surface 2128' of the male portion 2122'. The angled portion 2175 can help facilitate insertion of the hammer 1170’ into the male housing 2123’ during fabrication of the 2100’ male connector. For example, the sloped surface 2175 may help guide (e.g., function as a funnel) one end of the firing pin 1170' into the end of the male portion 2122' opposite the end of the male portion 2122' having the corresponding surface 2128'.
[000205] In some embodiments, conduit 1480’ includes a conduit tip at or near the first end 1402’ of female connector 2400’. The duct tip may have a 1486’ mating surface. The conduit tip may include an engagement portion 1489. The engagement portion 1489 may be a separate component adhered to or otherwise secured to the end of the conduit 1480' closest to the first end 1402' of the female connector 2400'. In some embodiments, engagement portion 1489 and conduit 1402' form a monolithic piece. Engagement portion 1489 may be constructed of a flexible or semi-flexible material.
[000206] In some embodiments, the engagement portion 1489 has a first surface (for example, the corresponding surface 1486') and a second surface. The mating surface 1486' may include an alignment structure 1490' (e.g., a protrusion, recess, or other surface geometry). The second surface may be located opposite the mating surface 1486’ and may be interfaced with (e.g., bonded, welded) the end of conduit 1480’. In some embodiments, the mating surface 1486' and the second surface of the engagement portion 1489 may move toward each other as a result of the connection between the female connector 2400' and the male connector 2100'. In some of these configurations, movement of mating surface 1486' toward the second surface may compress material from engagement portion 1489. Compression may propel mating surface 1486' and alignment structure 1490' toward mating surface 2146' of the 2116' valve member. In some configurations, passage of fluid between mating surface 2146' and mating surface 1486' is prevented and exposure of mating surface 2146' and mating surface 1486' to fluid is stopped.
[000207] Conduit 1480’ of female connector 2400’ may include a sloping portion 1493 located near the end of conduit 1480’ opposite mating surface 1486’. In some embodiments, the angled portion 1493 stops or prevents turbulence in fluid flow through the female connector 2400’. In some embodiments, the sloped portion 1493 of conduit 1480' helps prevent conduit 1480' from deforming under compressive load.
[000208] In some embodiments, the male connector 100 can be used with other connectors. FIGURE 66 illustrates a cross-section of male connector 100 of an embodiment adjacent to an example of an open-ended female luer 92. Female luer 92 may comprise an elongated body 72 having a fluid passage 74 therethrough, and the luer female 92 may have a first end 76. In some embodiments, the first end 76 of female luer 92 may have a radially extending surface 78 disposed on its outer surface. The female luer 92 may have a fluid conduit positioned within the female luer 92. The fluid conduit is not included or required in all female connectors compatible with the male connectors 100 described herein. Along an inner surface 80 of female luer 92, fluid passage 74 can be widened or tapered so that the diameter of fluid passage 74 increases toward first end 76.
[000209] FIGURE 66 illustrates the male connector 100 in a closed configuration. Brackets 150 of valve member 116 extend through slots in male housing 123 so that their ends extend to positions proximate the end of housing 124 toward first end 112 of male connector 100. These brackets 150 are configured to engage to corresponding ends 84 of female luer 92 as female luer 92 is advanced into engagement with male connector 100.
[000210] In FIGURE 66, the male 100 and female luer connector 92 are shown in an uncoupled configuration. To couple male connector 100 and female luer 92, the radially extending surface 78 of female luer 92 is screwed onto internal threads 126 of male connector 100.
[000211] As shown in FIGURE 67, the male connector 100 and female luer 92 can be screwed together until the taper of the inner surface 80 of the female luer 92 rests adjacent to the correspondingly tapered outer surface of the male luer tip 122 of the male connector 100.
[000212] When the male connector 100 and the female luer 92 move toward each other for screw-in engagement, the mating end 84 of the tip of the female luer 92 contacts the supports 150 of the valve member 116. When the male connector 100 and The female luer 92 moves further into threaded engagement, the brackets 150, and therefore the valve member 116, are moved towards the second end 114 of the male connector 100 by the female luer 92, displacing the valve member 116 relative to the male housing 123 Therefore, the closing end 144 moves from the male luer tip 122 end of the male housing 123 towards the second end 114 of the male connector 100. When the closing end 144 separates from the male luer tip 122, a form is formed. space between valve member 116 and male housing 123 and fluid is allowed to pass through ports 162 and into fluid passage 74 of female luer 92, or vice versa. In some embodiments, the closure remains intact until the inner surface 80 of the female luer 92 has formed a closure engagement with the outer surface of the male luer tip 122 of the male luer 10. Therefore, the passage 156 of the male connector 100 does not enter. in fluid communication with the external environment.
[000213] In some embodiments, the male connector 100 may be engaged with a syringe 50, as illustrated in FIGURE 68. The syringe 50 and the male connector 100 are shown adjacent to each other. The syringe may include a male connector 52, a firing pin 58, a reservoir 60, and convenient finger anchorages 62. The connector 52 may have an internal threaded housing 54 and a luer-type syringe tip 56. In the illustrated embodiment of the male connector 100, external threads 136 are disposed on the outer surface of the second end 114 of male connector 100.
[000214] Now referring to FIGURE 69, the male connector 100 can be screwed onto the syringe 50. The housing 54 can engage with the second end 114 of the male connector 100 to connect the male connector 100 to the syringe 50. The reservoir 60 of the syringe 50 may be placed in fluid communication with passage 156 of male connector 100.
[000215] Turning to FIGURE 70, the coupling illustrated in FIGURE 69 is shown in a cross-sectional view. The syringe 50 is screwed to the male connector 100 by engagement between the housing 54 and the external threads 136 of the first cap component 132. The luer tip 56 of the syringe 50 is inserted into the first cap component 132. The reservoir 60 of the syringe may be in fluid communication with passage 156 of male connector 100. Fluid may pass through valve member 116 and toward luer tip 122 of male connector 100. In the illustrated embodiment, fluid cannot exit male connector 100 because the male connector 100 is in a closed configuration.
[000216] With reference to FIGURE 71, the male connector 100 is shown between a syringe 50 and a needle assembly 63 with cap 70. The syringe 50, like that of FIGURE 68, may comprise a male connector 52, a firing pin 58, a reservoir 60; and convenient finger anchors 62. Connector 52 may further comprise an internally threaded housing 54 and a luer tip syringe 56. Needle assembly 63 may comprise a housing 66 with raised tabs 64 at the end of the coupling and a needle 68.
[000217] Referring to FIGURE 72, the male connector 100 is shown screwed to both the syringe 50 and the needle assembly 63. The external threads 136 of the first cap component 132 of the male connector 100 may engage with the threaded housing 54 of the syringe 50. Accordingly, luer tip 56 on syringe 50 can insert into luer receiver 158 of male connector 100. Similarly, raised tabs 64 on needle assembly 63 can engage internal threads 126 of housing 124 of male connector 100. The luer tip 122 of the male connector 100 can insert into the housing 66 of the needle cover.
[000218] In FIGURE 73, the hitch shown in FIGURE 72 is illustrated in a cross-sectional view. The male connector 100 is engaged by a syringe 50 and a capped needle 70. The syringe 50 is screwed to the external threads 136 of the first cap component 132 of the male connector 100. The needle assembly 63 is screwed to the internal threads 126 of the housing 124 of male connector 100.
[000219] The male connector 100 is engaged with the needle assembly 63. The housing 66 of the needle assembly 63 has raised tabs 64 near one end. Elevated tabs 64 may threadedly engage internal threads 126 of housing 124 of male connector 100. As luer tip 122 is advanced into housing 66 of needle assembly 63, tabs 64 of housing 66 may contact brackets 150 of member valve 116. When needle assembly 63 is fully engaged with male connector 100, valve member 116 is moved a distance that separates closure end 144 from luer tip 122 sufficiently to allow fluid to flow out of the valves. ports 162 of valve member 116. Fluid may then flow out of first end 112 of male connector 100 and into housing 66 of needle assembly 63. Hollow needle 68 may allow fluid to flow from within housing 66 away from the tip of needle 68. At this stage, syringe 50 may be in fluid communication with the distal tip of needle 68. As previously illustrated in FIGURES 69 and 70, in some cases odalities, the male connector 100 may be in a closed configuration without a component engaged with the first end 112 of the male connector 100. The component illustrated in FIGURES 71 to 73 is a needle assembly 63; however, other components may also be used, such as those that allow fluid flow and have a female luer coupling portion.
[000220] At present, some potentially harmful medications are distributed in sealed vials. The medication is removed from the vial by inserting a needle, and pulling the medication into a syringe. The needle is then removed from the vial and medication can be administered. However, by inserting the needle into the medication to pull it into the syringe, the medication is disposed on the outside of the needle, which can inadvertently come into contact with the skin and cause damage. In some embodiments, a vial adapter that penetrates the vial with a penetration system can be used. In this vial adapter, medication is pulled through the mechanism and passed directly into a syringe or other medical device for injection without the additional step of pulling the mechanism away from the vial. Even if this vial adapter is used, there is still a latent possibility that the medication will remain in the male end used to withdraw and then later inject the medication, or in the vial adapter after it can be uncoupled from the male end.
[000221] With closable medical connectors of the type described in this document, the flow of medication out of a syringe with a needle is stopped, except during the desired application. For example, in some embodiments, a syringe with a male connector will not leak medication when packaged for shipment, even if the package is vacuum sealed. Once the package is opened, the male connector can be engaged with a female connector on an IV tube, for example, and medication administered only when the connection is engaged. By following the flow of medication from the syringe through the engaged connectors and into the IV tube, the male connector can be disengaged from the female connector. In some embodiments, the connectors may close on disengagement, preventing excess flow through the connectors. The mating ends of the connectors can be isolated from medication so that after the connectors are disengaged, residual medication does not migrate over the mating ends.
[000222] FIGURES 74 to 77 illustrate another embodiment of a 3000 connector system comprising a 3100 male connector and a 3400 female connector. Some numerical references for components in FIGURES 74 to 77 are the same or similar to those previously described for the system of 1000 connector and corresponding 1100 male connector and 1400 female connector, (eg 3100 male connector v. 1100 male connector). It should be understood that the components may be the same in function or similar in function to components described previously. The connector system 3000 of FIGURES 74-77 shows certain variations to the connector system 1000 of FIGURES 33-52. As with all embodiments described herein, it is contemplated that any function, step, or structure illustrated or described in one or more modalities can be used with, replaced by, or replaced with, any function, step, or structure of one or more other modalities, with adaptations where necessary.
[000223] In some embodiments, the male connector 3100 has a first end 3112 and a second end 3114. The male connector 3100 may have a tube member 3187. The tube member 3187 may have a closed end 3144 and an open end 3149 In some embodiments, both ends of tube member 3187 are closed. In some embodiments, such as those with other means for selectively closing the fluid path at the first end, both ends of tube member 3187 may be open. Tube member 3187 may have a generally cylindrical shape, an inner cross section, an outer cross section, and an axial centerline. In some embodiments, there are one or more tapered and/or flared portions along the axial length of tube member 3187. In some embodiments, tube member 3187 has a generally rectangular prism shape, a generally triangular prism shape, a generally oval shape, a generally hexagonal prism shape, or any other shape suitable for a channel. Tube member 3187 may include an inner passage 3156 that extends between closed end 3144 and open end 3149 of tube member 3187. In some embodiments, internal passage 3156 may terminate near closed end 3144 in one or more ports. 3162. The one or more ports 3162 may extend from internal passage 3156 through the wall of tube member 3187. In some embodiments, internal passage 3156 is in fluid communication with conduit 1194.
[000224] In some embodiments, the 3100 male connector has a 3163 sleeve member. The 3163 sleeve member may have a generally cylindrical shape, an inner cross section, an outer cross section, and a center axial line. In some embodiments, sleeve member 3163 can be substantially coaxial with tube member 3187. In some embodiments, sleeve member 3163 can include one or more flared and/or tapered sections along its axial length. The inner cross section of sleeve member 3163 may have substantially the same shape or a similar shape to the outer cross section of tube member 3187.
[000225] As illustrated in FIGURE 74, the sleeve member 3163 may include a first sleeve portion 3165 generally adjacent the closed end of the tube member 3187 and a second sleeve portion 3164 remote from the closed end of the tube member and/or generally adjacent the end of tube member 3187 opposite ports 3162. In some embodiments, first sleeve part 3165 connects to second sleeve part 3164 through an adhesive, sonic welding, solvent bonding, or some other suitable means of adhesion. . The first glove part 3165 may be constructed of a plastic or some other rigid or semi-rigid polymeric material. In some embodiments, second glove part 3164 can be constructed of a material that is less hard or less rigid than first glove part 3165, such as a rubber, silicone, or some other elastic, flexible, or semi-flexible material. In some embodiments, the first glove portion 3165 is constructed of a flexible or semi-flexible material. In some embodiments, the second glove portion 3164 is constructed of a rigid or semi-rigid material. In some embodiments, both the first glove part 3165 and the second glove part 3164 are constructed of either flexible material or rigid material. First sleeve portion 3165 may have a mating surface 3176 near first end 3112 of male connector 3100. In some embodiments, tube member 3187 has a mating surface 3146 generally adjacent to mating surface 3176 of first glove portion 3165.
[000226] The first sleeve part 3165 may include one or more grooves in its inner wall (eg towards the center axial line of the sleeve part 3163). In some embodiments, at least one groove may be located near closed end 3144 of tube member 3187 when sleeve portion 3163 is in a closed position, as illustrated in FIGURE 74. A sealing member 3119 may be at least partially housed inside the groove. In some embodiments, sealing member 3119 may contact the outer surface (e.g., away from the center axial line of tube member 3187) of tube member 3187. In some embodiments, the contact between sealing member 3119 and member tube 3187 may create an annular seal around tube member 3187. A seal may prevent fluid from contacting mating surfaces 3146, 3176 of male connector 3100 when sleeve portion 3163 is in the closed position. In some embodiments, sealing member 3119 may be located at least partially within a groove in the outer surface of tube member 3187 near closed end 3144 of tube member 3187.
[000227] In some embodiments, the second sleeve part 3164 includes a flange 3189. The flange 3189 may be configured to engage with a slot 3135 in the male housing 3123. In some embodiments, the engagement between the flange 3189 and the slot 3135 may prevent the 3163 sleeve member from separating from the 3123 male housing in the axial direction. In some embodiments, the portion of sleeve member 3163 that is remote from the first end 3112 of male connector 3100 is secured to male housing 3123 by adhesive(s), snap fit, solvent bonding, sonic welding, or some other means attachments.
[000228] In some embodiments, the female connector 3400 includes an elastic or flexible valve member 3416, a female housing 3440, and a cap member 3420. In the illustrated example, there is no tip, port, or other rigid internal member inside. or supporting valve member 3416. As illustrated in FIGURE 75, female connector 3400 may have a first end 3402 and a second end 3404 that is spaced apart from or opposite to first end 3402. Valve member 3416 may be configured for transition between an open configuration (for example, as illustrated in FIGURE 77) and a closed configuration (for example, as illustrated in FIGURE 75). In some embodiments, valve member 3416 is constructed of rubber, silicone, or some other flexible or semi-flexible material. In some embodiments, a space between valve member 3416 and the inner walls of female housing 3440 provides a flow chamber 3428.
[000229] As illustrated, the distance or space between the outer surface of the valve member 3416 and the inner surface of the housing 3440 can be large enough to provide a high flow, low fluid resistance passageway in the region close to the connection between the connectors male and female 3000, 3400. In some embodiments, the space between the outer surface of the valve member 3416 and the inner surface of the housing 3440 may be sufficiently small (e.g., smaller or substantially smaller than the cross-sectional width of the member valve 3416 near its closing end, or less or substantially less than the cross-sectional width of the inner surface of the fluid passage 3418 near the second end 3404) to substantially eliminate or produce only a small amount of dead space within the 3400 female connector. In some embodiments, the space between the outer surface of the 3416 valve member and the The internal surface can be adjusted or configured so that the internal fluid volume within the 3400 female connector is generally the same in both the open and closed position to produce a generally neutral flow connector. As with all other descriptions in this document, it is contemplated that this generally neutral flux device may be used in any other modality in this document.
[000230] The valve member 3416 may include an elongated portion 3419. The elongated portion 3419 may have a substantially cylindrical shape, an axial center line, an inner cross section, and/or an outer cross section. In some embodiments, the outer cross-section of elongated portion 3419 is generally rectangular, generally triangular, generally oval, generally hexagonal, any other suitable shape, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the shape of the outer cross-section of the elongate portion 3419 varies along the axial centerline of the elongate portion 3419. The female housing 3440 may have an opening 3409 adjacent to the first end 3402 of the female connector 3402. The opening 3409 may have an inner cross section. The inner cross section of opening 3409 may be sized and/or molded to substantially match or match the outer cross section of the elongated portion 3419 of the valve member 3416. In some of these embodiments, the contact between the outer cross section of the elongated portion 3419 and the inner cross section of opening 3409 creates a substantially fluid tight seal. This seal can prevent fluid from passing between the flow chamber 3428 and the exterior of the female housing 3440 through the opening 3409 when the valve member 3416 is in the closed configuration.
[000231] Valve member 3416 may be elastic and/or may include a flexible and/or expandable part 3415. In some embodiments, part 3415 has a substantially cylindrical shape, an axial center line, an internal cross section, and/ or an outer cross section. In some embodiments, portion 3415 includes one or more flared and/or tapered portions along its axial length. Portion 3415 may be divided into two or more regions by axial and/or radially tangential openings in portion 3415. For example, portion 3415 may have two or more axial spaces that form two or more "legs" in portion 3415. In some embodiments, part 3415 has no opening or space. In some embodiments, valve member 3416 includes a transition portion 3412 between elongated portion 3419 and portion 3415. Transition portion 3412 may be configured to affect the overall rigidity of valve member 3416. transition 3412 can be shaped so that transition portion 3412 creates a compressible point or region for valve member 3416 when elongated portion 3419 is pushed toward portion 3415, as will be described in detail below.
[000232] In some embodiments, part 3415 may include a flange 3417. Flange 3417 may be configured to engage with a channel 3445 in female housing 3440. In some embodiments, engagement between flange 3417 and channel 3445 prevents the valve member 3416 moves away from female housing 3440 toward the first end of female housing 3440 in the axial direction. In some embodiments, female housing 3440 includes a tapered portion 3407. Tapered portion 3407 can help guide elongated portion 3419 toward opening 3409 when valve member 3416 changes from the open configuration to the closed configuration.
[000233] In some embodiments, the female connector 3400 may include one or more conduits or openings 3488. The conduits or openings 3488 may be in fluid communication with the flow chamber 3428. In some embodiments, the conduits are in fluid communication with a passage 1418 in female connector 3400. In some embodiments, conduits or openings 3488 are in fluid communication with both flow chamber 3428 and passage 1418. conduits or openings 3488 may extend through female housing 3440, through the component of cap 3420, through either female housing 3440 or cap member 3420, or neither female housing 3440 nor cap member 3420.
[000234] The first end 3402 of the female connector 3400 may include one or more alignment structures. In some embodiments, the one or more alignment structures can comprise protrusions, cavities, chamfers or other surface features. For example, valve member 3416 can include a bevel 3490. Bevel 3490 can be sized and shaped to releasably engage an alignment structure at first end 3112 of male connector 3100. In some embodiments, bevel 3490 is sized and molded to releasably engage a protrusion 3147 on tube member 3187 of male connector 3100. In addition, valve member 3416 may include a mating surface 3486 generally proximate bevel 3490.
[000235] In some embodiments, the female housing 3440 includes one or more chamfers 3490a. The one or more chamfers 3490a may be configured to releasably engage one or more protrusions 3147a in the first sleeve portion 3165. In some embodiments, the female housing includes an annular chamfer configured to releasably engage an annular protrusion in the first. sleeve portion 3165. Female housing 3440 may include a mating surface 3466 generally adjacent to mating surface 3486 of valve member 3416.
[000236] As illustrated in FIGURES 76 and 77, the female connector 3400 and the male connector 3100 can be mated. In some embodiments, this engagement can cause valve member 3416 to change to the open configuration. At least a portion of tube member 3187 can advance into female connector 3400 and push elongated portion 3419 of valve member 3416 toward second end 3404 of female connector 3400. 3419 and protrusion 3147 on tube member 3187 can help prevent radial movement or tilt (e.g., tilt with respect to an axial centerline of female connector 3400) when elongated portion 3419 is pushed toward second end 3404 of the 3400 female connector.
[000237] Pushing the elongated part towards the second end 3404 may cause the transition part 3412 of the valve member 3416 to compress. In some embodiments, compression of transition portion 3412 and/or portion 3415 can create an opposing spring force that can urge elongated portion 3419 into the closed configuration. For example, when female connector 3400 and male connector 3100 are separate (e.g. detached from each other), transition portion 3412 and/or portion 3415 can cause elongated portion 3419 to maintain contact with tube member 3187 until valve member 3416 returns to the closed configuration. In some embodiments, female housing 3440 is configured to dry the outer side surfaces of tube member 3187 and elongated portion 3419 of valve member 3416 when female connector 3400 and male connector 3100 are disconnected. In some embodiments, the female connector 3400 can include a cleaning surface, such as a narrow edge or radial grip gasket, to clean and remove fluid from one or more side surfaces inside or outside the connector.
[000238] In some embodiments, the 3400 female connector may include a 3430 vent that creates fluid communication between the interior of the 3400 female connector and the exterior of the 3400 female connector. The 3430 vent can help prevent pressure buildup in the 3400 female connector when elongated portion 3419 is pushed toward second end 3404 of female connector 3400. In some embodiments, as illustrated, a vent portion may be positioned at a location in the housing that is in communication with an internal space that is at least partially enclosed, or generally encircled, by a portion of valve member 3416.
[000239] The mating of the female connector 3400 and the male connector 3100 can bring the mating surface 3466 of the female housing 3440 into contact with the mating surface 3176 of the first sleeve part 3165. The female housing 3440 can push the first sleeve part 3165 toward the second end 3114 of the 3100 male connector. Pushing the first sleeve part 3165 toward the second end 3114 of the 3100 male connector can cause the second sleeve part 3164 to compress. In some embodiments, the compression of the second sleeve part 3164 can create a spring force within the second sleeve part 3164 that can urge the first sleeve part 3165 toward the first end 3112 of the male connector 3100. This biasing force can urge help ensure that the first 3165 sleeve part returns to the closed position when the 3100 male connector and 3400 female connector are disconnected.
[000240] In some embodiments, when the first end 3402 of the female connector moves towards the second end 3114 of the male connector, the one or more ports 3162 near the closed end 3144 of the tube member 3187 are removed from the first sleeve part. 3165. Moving the one or more ports 3162 away from the first sleeve portion 3165 can create fluid communication between the luer receiver 1158 and the flow chamber 3428 within the female connector 3400. The fluid within the flow chamber 3428 can flow through the one or more conduits or openings 3488 and through fluid passage 3418. In some embodiments, mating female connector 3400 with male connector 3100 can create fluid communication between luer receiver 1158 and fluid passage 3418. As shown in the example illustrated in Figure 77, the center mating interface between the male and female connectors in the fully open configuration can be positioned in some arrangements inside the female connector and on the side. outside the 3163 sleeve portion of the male connector.
[000241] FIGURES 78 to 80 illustrate another embodiment of a connector system 4000 comprising a male connector 3100 and a female connector 4400. Some numerical references for components in FIGURES 78 to 80 are the same or similar to those previously described for the system of 3000 connector and 3100 male connector and corresponding 3400 female connector, (eg 3400 female connector v. 4400 female connector). It should be understood that the components may be the same in function or similar in function to the components described previously. The connector system 4000 of FIGURES 78 through 80 shows certain variations for the connector system 3000 of FIGURES 74 through 77.
[000242] As illustrated in FIGURE 78, the female connector 4400 may include a female housing 4400, a cap component 4420, and a valve member 4416. In some embodiments, the female connector has a first end 4402 and a second end 4404 The space between the inner walls of the female housing 4400 and the outer surface of the valve member 4416 may define a chamber 4428. In some embodiments, the cap member 4420 includes a passage 4418 that extends through the cap member 4420 of the second. end 4404 through cap member 4420 toward first end 4402. In some embodiments, valve member 4416 is configured to transition between an open configuration (as shown in FIGURE 80) and a closed configuration (as shown in FIGURE 78) . Valve member 4416 may include an elongated portion 4419 with many or all of the same features as elongated portion 3419. In some embodiments, valve member 4416 includes an expanded portion 4415. Portion 4415 may include one or more ports 4488. 4488 doors may be generally circular, generally rectangular, generally triangular, or any other suitable shape. In some embodiments, ports 4488 are openings (e.g., slits or grooves) that open upon transition of valve member 4416 from the closed configuration to the open configuration. Ports 4488 can provide fluid communication between chamber 4428 and passage 4418.
[000243] In some embodiments, the 4400 female connector fits with the 3100 male connector in a similar manner to that of the 3400 female connector. Therefore, similar component performance of the 4400 female connector and the 3400 female connector may be similar or the same. Entrance of tube member 3187 into chamber 4428 of female connector 4400 can push elongate portion 4419 toward second end 4404 of female connector 4400. Movement of elongate portion 4419 toward second end 4404 of female connector 4400 can cause that the transition portion 4412 of the valve member 4416 compresses. In some embodiments, movement of elongated portion 4419 toward second end 4404 of female connector 4400 can cause expanded portion 4415 of valve member 4416 to compress, or otherwise move. Moving the expanded portion 4415 can open the one or more ports 4488 in the expanded portion. In some embodiments, the one or more ports 4488 are opened when the expanded portion 4415 is compressed and when the expanded portion 4415 is uncompressed. Opening one or more ports 4488 can create fluid communication between chamber 4428 and passageway 4418. In some embodiments, the engagement between female connector 4400 and male connector 3400 can create fluid communication between luer receiver 1158 and the passageway. fluid 4418, as illustrated in FIGURE 80. In some embodiments, the region within valve member 4416 into which fluid flows may be sufficiently small, or sufficiently compressible when in the closed configuration, to substantially eliminate negative inflow or negative pressure to inside the connector when the connector moves to a closed state.
[000244] FIGURES 81 to 84 illustrate another embodiment of a 5000 connector system comprising a 5100 male connector and a 5400 female connector. Some numerical references for components in FIGURES 81 to 84 are the same or similar to those previously described for the system of connector 20 and corresponding male connector 100 and female connector 400, (eg female connector 400 v. female connector 5400). It should be understood that components or parts of connector system 5000 may be the same in function or similar in function to components or parts previously described. The connector system 5000 of FIGURES 81 through 84 shows certain variations for the connector system 20 of FIGURES 1 through 32.
[000245] As illustrated in FIGURE 81, the male connector 5100 may have a first end 5112 and a second end 5114. The male connector 5100 may include a male housing 5123 generally near the first end 5112 and a cap member 5132 generally near the second end 5114. Lid member 5132 may be secured to male housing 5123 through an adhesive, sonic welding, solvent bonding, any other suitable method of adhesion, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, second end 5114 of male connector 5100 includes a female luer connection with external threads 5136. In some embodiments, second end 5114 includes a luer receiver 5158.
[000246] In some embodiments, the first end 5112 of the male connector 5100 includes a male luer tip 5122. The male housing 5123 may include a housing 5124 that surrounds the male luer tip 5122. The housing 5124 may have internal threads 5126. Male luer tip 5122 and/or housing 5124 may be integral with male housing 5123. In some embodiments, male luer tip 3122 and/or housing 5124 are removable from male housing 5123. 5122 luer tip can form a male luer coupling that conforms to ANSI specifications for male connectors. In some embodiments, the internal threads 5126 and/or the luer tip 5122 form a male luer coupling that is non-standard (eg, not compliant with ANSI specifications for male connectors). In some modalities, non-compliance with standards can help reduce the likelihood of accidental connection of the 5100 male connector with other connectors that are not designed to be used in administering the same type of medical fluids (eg, potentially higher risk medicinal fluids can be administered using non-standard connections). This can reduce the risk of accidental infusion of higher risk fluids through connectors or accumulation of higher risk residual fluid on the outer ends of connectors, to thereby reduce the risk of exposing patients and/or caregivers to hazardous substances and/ or toxic used in conjunction with the 5000 connector system. As with all devices described in this document, non-standard configurations (eg, not ANSI compliant) may be used with any other modalities described in this document, which include, but not limited to, connector systems 02, 1000, 3000, 4000, 5000, 6000, 7000, 8000, and 9000.
[000247] A valve member 5116 may be housed within the male housing 5123 and/or within the cap member 5132. In some embodiments, the valve member 5116 has a closed end 5144 and an open end 5145. In some embodiments, both ends of valve member 5116 are closed. In some embodiments, both ends of valve member 5116 are open. In some embodiments, valve member 5116 may have an axial centerline, an inner cross section, and an outer cross section. Valve member 5116 may be configured to transition between an open configuration (for example, as illustrated in FIGURE 84) and a closed configuration (for example, as illustrated in FIGURES 81, 83).
[000248] The valve member 5116 may include a passage 5156. The passage 5156 may extend through both ends of the valve member 5116. In some embodiments, the passage 5156 extends from an opening in the open end 5145 of the valve member. valve 5116 to one or more ports 5162 near closed end 5144 of valve member 5116. Male connector 5100 may include a sealing member 5119 configured to engage with a groove in the inner surface (e.g., toward the center axial line of the valve member 5116) of the male luer tip 5122. The sealing member 5119 may be a flexible or semi-flexible sealing ring or some other suitable component to provide a fluid seal. In some embodiments, sealing member 5119 creates a fluid seal around the outer cross section of valve member 5116 when valve member 5116 is in a closed position, as illustrated in FIGURE 81. Valve member 5116 may include a stepped portion 5149. In some embodiments, the stepped portion 5149 defines an axial location on valve member 5116 where the outer cross section of valve member 5116 reduces. The reduced outer cross-section portion of the valve member 5116 may define an annular chamber 5163 between the outer cross section of the valve member 5116 and the inner surface of the male luer tip 5122. The annular chamber 5163 may be limited in the axial direction between the stepped portion 5149 and the sealing member 5119.
[000249] In some embodiments, valve member 5116 may include one or more brackets 5150. Brackets 5150 may be separate pieces attached to valve 5116. In some embodiments, brackets 5150 and valve 5116 form a unitary piece. Brackets 5150 and/or valve member 5116 may include one or more alignment devices. Alignment devices can be protrusions, bevels, channels, or any other suitable device or combination of devices. For example, valve member 5116 may include a bevel 5147. In addition, supports 5150 may include one or more protrusions 5147a. In some embodiments, valve member 5116 may include a mating surface 5146 generally adjacent bevel 5147. Additionally, in some embodiments, sealing member 5119 includes a mating surface 5176 generally adjacent mating surface 5146 of valve member 5116.
[000250] In some embodiments, male connector 5100 may include an elastic member 5118. Elastic member 5118 may be housed within male housing 5123 and/or within cap member 5132. In some embodiments, elastic member 5118 is constructed. rubber, silicone, some other flexible/semi-flexible material, or some combination thereof. Elastic member 5118 may include a connecting device such as, for example, a flange 5115, configured to allow the elastic member to connect to male housing 5123 and/or cap member 5132. Flange 5115 may be configured to fit within. of a receiving device such as, for example, groove 5169 formed in the inner wall of male housing 5123 and/or cap member 5132. Engagement between flange 5115 and groove 5169 may prevent a portion of elastic member 5118 from proximately flange 5115 moves in axial directions.
[000251] In some embodiments, elastic member 5118 includes a first portion 5113 that extends in the axial direction of flange 5115 toward first end 5112 of male connector 5100. In some embodiments, elastic member 5118 includes a second portion 5117 that extends in the axial direction of flange 5115 toward second end 5114 of male connector 5100. First portion 5113 and/or second portion 5117 may have a generally cylindrical shape. In some embodiments, the first part 5113 and/or the second part 5117 are constructed from a series of sealing rings connected together through parts of flexible or semi-flexible material. In some embodiments, the first portion 5113 and/or the second portion 5117 are constructed of a flexible and/or semi-flexible material portion having a uniform thickness along its axial length. In some embodiments, the thickness of the first portion 5113 and/or the second portion 5117 varies along the axial length of the first portion 5113 and/or the second portion 5117.
[000252] In some embodiments, valve member 5116 includes one or more retainer ridges 5142. The one or more retainer ridges 5142 may be configured to prevent radial migration from the axial end of first portion 5113 of elastic member 5118. In some embodiments, the open end 5145 of the valve member 5116 may extend into the cap member 5132. In some embodiments, the second portion 5117 of the elastic member 5118 may be configured to fit snugly, tight, or hermetically around the open end 5145 of the valve member 5116. In some embodiments, the end of the second portion 5117 farthest from the flange 5115 can form a sealed barrier around the open end 5145 of the valve member 5116.
[000253] In some embodiments, the end of the second portion 5117 of the elastic member 5118 farthest from the flange 5115 may have a flexible, elastic, or expandable portion 5111. The portion 5111 may be configured to fill the luer receiver 5158 and substantially seal the second end 5114 of male connector 5100. In some embodiments, portion 5111 includes a valve. The valve can comprise, for example, one or more slits, one or more small diaphragms, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the valve in part 5111 is normally closed. In some embodiments, the valve in portion 5111 normally remains open and is urged closed by engagement between portion 5111 and received luer 5158. In some embodiments, portion 5111 may be configured to allow open end 5145 of valve member 5116 pass through the valve at portion 5111. Under some configurations, portion 5111 is generally flush with and essentially completely fills second end 5144 of male connector 5100. In some embodiments, portion 5111 extends beyond second end 5144 of connector 5100 male. In some embodiments, the 5111 part is cleanable.
[000254] As illustrated in FIGURE 82, the female connector 5400 may have a first end 5402 and a second end 5404. In some embodiments, the female connector includes a female housing 5440 and a cap member 5481. The cap member 5481 may be connected to the 5440 female housing by snap fit, adhesive, sonic welding, solvent bonding, other suitable adhesion methods, or any combination thereof. Cap member 5481 may include a male luer 5485-type engagement on second end 5404 of female connector 5400. In some embodiments, cap member 5481 includes a fluid passageway 5418 that extends from the second end of female connector 5400 to the interior. of the female housing 5440. The female housing 5440 may include a female luer coupling portion 5446 at the first end 5402 of the female connector 5400. In addition, the female luer coupling portion 5446 may include an alignment portion. The alignment portion can be one or more chamfers 5490a. The bevels 5490a can be configured to releasably engage the one or more protrusions 5147a on the supports 5150, as illustrated in FIGURE 83.
[000255] In some embodiments, the 5400 female connector includes a 5487 flexible tube member. The 5487 flexible tube member may have a generally cylindrical shape, an inner cross section, an outer cross section, a center axial line, one or more flared parts, and/or one or more tapered parts. Tube member 5487 may be housed within female housing 5440 and/or within cap member 5481. Tube member 5487 may have a closed end and an open end. In some embodiments, the closed end is generally adjacent to first end 5402 of female connector 5400. The closed end of tube member 5487 may include an alignment member. In some embodiments, the alignment member on tube member 5487 is a protrusion 5490. Protrusion 5490 can be configured to releasably engage bevel 5147 on valve member 5116 of male connector 5100. In some embodiments, both ends of the male connector tube member 5487 are closed. In some embodiments, the tube member includes an expanded portion 5489. The expanded portion 5489 can be configured to affect the overall rigidity of the tube member 5487. For example, the width of the expanded portion 5489 can affect the amount of force required to displace the closed end of tube member 5487 in the axial direction.
[000256] In some embodiments, tube member 5487 may define a fluid conduit 5480. Fluid conduit 5480 may extend from the open end of tube member 5487 to the closed end of tube member 5487. In some embodiments, tube member 5487 includes one or more ports 5488 adjacent to the closed end of tube member 5487. Fluid conduit 5480 may extend from the open end of the tube member to one or more ports 5488. Fluid conduit 5480 may be in fluid communication with fluid passage 5418. In some embodiments, tube member 5487 includes one or more engaging portions such as, for example, a flange 5483. Flange 5483 may be configured to engage with a receiving portion on the cap member 5481 and/or female housing 5440. The receiving portion, for example, may be a slot 5443 in cap member 5481. Engagement between flange 5483 and slot 5443 may prevent tube member 5487 from movingaway from female connector 5400. In some embodiments, engagement between flange 5483 and slot 5443 helps to stabilize the open end of tube member 5487 and helps prevent the open end of tube member 5487 from moving toward the first end 5402 of female connector 5400.
[000257] In some embodiments, the female connector 5400 may include a compressible sealing element 5460. The compressible sealing element 5460 may include a sealing part 5462 and a compressible part 5464. In some embodiments, the sealing element 5460 is constructed of a plastic or some other rigid and/or semi-rigid polymer. In some embodiments, sealing member 5460 is constructed of rubber, silicone, some other flexible or semi-flexible material, or some combination thereof. The sealing portion 5462 may have a generally cylindrical shape, an inner cross section, and an outer cross section. The inner cross section of the seal portion 5462 may be substantially the same as the outer cross section of the tube member 5487. In some embodiments, the inner cross section of the seal portion 5462 is substantially the same as the outer cross section of the pipe member. tube 5487 near first end 5402 of female connector 5400. In some embodiments, engagement between the closed end of tube member 5487 and sealing portion 5462 can substantially seal the one or more ports 5488.
[000258] In some embodiments, the compressible part 5464 is a compression spring. In some embodiments, the compressible portion 5464 is a solid compressible tube (e.g., a rubber tube), a compressible braided tube, or any other suitable compressible geometry and material. The sealing portion 5462 may include a retaining device such as, for example, an annular ridge 5467. In some embodiments, the inner wall 5449 of the female housing 5440 and the annular ridge 5467 may prevent radial migration of the compressible portion 5464. embodiments, the cap member 5481 may include a retaining device such as, for example, an annular crest 5477. The annular crest 5477 and inner wall 5449 may prevent radial migration of the compressible portion 5464. In some embodiments, the sealing portion 5463 may include a stop 5468 such as, for example, a shoulder. Stop 5468 may engage female housing 5440 and may limit movement of seal portion 5462 towards first end 5402 of female connector 5400.
[000259] As illustrated in FIGURES 83 and 84, the female connector 5400 can be configured to mate with the male connector 5100. As illustrated in FIGURE 83, the male connector 5100 can be configured so that the male luer tip 5122 contacts with the sealing portion 5462 of the compressible sealing element 5460 before the brackets 5150 contact the female luer-type coupling portion 5446. In some configurations, at least a portion of the male luer-type tip 5122 may protrude into the female connector 5400 Advancing the male luer tip 5122 into the female connector 5400 may cause the compressible sealing member 5460 to move toward the second end 5404 of the female connector 5400.
[000260] When the female connector 5400 is mated with the male connector 5100, the bevel 5147 of the closed end 5144 of the valve member 5116 can engage the protrusion 5490 on the closed end of the hose member 5487. In some embodiments, the closed end 5144 of valve member 5116 may advance into female connector 5400 when male connector 5100 is mated to female connector 5400. For example, closed end 5144 of valve member 5116 may enter female connector at the same rate as male tip luer type 5122 enters female connector before brackets 5150 contact female luer coupling portion 5446. Movement of closed end 5144 of valve member 5116 into female connector may cause expanded portion 5489 of member of hose 5487 compress. Compression of the expanded portion 5489 can create a force and spring within the expanded portion 5489 that can propel the closed end of the flexible tube member 5487 toward the first end 5402 of the female connector 5400. In some embodiments, the biasing force of the portion expanded 5489 can help ensure that the bevel 5147 of the closed end 5144 of the valve member 5116 remains engaged with the protrusion 5490 on the closed end of the hose member 5487 when the male luer tip 5122 is advanced toward the second end 5404 of the connector. female 5400. This continuous engagement between the closed end of hose member 5487 and closed end 5144 of valve member 5116 can prevent fluid from contacting mating surfaces 5176, 5466 of valve member 5116 and hose member 5487 , respectively.
[000261] In some embodiments, the compressive elasticity of the flexible tube member 5487 is less than the compressive elasticity of the first part 5113 of the elastic member 5118. For example, the amount of axial force (for example, the generally parallel force to the center axial line of the valve member 5116) required to push the valve member 5116 toward the second end 5114 of the male connector may be greater than the axial force required to push the closed end of the hose member 5487 toward the second end 5404 of female connector 5400.
[000262] In some embodiments, the male luer tip 5122 and the valve member 5116 push the sealing member 5460 and the closed end of the hose member 5487, respectively, toward the second end of the female connector 5400 until the one or more protrusions 5147a of brackets 5150 engage the one or more chamfers 5490a in the female luer coupling portion 5446. As a result of engagement between the one or more protrusions 5147a and the one or more chamfers 5490a, valve member 5116 may be prevented from moving further towards the second end 5404 of the female connector 5400. The male luer tip 5122 may, however, continue to advance into the female connector 5400 and push the compressible sealing element 5460 towards the second end 5404 of the female connector 5400. Further advancement of male luer tip 5122 and compressible sealing member 5460 toward second end 5404 relative to the hose 5487 can cause the closed end of hose member 5487 to move at least partially into annular chamber 5163 within male luer tip 5122.
[000263] In some embodiments, further advancement of the male luer tip 5122 into the female connector 5400 can cause the male housing 5123 to move toward the second end 5404 of the female connector 5400 relative to the closed end 5144 of the member. valve 5116. Movement of male housing 5123 toward second end 5404 of female housing 5044 relative to valve member 5116 can cause first portion 5113 of elastic member 5118 to compress. Compression of first portion 5113 can create a spring force that can urge valve member 5116 toward first end 5112 of male connector 5100. This biasing force can help ensure that the bevel 5147 of closed end 5144 of the valve member valve 5116 remains engaged with protrusion 5490 on the closed end of flexible tubing member 5487 as male luer tip 5122 is advanced toward second end 5404 of female connector 5400.
[000264] In some embodiments, the sealing member 5119 is withdrawn from one or more ports 5162 of the valve member 5116 when the male luer tip 5122 is advanced towards the second end 5404 of the female connector 5400 relative to the valve member 5116, thereby creating fluid communication between passageway 5156 and annular chamber 5163 through one or more ports 5162. Also, in some embodiments, entry of the closed end of flexible tube member 5487 into annular chamber 5163 can remove the sealing portion. 5462 of compressible sealing member 5460 of one or more ports 5488. Entrance of one or more ports 5488 into annular chamber 5163 can create fluid communication between fluid conduit 5480 and annular chamber 5163.
[000265] According to some configurations, movement of the male connector 5100 towards the female connector 5400 after the brackets 5150 contact the female luer coupling part 5446 may cause the open end 5145 of the valve member 5116 moves toward second end 5144 of male connector 5400, relative to cap member 5132. In some embodiments, valve member 5116 has an axial length such that open end 5145 passes through second end 5144 of male connector 5100. when the 5100 male connector is fully connected to the 5400 female connector (eg when the internal threads 5126 of the 5100 male connector are fully engaged with the female luer coupling part 5446). In some embodiments, open end 5145 of valve member 5116 passes through the valve at portion 5111 of elastic member 5118 when male connector 5100 and female connector 5400 are fully connected to each other.
[000266] As illustrated in FIGURE 84, valve member 5116 may have an axial length such that open end 5145 remains within male connector 5100 when male connector 5100 is fully engaged with female connector 5400. elastic member 5118 is configured so that, as a result of advancing a male luer tip 5052 into the luer receiver 5158, the valve in portion 5111 is opened and portion 5111 is withdrawn from open end 5145 of valve member 5116. In some embodiments, the interior of the male luer tip 5052 is placed in fluid communication with the fluid passage 5418 of the female connector 5400 through the passage 5156, the one or more ports 5162, the annular chamber 5163, and the one or more ports. 5488 and fluid conduit 5480, when the 5100 male connector and 5400 female connector are fully connected and the 5052 male luer tip is advanced into the 5158 luer receiver as illustrated in FIGURE 8 4.
[000267] In some embodiments, withdrawing portion 5111 from open end 5145 of valve member 5116 may compress second portion 5117 of elastic member 5118. Compression of second portion 5117 may create a spring force within second portion 5117. This spring force can urge portion 5111 toward second end 5114 so that portion 5111 returns to second end 5114 of male connector 5100 as a result of removal of male luer tip 5052 forming male connector 5100. part 5111 to the second end 5114 of the male connector 5100 may cause the valve in part 5111 to close.
[000268] FIGURES 85 to 87 illustrate another embodiment of a 6000 connector system comprising a 6100 male connector and a 5400 female connector. Some numerical references for components in FIGURES 85 to 87 are the same as or similar to those previously described for the system 5000 connector and 5100 male connector and corresponding 5400 female connector, (eg 5100 male connector v. 6100 male connector). It is to be understood that components or parts of connector system 6000 may be the same in function or similar in function to the components or parts previously described. The connector system 6000 of FIGURES 85 through 87 shows certain variations for the connector system 5000 of FIGURES 81 through 84.
[000269] In some embodiments, the male connector 6100 may include an elastic member 6118. The elastic member 6118 may include a connecting device such as, for example, an annular flange 6115. The flange 6115 may be configured to fit within a receiving device such as, for example, a slot 6169. In some embodiments, slot 6169 may be formed by two annular crests in the inner wall of male housing 6123. In some embodiments, slot 6169 may be a slot cut into the inner wall of the 6123 male housing. In some embodiments, the receiving device may be a series of coaxial crest portions, similar to retaining clips 2171, 2173. The 6100 male connector is representative of certain aspects of the Texium® closed luer male connector sold by Carefusion Corporation, with some additions and modifications. The 6100 male connector is shown in this example being used with the 5400 female connector, but any female connector described in this document, or any components thereof, or any other suitable female connector, can also be used with the 6100 male connector.
[000270] In some embodiments, resilient member 6118 includes an end portion 6111. In some embodiments, the male connector 6100 includes a valve member 6116. Valve member 6116 may have an open end 6145 and a closed end 6144. In some embodiments, end portion 6111 is configured to fit snugly, snugly, or around open end 6154 of valve member 6116. End portion 6111 may include a valve. The valve can be, for example, one or more slits, one or more small diaphragms, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the valve is normally closed. End portion 6111 and valve may be configured to allow open end 6145 of valve member 6116 to pass through the valve.
[000271] As illustrated in FIGURE 87, valve member 6116 may be configured so that open end 6145 of valve member 6116 advances toward second end 6114 of male connector 6100 relative to resilient member 6118 when male connector 6100 and 5400 female connector are fully mated (eg when the 6162 internal threads fully engage with the 5446 female luer coupling portion of the 5400 female connector). Advancing the open end 6145 of the valve member 6116 can cause the open end 6145 to open and pass through the valve at the end portion 6111. In some configurations, the luer receiver 6158 can be placed in fluid communication with the fluid passageway. 5158, as illustrated in FIGURE 87. In some embodiments, returning the open end 6145 of the valve member 6116 toward the first end 6112 of the male connector 6100 can cause the open end 6145 to pass back through the valve at the end portion. end 6111. In some of these embodiments, the valve in end portion 6111 may return to a closed position when open end 6145 passes back through the valve toward first end 6112 of male connector 6100.
[000272] FIGURES 88 and 89 illustrate another embodiment of a 7000 connector system comprising a 7100 male connector and a 2400 female connector. Some numerical references for components in FIGURES 88 to 89 are the same or similar to those previously described for the system of 2000 connector and corresponding 2100 male connector and 2400 female connector (eg 7100 male connector v. 2100 male connector). It should be understood that components or parts of connector system 7000 may be the same in function or similar in function to the components or parts previously described. Connector system 7000 of FIGURES 88 through 89 shows certain variations for connector system 2000 of FIGURES 53 through 65.
[000273] The male connector 7100 can include a first end 7112 and a second end 7114. The male connector 7100 can include a cap component 7132 and a male housing 7123. The cap component 7132 can be secured to the male housing 7123 through adhesives, sonic welding, solvent bonding, press fit, other suitable adhesion device or means, or some combination thereof. The second end 7114 of male connector 7100 may include a female luer-type engagement. The female luer coupling may include external threads 7136. In some embodiments, the female luer coupling includes a luer type receiving port 7158. The luer type receiving port 7158 may include an internal cross section. Male connector 7100 may include one or more occlusion devices that selectively seal receiving port 7158. In some embodiments, the occlusion devices may change between a sealing configuration and an open configuration.
[000274] In some embodiments, the occlusion device may be an elastic seal 7185. The elastic seal 7185 may include sealing portion 7111 adjacent to the second end 7114 of male connector 7100. The sealing portion 7111 may substantially fill the inner cross section of luer-type receiving port 7158. In some embodiments, the sealing portion 7111 may include a valve. The valve can be, for example, one or more slits, one or more small holes, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the valve in the sealing portion 7111 is normally closed. In some embodiments, the valve on the seal portion 7111 normally remains open and is urged closed by the engagement between the seal portion 7111 and the luer-type receiving port 7158. The elastic seal 7158 may be configured to transition between an open configuration (for example , when the valve in the sealing portion 7111 is open, as illustrated in FIGURE 89) and a closed configuration (e.g., when the valve in the sealing portion 7111 is closed, as illustrated in FIGURE 88).
[000275] In some embodiments, the elastic seal 7185 includes a retaining portion 7115. The retaining portion 7115 may be an annular projection, one or more radial projections, an annular flange, or any other suitable device or combination of devices. In some embodiments, retainer portion 7115 is configured to engage a retainer 7169 on cap member 7123. Retainer 7169 may be a tapered portion, an inwardly projecting device (e.g., a flange or series of flange parts), or any device suitable for retaining retainer portion 7115 of elastic seal 7185. In some embodiments, engagement between retainer portion 7115 and retainer 7169 prevents movement of elastic seal 7185 out of the cap member 7132. In some embodiments, engagement between retainer portion 7115 and retainer 7169 helps to maintain sealing portion 7111 in a fixed axial position when elastic seal 7815 is in the closed configuration.
[000276] In some embodiments, male connector 7100 includes a channel member 7157. Channel member 7157 may be contained at least partially within elastic seal 7185. In some embodiments, channel member 7157 may include a connector portion 7168 configured to connect channel member 7157 to cap member 7132. In some embodiments, connector portion 7168 is an annular projection configured to engage an engagement device 7167 on cap member 7132. The engagement device may be a annular groove. In some embodiments, channel member 7157 may be connected to cap member 7132 through press fit, adhesive, solvent bonding, sonic welding, other suitable adhesion means, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, channel member 7157 may be secured to male housing 7123 through press fit, adhesive, solvent bonding, sonic welding, other suitable adhesion means, or any combination thereof.
[000277] The channel member 7157 may define a conduit 7194. The conduit 7194 may extend through the channel member 7157. In some embodiments, the channel member 7157 has a closed end 7145 and an open end. Channel member 7157 may have one or more ports 7163 adjacent to closed end 7145. In some embodiments, conduit 7194 extends from the open end of channel member 7157 to one or more ports 7163. In some embodiments, conduit 7194 is in fluid communication with a passage 7156 within male housing 7123. In some embodiments, elastic seal 7185 is configured to prevent fluid from passing from within conduit 7194 out through one or more ports 7163 when elastic member 7185 is in closed configuration.
[000278] First end 7112 of male connector 7100 may be configured to mate with first end 2402 of female connector 2100 in the same or similar manner as male connector 2100. In some embodiments, the luer-type receiving port 7158 may be configured to receive a male luer tip 7052. The sealing portion 7111 of the elastic seal 7185 may be configured to withdraw the one or more ports 7163 proximate to the closed end 7145 of the channel member 7157 when the male luer tip 7052 is advanced into the port. luer-type receiver 7158. Removal of the seal portion 7111 from the one or more ports 7163 may create a spring force on the elastic seal 7185. This spring force may urge the seal portion 7111 toward the second end 7114 of the male connector 7100 such that the elastic seal 7185 returns to the closed configuration as a result of the withdrawal of the male luer tip 7052 from the male connector 7100. The sealing portion 7111 of the one or more ports 7163 can bring the interior of the male luer tip 7052 for fluid communication with the fluid passage 1418 of the female connector 2400 when the male connector 7100 is fully mated with the female connector 2400, such as illustrated in FIGURE 89.
[000279] A second end 7114 similar to or identical to that illustrated in FIGURE 88 (for example, a second end including an elastic seal 7185 and a channel member 7157) can be used in combination with any of the male connectors 100, 1100, 2100 , 3100, 5100, 6100, 8100, 9100 described in this document. The connector system 7000, in the illustrated example, or when modified, can provide a connector that is sealed in a plurality of openings (eg, a male and a female).
[000280] FIGURES 90 to 93 illustrate another embodiment of an 8000 connector system comprising an 8100 male connector and an 8400 female connector. Some numerical references for components in FIGURES 90 to 93 are the same as or similar to those previously described for the system of connector 2000 and corresponding male connector 2100 and female connector 2400, (eg male connector 9100 v. male connector 2100). It should be understood that components or parts of the connector system 8000 may be the same in function or similar in function to the components or parts previously described. Connector system 8000 of FIGURES 90 through 93 shows certain variations for connector system 2000 of FIGURES 53 through 65.
[000281] As illustrated in FIGURE 90, the male connector 8100 may have a first end 8112 and a second end 8114. The male connector 8100 may include a first cap component 8132 and a second cap component 8134. The first cap component 8132 may be proximate to second end 8114 and may connect to second cap component 8134 by adhesive, sonic welding, solvent bonding, snap fit, other suitable adhesion device or means, or some combination thereof. In some embodiments, the first cap component 8132 and the second cap component 8134 form a unitary piece. Male connector 8100 may include a male housing 8123 configured to connect to the second cap component 8134 via adhesive, sonic welding, solvent bonding, snap fit, other suitable adhesion device or means, or some combination thereof. Male housing 8123 may include a housing 2124. In some embodiments, male connector 8100 has one or more coupler elements such as, for example, one or more tabs 2125 with hooks 2127.
[000282] In some embodiments, the 8100 male connector includes a male luer tip 8122. The male luer tip 8122 may have a first tip component 8122a connected to a second tip component 8122b through adhesive, sonic welding, bonding by solvent, press fit, other suitable device or means of adhesion, or some combination thereof. In some embodiments, the first point component 8122a and the second point component 8122b form a unitary piece. Male luer tip 8122 may, in some embodiments, be housed within housing 2124. In some embodiments, male luer tip 8122 extends outside housing 2124 toward first end 8112 of male connector 8100.
[000283] In some configurations, the male connector 8110 may include a valve member 8116. The valve member 8116 may have a generally cylindrical shape, an axial center line, an axial length, an internal cross section, and/or a section external transverse. In some embodiments, valve member 8116 is configured to transition between a closed configuration (e.g., as illustrated in FIGURE 90) and an open configuration (e.g., as illustrated in FIGURE 93). Valve member 8116 may be housed at least partially within male luer tip 8122. Valve member 8116 may have a closed end and an open end. In some embodiments, the open end of valve member 8116 is at the end of valve member 8116 closest to second end 8114 of male connector 8100. In some embodiments, the valve member has two closed ends. In some embodiments, the valve member has two open ends. In some embodiments, as illustrated in FIGURE 90, the closed end of valve member 8116 has a mating surface 8146. Mating surface 8146 may be sized and molded to be mated in a manner to form a tight, fluid-tight interface with mating surface 8486 on female connector 8400. For example, mating surface 8146 may include one or more alignment devices such as, for example, one or more protrusions or chamfers. In some embodiments, mating surface 8146 has a non-planar shape (e.g., a convex shape, a concave shape, or a shape with multiple concavities and/or convexities) configured to generally match, complement, or fit another non-planar shape. on mating surface 8486 on female connector 8400. In some embodiments, either or both of mating, complementary, or mating surfaces 8146, 8486 may generally extend across external, front, movable, or pierceable surfaces of valve members that are exposed to the environment when the connectors are closed.
[000284] The valve member 8116 may include a fluid passage 8156. The valve member 8116 may include one or more ports 8162 near the closed end of the valve member 8116. In some embodiments, the fluid passage 8156 extends between the one or more ports 8162 and the open end of valve member 8116. In some variants, the male luer tip 8122 may include an 8119 luer tip seal. The luer tip seal 8119 may be sized to fit around of the outer cross section of valve member 8116. In some embodiments, the luer tip seal 8119 is a flexible gasket or some other suitable component to provide a fluid tight seal. Valve member 8116 may include a sealing member 8120. The sealing member may be a flexible sealing ring or some other suitable component to provide a fluid tight seal. Seal member 8120 may be configured to engage a surface feature on the outer cross section of valve member 8116. For example, the outer surface of valve member 8116 may include an annular groove 8169. Seal member 8120 may be sized to engage annular groove 8169. In some embodiments, sealing member 8120 is configured to engage the inner cross section of male luer tip 8122 to create a substantially fluid-tight seal. In some embodiments, engagement between sealing member 8120 and the inner cross section of male luer tip 8122 can prevent fluid from leaking past sealing member 8120 in any axial direction.
[000285] The space within the inner cross section of the male luer tip 8122, the outer cross section of the valve member 8116, the luer tip seal 8119, and the sealing member 8120 (for example, the annular space 8163, illustrated in FIGURE 90) can facilitate fluid communication between fluid passage 8156 and female connector 8400 when valve member 8116 is in the open configuration. In some embodiments, the volume of annular space 8163 may change when valve member 8116 is translated in the axial direction. The sealing member 8120 may be configured to clean the inner cross-section of the male luer tip 8122 when the valve member 8116 is moved in the axial direction. In some embodiments, the luer tip seal 8119 prevents fluid leakage from the annular space 8163 to the exterior of the male luer tip 8122 when the valve member 8116 is in the closed configuration.
[000286] In some embodiments, the 8100 male connector includes an 8170 jar. The 8170 jar may have a generally cylindrical shape, an inner cross section, an outer cross section, an axial center line, and an axial length. In some embodiments, firing pin 8170 includes conduit 8194. Conduit 8194 may extend through the axial length of firing pin 8170. In some embodiments, fluid passage 8156 has a cross section defined by the inner cross section of valve member 8116. The inner cross section of the valve member 8116 may be configured to generally conform to the outer cross section of the firing pin 8170. In some embodiments, the firing pin 8170 may include a seal such as, for example, a sealing ring 8160. seal 8160 can be configured to engage with a surface feature on the outer cross section of the hammer 8170. For example, the seal ring 8160 can be configured to engage with an annular groove 8169. In some embodiments, the seal ring 8160 is configured to engage with the inner cross section of valve member 8116 to form a substantially fluid-tight seal. O-ring 8160 may be configured to prevent fluid from bypassing conduit 8194 through the open end of valve member 8116.
[000287] The male connector 8100 may include an elastic or flexible closure member 8118. In some embodiments, the elastic member 8118 may be a flexible liner configured to fit around the outer cross section of the valve member 8116. The elastic member 8118 may include a first anchoring portion 8113. First anchoring portion 8113 may be configured to engage with a cavity 8167 in first point component 8122a and/or second point component 8122b. In some embodiments, elastic member 8118 may include a second anchoring portion 8117. Second anchoring portion 8117 may be a ring configured to engage with a shoulder 8171 on valve member 8116. In some embodiments, elastic member 8118 includes a setback portion 8115. Setback portion 8115 can be attached to the first anchoring portion 8113 and/or to the second anchoring portion 8117.
[000288] The 8400 female connector may be substantially the same as or similar to the 2400 female connector. The 8400 female connector may have a first end 8402 and a second end 8404. In some embodiments, the female connector 8400 includes a female housing 8440 generally adjacent to first end 8402 of female connector 8400. Female housing 8440 may have a generally cylindrical shape, an inner cross section, an outer cross section, an axial centerline, and an axial length. In some embodiments, female housing 8440 includes a channel 8444 near the first end 8402 of female connector 8400. In some embodiments, channel 8444 is annular. In some embodiments, channel 8444 includes a plurality of annular semichannel portions.
[000289] In some embodiments, the 8400 female connector includes a 8480 fluid conduit portion. The 8480 fluid conduit portion may be configured to connect to the 8440 female housing near the second end 8404 of the 8400 female connector. In some embodiments, the fluid conduit portion 8480 and the female housing 8440 may form a unitary piece. The fluid conduit portion 8480 may include a tube 8487 having a generally cylindrical shape, an inner cross section, an outer cross section, an axial centerline, and an axial length. In some embodiments, tube 8487 has one or more tapered, flared, and/or stepped portions along its axial length. In some configurations, the axial length of tube 8487 may be approximately the same as the axial length of female housing 8440. In some embodiments, the axial length of tube 8487 is greater than or equal to approximately 75% of the axial length of female housing 8440 and /or less than or equal to approximately 125% of the axial length of the female housing 8440. In some embodiments, the axial length of the tube 8487 is approximately at least approximately 85% of the axial length of the female housing 8440. As illustrated, the axial length of the tube 8487 may be longer than the axial length of female housing 8440. In some embodiments, tube 8487 has a mating surface 8486 near first end 8402 of female connector 8400. Mating surface 8486 may include one or more engaging devices. For example, the mating surface may have one or more protrusions and/or chamfers configured to engage with one or more protrusions and/or chamfers at the first end 8112 of male connector 8100. In some embodiments, mating surface 8486 has a concave shape for correspond to the convex shape of the corresponding surface 8146.
[000290] Tube 8487 may include one or more ports 8488 near first end 8402 of female housing 8440. In some embodiments, tube 8487 and/or fluid conduit portion 8480 may define a fluid passageway 8418. fluid 8418 may extend from one or more ports 8488 to the second end 8404 of female connector 8400.
[000291] The 8400 female connector may include an 8460 sealing element. The sealing element may have a generally cylindrical shape, an inner cross section, an outer cross section, an axial centerline, and an axial length. In some embodiments, the axial length of the sealing element 8460 is approximately the same as the axial length of the female housing 8440. The sealing element 8460 may be configured to transition between an open configuration (e.g., as illustrated in FIGURE 93) and a closed configuration (for example, as illustrated in FIGURE 91). In some embodiments, sealing member 8460 is configured to be positioned at least partially within female housing 8440. Sealing member 8460 may include a shoulder 8468 configured to engage with female housing 8440 and retain sealing member 8460 within the female housing 8440. The sealing member 8460 may include a sealing portion 8462 proximate to the first end 8402 of the female connector 8400. The size and/or shape of the inner cross section of the sealing portion 8462 can be configured to match or generally match the size and/or shape of the outer cross-section of tube 8487. In some embodiments, the sealing portion 8462 is configured to prevent fluid flow through the one or more ports 8488 when the sealing member 1460 is in the closed configuration.
[000292] In some embodiments, as illustrated, the width or outside diameter of the outer cross section of tube 8487 may be too large. For example, as shown, the area of the corresponding proximal surface 8486 of tube 8487 that is exposed when the female connector 8400 is closed (or that lies within the sealing member 8460) may comprise a greater or nearly greater portion of the area within. of and connected by the outer perimeter of the proximal end 8466 of the sealing member 8460. In some embodiments, as illustrated, the cross-sectional width of the corresponding proximal surface 8486 of the tube 8487 that is exposed when the female connector 8400 is closed (or that remains inside sealing member 8460) may be approximately half the size, or nearly half the size, of the proximal opening in the female connector. As shown, the cross-sectional width of the corresponding proximal surface 8486 of tube 8487 may be approximately the same size as or greater than the inner diameter and/or outer diameter of the distal male tip of the female connector. As illustrated, in some embodiments, the difference between the outer diameter (or cross-sectional width) of tube 8487 at the proximal end thereof, or in the region positioned within the neck of the housing in the closed position, and the inner diameter (or width of the cross section) of the proximal opening in the housing is approximately the same size as, or slightly greater than, the wall thickness of sealing member 8460 at or near the proximal end. In some embodiments, the outer cross section of tube 8487 may be greater than or equal to approximately 10% of the size of the outer cross section of the female housing 8440 and/or less than or equal to approximately 60% of the size of the outer cross section of the female housing 8440 at first end 8402 of female connector 8400. In some embodiments, the outer cross section of tube 8487 is approximately at least approximately 30% as large as the size of the outer cross section of female housing 8440 at first end 8402 of female connector 8400. outer cross section of tube 8487 may be greater than or equal to approximately 20% of the size of the outer cross section of the seal portion 8462 and/or less than or equal to approximately 80% of the size of the outer cross section of the seal portion 8462. modes, the outer cross section of tube 8487 is approximately 55% or greater than the size of the outer cross section of the v-part. edation 8462. Many variations in the relative sizes of the outer cross sections of tube 8487, female housing 8440, and sealing portion 8462 are possible. In some embodiments, the outer cross section of tube 8487 at first end 8402 of female connector 8400 is configured to be substantially identical to the outer cross section of the valve member 8116 at the first end 8112 of the male connector 8100. In some embodiments, the inner cross section of the female housing 8440 at the first end 8402 of the female connector is configured to be greater than the cross section. external cross-section of the male luer tip 8122 at the first end 8112 of the male connector 8100.
[000293] As illustrated in FIGURES 92 and 93, the 8400 female connector and the 8100 male connector can be configured to mate with each other. In some embodiments, advancing the male luer tip 8122 into the female housing 8440 may push the sealing portion 8462 of the sealing member 8460 toward the second end 8404 of the female connector 8400 relative to the one or more ports 8488. of the sealing portion 8462 of the one or more ports 8488 can create fluid communication between the fluid passage 8418 and the annular space 8163. In some embodiments, the advancement of the male luer tip 8122 into the female housing 8440 can cause the tube 8487 advancing into male luer tip 8122. Advancing tube 8487 into male luer tip 8122 may push valve member 8116 toward second end 8114 of male connector 8100 with respect to male luer tip 8122. In some of these embodiments, the sealing member 8120 moves toward the second end 8114 of the male connector 8100 with respect to the male luer tip 8122. tion 8120 may increase the axial length of the annular space 8163. In some embodiments, full engagement (eg, engagement between hooks 2127 and channel 8444 as illustrated in FIGURE 93) of male connector 8100 with female connector 8400 may facilitate fluid communication between conduit 8194 and fluid passage 8418 through one or more ports 8488, one or more ports 8162, and annular space 8163.
[000294] In some embodiments, the setback portion 8115 may be configured to stretch when the valve member 8116 is pushed towards the second end 8114 of the male connector 8100. In some embodiments, stretching the setback portion 8115 can cause the recoil portion 8115 exerts a return force on the valve member 8116. In some of these embodiments, the return force of the recoil portion 8115 can cause the valve member 8116 to move toward the first end 8112 of the connector male 8100 when tube 8487 or other source of impulse is withdrawn from male luer tip 8122. This movement of valve member 8116 toward first end 8112 may return valve member 8116 to the closed configuration. In some embodiments, the return force of setback portion 8115 can help ensure that mating surfaces 8486, 8186 remain in contact with one another when tube member 8487 is advanced inwardly and withdrawn from male luer tip 8122. This contact can help prevent fluid from contacting mating surface 8486, 8186 while valve member 8116 is in the open configuration.
[000295] FIGURES 94 to 96 illustrate another embodiment of a 9000 connector system comprising a male connector 9100 and a female connector 8400. Some numerical references for components in FIGURES 94 to 96 are the same or similar to those previously described for the system of 8000 connector and 8100 male connector and corresponding 8400 female connector, (eg 9100 male connector v. 8100 male connector). It is to be understood that the components or parts of the 9000 connector system may be the same in function or similar in function to the components or parts previously described. The 9000 connector system of FIGURES 94 through 96 shows certain variations to the 8000 connector system of FIGURES 90 through 93.
[000296] Male connector 9100 may be substantially similar to male connector 8100. In some embodiments, male connector 9100 includes a valve member 9116 that can be housed at least partially within a male luer tip 9122. In some embodiments, the valve member 9116 comprises a first valve part 9116a and a second valve part 9116b. In some embodiments, the first valve part 9116a and the second valve part 9116b are connected to each other through adhesive, sonic welding, solvent bonding, snap fit, other suitable adhesion device or means, or some combination thereof. . In some embodiments, the first valve part 9116a and the second valve part 9116b form a unitary piece. Similarly, in some embodiments, the male luer tip 9122 comprises a first tip portion 9122a and a second tip portion 9122b. In some embodiments, the first tip part 9122a and the second tip part 9122b are connected to each other through adhesive, sonic welding, solvent bonding, snap fit, other suitable device or means of adhesion, or some combination thereof. . In some embodiments, the first nose portion 9122a and the second nose portion 9122b form a unitary piece. Valve member 9116 may include a stabilizing device, such as, for example, an annular flange 9149. The annular flange 9149 may be configured to engage with the inner wall of the male luer tip 9122. In some embodiments, this engagement may assist with prevent valve member 9116 from tipping off axis within male luer tip 9122.
[000297] In some embodiments, the male connector 9100 may include an elastic member 9118. The elastic member 9118 may include a first anchoring portion 9113. In some embodiments, the first anchoring portion 9113 is configured to engage a cavity 9167 in the first point part 9122a and/or to a cavity in the second point part 9122b, such that the anchoring part 9113 is positioned between and held in place by at least two parts of the housing. The first anchoring portion 9113 may be configured to prevent the elastic member 9118 from disengaging the male luer tip 9122 when the first anchoring portion 9113 is installed on the male luer tip 9122. The elastic member 9118 may include a second anchoring portion 9117. In some embodiments, the first and second anchoring portions 9113, 9117 comprise portions of a generally continuous ring or ridge that extend generally around the elastic member 9118. The recoil portion 9115 may, in some embodiments, also function like a fluid seal. In some embodiments, the second anchoring portion 9117 is configured to engage a slot or cavity 9171 in the first valve portion 9116a and/or a slot or cavity in the second valve portion 9116b. Second anchoring portion 9117 may be configured to prevent elastic member 9118 from disengaging from valve member 9116 when second anchoring portion 9117 is installed on valve member 9116.
[000298] Elastic member 9118 may include a setback portion 9115 connecting the first anchoring portion 9113 to the second anchoring portion 9117. In some embodiments, the first and second anchoring portion 9113, 9117 and the setback portion 9115 have , each one, a ring shape. In some embodiments, a plurality of first and second anchoring portions 9113, 9117 and/or a plurality of setback portions 9115 may be used.
[000299] In some embodiments, indentation portion 9115 is configured to function in the same or similar manner as indentation portion 8115 described above. For example, setback portion 9115 can be configured to stretch when valve member 9116 is pushed toward second end 9114 of male connector 9100, as illustrated in FIGURE 96. In some embodiments, stretching setback portion 9115 can do causing the recoil portion 9115 to exert a return force on the valve member 9116. In some of these embodiments, the return force of the recoil portion 9115 can cause the valve member 9116 to move toward the first end 9112 of the 9100 male connector when the impulse source is removed from the 9122 male luer tip.
[000300] Any devices of the modalities shown and/or described in the figures that have not been expressly described in this text, such as distances, proportions of components, etc. are also intended to be part of this description. Additionally, although this invention has been described in the context of various embodiments, devices, aspects and examples, it is to be understood by those skilled in the art that the present invention extends beyond the specifically described embodiments to other embodiments and/or alternative uses of the invention and obvious and equivalent modifications thereof. Accordingly, it is to be understood that various devices and aspects of the described embodiments may be combined with, or substituted for, others in order to realize varied modes of the described inventions. For example, and without limitation, ANSI-compliant and/or non-ANSI-compliant connection structures may be used to allow the connection between the described connector systems, connectors and subcomponents. In addition, any component or combination of components described in this document may be used in other medical connector structures or configurations. Therefore, it is to be understood that the scope of the present invention described in this document is not to be limited by the particular embodiments described above, but is to be determined only by a proper reading of the claims.

权利要求:
Claims (11)
[0001]
1. A method for transferring a fluid from a fluid source to a fluid receiver, comprising: connecting the fluid source to a first connector (100, 1100), the first connector comprising: a first housing having a first central axis, a first end, a second end and a male portion, the second end being configured to seally engage the fluid source; a valve member (116, 1116) located at least partially in an internal space of the male part and configured to transition between an open position and a closed position, the valve member comprising a first end and a second end, a valve passageway extending within the valve member between the first end and the second end of the valve member, at least one port proximate the first end of the valve member and a first mating surface (146,1146) on the first end of the valve member, wherein the first end of the valve member is configured to prevent the passage of fluid from the valve passage past the first end of the valve member when the valve member is in the closed position; and a biasing member (118, 1118) configured to bias the valve member to the closed position; connecting the fluid receiver to a second connector (400, 1400) configured to transition between an open configuration and a closed configuration, the second connector comprising: a second housing having a second central axis, a first end (402, 1402) configured to receive the male portion of the first housing, and a second end configured to connect to the fluid receiver; a fluid conduit (480, 1480) located at least partially within an inner space of the second housing and having a first end (482, 1482), a second end (484, 1484), a conduit passage (418, 1418) extending into the fluid conduit between the first end and the second end of the fluid conduit, at least one port (488, 1488) proximate the first end of the fluid conduit extending through the fluid conduit and into the passage of conduit, and a second mating surface (486, 1486) configured to releasably mate with the first mating surface of the valve member; and a sealing member (460, 1460) located at least partially within an inner space of the second housing and having a first end, a second end, a biasing portion (464, 1464) between the first end and the second end of the sealing element, and a diaphragm (470, 1470) at the first end of the sealing element sized and molded to match the size and shape of the first end of the fluid conduit, the sealing element configured to prevent fluid from flowing out of the passing conduit through the at least one fluid conduit port when the second connector is in the closed configuration; connecting the first connector to the second connector wherein the valve member changes from the closed position to the open position and the second connector changes to the open configuration as a result of the connection between the first connector and the second connector; transferring fluid from the fluid source, through the first connector, through the second connector, and into the fluid receiver; and the method being characterized by disconnecting the first connector from the second connector, wherein the first mating surface and the second mating surface remain fluid-free upon disconnection from each other.
[0002]
The method of claim 1, wherein connecting the fluid source to the second of the first connector further includes connecting a male luer connection of the fluid source to the second end of the first connector.
[0003]
The method of claim 1, characterized in that connecting the fluid receiver to the second end of the second connector further includes connecting a female luer connection of the fluid receiver to the second end of the second connector.
[0004]
The method of claim 1, further including connecting an engagement device of the first connector to a engagement device of the second connector.
[0005]
The method of claim 1, further including inserting at least a portion of the fluid conduit into the male portion when the first connector is connected to the second connector.
[0006]
The method of claim 1, further including inserting at least a portion of the male portion into the first end of the second connector when the first connector is connected to the second connector.
[0007]
A method for fabricating a coupling system (20, 1000) for transferring fluid, comprising: providing a first connector (100, 1100) including a first housing having a first central axis, a first end, a second end and a part male; a valve member (116, 1116) located at least partially in an internal space of the male part and configured to transition between an open position and a closed position, the valve member comprising a first end and a second end, a valve passageway extending within the valve member between the first end and the second end of the valve member, at least one port proximate the first end of the valve member, and a first mating surface (146,1146) at the first end of the valve member. valve, the first end of the valve member is configured to prevent the passage of fluid from the valve passage past the first end of the valve member when the valve member is in the closed position; and a biasing member (118, 1118) configured to bias the valve member to the closed position; providing a second connector (400, 1400) configured to transition between an open configuration and a closed configuration including a second housing having a second central axis, a first end (402, 1402) configured to receive the male portion of the first housing, and a second end; a fluid conduit (480, 1480) located at least partially within an inner space of the second housing and having a first end (482, 1482), a second end (484,1484), a conduit passage (418, 1418) extending into the fluid conduit between the first end and the second end of the fluid conduit, at least one port (488, 1488) proximate the first end of the fluid conduit extending through the fluid conduit and into the conduit passage and a second mating surface (486, 1486) configured to releasably mate with the first mating surface of the valve member; and a sealing member (460, 1460) located at least partially within an inner space of the second housing and having a first end, a second end, a biasing portion (464, 1464) between the first end and the second end of the sealing element and a diaphragm (470, 1470) at the first end of the sealing element sized and molded to match the size and shape of the first end of the fluid conduit, the sealing element being configured to prevent fluid from flowing out of the passing conduit through the at least one fluid conduit port when the second connector is in the closed configuration; and connecting the first end of the first connector to the first end of the second connector such that the second connector is changed to the open configuration and the valve member is changed to the open position when the first connector is connected to the second connector; characterized in that the first mating surface and the second mating surface have the same cross section and are configured to be mated together in a manner that prevents fluid penetration therebetween when fluid flows through the first and second connectors.
[0008]
8. Lockable male connector (100, 1100), configured to connect to a female connector (400, 1400), the male connector comprising: a housing having a first central axis, a first end, a second end, and a male part ; a valve member (116, 1116) located at least partially in an internal space of the male part and configured to transition between an open position and a closed position, the valve member comprising a first end and a second end, a valve passageway extending within the valve member between the first end and the second end of the valve member, at least one port proximate the first end of the valve member, and a first mating surface (146,1146) at the first end of the valve member. valve, the first end of the valve member is configured to prevent the passage of fluid from the valve passage past the first end of the valve member when the valve member is in the closed position; and a biasing member (118, 1118) configured to bias the valve member to the closed position; wherein the first mating surface is sized and molded to releasably mate with a second mating surface (486, 1486) on a female connector such that the valve member is moved to the open position when the male connector is connected to the second connector, characterized in that the first mating surface is configured to be mated to the second mating surface in a manner that isolates both the first mating surface and the second mating surface from fluid when fluid flows through the male and female connectors.
[0009]
9. Lockable female connector (400, 1400), configured to connect to a male connector (100, 1100), the female connector being further configured to transition between an open configuration and a closed configuration, comprising: a housing having a second axis central, a first end (402, 1402) configured to receive a male portion of the male connector and a second end; a fluid conduit (480, 1480) located at least partially within an internal space of the housing and having a first end (482, 1482), a second end (484, 1484), a conduit passage (418, 1418) that extends within the fluid conduit between the first end and the second end of the fluid conduit, at least one port (488, 1488) near the first end of the fluid conduit extending through the fluid conduit and into the passage of conduit, and a mating surface (486, 1486); and a sealing element (460, 1460) located at least partially within an inner space of the housing and having a first end, a second end, a biasing portion (464, 1464) between the first end and the second end of the element. seal and a diaphragm (470, 1470) at the first end of the sealing element sized and molded to match the size and shape of the first end of the fluid conduit, the sealing element configured to prevent fluid from flowing out of the fluid passageway. conduit through the at least one fluid conduit port when the female connector is in the closed configuration; wherein the mating female surface is configured to releasably mate with a mating male surface (146, 1146) of a male connector, characterized in that the mating female surface is configured to be mated to the mating male surface in a manner that maintain sealed contact between the female mating surface and the male mating surface to reduce the likelihood of fluid contacting both the male mating surface and the female mating surface when fluid flows through the male and female connectors.
[0010]
10. Medical system for transferring medical fluid, the system comprising: a first connector comprising: a first housing with a first central axis, the first housing comprising a first end with a male portion and a second end; a valve member disposed at least partially in an inner space of the male part, the valve member comprising a closed end, a first passage extending through the valve member, at least one port near the closed end of the valve member which extends through the valve member and into the first passage, and a first mating surface at the closed end; and a drive member operatively coupled to the valve member; and a second connector comprising: a second housing having a second central axis, the second housing comprising a first end configured to accept the male portion, and a second end; a fluid conduit disposed at least partially in an inner space of the second housing, the fluid conduit comprising a closed end, a second passage extending through the fluid conduit, at least one port near the closed end of the fluid conduit which extends through the fluid conduit and into the second passage, and a second mating surface at the closed end configured to mate with the first mating surface; and a sealing member disposed within the second housing and configured to stop fluid flow through the at least one port of the fluid conduit, the sealing member comprising a biasing portion; characterized in that one of the first mating surface and the second mating surface includes a protrusion and the other of the first mating surface and the second mating surface includes a complementary cavity, the protrusion and the complementary cavity helping to align the mating surfaces of the male and female connectors, and the mating first and second surfaces being configured to be mated together in a manner that deters fluid penetration therebetween when fluid flows through the connectors.
[0011]
11. Coupling system (20, 1000) comprising a lockable female connector (400, 1400) and a male connector (100, 1100), the lockable female connector configured to connect to the male connector, the female connector further configured to do transitioning between an open configuration and a closed configuration, the coupling system comprising: a first housing having a first central axis, a first end, a second end and a male part; a valve member (116, 1116) located at least partially in an interior space of the male part and configured to transition between an open position and a closed position, the valve member comprising a first end, a second end and a surface male mating at the first end of the valve member, wherein the first end of the valve member is configured to inhibit fluid passage of the male portion past the first end of the valve member when the valve member is in the closed position; and a biasing member (118, 1118) configured to bias the valve member to the closed position; a second housing having a second center axis, a first end (402, 1402) configured to receive the male portion of the first housing, and a second end; a fluid conduit (480, 1480) located at least partially within an interior space of the second housing and having a first end (482, 1482), a second end (484, 1484), a conduit passage (418, 1418) extending into the fluid conduit between the first end and the second end of the fluid conduit, at least one port (488, 1488) proximate the first end of the fluid conduit extending through the fluid conduit and into the conduit passage and a mating surface (486, 1486); and a sealing member (460, 1460) located at least partially within an interior space of the second housing and having a first end, a second end, a biasing portion (464, 1464) between the first end and the second end of the sealing element and a diaphragm (470, 1470) at the first end of the sealing element sized and configured to match the size and shape of the first end of the fluid conduit, the sealing element configured to inhibit fluid flow out of the passage. the conduit through the at least one fluid conduit port when the female connector is in the closed configuration; wherein the female mating surface is configured to releasably mat with the male mating surface of a first housing; characterized in that the female mating surface is configured to be mated to the male mating surface in a manner that maintains sealed contact between the female mating surface and the male mating surface to reduce the likelihood that fluid will contact the male mating surface or the female mating surface when fluid flows through the male and female connectors.

类似技术:

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公开号 | 公开日 | 专利标题

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BR112014005204B1|2021-06-22|METHOD FOR TRANSFERRING A FLUID FROM A FLUID SOURCE TO A FLUID RECEIVER; METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING A COUPLING SYSTEM TO TRANSFER FLUID; CLOSED MALE CONNECTOR; CLOSED FEMALE CONNECTOR; MEDICINAL SYSTEM TO TRANSFER MEDICINAL FLUID; COUPLING SYSTEM

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JP2012501742A5|2012-10-18|

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DE102020202939A1|2020-03-06|2021-09-09|B. Braun Melsungen Aktiengesellschaft|Coupling element for a closed fluid transfer system, mating coupling element for such a coupling element and coupling system|

法律状态:
2019-10-01| B06U| Preliminary requirement: requests with searches performed by other patent offices: procedure suspended [chapter 6.21 patent gazette]|

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2020-09-24| B06A| Patent application procedure suspended [chapter 6.1 patent gazette]|

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2021-02-23| B09A| Decision: intention to grant [chapter 9.1 patent gazette]|

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2021-06-22| 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 07/09/2012, 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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US201161533138P| true| 2011-09-09|2011-09-09|

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US61/533,138|2011-09-09|

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US201161557793P| true| 2011-11-09|2011-11-09|

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US61/557,793|2011-11-09|

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US201161579582P| true| 2011-12-22|2011-12-22|

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US61/579,582|2011-12-22|

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US201261607429P| true| 2012-03-06|2012-03-06|

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US61/607,429|2012-03-06|

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US201261692516P| true| 2012-08-23|2012-08-23|

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US61/692,516|2012-08-23|

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PCT/US2012/054289|WO2013036854A1|2011-09-09|2012-09-07|Medical connectors with fluid-resistant mating interfaces|

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